Director vs. cineasta
In Spanish, the words 'director' and 'cineasta' both relate to the filmmaking industry but have different connotations and usages.
Director
The word 'director' generally refers to a person who directs a film, TV show, play, or any other media production. It can also mean a person who leads or manages an organization or department.
El director de la empresa tomó una decisión importante.
(The director of the company made an important decision.)
La película fue muy exitosa gracias al talento del director.
(The movie was very successful thanks to the talent of the director.)
El director de la escuela organizó un evento para los estudiantes.
(The principal of the school organized an event for the students.)
Cineasta
'Cineasta' specifically refers to a filmmaker or someone involved in the creative and production process of making movies, including directing. It has a more artistic connotation compared to 'director'.
El cineasta ganó varios premios por su innovadora película.
(The filmmaker won several awards for his innovative movie.)
Como cineasta, siempre busca nuevas maneras de contar historias visuales.
(As a filmmaker, he always looks for new ways to tell visual stories.)
Muchos cineastas empiezan sus carreras dirigiendo cortometrajes.
(Many filmmakers begin their careers by directing short films.)
Summary
'Director' can refer to anyone managing any type of project or organization, whereas 'cineasta' is specific to individuals involved in filmmaking. While both can direct films, only 'director' is used in broader contexts.