Filmmaking For Dummies [Paperback]

Bryan Michael Stoller (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 10, 2008

Now updated--the step-by-step secrets to capturing great moments on film

With all the recent advancements in filmmaking technology, more people than ever are trying their hand at filmmaking. Keeping up with the newest information in this booming field, this updated edition of Filmmaking For Dummies features up-to-the-minute coverage of the latest and greatest hardware, software, accessories, and trends--including high-definition technology and new outlets for films such as YouTube and MySpace. It demystifies the nuts-and-bolts of filmmaking, from developing a project and securing financing to hiring a cast and crew, editing, and getting distribution. This new edition also provides new movie examples and updated contacts and resources. Whether people want to become professional filmmakers or simply shoot quality home movies, this practical guide has all the advice and tips needed to succeed.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"I found Filmmaking For Dummies a thorough and informative read: a complete A to Z that demystifies not only production, but pre- and post- production as well. Stoller paints a picture of filmmaking so basic that you'd have to be not just a dummy but completely braindead if you're unable to make your own movie after closing the book." (Entertainment Weekly, September 5, 2003) --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From the Back Cover

Now updated! Your step-by-step guide to turning your filmmaking dreams into reality

So you want to make movies? Whether you're looking to go pro or create quality home movies, renowned filmmaker Bryan Michael Stoller shares his extensive hands-on experience in shooting a successful film. From developing a script and securing financing to editing and working in high definition, he reveals secret tips for capturing great moments on film — even on a tight budget!

• Tell your story — explore the different genres and write (or find) a screenplay

• Gear up and start production — choose the right camera and format, scout a location, and hire the right cast and crew

• Add the finishing touches — edit your scenes, set your movie to music, incorporate sound effects, and more

• Get your film in front of an audience — enter film festivals and find a distributor

• Grasp the latest technology — understand the advancements in digital and HD; upload your movies to such sites as YouTube and MySpace

• Exclusive new interview — gain invaluable insights from Alan Horn, President and COO of Warner Bros.

"From 'Fade In' to 'Fade Out,' from 'Action' to reaction, Bryan Stoller gives us a comprehensive understanding of the art and science of making movies. Filmmaking For Dummies is the smartest book I've read on the subject."
—Peter Saphier, co-producer of Scarface and executive at Paramount Pictures

Open the book and find:

• Filmmaking tips and secrets not found anywhere else

• Expert advice on choosing the best equipment and format to use

• New movie examples, photos, and figures

• The latest on new digital technology, including affordable HD camcorders

• Ways to generate publicity for your film

• Unique Web sites for the independent filmmaker

• Cost-saving tips for film stock and software

• Updated contacts and resources

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: For Dummies; 2 edition (November 10, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0470386940
• ISBN-13: 978-0470386941
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.4 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (16 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #144,460 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

52 of 58 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Well written, but content is misguided, April 16, 2004

By 

J. Adams "crustyjusty" (Ann Arbor, MI United States) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Filmmaking For Dummies (Paperback)

I read this book, as well as others, because I'm taking a stab at filming a screenplay with some other people. I have enjoyed some of the other dummies books, but I thought this one was off target. It is very high level. For example, in the first or second chapter, he goes over what the job roles are for the production assistant, and ten other job titles you might see at the end of a Hollywood movie, and I'm thinking to myself, am I really going to have a full-time grip on my movie? I was hoping this book would focus on the nuts and bolts of making a small-budget / zero-budget film, but it talked about numbers that apply to people who aren't going to be reading a dummies book. On the whole, I thought it was a real surface look at independent filmmaking, and would be appropriate for someone who wanted to learn about it, but not do it. You would be better off buying IFILM Filmmakers Handbook and some individual books on lighting and sound if you really want information about how to make your own film. A lot of the information in this book can be found on the web, also.

13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Filmmaking for Dummies, July 19, 2005

By 

Gabriel Flores - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Filmmaking For Dummies (Paperback)

The book is very helpful. It brings a lot of good information for new filmmakers. You can find tricks, terminologies, tips, techniques, and more to start your career as a new filmaker. There are many good material to learn. The author uses recent movies as examples. It covers many aspects of the filmmaking industry and how to make a low budget film. Beside, the book brings a lot of links to interesting web pages related with the filmaking industry.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Good overall reference., July 19, 2007

By 

Alphonse Luis (Aurora, IL.) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Filmmaking For Dummies (Paperback)

Good overall reference for filmmaking, for the beginner. For the experienced, good reminder of the basics that one might have forgotten.