Famous Directors & Other Names of Classic Cinema

Spencer is a name that has everything: it's both distinguished sounding and accessible, dignified but Spencer Tracy-like friendly. Picked by several celebrities (a couple of times even for a girl), adding up to an enthusiastically recommended choice.

Although Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire personified brute force, most Stanleys have been portrayed as meek milquetoasts. It has a totally "old-man" or "grandpa" vibe that may appeal to those who like Walter and Rupert or Daphne and Mabel.

An uncommon Irish-accented surname that seems particularly well suited to a girl. Tierney Sutton is a well-known jazz singer. Tierney, in its original Tiarnach form, was the name of several saints. It can also join the ranks of Old Hollywood names, via the haunting actress Gene Tierney. ER actress Maura Tierney is a current surname bearer. 

Whether it's used as a short form or on its own, this jazzy midcentury name is poised for a comeback along with brothers Ray and Walt.

Was there ever a name that rolled more appealingly off the tongue? Vittorio calls to mind the glory days of Italian cinema, featuring names like Vittorio de Sica and Vittorio Gassman. 

A straightforward, down-to-earth nickname many Walters, from Whitman to Disney, have chosen to go by.

Long connected to the world of movie biz thanks to Warner Bros, Warner is tough sounding surname of Germanic origin. While some English speakers may find it leans a little too close in sound to "worn out" or "warmer", it nevertheless shares the cool -er ending of contemporary favorites like Sawyer, Parker, Cooper, and Carter, while also matching the sturdy sounds or feel of Warren or Walter.

A common surname that was popular as a given name in the late 19th and early 20th century, Willis dropped off the US Top 1000 back in the early 90s, just as alternative William diminutive, Liam, began to skyrocket.

Winsor is a masculine name of English origin, derived from a place name meaning 'riverbank with a windlass' (a device used for hoisting or hauling). Most famously associated with Windsor Castle and the British royal family, though with a slight spelling variation. As a first name, Winsor has an aristocratic, distinguished quality that conveys refinement and heritage. It's quite rare as a given name, appealing to parents seeking uncommon names with historical significance. Winsor has never been among popular mainstream names but maintains steady, limited usage. The name suggests sophistication and carries associations with English tradition, making it an elegant choice for those seeking a distinguished yet uncommon name.

Now that Winter is officially a first name, the surname Winters can be drawn into the pack of appropriate names for winter babies. Or summer babies, if it's a family name.