Read everything
I love bookstores. If there’s a great bookstore nearby, there’s a high probability that on any given day you’ll find me there – especially if they have an excellent filmmaking section. Read everything you can get your hands on about whatever subject drives your passion. For me, one of those subjects is obviously filmmaking.
Here’s a short list of five books that had a tremendous impact on my filmmaking journey.
"Rebel Without a Crew" by Robert Rodriguez
Rodriguez’s autobiographical account of making his debut film, “El Mariachi,” on a shoestring budget is not only an inspiring story but also a practical guide for independent filmmakers navigating the challenges of low-budget productions.
This book is a compass for indie filmmakers, providing essential guidance in the tumultuous realm of low-budget productions. His firsthand narrative of crafting “El Mariachi” resonates deeply, emphasizing resourcefulness and determination. The book stands as a testament to overcoming constraints and turning limitations into creative strengths. Passion can triumph over budget.
A good mixture of practical wisdom and anecdotes that spark a flame of inspiration that refuses to be extinguished.
"On Directing Film" by David Mamet
A concise yet insightful guide by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and director David Mamet, offering valuable insights into the fundamentals of storytelling and directing for the screen.
Mamet’s razor-sharp insights demystify the art of storytelling and directing in this compact powerhouse for budding filmmakers. This book helped me navigate the intricacies of the craft, distilling the essentials into a concise guide that empowers emerging directors to shape compelling narratives on the screen.
"In the Blink of an Eye" by Walter Murch
When I was studying acting and directing at NYU, I knew that learning to edit my own films would be the best way to retain the integrity of my vision, but more importantly allow me to better do my job as keeper of the story.
Written by the legendary film editor Walter Murch, this book delves into the art and craft of film editing, offering a unique perspective on the role of editing in shaping narrative and emotion.
This book is a must-read for the director-editor. Murch, a maestro of editing, unfolds the art’s subtleties, stressing its pivotal role in storytelling. For directors, mastery of editing isn’t just a skill; it’s the key to translating vision into a captivating cinematic experience.
"Making Movies" by Sidney Lumet
Drawing from his extensive career as a director, Lumet provides a comprehensive and practical guide to the filmmaking process, covering everything from script analysis to working with actors and addressing the technical aspects of filmmaking.
Lumet’s wisdom emphasizes collaboration, fostering a director-actor relationship rooted in trust. From script analysis to on-set dynamics, the book serves as a guiding light for filmmakers, illuminating the path to drawing authentic and compelling performances from their cast.
"The Camera Smart Actor" by Richard Brestoff
Originally intended to help actors navigate their first time on a film set, this book is a gem for aspiring film directors. This insightful read delves into the intricacies of a film set, offering a comprehensive understanding of each role. Crucially, it provides a unique perspective from the actor’s lens, fostering empathy and facilitating effective communication.
Brestoff’s guidance helps directors grasp the nuances of the actor’s journey, cultivating a shared vocabulary that is fundemental to building a collaborative and constructive relationship on set.
Steal like an artist
I make it a point to watch and read everything the filmmakers I admire put out there. Not just their films and television shows, but also interviews, books, podcasts, and even their social media posts. If I respect and admire a filmmaker, why wouldn’t I want to learn everything I possibly can about their process and way of thinking? Some filmmakers are incredibly generous about sharing their process, and those are the ones you should absolutely seek out and learn from.
"Study the old masters, enrich your palette, expand your canvas. There is never truly a new story, but in the hands of each generation, it can be told anew."
