Student Recommendations: Books and References
Note: The following books are recommended by students of producing and media as valuable sources of information. Their comments may or may not reflect the views of the author.
AMUSING OURSELVES TO DEATH: PUBLIC DISCOURSE IN THE AGE OF SHOW BUSINESS
Neil Postman (Penguin Books, 1986, 2005)
Postman addresses the real dangers of media misuse, and discusses how media shapes our lives with suggestions for ways we can shape the media in response.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A great source of media evaluation and its culture, highlights the positive/negative effects the media can have on society.
ARISTOTLE'S POETICS FOR SCREENWRITERS: STORYTELLING SECRETS FROM THE GREATEST MIND IN WESTERN CIVILIZATION
Michael Tierno (Hyperion, 2002)
The author takes the classic work on storytelling, Aristotle's Poetics, and applies his thinking to modern-day writing and theory. Essentially “translating” Aristotle, the author examines elements of story such as plot structure, the fundamentals of screenwriting, plots and subplots, and dialogue. He uses examples from well-known films to show how Aristotle's ideas might apply to screenwriting today.
STUDENT COMMENTS: It's very student-friendly, and is written in an easy way that makes Aristotle less overwhelming and extremely relevant.
THE ARTIST'S WAY (10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION)
Julia Cameron (Jeremy P. Tarcher, 2002)
The author takes the reader on a journey into one's reservoirs of creativity, and explores the various blocks that often hinder the flow of creative juices. Through various exercises and thinking processes, the book gives the reader ways to find new confidence and productivity.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Really interesting to read, and thought provoking. One of the best books for releasing the inner artist in each of us.
BASICS OF THE VIDEO PRODUCTION DIARY
Des Lyver, editor (Focal Press, 2001)
A good start for showrunners and would-be producers, with basic pointers for organization that are often overlooked. Helps improve management skills, paperwork, and maps out plans for producers in all stages of video production.
STUDENT COMMENTS: An interesting resource. Shows how to create a “diary” or means of organizing and completing necessary paperwork, logically and professionally.
THE BIZ: THE BA SIC BUSINESS, LEGAL AND FINANCIAL ASPECTS OF THE FILM INDUSTRY, 2ND EDITION
Schuyler M. Moore (Silman-James Press, 2003)
This text covers the extensive legal and financial elements involved in the film and television industries, and covers everything from raising financing, laws and contracts, dealing with unions, copyright issues, clearances, and sample forms and contracts.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A little bit daunting but very helpful and comprehensive.
BOXED IN: THE CULTURE OF TV
Mark Crispin Miller (Northwestern University Press, 1988)
Through a collection of essays, the author uses wit and insight into television's effect on the life and culture of the American TV audience. He encourages critical awareness, for example, in watching TV commercials and the news, even game shows that diminish individuality and awareness and substitute with mediocrity.
STUDENT COMMENTS: For students in media communications, it puts us on the spot and makes us take some responsibility for what we want to produce.
THIS BUSINESS OF TELEVISION
Howard J. Blumenthal and Oliver R. Goodenough (Watson-Guptill Pub, Inc., 1998)
A comprehensive, practical guide that examines how programming is financed, produced, and distributed. It describes ways that the FCC and federal laws can shape content.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A good resource with tools for executives, writers, directors, and people already in the industry. A great desk bible, once you get the job!
CLEARANCE AND COPYRIGHT: EVERYTHING THE INDEPENDENT FILMMAKER NEEDS TO KNOW, 2ND REVISION
Michael C. Donaldson (Silman-James Press, 2003)
A clearly-written guide to legal issues that face producers and filmmakers, this text covers the range of rights and clearances elements in every stage of a project, from acquiring rights to an idea through to release and final distribution.
STUDENT COMMENTS: The language of this book makes it easier to understand a lot of the contracts and forms that are part of producing. It deals with things like rights of privacy and music clearances.
CONGLOMERATES AND THE MEDIA
Patricia Aufderheide and Erik Barnouw, Richard M. Cohen, Thomas Frank, David Leiberman, Mark Crispin Miller, Gene Roberts, and Thomas Schatz; introduction by Todd Gitlin (New Press, 1998)
Along with the rich history of radio and television, the authors discuss the decline of journalistic integrity and the impact of profit expectations on the news. Also covers merchandising and foreign rights, and resistance to conglomerate control of media. It explores the global reach of mass media.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Combines factual TV and radio history with attention to the current effects of media conglomerates on materials and culture.
CORPORATE MEDIA PRODUCTION
Ray DiZazzo (Focal Press, 2000)
The role of the Corporate Video Producer is examined with all aspects of a project, from the initial script through postproduction. It outlines roles of writer, producer, director, and client, and explores the dynamics and relationships between the key players.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Includes role descriptions and stages of production as well as the importance of positive professional relationships.
CREATIVE FILMMAKING FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Jed Dannenbaum, Carroll Hodge, and Doe Mayer (Fireside, 2003)
Three professors in the field of motion picture studies look at the creative process, outlining “the mysterious transformation of mere glimmers of thought into coherent stories, characters, images and sounds.” The book breaks down the overall process of creative filmmaking into the Five “I”s: Introspection, Inquiry, Intuition, Interaction, and Impact.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Although it focuses on film, the information is easily transferable to TV, new media, or other genres of production. Written by filmmakers at USC, it addresses the work and commentary of each filmmaker.
CREATING UNFORGETTABLE CHARACTERS:
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT IN FILMS, Tv SERIES, ADVERTISEMENTS, NOVELS, AND SHORT STORIES
Linda Seger (Henry Holt and Company, Inc., 1990)
Focusing on the creation of strong, dimensional characters, the author offers a series of concepts that are designed to stimulate the creative process. It uses practical techniques and exercises, examines ways to avoid writer's block, and features interviews with writers for film and television, advertising and theatre.
STUDENT COMMENTS: We used this in our writing class, and it was really helpful. It makes imagining ideas easier to actually write down.
CREATIVITY IN TV AND CABLE MANAGING AND PRODUCING
William G. Covington Jr. (Rowman & Littlefield, 1999)
The author applies the concepts of goal-setting in business and cable management, and analyzes motivation and creativity among TV stations. It looks at a different side of the world of cable and networks.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Some information on producing for television, although it is more business focused.
DIRECTING AND PRODUCING FOR TELEVISION, 3RD EDITION
Ivan Cury (Focal Press, 2006)
A comprehensive guide to producing, directing, and shooting television, especially in live TV format and studio production. It is based on the author's own experience in the industry and in university settings.
STUDENT COMMENTS: The book covers a lot of ground, and though it's good for producers, it is more valuable for directors.
DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKERS SPEAK
Liz Stubbs (Allworth Press, 2002)
A book of interviews covering the history and evolution of cinema with a personal aspect; it gives the reader an opportunity really “hear” what filmmakers have to say.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A collection that is inspirational and good for students to read—they can either relate to or understand the creative differences of filmmakers in the industry, all bound by the passion to make films.
DOCUMENTARY FOR THE SMALL SCREEN
Paul Kriwaczek (Focal Press, 2003)
This step-by-step approach to documentary filmmaking covers the organizational aspects and aesthetic styles and treatments to consider. It includes tips from leading documentary filmmakers in the industry.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A great book for documentary makers. Provides interesting information on style choices from current doc makers, and it's written in a logical, straightforward way.
DOCUMENTARY STORYTELLING, 2ND EDITION: MAKING STRONGER AND MORE DRAMATIC NONFICTION FILMS
Sheila Curran Bernard (Focal Press, 2007)
As the author says, “Storytelling lies at the heart of most good documentaries,” and “Our stories depend not on creative invention…but on creative arrangement.” The book outlines the premise of execution of a story, and hones in on the process.
STUDENT COMMENTS: The book offers tips for a manageable editing process, as well as an interesting perspective on the art of documentaries. It presents a variety of viewpoints that keep the reader enthused.
ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY ECONOMICS, 7TH EDITION
Harold L. Vogel (Cambridge University Press, 2007)
This book provides a fantastic overview of the various financial practices and strategies of several entertainment sectors including film, television, sports and digital technology.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Vogel's most recent edition of this book provides a com-prehensive foundation of the economic structures of several industries. This book was suggested by a professor at New York University and became extremely helpful when I began working in the industry.
THE ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING REVLUTION: BRINGING THE MOGULS, THE MEDIA, AND THE MAGIC TO THE WORLD
Al Lieberman and Pat Esgate (Financial Times Prentice Hall, 2002)
Both authors are industry insiders, and Mr. Lieberman is a professor at New York University who created the Entertainment, Media, and Technology program at Stern. In the text, they cover the entire scope of marketing within the entertainment industry, and navigate the marketing processes for feature film, video, broadcast, cable, radio, music, print, games, sports, travel, theme parks, and more.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Professor Lieberman enthusiastically shares his passion and amazing career with his students each semester. His book is just like his class!
FILM PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT, 3RD EDITION
Bastian Cleve (Focal Press, 2005)
This extensive text details the steps taken to bring a screenplay to the screen: organizing, staffing, budgeting, schedules, location, shooting, and postproduction. It includes sample forms, film festivals, marketing, training schools, and using the Internet. It is useful to the film student or film professional who may be looking for a career change within the industry.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A thorough text with a lot of ideas from the film industry that can work for a producer in television.
HOLLYWOOD CREATIVE DIRECTORY
(WWW.HCDONLINE.COM)
The directory offers the most comprehensive, up-to-date information available, listing the names, numbers, addresses, and current titles of entertainment professionals from the film, television, and music industries. HCD Online subscription includes additional film titles with contacts for writers, producers. and actors.
STUDENT COMMENTS: The fastest way to find development executives for each channel or network. Also a good source for agents and other professionals.
I WAKE UP SCREENING: WHAT TO DO ONCE YOU'VE MADE THAT MOVIE
John Anderson and Laura Kim (Billboard Books, 2006)
This is a how-to guide for getting your film noticed in the overcrowded indie film arena. Packed with interviews with big industry names, this book offers a unique insight into what happens AFTER a film gets made and how to make all your hard work worth the effort.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A quick and dirty, easy-read type of book—I felt like Anderson and Kim were talking to me. They lay it all out on the table and don't miss a nuance from dealing with publicists to knowing what materials to put on your EPK, from knowing the importance of getting a lawyer to recognizing when to give out a screener and when not to. I recommend it for a user-friendly guide.
THE INDEPENDENT FILM AND VIDEOMAKER'S GUIDE, 2ND EDITION
Michael Wiese (Michael Wiese Productions, 1998)
A guide for the beginning producer, the book examines the craft and the business of making films or video projects. It offers practical strategies for fundraising, scheduling, budgeting, marketing, and creative exercises for story development through the use of anecdotes and real-life examples.
STUDENT COMMENTS: It isn't as relevant to TV, but it is helpful in relating what a producer does: finding resources, investors, etc. as well as developing or adapting a story.
THE INDIE PRODUCER'S HANDBOOK: CREATIVE PRODUCING FROM A TO Z
Myrl A. Schreibman (Lone Eagle Publishing Company, 2001)
The author is a professor at UCLA, and the text is a thorough, practical, and highly comprehensive guide for organizing and running a film, although much of the information is pertinent for the television producer as well.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Good resource for the producer, not as relevant for television as it is for film.
THE INDEPENDENT VIDEO PRODUCER
Bob Jacobs (Focal Press, 1999)
The text details the legal and accounting process of forming an independent business, and includes information on the basic business, management, and communication skills necessary to an independent producer. It also acknowledges the current revolution in technology and the changing video markets.
STUDENT COMMENTS: This is more about the business than the role of a producer, and focuses a lot on video, rather than TV. It is student-friendly and full of sample scripts, proposals, and forms.
INSIDE PRIME TIME
Todd Gitlin (University of California Press, 2000)
The author provides an insider's tour of the network executives’ search for programming, and the processes they undertake to find and develop a hit show for broadcast. It appears on most recommended book lists in television studies departments, and is considered one of the more intelligent books written on the subject of the television business.
STUDENT COMMENTS: This is a pretty realistic look at how daunting it can be to sell an idea for a show; it is well written and somehow still hopeful.
INTELLIGENCE REFRAMED: MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES FOR THE 21ST CENTURY
Howard Gardner (Basic Books, 2000)
The author's groundbreaking theory on multiple intelligences—that intelligence is more than a single property of the human mind—has changed our basic viewpoints on education and overall human development. In this text, Gardner, a Harvard professor, explains the theories of multiple intelligences and their applications to our daily lives, as well as offers user-friendly guidelines for their use.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A real eye-opener. It helped me understand myself better, as well as a lot of people around me like coworkers, friends, and family.
INTRODUCTION TO DOCUMENTARY
Bill Nichols (Indiana University Press, 2001)
Providing an overview of important topics and issues in documentary history and criticism, the text is designed for students in the media and outlines the many issues and concepts that are elements of documentary films and videos.
STUDENT COMMENTS: The book provides a foundation in documentary filmmaking and gives examples of past documentaries. It explores boundaries (real and imaginary) of fiction and documentary film, and is quite thought provoking.
THE KID STAYS IN THE PICTURE
Robert Evans (Faber and Faber; New edition 2004)
The rise and fall of notorious producer and self-proclaimed bad boy Robert Evans. The title page says it all, “There are three sides to every story; yours, mine, and the truth.”
STUDENT COMMENTS: Love him or hate him, believe him or not, Robert Evans’ autobiography The Kid Stays in the Picture is a must read for the aspiring producer. Written as though Evans were speaking, this autobiography is an unforgettable and fun read, chronicling his wild ride through Hollywood from the 1950s through the 1990s.
THE MEDIA STUDENT'S BOOK, 3RD EDITION
Gill Branston and Roy Stafford (Routledge, 2003)
This text combines practical elements of studying and producing ideas in various media, with lively debate and examination of cultural and ethical issues that face the media student. The authors analyze images, examine celebrity and marketing, and offer a range of resources, as well as a rare glimpse into television and media studies in the U.K..
STUDENT COMMENTS: It has a distinctly British flavor, and is an excellent combination of theory, the practical, and anecdotes.
THE MOVIE BUSINESS: THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE
TO THE LEGAL AND FINANCIAL SECRETS OF GETTING YOUR MOVIE MADE
Kelly Crabb (Simon & Schuster, 2005)
An accessible and informative read on the many aspects of entertainment law and its relation to producing a feature film.
STUDENT COMMENTS: This book is a fantastic introduction and guide to entertainment law. Whatever area of entertainment you are interested in producing for, this book is an excellent resource for the aspiring (or established) producer.
MULTISKILLING FOR TELEVISION PRODUCTION
Peter Ward, Alan Bermingham, and Chris Wherry (Focal Press, 2000)
Written by trainers in television production who offer courses in “multiskilling,” it is an introduction to the broad range of skills and technical knowledge necessary to succeed in the television industry.
STUDENT COMMENTS: This book has an interesting perspective, and covers a wide range of topics. It is clearly laid out, and written in easily understood language.
THE PATH: CREATING YOUR MISSION STATEMENT FOR WORK AND FOR LIFE
Laurie Beth Jones (Hyperion, 1998)
The author gives the reader advice that is both practical and inspiring, bringing a fresh look at the process of defining and fulfilling one's mission—in work, family, and in life.
STUDENT COMMENTS: It's not only easy to use, and full of humor, it actually works. It's the first time I've written a mission statement for myself that made sense. The process was fun to do.
PRACTICAL DV FILMMAKING, 2ND EDITION
Russell Evans (Focal Press, 2005)
Offering a variety of low-budget filmmaking principles, the text provides perspective on digital filmmaking through case studies and interviews. It assumes that the reader has little or no background knowledge, and combines technical knowledge with a stylistic approach to filmmaking while discussing all stages of a project's development.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A great production resource, especially for beginners. In-depth discussion of production that thoroughly explores application of tools outlined in text.
PRIME TIME, PRIME MOVERS: FROM I LOVE LUCY TO L.A. LAW-AMERICA'S GREATEST TV SHOWS AND THE PEOPLE WHO CREATED THEM
David Marc and Robert J. Thompson (Syracuse University Press, 1995)
This inside look at the major creators of television is divided into sections on comedy, drama, soap operas, game shows, documentaries, and docudrama.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Helpful, and just fun for people to read about shows they like. It's a good resource for retrieving info on specific shows or people involved in making them.
THE PRODUCER'S BUSINESS HANDBOOK, 2ND EDITION
John J. Lee, Jr. and Rob Holt (Focal Press, 2005)
A comprehensive examination of the complex business side of entertainment, focusing on legal and accounting necessities, the book also explores global production, licensing, and product exploitation.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Very informative, and makes complicated information easier to understand. Takes a good look at important relationships in the global market and with other players in the film and television industries.
PRODUCING & DIRECTING THE SHORT FILM & VIDEO, 3RD EDITION
David K. Irving and Peter Rea (Focal Press, 2006)
This practical how-to book breaks down the entire process of making a short film or video, and details the role of the producer and the director throughout each stage of production.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Very helpful, and well thought out. A step-by-step guide. Favors film and the director, but doesn't leave the producer or television out of the mix.
RICH MEDIA, POOR DEMOCRACY: COMMUNICATION POLITICS IN DUBIOUS TIMES
Robert W. McChesney (The New Press, 2000)
Winner of Harvard's Goldsmith Book Prize, this text openly questions the democratic process in our current commercial media sources, and states that the major beneficiaries of the industry are wealthy investors, advertisers, and a handful of enormous media, computer, and telecommunications corporations. McChesney examines the massive media mergers and acquisitions in the late 1990s, and aids the reader with ways to objectively critique and use the media for higher purposes.
STUDENT COMMENTS: It definitely swings to the left, but it's incredibly revealing. This helped me understand just who controls the media, and what to look for as an educated television viewer.
STORY: SUBSTANCE, STRUCTURE, STYLE, AND THE PRINCIPLES OF SCREENWRITING
Robert McKee (Harper Entertainment, 1997)
Considered by many professionals as the ultimate book on writing for film and television, the author is renowned for his seminars and insightful teachings on screenwriting. He writes that, “No one needs yet another recipe book on how to reheat Hollywood leftovers. We need a rediscovery of the underlying tenets of our art, the guiding principles that liberate talent.” The text covers elements such as the story triangle, act climaxes, scene objective, character, and dialogue.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Absolutely riveting. The best of all the classic books and texts on writing. It's required reading for all would-be screenwriters.
SWIMMING UPSTREAM: A LIFESAVING GUIDE TO SHORT FILM DISTRIBUTION
Sharon Badal (Focal Press, 2007)
For anyone interested in navigating the festival route for their short film or video, this book features interviews from dozens of festival experts. Men and women from Sundance, IFC, Netflix, Focus Features—to name just a few—offer their wisdom.
STUDENT COMMENTS: I never really thought about getting involved in the world of festivals before, especially as a student, but this book took the fear away.
TECHNOPOLY: THE SURRENDER OF CULTURE TO TECHNOLOGY
Neil Postman (Vintage, 1993)
An in-depth examination of how technology affects our culture and what it means for the future. The esteemed author suggests ways to work with technical skills to enhance human functioning, rather than controlling it.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Another great social evaluation from Postman. A valuable supplement to the creative decisions and audience targeting involved in media.
TELEVISION: CRITICAL METHODS AND APPLICATIONS, 3RD EDITION
Jeremy G. Butler (Lawrence Erlbaum, 2006)
This text is an analysis of videography, editing, acting, set design, lighting, and sound in terms of story telling, news and selling products to viewers. It includes critical and historical contexts, and discusses different approaches that have been applied to or are part of the evolution of TV styles in the past.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Student-friendly is a plus. The supplemental web site augments the text with forms, sample papers, and video clips.
TELEVISION HISTORIES: SHAPING COLLECTIVE MEMORY IN THE MEDIA AGE
Gary R. Edgerton & Peter C. Rollins (eds.) (University Press of Kentucky, 2003)
The authors explore the tension between actual history and history as it is portrayed through the director's lens. It examines TV history, as well as the history of America and the way it is portrayed on television, by looking at individual styles and choices made in depicting social arenas of the past.
STUDENT COMMENTS: An excellent resource. A combination of TV history, American history, and the changes and evolution of television.
TELEVISION PROGRAM MAKING
Colin Hart (Butterworth Heinemann, 1999)
This text provides a detailed guide to making a successful television program, and includes flowcharts, checklists, and examples from professionals in the business.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Relevant and user friendly, especially for students, with hands-on charts and visual guides to the organizational process.
TUBE OF PLENTY: THE EVOLUTION OF AMERICAN TELEVISION, 2ND REVISED EDITION
Erik Barnouw (Oxford University Press, 1990)
An understanding of the future of television requires a look at its history. The author, who is one of the most respected scholars in his field, explores the development of television, as well as the current revolution in media and communications. He covers the explosion of cable and satellite television, premium channels such as HBO and Showtime, niche channels such as MTV, and their impact on the decline of the three major networks.
STUDENT COMMENTS: This look at TV's history is easy to understand. The index and the chronology are student-friendly. An excellent read.
UNDERSTANDING MOVIES, 11TH EDITION
Louis D. Giannetti (Prentice Hall, Inc., 2007)
This classic text examines the forerunners of television, and takes the reader through the history of photography and filmmaking. The author looks at mise-en-scene, movement, editing, sound, documentary, drama, literature, avant garde, and theory. It is a valuable reference in understanding the overall evolution of media.
STUDENT COMMENTS: Although it focuses only on film and photography, much of the information can be applied to all aesthetic production in general.
VIDEO PRODUCTION HANDBOOK, 3RD EDITION
Gerald Millerson (Focal Press, 2001)
This concise text focuses on video production on a budget, with explanations on camera controls, and other technical instructions. It gives tips for achieving specific looks and textures, using visual effects.
STUDENT COMMENTS: A good source for technical details and style instructions.