Alexander Payne (born
Constantine Alexander Payne; February 10, 1961) is an American
film director,
screenwriter, and
producer, known for the films
Citizen Ruth (1996),
Election (1999),
About Schmidt (2002),
Sideways (2004),
The Descendants (2011), and
Nebraska (2013). His films are noted for their
dark humor and
satirical depictions of contemporary American society. Payne is a two time winner of the
Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, and a three time nominee of the
Academy Award for Best Director.