In alphabetical order:

Ingmar Bergman ” The director-s work can be heavy going, but his stark imagery (“The Seventh Seal’) has never been equaled.

Charlie Chaplin: With the character of the Tramp, Chaplin laid the groundwork for film comedy ” and filmmaking overall ” for decades to come.

John Ford: His straight-ahead directorial style has influenced countless filmmakers. Ford-s vision of the American western redefined the genre.

Howard Hawks: Comedies, westerns or sci-fi, Hawks- films are known for their sturdy construction and smart pacing.

Alfred Hitchcock: The master of suspense is notable for innovative storytelling and for becoming a pop culture brand unto himself.

Stanley Kubrick: A filmmaker who could tackle any genre and make it his own. His approach to filmmaking has influenced a generation

Akira Kurosawa: Best known for classics like “Seven Samurai’, the director was also proficient with personal films like “Ikiru.’

Steven Spielberg: No other film director has enjoyed the commercial and critical success ” and enduring cultural influence — of Spielberg.

Billy Wilder: The writer-director was as adept with comedies (“Some Like It Hot’) as he was with dramas (“The Lost Weekend.’)

William Wyler ” Known for solid filmmaking, Wyler directed epics like “Ben-Hur’ and comedies like “Roman Holiday’ with equal cinematic proficiency.