Let’s take a look at these famous director’s cuts over history, and explore why it’s imperative that aspiring filmmakers study the films the way they were meant to be seen.

So, you’ve seen the term “Director's Cut” tacked onto DVD releases or limited edition blu-rays over the years, but let’s nail down what the term actually means. For consumers, this term simply means more or less a longer version of a film that’s more in-line with the director’s overall vision of the project. However, in industry terms, a “director’s cut” is a direct term for the person who receives the all-powerful “final cut privilege” for the ultimate approval of editing and releasing a film. Historically speaking, it’s rare for a single director or artist to have this powerful distinction, as studios have long held that a film’s edit should have input from many, and ultimately, reflect the best product to recoup its expenses. The term flows over from its film origins into other forms of content and entertainment. It’s not uncommon to see “director’s cut” versions of popular television or episodic programs, as well as music videos, commercial content, or even video games.


As the stories behind the films and the appeal of watching different, or more artistic, versions of films became more known, there have been hundreds (if not thousands) of popular films to have famous director’s cut versions released or infamously lost. Starting with the rumors and intrigue surrounding Citizen Kane and continuing today, studios have long fought for control. However, they also readily jump at the chance to re-release films when audiences demand it. You can see a great example in the video above, exploring multiple versions of Ridley Scott‘s classic Blade Runner. Interestingly enough, Blade Runner has two separate famous versions with a “Director’s cut” and a “Final Cut” that’s newer. Both are regarded as the true versions of the film.

If anything, watching a director’s cut of a film can be a great case study into how a director’s overall vision juxtaposes against what is probably the most commercial aspects of a project. Take Blade Runner, for example. The original theatrical version made many decisions based on clarity, including voice-over (VO) narration. It also wrapped things up with a closed ending, as opposed to a more challenging, open-ended one. Does that actually make one version superior to the other? Or, are they each reflection of different POVs in terms of the best film to see? When you listen to famous directors talk about their craft, one theme remains consistent constantly striving to improve and evolve their craft. And, watching these director’s cuts, especially those retroactive to their original intentions, is a great way to look at how their sensibilities might change over the years.


There will always be online audiences arguing over “true” versions of films and debating the merits of the Snyder Cut for Justice League, for example. However, for the most part, a director’s cut is simply a different lens to view some of your favorite cinema classics. There will always be power struggles and gossip behind the scenes. And, if you’re serious about wanting to go into big-budget or indie Hollywood circles, then it’s necessary to at least understand that these issues do exist. But, for those passionate about filmmaking and studying how filmmakers develop their crafts over the years, director’s cuts will be one of the best ways to peek inside the minds of greats like Ridley Scott and Roger Deakins as you build your own expertise.