7. Guillermo del Toro
Toro is a director who has been able to mix phenomenal storytelling with an imagination that even the least curious person would love to rummage around in. From Hellboy to Pan's Labyrinth, Toro has a knack for making creatures and monsters that look like the most twisted of fairytale nightmares (of course, kudos goes out to his special effects teams). Toro has a way of putting his stamp of one-of-a-kind imagery in any story he tells. He has proven his worth in comedy, drama, fantasy, and action, and the fan base that follows him speak this truth. Guillermo del Toro is an example, as many directors on this list, whose projects we follow for years from conception to release. I remember when Pacific Rim was announced - every time a slither of information came out about the film, it was eagerly accepted to see what else we could learn. Del Toro has become a director who, thanks to his fanbase, is able to pitch an original blockbuster and have it green lit and made successful. Fans know his name and follow him with faith, waiting for the next Hellboy, Pacific Rim, and his special take on the talked about Haunted Mansion reboot.