This year, wild ambition seems to be the only thread tying together the Best Director contenders.
But dont count out Cooper and Lee, who also landed DGA and BAFTA nods.
Paul Schraders climate-change meditationFirst Reformedor John Krasinskis silent horrorA Quiet Placecould also pull off noms.
Credit: Carlos Somonte/NETFLIX
But where are the ladies?
Marielle HellersCan You Ever Forgive Me?has earned raves for Melissa McCarthy and Richard E. Grant.
Both landed Film Independent Spirit Award nominations.
All six female filmmakers, however, have been left off BAFTA and DGA lists.
