Customer Reviews

Hollywood 101: The Film Industry

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This book is probably the best investment I have made in the past year. It starts off by acknowledging the fact that it is, in fact, hard to break into Hollywood. But it follows with the statement that if you have enough determination, you can make it happen. Although some find this kind of positive encouragement cliched, I found it to be exactly what I needed: someone successful in the business telling me that I can actually reach my Hollywood goals. The book then describes the filmmaking process, step by step from pre to post-production and every detail in between. It defines and explains each and every person who helps contribute to a film and never seems to drag. I strongly reccomend this book to those who are like me, dreaming to make it in Hollywood. Thanks to Mr. Levy for offering this incredible source of knowledge. Well done.

Excellent book about breaking into the "Industry". This book details almost all jobs in the industry and really tells you how to go about securing that job without knowing someone who can help you. You may find that you are better suited for another career within the industry, one you never would have dreamed of. Frederick Levy is a guy who knows his stuff and truly wrote this book to help you succeed with your career in film. He talks about writing a Television 101.......I am waiting!! Although Hollywood 101 was just as helpful! After reading your book, I am more than ever convinced that I shall succeed as well. Thanks Mr. Levy, I look forward to more books on the Industry from you!!

Unlike some of the reviewers of this book, unfortunately I haven't had the opportunity to meet Mr. Levy but I would like to congratulate him on a book that is truly insightful and provided me with several days of wonderful reading.

I don't want to sugarcoat this review but I have read so many books on the film industry and this book did not make me yawn one bit. This book was created for people who want to break into the industry. By no way is the author saying it's easy but the insight to certain industry professions and the professionals he had contribute to this book is remarkable.

If you know someone who wants to break into the film industry, I know there are many books out there but purchase this book as a present for that individual. It's hip, informative and definitely not boring.

Highly recommended!

I purchased a number of "get into film/hollywood" books and this one was by far the most helpful. While it doesn't have much of the typical career advice (how to write your resume, cover letters etc.), which are better covered in more general job hunting books, it is the perfect book to read to get a sense for the jobs that do exist in Hollywood. If you're interested in the industry, but find it something of a "black box" or are unsure exactly what type of position to try and look for, this book is the ideal starting point. Levy walks through the entire industry, from agencies to studios, to actors, directors, costume designers etc. Given the wide canvas, none of the positions are covered in too much detail, but I think the book ideally serves as an excellent starting point from which to know where to pursue more information.

Finally, the tone of the book is excellent - one of excitement and encouragement. While it's a small point, dry and depressing hollywood career books abound - it's refreshing to find one that's has an enthusiasm and optimism to match your own.

I can't say which book is going to tell you how to "get in" to Hollywood, since I haven't tried it. What I can tell you is that I've read a good number of these books and this one is by far the best and most promising. Not only is it up to date, it is honest, full of interesting side-stories, and covers almost everything you'd want to know about all the professions in the business. This is the perfect book for those who aren't in film school but still have a passion to make movies. My only complaint is that it should have been longer.

I am an entertainment buff and I thought this book was great for people who want a survey of jobs they can pursue. It gave an in depth look at a lot of the positions in the film business. If you want a general look at the possible jobs, get this book. If you are more interested in television, this book is a great start, but it doesn't say anything about that since its primarly about film so look for another book for further reading. I would recommend this book for anyone who wants to break into the business, it was really helpful for me.

Excellent reference book containing answers to questions you might be embarassed to ask otherwise. Full of straight forward and valuable information about the workings of Hollywood.

As a film professional and teacher I was extremely impressed by Frederick Levy's book. Every question a student has ever asked me about the industry is answered here. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it as a supplemental text book for any college level class. Not only is it informative but it's fun to read!

It was informative and not at all boring. A must-read for those who are new to the Industy. Explains the steps of advancement for nearly every job in the entertainment industry. Excellent resource for goal-setting/ career management.

Hollywood 101, The Film Industry by Frederick Levy is an informative and helpfull guide to those who are interested in pursuing a career in the industry. Not only does the book break-down and define the players involved in the film making process but it also includes a long list of contact information, tips and real-life examples of what to do and not to do.