William Augustus Wellman (February 29, 1896 – December 9, 1975) was an American
film director and actor. Although Wellman began his film career as an actor, he worked on over 80 films, as director, producer and consultant, but most often as a director, notable for his work in
crime,
adventure and
action genre films, often focusing on
aviation themes, a particular passion. He also directed several well-regarded satirical comedies.