**Victor Fleming (1889-1949)** was an influential American film director, renowned for his versatility and his ability to manage complex productions. He began his career as a cameraman, subsequently establishing himself as one of Hollywood's most prolific and successful directors.

1939 was his golden year: he directed both the iconic fantasy musical *The Wizard of Oz* and the epic blockbuster *Gone with the Wind*, the latter earning him an Academy Award for Best Director. Among his other significant works are the drama *Captains Courageous* (1937), which earned Spencer Tracy an Academy Award, the pre-Code *Red-Headed Woman* (1932), and the horror film *Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde* (1941).

Fleming was known for his mastery in directing actors and his skill in effortlessly transitioning between various genres, from drama to adventure, fantasy to melodrama. Although he didn't possess a distinctive authorial visual style, his professionalism and his ability to tell compelling stories made him one of the most reliable and sought-after directors within the Hollywood studio system.