The first extensive survey of individual film genres, this one-of-a-kind reference spans the entire motion picture era and presents detailed information on directors and the films they have produced.The first volume is dedicated to one of the richest and most popular of all genres -- comedy -- and encompasses some 19,000 films and 3,300 directors. Volume 2 examines 3,700 directors of 18,000 crime films.Listed alphabetically, main entries offer a sketch of the individual's family background and education, a description of technique and/or performance characteristics, a summary of achievements, and a chronological filmography that includes year and country of production. All biographies have been subject to years of intensive research and provide important personal and professional dates.Multiple indexes yield a variety of access points to the director profiles, making each handbook an indispensable and convenient research tool for film critics, historians, and enthusiasts.