These Actors, inspired by the best in the biz, decided to take their creative prowess to a new level, merging their acting chops with a newfound passion for directing. From personal projects to award-worthy endeavors, these actors-turned-directors have proven to be more than just performers.
Seth Rogen
Seth Rogen – known for his comedic brilliance – took an unexpected turn with “This Is The End.” Co-directing with Evan Goldberg, Rogen ventured into the world of apocalyptic comedy on an epic scale. The film’s unique style, horrible deaths, and audacious portrayal of Hollywood stars playing exaggerated versions of themselves set it apart.
Who else would dare to dispatch Rihanna and Paul Rudd in the same movie? Rogen’s directorial debut left us yearning for more of his impenitent vision.
Ben Stiller
Ben Stiller transitioned from a comedic genius to a powerhouse director and producer. From iconic roles in films like “There’s Something About Mary” to directing “Zoolander,” Stiller’s journey is nothing short of legendary.
But he didn’t stop at film; he conquered television with the critically acclaimed AppleTV+ series “Severance.” Stiller’s creative genius knows no boundaries, proving he’s a force to be reckoned with in both film and TV.
Halle Berry
From X-Men to an Oscar win for “Monster’s Ball,” Halle Berry has always been a force on screen. Now, she’s making waves behind the scenes. Berry’s directorial debut, “Bruised,” showcased her prowess in a gripping MMA drama. But it wasn’t without controversy, as MMA fighter Cat Zingano voiced her concerns.
Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood’s iconic career began with spaghetti westerns, making him the ‘Man With No Name.’ But in 1971, he made a name for himself as a director with “Play Misty for Me.” Fast forward to today, and Eastwood boasts 47 Oscar nominations for his directed films, including Best Picture and Best Director wins for “Unforgiven” and “Million Dollar Baby.”
Olivia Wilde
Olivia Wilde’s acting career soared with “The OC” and “House,” but she wasn’t content with just performing. She ventured into directing, starting with short films and music videos. Her feature debut, “Booksmart,” was a smashing success. Despite some controversy, she solidified her status with “Don’t Worry Darling” and has exciting projects on the horizon.
Ben Affleck
Ben Affleck’s journey from acting in “Dazed and Confused” to directing “I Killed My Lesbian Wife, Hung Her on a Meathook, and Now I Have a Three Picture Deal at Disney” is extraordinary. With hits like “Gone Baby Gone” and “Argo,” he’s proven himself as a director to watch.
Greta Gerwig
Greta Gerwig’s “Lady Bird” wasn’t just a directorial debut but a cinematic revelation. Although not her first time directing, this film catapulted her to stardom. Gerwig flawlessly captured the essence of a rebellious Catholic schoolgirl in the early 2000s, drawing from her own experiences. Saoirse Ronan’s portrayal of the so-called character was a revelation, with Laurie Metcalf delivering a heartfelt performance as the complex mother figure. Gerwig’s talent behind the camera is undeniable.
Jodie Foster
Jodie Foster’s acting prowess is well-known, but her journey behind the camera is equally remarkable. Starting with “Little Man Tate” and daring to direct “The Beaver” (yes, with Mel Gibson), Foster showcased her versatile talent.
Her involvement in series like “House of Cards” and “Black Mirror” underscores her diverse directorial skills. With “The Mauritanian” earning rave reviews, Foster’s directorial star continues to ascend.
Bradley Cooper
Bradley Cooper transformed from a comedic actor to a serious performer. With Oscar-nominated roles in “Silver Linings Playbook” and “American Sniper,” he solidified his status. However, it was “A Star is Born” that truly showcased his directorial brilliance.
Starring alongside Lady Gaga, the film became a sensation. Cooper’s next venture, “Maestro,” promises to be another masterpiece. With his talent both in front of and behind the camera, Cooper is a Hollywood powerhouse.
Jon Favreau
Jon Favreau isn’t just Monica Geller’s billionaire boyfriend from “Friends.” He’s the mastermind behind Marvel’s epic successes, directing “Iron Man” and serving as an executive producer for the Avengers saga. But that’s not all – he brought “The Lion King” to life and gifted us “The Mandalorian” in the Star Wars universe. Favreau’s versatility is awe-inspiring, and he’s back as Happy Hogan in “Spider-Man: No Way Home.”
Jordan Peele
When comedy superstar Jordan Peele announced his directorial debut, everyone expected laughs. Instead, he delivered the spine-tingling “Get Out,” a horror film that dives into racism like never before. Peele’s unique approach won him an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay and catapulted him into the league of Hollywood’s top directors.
“Get Out” remains a cinematic masterpiece, with every rewatch revealing hidden details. Stars like Daniel Kaluuya owe their fame to Peele’s brilliant debut.
Regina King
Fresh from an Oscar win for her performance in “If Beale Street Could Talk” and leading “Watchmen,” Regina King took a daring step into directing. Her debut, “One Night In Miami,” showcases four iconic Black Americans in a timely, hang-out movie: Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Sam Cooke, and Jim Brown. King’s transition from actress to director is a masterstroke.
Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks, everyone’s favorite actor, isn’t just winning hearts on screen. He made his directorial mark with the cult classic “That Thing You Do!” His second venture, “Larry Crowne,” might not have soared as high, but “That Thing You Do!” earned him a spot in Hollywood’s directorial Hall of Fame.
John Krasinski
John Krasinski, known as Jim Halpert from “The Office,” stunned the industry with “A Quiet Place.” He directed, starred, and wrote this thriller, making him a triple threat. Krasinski’s journey from an intern on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” to “The Office” and now directing speaks volumes about his talent. With the sequel released, Krasinski’s directorial future is brighter than ever.
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