The Academy Award for Best Director is an annual award presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) to recognize outstanding directing in film. It is one of the most prestigious awards in the film industry and is awarded during the Academy Awards ceremony, commonly known as the Oscars. Directors nominated for this award are recognized for their creative vision and ability to bring a screenplay to life. The award has been given since 1929, and winners are selected by the voting members of the Academy, which includes professionals from various branches of the film industry.