Since 1992, The Directors Guild of America has hosted annual seminars featuring its nominees for outstanding feature film directing. Since its inception, film and television director Jeremy Kagan has moderated these sessions in which the finest contemporary directors weigh in on every aspect of the filmmaking process. In this book, Kagan has culled the most insightful and entertaining responses from these acclaimed directors. From script development through pre-production to production and post-production, they offer personal insights into every step of the creative process. They also reveal their candid takes on the best and worst aspects of their profession. This second edition includes all the nominees from 2000 thru 2005 and features personal materials from many of the directors, including storyboards, script notes, sketches, and on-set photos. Directors Close Up will be of interest to both professional and aspiring directors, as well as to film fans who will enjoy this inside look into making movies.