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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
1.0 out of 5 stars
Hardly An Insider's Guide, July 30, 2000
I'm currently in film school, concentrating on TV production, and came across this book while doing some initial research on technical aspects related television production. I was disappointed to find this self-produced paperback provided nothing more than an amateur's perspective on shows the writer produced at a local access station. The title itself, claiming people can be a "star," precisely demonstrates the problem with the book's content - or lack thereof - in ignoring the fact that people should be concerned with talent and professionalism, not wanting to be a "star." In addition to various typos and incorrect statements, the author seems more concerned with trying to convince people they can get a free haircut or limo ride by doing their own show rather than stressing they learn the craft of production, writing, performing, etc. to become successful. Such bad advice is what separates those who succeed and those who fail not only in TV and film, but in life in general. Cable access is great for those who genuinely want to do a community service in bringing people information, however it serves as nothing more than a breeding ground for mediocrity for those who want to be "stars."
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
1.0 out of 5 stars
Great book...for the 90s, June 28, 2000
Who cares about public access anymore? The days of "Wayne & Garth" have long passed. Although the style of writing in this book certainly has a feel for a prior era, that doesn't mean that the overall effort is worth spending money on. Besides, all of this information is available free of charge at your local cable station. As I've said, public access is dead in Los Angeles, so I can't imagine it being such an enthralling subject in the obscure places that the other "reviewers" on this site are allegedly from. If any of you are serious about appearing on television, develop your talent and pursue it in a professional manner...this route is strictly for amateurs.
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7 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
1.0 out of 5 stars
Nothing personal, June 8, 2000
This unusual book came to my attention via a friend who used to do shows on Public Access Television. She told me that she knew the person who wrote it and wanted to know my opinion, since I work in the television industry. I have never personally heard of nor have watched anything that Mr. Darby has produced, so I went to the bookstore to "take a look." Unfortunately, like so many others who attempt to educate the masses on the ins-and-outs of the business, this book is not a well-produced effort. I came across some typos while reading the back cover quotes, and I couldn't imagine how that could have happened. Yes, we all make mistakes, but there are more to be found inside. Not just typos, but there are several technical aspects that have been stated incorrectly. I am not putting down public access, because I have watched it myself and have found some rare gems (mostly years ago before they moved it down the dial in Los Angeles). None of those programs was even mentioned in this book, so maybe it was just my taste, or Mr. Darby never worked with those individuals. In any case, there are so many books on the market that I believe it is very important that they be accurate and not give the public at large a false idea of how to produce a television show.
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