Is directing an acquired skill or a gift you're born with?

[john threat]

directing is like being a pilot! you need more hours logged! but how do you get more flight time? Arggh! It's easier to flip burgers!

[refocusedmedia]

But Kevin Smith is a writer/director. Could it be that he's a naturally talented director, but not a talented writer?

The opposite is true, actually.

[john threat]

i was born this way!

[iamWZA]

Wow, this thread took off. I'll have to dedicate a chunk of time to read your responses tomorrow.