Who directed the 1973 film "American Graffiti"?

The 1973 film "American Graffiti" was directed by George Lucas. After gaining critical acclaim for his previous film "THX 1138," Lucas wanted to explore a more personal and nostalgic side of Americana, drawing inspiration from his own experiences growing up in the 1960s. The film became a breakout success, capturing the essence of teenage life in the early 1960s and launching the careers of numerous actors, including Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, and Harrison Ford. With its innovative storytelling and memorable soundtrack, "American Graffiti" solidified Lucas as a talented filmmaker and laid the groundwork for his future success with the "Star Wars" franchise.