Helen Catherine Hardwicke is an American film director, production designer, and screenwriter. Born on October 21, 1955, she is known for her directorial work on several popular films.

Her notable works include Thirteen (2003), which she co-wrote with actress Nikki Reed, Lords of Dogtown (2005), The Nativity Story (2006), Twilight (2008), Red Riding Hood (2011), Plush (2013), Miss You Already (2015), Miss Bala (2019), and Prisoner's Daughter (2022).

Hardwicke was born in Cameron, Texas, and grew up in McAllen, Texas. She was raised in a Christian household by her parents, Jamee Elberta (née Bennett) and John Benjamin Hardwicke.