Brian Desmond Hurst (12 February 1895 – 26 September 1986) was a Belfast-born film director. Responsible for over 30 films as director, Hurst was Ireland's most prolific film director during the 20th century. Scrooge (USA released as A Christmas Carol) is probably his finest film. Both produced and directed by Hurst the Christmas classic is still screened globally every year and has reached iconic status in the USA and sees Alistair Sim giving the performance of his life.