Who is the person that calls "action" and "cut" on the set?

The individual responsible for calling "action" and "cut" on a film set is the director. This person is primarily in charge of overseeing the artistic and technical aspects of the film, guiding the actors' performances, and ensuring that the vision of the project is realized on screen. The director manages the flow of the production on set, coordinating between various departments while also making critical decisions regarding the pacing, performance, and visual composition.

In contrast, the producer typically handles the logistical and financial aspects of the film, such as securing funding, managing budgets, and orchestrating schedules. The cinematographer, also known as the director of photography, focuses on the visual elements and camera work, but does not direct the actors. The editor comes into play after filming is complete, working on post-production tasks to assemble the footage into a coherent narrative. Each role is essential to the filmmaking process, but the responsibility for calling "action" and "cut" distinctly lies with the director.