Luca Guadagnino, born 10 August 1971, is an Italian film director and producer. His films are characterized by their emotional complexity, eroticism, and lavish visuals. He has received numerous accolades, including a Silver Lion, alongside nominations for an Academy Award and three BAFTA Awards.

Born in Palermo, Guadagnino spent part of his childhood in Ethiopia. However, the family returned to Italy to escape the Ethiopian Civil War. Guadagnino began his career directing short films and documentaries. He made his feature-film debut with The Protagonists (1999), the first of his many collaborations with actress Tilda Swinton. His follow-up, Melissa P. (2005), was a commercial success in Italy but was met with mixed critical reception.