Customer Reviews

Breaking into Film

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Reviewed by Melissa Katherine Lankhaar

Like many, if not all, of the film students that surround me, I hope to one day break into the film industry. We've all had those visions, those dreams where our first spec script is recognized for its inherent brilliance and sold for six figures. Surprisingly, beyond that many film students have little idea how they're really going to break into the industry; we've heard how difficult it's supposed to be, but don't want to think about it until we have to.

Thankfully, Kenna McHugh explores this somewhat intimidating terrain in her informative book, Breaking into Film. McHugh recognizes how unfamilar the film industry and its innerworkings are to so many, and how few of us really understand what truly goes on behind the camera. Sure, we all know that a film needs a writer, a director, and a producer behind the camera, but how many of us know exactly what it is a gaffer or a unit publicist does? McHugh begins her book with an introduction of sorts to the industry, providing the reader with a working knowledge of what goes on behind the camera, and detailing the myraid of possible jobs available to an eager, motivated individual. With the groundwork thoroughly laid, McHugh moves on to the all important issues of networking, interviewing, and breaking into the industry. By the time the book is completed, the author has given us a richly detailed portrait of the tools necessary to get a foot in the door, and the additional knowledge and information to advance that position.

Breaking into Film is a book aimed at an audience that knows next to nothing about the industry. Thus, while the book is highly informative and useful, the writing style employed by McHugh is at times grating. The eternal optimism and eagerness of McHugh's tone undercuts the importance of the knowledge being imparted, rendering it slightly less reliable. The book is also honest, which may turn many off. While many sources will tell you that you must be highly motivated and aggressive to work in the industry, Breaking into Film goes a step further and details just how much energy and determination you need, at every step of the game. Those readers looking for an easy way to break into film will be frustrated to find there is no such thing; succeeding means knowing the rules, networking, interviewing, and having luck on your side. McHugh obviously knows what she's talking about, and if you're willing to spend the time reading what she has to say, there is no doubt you will learn something.

In addition, McHugh includes three appendixes at the conclusion of the book, all of which are helpful and vastly important to those just starting out in their struggle. McHugh gives the reader a list of "Key Employers and Film Commission Offices" (complete with with phone number, fax number, and address), a list of colleges that offer film majors, and a list of potential internship opportunities. These lists alone make Breaking into Film worth your while. For those who want to get started in the film industry, but have no idea how, Kenna McHugh's book is a useful, informative tool that can get you on your way.

I just finished reading your book "Breaking Into Film," and found it very practical and useful. I discovered it on the Amazon.com web site, as well as your e-mail address for comments or questions. I found lots of little tips on letter writing (Chapter 4), and the Appendix with the address listings will definitely come in handy. I also enjoyed the chapter on networking.

Not only did I love it, but I already landed my first PA job because of it. It didn't even take writing fancy resume's and cover letters. All I did was search around on some of the recommended web sites that I found in your book. I posted a online resume saying I was interested in PA work, and sure enough I got an e-mail followed up by a phone call by a producer doing a film starring Jenny McCarthy. I am leaving for LA this Saturday to do a two week shoot-my first film job!! I hope there are more to come.

Breaking Into Film by Kenna McHugh Reviewed by Alan Dorfman

Have you ever spent $7.50 on a movie? Have you ever considered a career in film? Well, for the cost of only two movie admissions, independent film producer, writer and public relations professional Kenna McHugh has provided you with your ticket to that career. In her own words, "It is a step by step manual on how to get work in film." Be forewarned, however, it is about getting work behind the cameras. This is not a book meant for inspiring actors, screenwriters or directors.

Actually, McHugh has provided a realistic blueprint for a career in any field. The information she offers about networking, letter writing and interviewing is the same you'd receive from any certified career counselor, but, at $14.95, for a lot less money.

Admittedly, a lot of the information here should be obvious. To get your foot in the door, offer to work for free or try to get an internship. If you get that foot in that door, show up on time (preferably early), have a great, positive attitude, work hard and never lie. A much repeated mantra is "Act like a pro before you are one."

The real value of this book comes from its sample letters, its checklists and the many lists of contacts for networking, including production companies, film studios, industry publications and professional organizations. These are found throughout the book and in three appendixes.

Having worked extensively with a career counselor, most of the information here was not new to me. This made for a less interesting read. My guess is that the average reader will find much of this information a revelation and be thoroughly fascinated.

This book should be required reading for all first year film students. I wish I'd read it six months and several thousand dollars ago.

Until recently, I did career counseling in the film school at USC and as soon as I saw your book listed, I checked it out for my students. It was nice to see that much of what you included underscored what I already told them, and it also included new information for me to share with them. I put together a resource packet to help the students with their job search and I immediately added your book as an invaluable tool for them to use.

Thank you for providing an affordable, informative resource for those just getting started!

I read this book in two days. This Breaking Into Film is what I have been look for as a resource guide to a career in film. I found the section on Informational Interviews most applicable to my career choice. Ms. McHugh explains each step with clarity. There is no mumbo jumbo. It is all clear and straight forward. This how-to book will put you in control of your film career. A must book for any future filmmaker's library

I immediately started reading it, yesterday, just before I had to go to work. Today, I continued it and I am already halfway through. It's easy reading and crystal clear. It's also fun.

I particularly like the outline of the industry and the approach you describe on how to land jobs and contacts in the industry seems very workable.

Thank you, your book has far surpassed the expectations I had set for it earlier. I am about half way through it and already it is highest on my list of informative books related to the film industry (winning over Joseph V. Mascelli's The Five C's of Cinematography, Dona Cooper's Writing Great Screenplays for Film and TV, and even John Alton's Painting With Light).

I wanted to thank you for writing Breaking into Film... I have a feeling it is going to be *the* reason I will get a job in film.

I bought, read your book, and found it very informative and no-nonsense. Many books make the scene seem so positive and accessible. Your focus on attitude and expectations is very realistic. Your examples of dos and don'ts, and how to write a good letter are great as well.