
Age: 74
female
Kathryn Ann Bigelow (born November 27, 1951) is an American film director. Her best-known films are the cult horror film Near Dark (1987), the surfer/bank robbery action picture Point Break (1991), the historical/mystery film The Weight of Water (2000) and the war drama The Hurt Locker (2008). The Hurt Locker won the 2010 Academy Award for Best Picture, won the BAFTA Award for Best Film, and was nominated for the 2010 Golden Globe Award for Best Drama. With The Hurt Locker, Bigelow became the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director, the Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directing, the BAFTA Award for Best Direction, and the Critics' Choice Award for Best Director. In April 2010, Bigelow was named to the Time 100 list of most influential people of the year.

Kathryn Bigelow

Director
for Director in Grit and Grace: The Mia Zapata Story
Suggested by kamsismith

"Grit and Grace" chronicles the life of Mia Zapata, a force of nature whose raw talent and fierce spirit propelled her from the underground punk scene to the brink of stardom. As the lead singer of The Gits, Mia's electrifying performances and soulful lyrics captivated audiences and garnered critical acclaim. But Mia was more than just a rock star—she was a voice for the voiceless, unafraid to speak out against societal injustices and advocate for change. The film delves into Mia's formative years, tracing her journey from Louisville to the bustling streets of Seattle, where she found her tribe among the city's burgeoning punk community. Alongside bandmates Joe Spleen, Matt Dresdner, and Steve Moriarty, Mia forged a bond that transcended music, forming a tight-knit family united by their passion for rebellion and authenticity. As The Gits' star began to rise, so too did the challenges they faced. From navigating the male-dominated music industry to confronting violence and misogyny, Mia and her bandmates refused to back down, using their platform to shine a spotlight on the issues that plagued their community.