After graduating, he served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Bolivia, where he started using Super 8 film in his spare time.

[5] Hackford's feature directorial debut was The Idolmaker starred Ray Sharkey, who was awarded a Golden Globe for Best Actor for his portrayal of "Vinnie" in the film.

To me, the compelling story in The Idolmaker is the guy with a wonderful talent and a fairly strong ego has to make it happen through puppets."

During the filming of An Officer and a Gentleman, Hackford kept Lou Gossett Jr. in separate living quarters from the other actors so he could intimidate them more during his scenes as a drill instructor.

Ray Charles ended his life in concert halls, where people would go in tuxedos and quietly listen to a genius perform.

"[10] Hackford has also directed music videos, including "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)" by Phil Collins and "Say You, Say Me" by Lionel Richie.

[11] He was re-elected to a second, two-year term as president on June 25, 2011, at the DGA's National Biennial Convention in Los Angeles.

[12] Hackford is attached to direct the neo-noir action thriller film Sniff, starring Morgan Freeman, Al Pacino, Helen Mirren and Danny DeVito.

"It was a strange way to meet Helen, because she is a lovely person," says Hackford, "but she didn't hold back her fury.