Shooting to Kill: How an Independent Producer Blasts Through the Barriers to Make Movies that Matter [Paperback]

Christine Vachon (Author), David Edelstein (Author)

Book Description

Release date: September 1, 1998

Complete with behind-the-scenes diary entries from the set of Vachon's best-known fillms, Shooting to Kill offers all the satisfaction of an intimate memoir from the frontlines of independent filmmakins, from one of its most successful agent provocateurs -- and survivors. Hailed by the New York Times as the "godmother to the politically committed film" and by Interview as a true "auteur producer," Christine Vachon has made her name with such bold, controversial, and commercially successful films as "Poison," "Swoon," Kids," "Safe," "I Shot Andy Warhol," and "Velvet Goldmine."Over the last decade, she has become a driving force behind the most daring and strikingly original independent filmmakers-from Todd Haynes to Tom Kalin and Mary Harron-and helped put them on the map.

So what do producers do? "What don't they do?" she responds. In this savagely witty and straight-shooting guide, Vachon reveals trheguts of the filmmaking process--rom developing a script, nurturing a director's vision, getting financed, and drafting talent to holding hands, stoking egos, stretching every resource to the limit and pushing that limit. Along the way, she offers shrewd practical insights and troubleshooting tips on handling everything from hysterical actors and disgruntled teamsters to obtuse marketing executives.

Complete with behind-the-scenes diary entries from the sets of Vachon's best-known films, Shooting To Kill offers all the satisfactions of an intimate memoir from the frontlines of independent filmmaking, from one of its most successful agent provocateurs-and survivors.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Labeled the "godmother to the politically committed film" by the New York Times, producer Vachon, head of NYC's Killer Films, emerged as one of the key players in the current independent film movement with such movies as Kids, Safe, Go Fish, I Shot Andy Warhol and Velvet Goldmine, scheduled by Miramax for November. For this guided tour through the world of low-budget independent filmmaking, Vachon teamed with Slate film critic Edelstein to "tell you what producers do and how you can do it too." With 15 years of experience, she's writing about what she knows?the full filmmaking process from the pitch and story rights to script development and financing through casting, costs, crews, computer schedules and storyboards, scouting locations and constructing sets, editing and postproduction, deals and distribution, film fests and marketing. Covering all aspects, she outlines factors that make "the difference between a dream shoot and a campfire-ready tale of terror." This is no dry textbook, since even chapters crammed with facts and information communicate a kinetic enthusiasm. Diary excerpts and 50 b&w photos punctuate the blitz on budgets and breakdowns, and other industry pros toss in short sidebar observations. Entertaining, emotional anecdotes abound, contrasting negotiation nightmares with Vachon's desire to protect her directors, actors and associates. Although the prose style's jump-cut jumble might leave some yearning for a more conventional chronological structure, Vachon reaches readers on such a level of intimate intensity it's evident that her future books will be green-lighted.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

This hybrid book works exceptionally well on two levels: as a memoir of an artist and as a brass-tacks instruction manual. In her first book, co-written with film critic Edelstein, Vachon offers insights into her work on such indie films as Safe, I Shot Andy Warhol, and Velvet Goldmine and provides practical advice for aspiring film producers. Excerpts from her diary describe the myriad problems that crop up when shooting on a shoestring budget. But Vachon remains savvy and committed. Her tone is one of determination; in fact, she seems to relish her position away from the bright lights and high-stakes pressure of Hollywood. Highly recommended for most collections.?Thomas J. Wiener, Editor, "Satellite DIRECT," Vienna, VA
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks (September 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0380798549
• ISBN-13: 978-0380798544
• Product Dimensions: 5.4 x 0.9 x 7.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (20 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #85,281 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #39 in Books > Humor & Entertainment > Movies > Theory
  • #100 in Books > Humor & Entertainment > Movies > Direction & Production

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 9 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars There is an Indie Neverland After All September 19, 2005

By Dep K

Format:Paperback

Not only is this a thorough and informative piece of work, which would make it worth twice the price all by itself, it's also an inspiration and should be read by anyone, writer, actor, producer, director, anyone.... who's ever been told you have to compromise your vision in this business to get your movie made. There are several great stories in this book but the image that keeps resonating in my head is Christine Vachon, the High Priestess of Indie Film and Soverign Protector of Infant Directors, saying to the producer's rep: "We'll talk about it" and saying to everyone else after hanging up the phone, "We're not cutting anything, we're not cutting anything." Not only did I not know there were people out there doing such things, I had begun to wonder if it was even possible. This book can make you believe again. I didn't read it. I devoured it.

9 of 11 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly entertaining look at Independent Producing. October 19, 1998

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

Definitely the most readable book on the subject of Independent Producing that I've ever read. Writing from her own experience makes this anecdotal book on producing much less dry than any other I've read. Not for those looking for a handbook, this offering gives you a real feel of what it's like to be an independent producer and insight on how she's made it happen. I love that her tone throughout is "this is how I did this" and not "this is how it must be done." Excellent starting point for anyone interested in independent film production.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A smart,passionate and funny guide to movie making. October 10, 1998

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

This is easily the best book of its kind I have ever read. Ms. Vachon is astoundingly generous with her experiences. Some of it is laugh-out-loud hysterical and it is always highly readable. It should be required reading for anyone who has even ever thought of making a film.