20 Best Books On Filmmaking (2023 Update)

I do not care who you are this book belongs in your possession. It has current content stuff you need to know and memorize if you in this business. Its all up to you the information is here.amerchantcash

I read a preview of this book and it looked really good, so I had to buy it. I was not disappointed. As I have been around the filmmaking scene since before I can remember (my father's in the industry) I know a thing or two about what's involved. Despite what I did know, I was pleasantly surprised to find that this pointed out a number of things I hadn't thought of; things that can easily get forgotten. It's easy to read, very informative, and goes through everything involved in making a film. (Well, so far, I'm still not done reading it) If you're thinking of making a movie (even if it's an animated one) this book is a must!chi9993

'm always looking to read and learn more about the craft. This book is a must-read for people starting out and wanting to learn more about how the industry really works. This isn't a book meant for casual filmmakers looking to upload a 3 minute slo-mo reel on Youtube – this is meant for those looking to fund and create their own full-length movies in today's film industry. It's a smooth, quick read and offers useful information. It leans largely on the behind the scenes of financing and things to look out for. If you're looking for something more focused on directing actors or the writing aspects of filmmaking, I would recommend Mamet's "On Directing Film" or Lumet's "Making Movies." However, if you're looking for some real talk on how the industry works and how to get your pictures financed and made, this is the best I've read.Doreen

From 1986 to the present, Shane Stanley has called himself a filmmaker. For over 30 years he has produced everything from industrial spots to box office hits, most notably to include SONY Pictures Gridiron Gang, starring Dwayne The Rock Johnson. He also founded and operated his own successful film company now approaching its 20th year. Exposed to the industry from a young age, Stanley donned a multitude of hats working with his father in the business. Here in his latest innovative release What You Dont Learn in Film School A Complete Guide to Independent Filmmaking, Stanley combines practical real world knowledge and his passion for making independent films, in a masterful effort to help a new generation of film enthusiasts reach their cinematic goals. In this 10 chapter compendium, Stanley takes readers through a step-by-step process exploring the daily realities of the independent filmmaking business, which are seldom taught in the classroom. Here the emphasis is placed on the need to create low budget/high concept films and being able to navigate the sales, marketing, and distribution of your product. From script choices and dealing with investors, to the importance of pre-production work and surrounding yourself with a good multi-faceted team which supports your vision, Stanley delves into a wide array of topics. Discussions about registering your screenplay with the Library of Congress, obtaining production insurance, vetting your cinematographer, as well as feeding your crew, are all given equal importance. For those individuals just starting out in the film arena, Stanley is quick to emphasize Do your time and earn your stripes. A lifetime of working in the industry undoubtedly affords Stanley a unique and personal perspective for his writing. From a well-rounded, solid vantage point he weaves factual components with touches of wit, humor, and slices of life happenings that help exemplify the make or break elements which brings a production to final fruition. With his no-nonsense approach he reveals, I know filmmakers who have died of old age that never raised the funds to get their pictures produced. Stanleys book is a quality reference for anyone interested in independent filmmaking. With knowledge and insight gained from his own early mistakes, he shares lessons learned and showcases the takeaways that have improved his ardent work strategy and helped him maintain a strong standing in the industry. Developing a good rapport and honoring a sincere and respectful relationship with all business associates, whether money lenders, lead actors, or the set gofer is crucial advice, as he notes Relationships are the skeleton key to opening the right doors and closing deals. In the oftentimes dog eat dog world of movie making, Stanleys willingness to grant insiders access to the elusive elements that help generate a viable film production seems a testament to his appreciation and willingness to help affirm the art of independent filmmaking as a plausible career option. Ideally it is for those who are willing to do whatever it takes to get their ideas on the screen. Film school curriculums would do students a service to include Stanleys book on a required reading list. His up close and personal experience in the filmmaking business is provided in a very open and honest format, shedding a much needed light on the realities of working in this industry which go far beyond the traditional offerings presented behind the buffering walls of academia. This book is a very valuable resource which needs to be in everyones bookshelf from the beginning actor to the accomplished director/producer. Carol Davala, Pacific Book Reviewvisualartsent

Impressively informative, exceptionally well written, organized and presented…An iconoclastic and invaluable course of 'real world practical' instruction and directly usable information that is unreservedly recommended as a film school curriculum textbook, as well as professional, community, and academic library Cinema Technology collections and supplemental studies lists. It should be noted for personal reading lists of film students and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject. Hollywood filmmaker Shane Stanley writes a book anyone and everyone should read if they want an entertainment industry insider's professional guidance on how to create a movie. This book is an especially invaluable tool to those who have, or plan to, attend a college or university film school. A unique and personal perspective from a well-rounded, solid vantage point. A quality reference for anyone interested in independent filmmaking. Film school curriculums would do students a services to include Stanley's book on a required reading list. A very valuable resource which needs to be in everyone's bookshelf from the beginning actor to the accomplished director/producer.visualartsent

Bought for my son who works in film etc. Turned up quicker than promised and he says its very good. But I guess its for a select audience.mike-account

This book is so nice, it takes the details of camera work and simplifies them for the normal camera operator. Additionally it adds hints and guide points that are super useful for doing the work more comfortably and safely. AND it adds information that can assist people that desire to make films to practice and learn to do it well enough to not look totally amateur.fawnsfall

I bought this book for my World of Cinema class. It is a good book with a lot of technical information and history. If you are interested in understand the technical aspects of films this is a great book.josetr64

I expected a book on movies with short blurbs about films. This is about the perople who make the films. The title is misleading. Had I been in a bookstore, I woud not have bought this book.gypsy35lq

I didn't know what to expect. It has no pictures. It seems to be a solid block of film information. . which I trust is good for many, but I don't find it inviting to explore. I am not a cinema aficionado and I was hoping this would get me more involved, but it hasn't.osprey88

To begin, I found no bad things in this book. That may be because I'm part of the video store generation and was in one more than once but that's not the point. I found nostalgic inducing memories of celebrities who were in video stores and got education, memories, and movies out of the bargain. Plus, it helps that names of movies were featured in the book itself. I wasn't too long or too short due to the length of the book. Recommended for all those who are either nostalgic for the video stores made from brick and mortar or part of the video store generation.bria.gagno

This Film Handbook definitely gives you a step by step process of pre-production, production, and post-production. It also helps you formulate the best shots possible in different conditions and reviews your knowledge with camera functioning, lighting, and editing tips.pstan69

The Filmmaker's Handbook gives a great overview of filmmaking from the indie to the pro. Granted, it is a bit out of date. But the principles are solid and timeless. Few people will plow through all 818 pages, but they will find it a useful reference.brawner

Although somewhat brief this is a fascinating book that is written by a master. Breaking down the art of film making digitally into such a compact tome could not have been easy and yet it does not feel like a small book. Mr Figgis' words are accurate and helpfulcaptainhev

Although somewhat brief this is a fascinating book that is written by a master. Breaking down the art of film making digitally into such a compact tome could not have been easy and yet it does not feel like a small book. Mr Figgis' words are accurate and helpfulcaptainhev