Directors who discredit themselves

[James French]

When a director wishes to not have his name attached to a film for whatever reasons, what is the name the studio puts in instead? I can only remember that it's something simple and common like alan smith or something. Can anyone help me out on that?

[Beeblebrox]

It was Alan Smithee, but that pseudonym was discontinued a few years ago.

[James French]

Thanks, that might suit my purpose anyway- but does anyone know of the current one, presuming there still is one?

[Maestro]

Remember, the whole problem with "Alan Smithee" was that it became too well known--thanks to "Burn Hollywood Burn"--so why would the DGA publicize Mr. Smithee's successor?

That said, I believe the DGA's current policy is similar to the WGA's: the director can use a pseudonym of his/her choosing. (e.g. Walter Hill used "Thomas Lee" on Supernova.)

However, imdb.com lists Alan Smithee's most recent credit as Fugitives Run (2003), so I guess he's still in business.

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000647/

Maestro

P.S. "discredit (themselves)" means something other than what you intended.

[Cyd V]

I still think they should have let Kay change the credit to humpty dumpty. Aparently the directors guild doesn't have a sence of humour...:eek:

[James French]

Fair point, the phrasing does leave something to be desired.