Taylor Edwin Hackford is an award-winning American film director and producer. He has served as the president of the Directors Guild of America twice. Hackford studied International Relations and Economics for his undergraduate degree and was set to explore a career in finance when he realized that he was passionate about filmmaking. A camera he had received as a gift changed his life, and he decided to enter the world of Hollywood. After spending considerable time in TV as a producer, Hackford started producing films and made his debut as a director with ‘Teenage Father’, a short movie that won the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film. Following this boost, he directed many more popular films and documentaries. His most notable films include ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’, ‘The Devil’s Advocate’ and ‘Ray’. After being a part of the industry for well over three decades, he is regarded as one of the most prominent directors present today. He recently ventured into the world of theatre and directed a musical production. Hackford’s latest work includes the comedy drama, ‘The Comedian’ (2016), starring Robert De Niro.