direction lines disappeared

You have the Rotobezier option active in your toolbar. Rotobezier path does not have bezier controls, you can only adjust the curve's tension. What you can do is:

- Select the path and go to Layer > Mask and Shape Path and deactivate Rotobezier option

- Disable the Rotobezier option when you select the pen tool (check attached image) for future paths.

Hi poiuyto,

That's not ideal.

What happens if you drag one of the anchor points with the Convert Vertex Tool? You could try resetting the preferences of After Effects: https://community.adobe.com/t5/after-effects-discussions/faq-how-to-reset-trash-preferences-in-after-effects/td-p/10634342

Let us know if it helps.

Thanks,

Nishu