Watch the actors. Do they seem lost in their character and relaxed into their new life? Think of "Apollo 13" from 1995. Ron Howard's direction gave every actor the opportunity to live in their character's skin and be outstanding. Then watch 2010's Tom Cruise/Cameron Diaz vehicle "Knight and Day" to see what bad direction of actors looks like. The two look panicked and seem like deer in the headlights looking for some help and reaction throughout the movie.
Look at the overall picture. Bad movies make you feel like you don't know where you are or what people are doing and why. This is directly related to the direction because the director is the one person who essentially sets the plate for everything to be laid upon it. If it's confusing you don't know what to eat or where to start.
Follow the story? Yes, the screenwriter is the author of a film, but the director is still interpreting and if there was something on the page or from a book, it should translate onto the screen. As crazy and violent as they are, you can still follow Rob Zombie's "Halloween" remakes over any other mainstream picture about business or a thriller. You are being presented with a viewpoint in "Halloween" and he stays with it.
Were you laughing at a comedy? Until "Bridesmaids" and "The Hangover," do you remember laughing at a Hollywood movie? Usually, it's not the script's fault because humor is the medium most in need of good direction. Bad comedy = bad direction.