The winner of BEST DIRECTOR ought to be Brit Paul Greengrass for United 93.
I've not yet seen The Queen and I'm longing to see Notes On A Scandal (I loved the novel) but the direction on United 93 was what made it so terrific (one of the best films I've ever - reluctantly - seen).

If you've not caught it, take my advice against your sensible better judgement (who wants to see a movie on so depressing and predictable a subject). You'll be really glad you did.

I noticed the critic on Parkinson named it the film of the year and my other fave - Casino Royale - was in her top 5.

Spot on JK .Greengrass is such a talent. His BLOODY SUNDAY film was hard hitting and fearless, his Bourne Supremacy virtually re-invented the spy genre. It even featured a contract killer apologising for his actions.
He's the director of the moment and United 93 is a gut wrenching but eventually life affirming experience. After all those harrowing scenes of hate fear and panic, the memory you take away is of all those passengers ringing their loved ones ,declaring their love.