This is Mike Uva’s second book. The first, The Grip Book, the second edition of which was published in 1997, contains all the basic knowledge one would need to get into and function well in the film industry. The new book is about state-of-the-art studio equipment. This book branches out in a new direction. It includes helicopter, boat, motorcycle, jet ski, and auto mounts; manual and remote camera heads (the latest to date); special effect rigging trusses and cables; and all the hardware needed. Mike delves into mounting the camera in all kinds of precarious places—the belly of a Douglas DC3 aircraft, a jet ski, even the front of a train! Believe me folks, this newest book is written in depth. Look through it—you probably will see something that pertains to your department.

Mike has spent the better part of twenty years working with the finest directors and camera operators, great grips, and manufacturers of the best equipment invented for the movie and television industry. Mike teaches and shares the knowledge he has acquired in the form of books as well as his annual one-week class at the famous UCLA extension courses and seminars in different cities. Read this book, and join him in class. He promises, “You will learn.” Mike keeps his word. I know this first hand. Thanks, pal!

Jose A. Santiago

Key Grip

IATSE #80