Customer Reviews

Making Short Films

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i read the comments of those that bought this book...after i bought my copy an i am glad i did . after reading the reviews i wouldn't have bought this book, i am very glad i didnt listen to the poor reviews Having directed several movies, i am always on the lookout for different ways of doing films .Perhaps its not slick enough like some that tell a great story but nothing about film making. Dont worry you will be spending your money wisely. Believe me i own many books and this one is near the top,but for those that like to make this harder than it needs to be buy (Rebel without a Crew) nice story or 30 dollar film school) use it as a door stop. film making is all about the K.I.S.S. method.

i found this book at the local library but it didnt have the dvd so i came here and boght this copy as i am starting to do short films now and wanted a guide to keep on hand. this is a SUPERB book on every level for me i know i will keep it at my side for reference as well as inspiration. GREAT FIND!!

Plenty of books give all the basics of how to make a film of any size - but MAKING SHORT FILMS goes a step further in also surveying the purpose and problems involved. From whether or not to write a script and how to develop it to composing shots, using editing programs on computers, and creating special effects, there are plenty of tips paired with hands-on application projects perfect for newcomers. The DVD in back offers thirty completed short films by students and beginners, for further inspiration and example.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Film students made these films? Try High School students!
The accompanying DVD sucks!! Yeah, they show some of the ideas presented in the book, but you could also have a list of movies and particular scenes to watch for.
The DVD is VERY crudely put together. The rudimentary DVD menu is not fully funcional, annoying.
The DVD also has encoded some of the movies poorly, so its hard to fast-forward through them. They also skip a little.
Then there's the quality of the movies themselves. They are crap!
Don't waste your time or money.

If you are looking for serious insight into making short films or if you insist on craft and production values, keep walking. This book should be targeted to high-schoolers or hobbyists without serious expectations. If your idea of short-film making means sneaking your dad's camcorder out for an afternoon of hi-jinks with your friends, you may find this amusing. However, if you want to make a serious short for a festival or if you wish to look seriously at the art form, pass this one by.-

I am a film study teacher at the high school level, and I have to say that this book provides some excellent, hands-on examples and techniques for making successful short films. I was really impressed with the accompanying DVD, which included a variety of shorts to use as models. I plan on using the starter film ideas for my beginning film study students. It is so difficult to derive ideas for short films, but these starters provide excellent scenarios to creatively explore. At under $20.00, this is a steal. Thanks for a great resource, Jim.