Book Description
Publisher Marketing: A step-by-step guide, filled with in-depth exercises and breakthrough processes, this book will equip artists and entertainment professionals with the spiritual tools and techniques to make their everyday walk in the business a more purposeful and prosperous adventure. Rydall empowers readers to achieve their dreams and create material that has a postive impact on the planet.
Customer Reviews:
Derek is Tuning IN with Tamara.......2007-05-29
Derek Rydall talks about the ideas in his book on my spiritual entertainment talk show in a way that shows he's living the message in every fiber of his being. Reading his book renews my passion and confidence for my personal dream and vision of shining as a real light. He reminds me of my divinity and power in this magical play of life. He explains "oneness" like I've never grasped it before. He reveals the most important "it's who you know" metaphysical truth in Hollywood. He reminds me of my higher purpose and now I have a much deeper meaning to my work in television, and I'm able to articulate it to others so I can touch and awaken all those who cross my path on this beautiful journey. He enables us all to be true healers through the entertainment medium as we perform the real work of remembering and awakening wholeness in every heart on the planet. -- Tamara Henry, MA, Producer/Host, IN with Tamara Henry, Santa Monica News Anchor
A spiritual approach to show business life.......2007-05-19
In his second book, Derek Rydall attempts to provide an antidote for the cynicism, greed and rampant sociopathic tendencies which plague the entertainment industry. To counter these, he exhorts people to become `enlightened entertainers', who see the entertainment industry as a force for Good and who live their lives accordingly. A tall order, perhaps, but in the book he provides all the necessary information in order to set out on this journey of the soul.
Rydall starts off with the basics: identifying what enlightened entertainment is, and why audiences need it. He also provides the basic tools needed for the journey: types of meditation and soul-searching exercises. Next up is the big picture, a look at the realities of show business and the spiritual world, and how these contrast and (possibly) interact. Changing the business is something which can only happen one person at a time, so the rest of the book is devoted to developing the character of the reader. First on the purely personal level, then specifically as an artist, and finally as an entertainment professional. The final section of the book helps the reader create a career plan.
This book is definitely very New Age in style. If you're not into spirituality, the book won't do much for you - although many of the exercises are introspective ways of getting to know yourself better, and these will be beneficial for anyone. If you are spiritually enclined, Rydall's book will undoubtedly be inspirational and provide you with great insights.
More Than Entertainment.......2007-05-14
This book is not just for screen writers who want to go beyond simple entertainment to meaningful film, but for all writers who want to make a difference. The time for enlightened entertainment is now! This book is not only a stepping stone and good resource, it's invaluable. Read, learn, and profit.
So Inspired!.......2007-05-11
Derek,
First let me complement you on your book. I really am inspired by every word. I did the visioning exercise today on the industry. I've know for some time that my purpose as an actor and writer is to wake people up to their humanity through the emotions evoked in my performances or my writing. Today I got so clearly that the essence of the industry is love and connectedness.
Thank you!
INSPIRED in 2007,
Traci Dority
More than just a book...it's an experience.......2007-05-11
Firstly, well done! Well done, congratulations and two thumbs up for writing There's No Business Like Soul Business. Not only was it an inspiring read for the spiritual warrior but a brilliant example of someone wanting to help other artists and pass on oh-so-valuable insights about not only life but the wonderful world of entertainment. Reading each chapter I could hear the lessons of Deepak Chopra shining through, as I have read many of his books, and then to apply them to entertainment breaking down the myths that people can get caught up in, and allow a new road to be paved for the "enlightened entertainer" who can then make the conscious decision to shift his/her attitude and focus on your inner being as the tool for transcedence is...well, awe-inspiring.
A must read for anyone wishing to follow their dreams in the wonderful world of entertainment!
Marshall Dunn (Sydney, Australia)
Book Description
* You have an idea you want to pitch to a production company; how do you safeguard your concept?
* There's a painting in the background of your independent film; is it necessary to clear the rights?
* The screenplay you and a friend wrote gets optioned; how do you split the proceeds fairly?
* How do you get a script to popular Hollywood actors or deal with their agents?
Find quick answers to these and hundreds of other questions in The Pocket Lawyer for Film and Video, the next best thing to having an entertainment attorney at your beck and call. Written by a TV-producer-turned-entertainment-lawyer, this no-nonsense reference provides fast answers in plain English: no law degree required! The Pocket Lawyer is designed to help producers reduce legal costs by providing the vital information needed to make informed decisions on the legal aspects of film, video, and TV productions.
Film and video production is a litigation lighting rod: actors get hurt, copyrights are infringed, and contracts are broken. Big-budget producers have lawyers on retainer, but many independent filmmakers are left legally exposed. Arm yourself with the practical advice in this book. You will not only avoid common pitfalls, but become empowered in your daily work. Too many otherwise competent producers turn over every aspect of the deal negotiations to their lawyers and agents. This book explains the principal deals common to every production, putting producers back in the co-pilot seat with their representatives.
The format is carefully designed for quick reference, so you get the answers you need, fast. Features include:
* Clause Companion: explains the meaning and impact of typical contract clauses, taking the headache out of reading them.
* F.A.Qs: instantly answers the most commonly asked legal questions.
* Warnings: alerts you to critical areas and common mistakes.
* Pro-Tips: advice on unions, escrow accounts, etc. for producers who want to distribute their video widely.
Key features
* Avoid legal pitfalls with this quick reference guide: get instant answers
* Written in plain English for filmmakers, not lawyers
* Three books in one: a handy manual on film contracts, a step-by-step guide to critical legal issues on and off the set, and a quick reference on copyright and intellectual property issues
Customer Reviews:
Good deal.......2007-08-16
This is a really good book with much info, and at a really good price, too!
A Law Student's Perspective.......2007-08-01
Mr. Crowell has done the art and legal worlds a great service by distilling so many critical issues of intellectual property into an enjoyable and widely informative format. The index and chapter systems make quick searching easy; and the humorous and humble prose let's you relax while learning. The demystification of legalese is not an easy task, but it's much needed, and Mr. Crowell has thrown a valuable contribution into the fray. Being a film and music artist, as well as a law student, Mr. Crowell's work is a must read for any with a similar background; and it goes a long way to supporting those artists who seem to underestimate themselves when it comes to the legal side of their creative endeavors. The Pocket Lawyer for Filmmakers empowered me, and I'm sure it will do the same for countless others.
Good Legal Advice Has Never Come So Cheap!.......2007-06-16
This book has allowed me to craft a sound legal structure around my ideas, and my film making has become a true business venture. "Pocket Lawyer" has already saved me from several minor blunders, like not posting a Notice Release when shooting in public, and it will undoubtedly save the day in bigger ways as my projects grow. Where was this book when I was in film school? Valuable legal advice has never come so cheap--well worth the $21.75.
Commentary.......2007-06-12
The Pocket Lawyer for Filmmakers: A legal Toolkit for Independent Producers is a perfect text book for film students, and for anyone wishing to get a quick grasp on the complexities of the legal business of film financing, producing and selling too. It's an easy read, and a great reference book for Instructors and independent Film Producers / Filmmakers.Il Giardino Armonico
You need this book!.......2007-04-14
This is an outstanding tool for anyone and everyone working in film. If you're a creative artist, it's easy to forget that making a film is a business venture--and one you hope will turn a profit! "The Pocket Lawyer for Filmmakers" is a welcome wake-up call. Thomas Crowell gently reminds readers to protect their interests and keep an eye on the bottom line at all times. If thoughts of "business" and "protecting your interests" make your eyes glaze over, have no fear. "The Pocket Lawyer" is a breeze to work with. It's clearly written, full of helpful examples, and anticipates every question you could have. The book follows the entire process of making a film, from forming a production company to distributing a completed film. Each chapter tells you what to expect at every step, and how to deal with it. Personally, I found the sections translating copyright law into simple English massively useful. Also, the book includes a stripped-down "law library" that gives filmmakers a primer in intellectual property and labor law. Whether you're a novice screenwriter wannabe (like me!) or a seasoned independent producer, you need this book! "The Pocket Lawyer for Filmmakers" is indispensable.
Book Description
This book guides you through real-world scenarios and legal landmines, explores sound design., profiles key players with insightful interviews, and provides project form templates that will save time for seasoned music supervisors. Composers, bands, DJs and producers also get valuable tips for connecting with music supervisors, who are being called "The New A&R". For those who want to break into the field of music supervision, this book tells you how to get the job. This is the only guide to the career of music supervision and is ideal for the music student, musician, and industry executive.
Customer Reviews:
Worth the price for the Technical Info.......2006-12-06
This book is a great education in what a music supervisor does and needs to know. The spotlight interviews are informative and give the reader a practical application of the text. The technical aspects of the job were eye opening and extensive. A must read for anyone who thinks music supervision entails picking songs from an iPod and placing them to picture. I have a greater appreciation for good music supervisors after reading Music Supervision.
Simply Amazing.......2006-07-20
This book came to me out of nowhere and consequently turned into one of the most inspiring, captivating, and education texts that I have ever read. In this, the summer of 2006, I have currently been working as an intern for MTV On-Air Promos. There, I met David Hnatiuk and overlooked his profession as a music supervisor. Having interest and aspirations for his work (being a music industry and sound recording major), I decided to purchase "Music Supervision".
So, I got it- I read it- and loved it!
Reading "Music Supervision" flat out bridged the gap between everything I learned at the University of New Havem concerning the music industry and sound recording and everything that was coming as new to me from MTV about broadcast television and its promotion. The books facets including, but not limited to: Legal Issues, Sound Design, Licensing, DAW discussion, working with producers/directors, etc. are all topics that I learned and dealt with at school and at MTV.
This coincidence of reflection between these that I encovered was simply amazing and will prove to be beneficial to my success and education at MTV and as a music student.
Aside from teaching me about my loves and interests, the book also took my vision of my career and future life, twisted and distorted it, and showed me it as I have imagined before. Now, since the book educated me on the subject and how to succeed in it, being a music supervisor is now a career path that I am interested in pursuing. It entails the music industry. It entails sound recording. And hopefully, it'll someday entail me.
Great book for getting your songs into movies.......2006-07-07
I bought this book because I wanted to learn how I can get my songs into movies and tv. I heard that was the best way to make money and get exposure. This book gave me the answers and even the names of people who select music for films and tv. I already got one of my songs into a film that competed in Tribeca Film festival. Some of the writing is a little long handed but the information is really right on. If you are a songwriter who wants to get your tunes into the movies, this is the book for you.
SUPERVISING YOUR MUSICAL FUTURE.......2006-06-14
Congratulations to Ramsay Adams, David Hnatiuk, and David Weiss. They have succeeded in writing a book that is highly informative, useful, and very insightful. Whether you are interested in pursuing a career as a music supervisor, or would simply like to do research on the profession, this book will far exceed your expectations. It's an easy read that features random interviews from experienced music supervisors that candidly articulate what the primary considerations are in selecting music, and shines light on the process of "spotting" and "auditioning" songs for placement, in addition to offering helpful advice on how to deal with challenges that music supervisors face in their position such as difficulties in obtaining master, sync and mechanical licenses; working harmoniously with egotistical producers and directors; managing creative conflicts; preventing legal problems; dealing with financial constraints; and marketing their services. A great educational and reference resource.
This book is my future.......2006-06-03
This is the most informative/coolest book, if your looking to get involved in the music business, the book is aweosme, but the guys are even cooler
Book Description
Master economic principles, theories, and concepts through film! Designed as a student workbook, ECONOMICS IN THE MOVIES helps you learn core economic ideas through popular film. With concepts and examples in every scene, this collection of twenty film scenes provides you with the tools you need to succeed.
Book Description
"A tasty confection that is both fun to read and though-provoking. Clemens and Wolff have crafted and engaging book that illustrates the entire gamut of good and bad leadership behavior. I recommend it especially to young managers who are growing into or aspiring to leadership roles." -- George R. Stephan, Former Chairman Kollmorger Corporation "Readers of this book should be allowed to go to the movies on company time. The flicks take on a whole new meaning." -- Roy Rowan, Author of The Intuitive Manager Movies do more than just entertain. A good film can also teach. Charles Foster Kane, the tragic protagonist of Citizen Kane, is the perfect example of how hoarding power can lead to chaos in business and personal matters. Dead Poet Society's John Keating is the archetype of the employee who has affected change downward but has not solicited the support of superiors who may later stonewall other projects. And Norma Rae (in the movie of the same name), a seemingly powerless factory worker, shakes up the plant's male-dominated management and becomes the company's most influential leader. In this entertaining and instructive book, you will discover that film is indeed an untapped source of leadership wisdom for businesses, large and small. You will see your own organization--as well as your own management and leadership challenges--mirrored here in the examination and analysis of nine compelling and highly accessible film narratives. John K. Clemens, professor of management at Hartwick College, is the founder and executive director of the Hartwick Humanities in Management Institute, an organization that conducts leadership seminars for emerging leaders in Fortune 500 companies. He is also the coauthor of The Classic Touch: Lessons in Leadership from Homer to Hemingway. Melora Wolff is an essayist, poet, and playwright who teaches workshops and seminars in film, literature, and creative writing. She is the writing consultant for the Hartwick Humanities in Management Institute.
Customer Reviews:
Insights from the Silver Screen.......2000-03-01
What a terrific concept! Select a number of movies and then analyze what they reveal about "lessons in leadership." Specifically, here are the themes:
"Following Your Hunch" (The Hunt for Red October)
The Importance of Improvisation (Apollo 13)
The Failed Promise of Heroic Leadership (Dead Poets Society)
Turning Around a Faltering Team (Hoosiers)
Socratic Leadership (12 Angry Men)
Turning Around a Troubled Organization (Twelve O'Clock High)
When Leadership Fails (Citizen Kane)
Morality and Leadership (Wall Street)
This is a book which I wish I had written. The authors are to be commended, first for thinking about writing such a book and then for doing it. The result is a brilliant piece of work. The writing style has snap, crackle, and pop. The insights are of great value as we are helped to correlate the circumstances in each movie with the daily circumstances in which most of us are obliged to function each day.
After you read this book, you will perhaps think of other movies which also could have been discussed by the authors. For me (what great fun!), I would nominate Paths of Glory, Zulu, Executive Suite, Command Decision, Tunes of Glory, Braveheart, Jeremiah Johnson, Pork Chop Hill, Pale Rider, and Patton.
If you are a movie buff, if you are looking for a great read, and if you agree with me that much of value can be learned about leadership from the movies, obtain a copy of this book ASAP.
Very useful and interesting.......1999-11-19
What a fun read this is! Business books tend to be so boring, so it was great to read something original and different. And the link of movies to management is not a stretch at all. Just good sensible advice presented in a really engaging writing style. I liked this very much.
Useful guide for those that don't get much outside training.......1999-10-27
In preparing for an annual management seminar that I was leading, someone suggested this book. It was a great help in being able to illustrate easily some useful take away management points for my group. Showing film clips as part of the day's events was a great way to break up the monotony and I found the participants sat up and listened to each segment, obviously interested. I would recommend this book for those who don't work for large companies who are always sending you outside for training. The book gives you all the items for you to do it yourself!
Creative guide to leadership principles.......1999-10-27
A useful guide for business management courses, offering students creative insight into basic leadership principles. In "Movies to Manage By" John Clemens and Melora Wolf creatively utilize film as an instructive tool to convey leadership in a unique approach. A great book to be used in any graduate or college business program
Cool book.......1999-10-09
Movies to Manage By uses film in the right way. Clemens and Wolff are wonderful writers, and their approach to film and leadership is insightful, meaningful, and entertaining. I have a small business and so am dealing with a lot of the dilemmas that the authors raise, and their observations are right on key. The subject matter seemed kind of light when I first saw the book, but reading it I see that it really is a book of substance with helpful information for people like me. Thank you.
Book Description
We've all heard that, "you learn more from failure than you do from success." Which means that all those hours spent watching crappy movies wasn't a waste of your precious and ever-dwindling life span; it was an education! And Better Living Through Bad Movies can show you how to extract the profound, life-affirming lessons from films like Battlefield Earth, Coyote Ugly, and Indecent Proposal. In over 50 hilarious reviews, the authors show how you can use the worst movies ever made to improve your sex life (it involves cardboard cutouts and clog dancing), Apocalypse-proof your home (using the following materials: John Travolta, Kevin Costner, Sylvester Stallone and more Kevin Costner), and win omnipotence and a Happy Meal by solving Satan's Junior Jumble. You will also discover how to forge a love that will last a lifetime (by dating the moribund), use films like Batman and Robin and Star Wars: The Phantom Menace as grief counseling, and conquer the world using common fruit bats and dry cleaning fluid. And most important of all, you'll learn Hollywood's Ultimate Secret: Why Beaches and Armageddon are actually the exact same movie.
Customer Reviews:
Chicken Soup for the B-movie lover's soul.......2007-09-14
If you're a fan of such obscure,lousy movies as "The Last Sacrifice","Ator the Fighting Eagle" and "Mitchell",this book is perfect for you! Authors Scott Clevenger&Sheri Zollinger show how to find the gold in the silt of bad movies. Instead of gushing about the American Film Institute's Top 100,Clevenger and Zollinger find insights in the infamous "Waterworld",relationship advice in "Coyote Ugly" and the grieving process in "The Phantom Menace."
"Better living through bad movies" is consistently hilarious. It's hard to read without laughing. "Megaforce" and "Gymkata" are shown as evidence that fey action heroes had their place in the '80s along with Rambo&the Terminator. "Attack of the Clones" is re-read as an Afterschool Special about the sulking teenager Anakin Skywalker. "Armageddon" is revealed to a chick flick like "Beaches",but with a great deal more homoeroticism. (Where's "Deep Impact"?That was a pretentious disaster movie too,but a lot less fun) "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein" delightfully skewers Kenneth Branagh's current pretentiousness ("Hamlet" would fit right in).
"Better living through bad movies" is a gloriously funny book. Watch bad movies...and LEARN.
Nothing New Here.......2007-03-12
Just another book poking fun at Hollywood. Save your money and watch an episode of E!'s Talk Soup instead.
Made me laugh out loud so hard that I needed Poise pads!.......2007-02-13
I'll never forget the day last fall when this wonder of the written word, this pulp-based pulchritudinous prose, this book among books, arrived in the mail. It's been a long time (since Hunter Thompson, Lewis Grizzard, and Erma Bombeck died, anyway) since a book made me laugh out-loud, but this one did the trick.
I've always enjoyed Scott & S.Z.'s movie-reviews-as-geopolitical-discourse pieces at World O'Crap [...], but to have them in more-portable, curl-up-in-bed-and-laugh-yourself-silly, take-it-anywhere-and-annoy-the-people-in-the-waiting-room format was a great boon to my reading life. The title alone was enough to impress my former doctor, a barely-shaving young tot who specialized in "pain management." Hopefully he'll fork over some of his Medicare riches and buy a few copies.
This book is an ideal gift for anyone who's ever liked movies, political commentary, or who has a sense of humor. And even for those stick-in-the-mud in-laws who have less humor than a wet diaper, this book is still a winner --- they may not get ALL of the jokes, but they'll at least give themselves a migraine in the pursuit, so it's the gift that keeps on giving!
When I can, I plan to keep a case of Better Living Through Bad Movies by the front door, to help educate & enlighten wayward Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Amway salespeople. Also very useful for flogging the aforementioned people over the head when they JUST WON'T LISTEN.
If I could generate the interest and tax shelters, I believe that we could start a whole new cult based on Better Living Through Bad Movies --- as long as the critters at S.Z.'s house get to benefit from the fundraisers, and we can set up our own compound out in the undisclosed wilderness (but sure as hell not in WACO!!) --- Better Living Through Bad Movies could become a whole new way of life!
[...]
Need a laugh? Need a thousand or two?.......2007-01-15
Does life sometimes seem to be just one damned thing after another? Forget chicken soup, psychopharmaceuticals, and the tube- here is your remedy, without question the funniest book of 2006. Written by the lovely (and talented!) Sheri Zollinger and Scott Clevenger (proprietors of the indispensable, read-every-day-to-preserve-sanity weblog "World O'Crap) this book deconstructs, hilariously, some truly atrocious movies. If snark can lift your heart, if good writing about bad cinema can elevate your mood, you have to get this- and give copies to your friends, too.
HIlarious.......2006-11-10
Excellent book for short reading spurts. Hilarious and informative at the same time, the commentary by both writers is excellent and spot on. You'll never watch these movies the same way again!
Book Description
A VCR, a great movie, a tub of popcorn and a Management Goes to the Movies Study Guide . . . management training doesn't get any better, easier or more fun than this!
"MOVIES FOR LEADERS: MANAGEMENT LESSONS FROM FOUR ALL-TIME GREAT FILMS" is the first volume in a series of self-study guides aimed at helping managers cope with difficult situations and improve day-to-day performance. This guide uses the movies "Hoosiers," "The Wizard of Oz," "Moby Dick" and "The Bridge on the River Kwai" to help managers sharpen their leadership skills, train their staffs to lead, think through key leadership issues and enliven their business presentations. The guide also contains references to online quizzes from moviesforbusiness.com where, after reading the book, readers can take an online examination and earn a Hollywood MBA (Master of Bijou Advice) in Leadership.
Based on a corporate-training program developed by Shaun O'L. Higgins and Colleen Striegel and used in their companies for more than 15 years, "Movies for Leaders" also features an introductory essay on business as portrayed on screen from the 1930s to the 1990s.
"Movies for Leaders" presents reel business lessons for real business performance. Among the lessons in its pages:
* Why "The Wizard of Oz" is one of the greatest leadership training films ever made.
* How minor strengths can blind you to a manager's major weaknesses.
* Why you can't afford not to train every member of your team.
* How to develop a mission statement employees can march to.
Each chapter is filled with practical lessons on the keys to leadership, including motivational skills, decision making, judgment, planning, competitive strategy, ethics, communication and team building. Each chapter also features helpful sidebars with information about the movie, illustrative examples from actual businesses and elaborations on key concepts.
Customer Reviews:
A magnificent and brilliant idea!.......2004-12-19
Regardless of the era , some business sectors seem never to receive a fair shake in the movies . Their seems to be an internal process of restriction in which the movie is simply evasion and it does not exist the power of will to go beyond the message exploring just only the boundaries .
The authors present us an interesting set of movies related with the Management . Undoubtedly you may argue the proposal is not enough and you are right but the important is the first step , because never before no one saw the enormous world of possibilities hidden a simple movie ..
Hoosiers, Wizard of Oz , The Bridge on the River Kwai and Moby Dick were in this case the selected ones .
This initial release might be well the enormous gate to explore another items in different topics .
I would suggest from hawk gaze three different sets of them .
First set : Bounty mutiny , Rashomon , King Lear (believe or not , there is a huge lot of issues) the authority never be delegated only the responsibility and Tunes of Glory
Second set: Master and Commander , Twelve o clock high , Command decision and Das Boot .
Third set : China Syndrome, L'argent des outres (The money of the others) , Blow up and Character .
The idea is extraordinary and very original . In my personal case i `ve shown some particular issues who illustrate widely different approach to teach the organization in different levels , specially the High , Media and Low Management .
Excellent initiative which I expect keeps and acquires a major impulse and importance to the Managers because if it is certain the movies do not reflect the same life , this reasoning may be valid for films with low scope but never can be accepted to foot letter .
Book Description
Sixteen years of film criticism from one of America's leading cultural critics.
Castaways of the Image Planet collects sixteen years' worth of Geoffrey O'Brien's essays on film and popular culture, most originally published in The New York Review of Books, The New Republic, Film Comment, Filmmaker, and the New York Times. The topics range from the invention of cinema to contemporary F-X aesthetics; from Shakespeare films to "Seinfeld"; from '30's screwball comedies to Hong Kong martial-arts movies; from the roots of sexploitation pictures to the televising of Bill Clinton's grand jury testimony. There is an emphasis on the unpredictable interactions between film as a medium apt for expressing the most private dreams and film as the mass literature of the modern world, subject to all the pressures of financing and marketing. Many of the pieces are profiles of individual directors or actors--Orson Welles, Michael Powell, Ed Wood, Marlon Brando, Alfred Hitchcock, Dana Andrews, The Marx Brothers, Bing Crosby--whose careers are probed to look for the point where private obsession meets public myth-making.
Customer Reviews:
It's the dead center of my very being.......2004-06-27
Geoffrey O'Brien. Now here's a truly fabbalicious writer despite the faggy-pretentious Brit-git spelling of his first name. I recently saw his piece about the Christopher Plummer/Jonathan Miller production of KING LEAR. And I'm here to berate Geoff for not mentioning a certain ultra-mentionable thing. Namely, the mere fact that stage-actors are capable of memorizing all of that dialog. A capability that strikes me as being far more miraculous than the play itself (which is pretty corny).
CASTAWAYS contains a piece about a movie called LAURA. And LAURA contains a policeman played by Dana Andrews. And I love what Geoff said about him: "In the dead center of the movie, at its witching hour, he sits up all night looking at her picture, smoking cigarettes, pouring himself one drink after another."
Memo to Geoff: That scenario also happens to be *my* scenario. That's *me*, Geoff. That's me vis-a-vis you. In the dead center of my afterlife, at its witching hour, I sit up all night looking at your book-jacket pics and guzzling Thunderbird in your haunted wine cellar.
Emperor of the Image Planet.......2002-06-04
I once had the great, albeit far too brief, pleasure of working for Geoffrey O'Brien. I say this not only to reveal subjectivity on my part, when it comes to his work, but to proclaim that, in addition to his being a keen critic, a lapidary-sublime-limpid writer of prose, an accomplished poet, and a man with more than encyclopedic knowledge of everything from Beach Boys lyrics to Shape-Note singers to the work of obscure naturalist painters, I know that he is, as F. Scott Fitzgerald would say, "fun on a party."
Paraphrasing the man himself on the subject of Preston Sturges, to find so immediately, in _Castaways of the Image Planet_, "yodeling, bubble dancers, corsets, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 'My Indiana Home,' hypnotic catalepsy, and the remark 'in China they eat dogs," establishes that we are indeed in O'Brien territory. Since it is impossible to discuss his work without the use of eclectic compendia, allow me to add that only O'Brien could have penned this double-fistful of essays on topics as far-ranging as Japanese _Manga_, Orson Welles, the cinematography of Hong Kong and the PRC, Shakespeare, _Mad_, Brando, and the photography of Edward S. Curtis, and have the collective effort rise to such an exquisite acme above mere paean, homage, or pastiche.
Most importantly, though, this collection goes beyond critique in that it strikes a blow for thinking audience members everywhere against the static presumptions of our existing meta-culture. As O'Brien remarks in "Free Spirits," a meditation on the work of film critic James Harvey and the Golden Age of Hollywood romantic comedy, "film books these days, with their emphasis on semiotic codes and quantitative analysis, tend to reduce moviegoing to a rather impersonal experience, as if we brought nothing to our encounters with the screen and emerged from the dark imprinted with precisely identical patterns."
O'Brien lets the light and the air and the sheer pleasure of surrender to the screen, the page, the image--the spectacle--come romping back into the equation. He makes reading about these phenomena as moving and profound an experience as imbibing them first-hand. He lets you know that not only does someone else sitting in a library wing-chair or a plush seat in the darkened post-modern arena get it, he gets it in an incredibly cool and funny and enlightening way. Having this book of essays is like having sixteen great late-night café conversations with an effervescently witty and erudite friend on tap. My advice? Buy 'em, collect 'em, trade 'em with your friends. Once again, O'Brien is kiss-the-hem-of-his-garment good.
Average customer rating:
- good brief intro
- Sleep Material
- Great book that explains all facets of entertainment
- Inexpensive textbook.
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Entertainment Industry: The Business of Music, Books, Movies, TV, Radio, Internet, Video Games, Theater, Fashion, Sports, Art, Merchandising, Copyright, Trademarks & Contracts
Mark Vinet
Manufacturer: Wadem Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0968832032 |
Product Description
The entertainment industry is a multi-billion dollar business that showcases the work, services, talent, and creativity of a cross-section of the international workforce. The modern entertainment industry is the convergence of the business of music, books, movies, television, radio, Internet, video games, theater, fashion, sports, art, merchandising, copyright, trademarks, and contracts. Employment opportunities abound in this vibrant, eclectic and exciting universe open to anyone willing to learn and work diligently with creative enthusiasm. To be on the cutting edge of this ever-changing industry, one must possess an in-depth knowledge of the many areas that converge to form modern show business. Entertainment lovers of all ages will enjoy this engaging overview of an evolving industry; from its basic and traditional roots to todays exciting technological innovations that rapidly and constantly influence the entertainment we enjoy. Experience a fascinating and enthralling odyssey while exploring dozens of artistic disciplines that can lead to success in the international entertainment field. A spotlight shines on a variety of business options, specific endeavors, crucial information, general knowledge, detailed advice, and the art of negotiating entertainment agreements. Discover the different types of jobs and careers available in the entertainment industry and the effective tools used to produce & market products. Learn the fundamental and essential provisions of publishing & intellectual property, including! deal-making and standard contracts used by professionals in the entertainment industry. ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY is the second in a series of books dealing with the entertainment business by author, musician, radio host, entertainment lawyer, and historian Mark Vinet. It offers an in-depth study and detailed analysis of the diverse, colorful, and creative art forms that fill the leisure and recreational time of North Americans. This book contains the authors personal entertainment industry rules, tenets, advice, principles, opinions, philosophies, and concepts developed over a thirty-year career in show business as an artist, musician, writer, performer, businessman, manager, and entertainment/copyright lawyer.
Customer Reviews:
good brief intro.......2007-05-26
Bought this book because I'm starting a new job in merchandising. This is really only an introduction read. 14 topics are discussed on less than 140 pages, that's about 2 pg per topic.
If you are a student or casual reader looking for an overview of the E industry - great book. If you are a professional I have to repeat that this book is really only a brief overview without depth.
Still, if you're interested in the E industry, Mark Vinet gives you a good comprehensive read. * * * *
Sleep Material.......2006-09-04
I kept falling asleep when I read this book. Although the author stresses that it's just a preliminary glimpse at the entertainment industry, I think he could at least make it more fun to read. I felt like I was reading a dictionary.
Great book that explains all facets of entertainment.......2006-05-16
I bought this book expecting a guide to the music industry, but I was mistaken. However, I was still pleasantly suprised by the information in this book. It is interesting and all-encompassing in regards to any entertainment. If you or someone you know is interested in music, books, movies, TV, radio, internet, video games, theater, fashion, sports, art, merchandising, copyright, trademarks or contracts, I suggest you buy them this book! However if you want a more specific look at music, buy "The Music Business: How YOU can make $500,000 "or more" a year in the music industry by Doing it Yourself!" by Ty Cohen.
Inexpensive textbook........2005-11-15
Inexpensive one-volume textbook. Perfect for senior high school, college and university level courses.
Book Description
Less than a decade since they began working in the movies, Mark and Michael Polish have established themselves as critically acclaimed, award-winning independent filmmakers. Their innovative approach to art direction, use of digital photography, and ability to attract stellar talent to their modestly budgeted films sprang from necessity; now these aesthetics have become admired trademarks of their work.
Infused with this same balance of artistic integrity and popular appeal, The Declaration of Independent Filmmaking is a practical guide to writing, shooting, editing, scoring, promoting, and distributing short and feature films. Mark and Michael have packed this book with star-studded, often hilarious tales from their own experiences--as well as helpful insider photos. This is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in filmmaking, whether a high school student with a $500 budget or a serious filmmaker looking for a fresh approach.
A Harvest Original
Customer Reviews:
Just ok, nothing special..........2007-04-16
The book is interesting reading but not all that great. Enough said.
def recommend this book.......2007-02-05
I'm a big fan of this book. I live in Los Angeles, I'm very serious about pursuing a career in independent film, and I've read a great deal of ground-up Hollywood "making it" books. Some like "Rebel Without A Crew" were actually pretty inspiring and others like "Nuts and Bolts Filmmaking" were very helpful in terms of, well, the nuts and bolts of filmmaking.
But no book I read really addressed the "big picture"- why people make independent films, and how they go about making independent films. This book was admirably neither bogged down in self-congratulation or in tiny, picky details.
The Polish Bros and Sheldon started from the ground up and guide you pretty much step-by-step through the indie filmmaking process, and it was great to get their advice based directly on their own experiences, with concrete examples.
The book doesn't offer anybody any false hope, but at the same time it's pretty damn inspirational. It offers the notion that you CAN have a different and original filmmaking vision AND successfully translate that to the screen. Through hard work and cleverness, the Polish Bros and Sheldon succeeded in making daring and thoughtful films outside of the conventional Hollywood model, and you, perhaps, can too.
I read this book at the right time, and it made a huge impact on me. It gave me both hope and cold-shower, practical advice. I'd definitely recommend this book for anyone interested in independent film.
GET THIS BOOK.......2007-02-05
There are plenty of indie books out there, but this is the only one I've found which is comprehensive and made by real indie filmmakers. It's highly technical where it needs to be, like in the camera chapter, and easily understood throughout. My favorite chapters were distribution and writing as they illuminated the process in ways I hadn't fully understood previously. The book was a pleasure to read, I recommend.
Enjoyable L-I-T-E Reading.......2007-01-05
An informed and anecdotal account of the process of making indie films from the talented and accomplished Polish Brothers. However, it's a bit remedial and general for the initiated filmmaker. There are a couple of bonafide pearls of wisdom and the book moves right along, covering the process of making indies. Which makes it a fun read, but for my time and money there are much better books on independent filmmaking.
Great Insiders Story.......2006-03-21
This book is a great read for any emerging or established filmmaker. It provides an interesting and intimate story of two brothers struggle to make independent feature films. Throughout retelling their journey the brothers pass on useful knowledge, tips and allow the reader to learn from their mistakes. This book gets right down to specific problems on and off set and exactly how they dealt with them and the results... it has a refreshing straight-to-the-point style of writing, and taught me a few things about the Hollywood system that I didn't know. This book will inspire you to work harder and wiser to get your films made.
Books:
- Think and Grow Rich
- This Is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession
- Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time
- Tolkien And Shakespeare: Essays on Shared Themes And Language (Critical Explorations in Science Fiction and Fantasy)
- Why Teams Can Fail and What To Do About It: Essential Tools for Anyone Implementing Self Directed Work Teams
- Women Before 10 a.m.
- Adobe Photoshop CS2 Classroom in a Book
- Alanis Obomsawin: The Vision of a Native Filmmaker (American Indian Lives)
- Alaska's Wolf Man: The 1915-55 Wilderness Adventures of Frank Glaser
- American Cinema/American Culture
Books Index
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Direction & Production
| Movies
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
I Could've Written a Better Movie Than That! : How to Make Six Figures as a Script Consultant Even If You're Not a Screenwriter
Stealing Fire from the Gods: The Complete Guide to Story for Writers and Filmmakers (2nd Edition)
The 3rd Act: Writing a Great Ending to Your Screenplay
Save The Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You'll Ever Need
A Writer's Roadmap
