The Working Director: How to Arrive, Survive and Thrive in the Director's Chair - Softcover

Wilkinson, Charles

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1932907025 ISBN 13: 9781932907025

Publisher: Michael Wiese Productions, 2005

Synopsis

A step-by-step guide to the rules of engagement--starting with what and what not to say on the first producer phone call, how to deal with writers, with stars, with crews. A fun, irreverent, informative, gloves-off guide to landing the work, doing the work, and getting more.

About this title

Reviews

According to Wilkinson, numerous volumes have been devoted to the "A" director who helms blockbusters. This snappily written, candid and informative book addresses the other 95% of the world's directors: working "helmers" (Variety-speak for "director") like Wilkinson who lack absolute power and must answer to producers. Told briskly, in the style of an old, trusted friend, this narrative about "getting work, doing work, getting more work" recognizes the competitive nature of the business. But Wilkinson, who has directed independent features, network TV movies and TV shows, believes talented people can break through. He discusses the value of agents, assesses whether "to schmooze or not to schmooze" and analyzes a director's responsibility to come up with a viable cast and valid ideas about film style, script, location, crew and shooting schedule. On a personal level, Wilkinson stresses the need for directors to recognize their strengths and weaknesses and gain a clear idea of how others see them. He covers multiple details of pre-production, casting, storyboarding, mixing, editing and choice of music. Above all, he emphasizes extreme care: after a take, a good director will say, "That was perfect—we're going again." That assertive precision is evident throughout this meticulously organized book, one that should prove highly useful for aspiring directors. Photos.
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Edition details

• Publisher: Michael Wiese Productions
• Publication date: 2005
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1932907025
• ISBN 13: 9781932907025
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 216