Resources

We’ve compiled these documents for all to use — a filmmaker’s tool kit! The more organized you are, the better your film will be. If you need anything that is not listed here, please contact us and we will make it available.

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RELEASE FORMS

PERMITS

WRITING

FILM LANGUAGE

ACTING

BUDGETING

SCHEDULING

  • Scenechronize FREE! Useful for breaking down scripts with numerous actors and locations

TECH

SPECIAL EFFECTS

EDITING

FESTIVALS

communication_reading_list

Rebel Without A Crew — Robert Rodriguez
This is Rodriguez’s account of how he made El Mariachi with himself as director, DP, sound recorder, etc. He does his work with just one camera. This may be the best (if not the only) “do it yourself” book on how to make a feature.

Thinking in Pictures — John Sayles
John Sayles’ book on the making of Matewan, from story conception to post. Although it is primarily geared towards shooting with a professional crew, there are some really good pointers on how to make a movie at any level. Also includes the full shooting script.

First Time Director — Gil Bettman
Gil Bettman has a wealth of information and experience to impart. He worked for years as a TV director, and has a lot of tips on how to shoot fast and efficiently. While this book too is mainly geared toward a director who is working with a professional crew, his advice (particularly on camera blocking) is useful at almost any level of filmmaking.

Understanding Movies — Louis Gianetti
An overview of film theory. It goes into a lot of detail about how movies work in the perception of the viewer.

My First Movie –- Stephen Lowenstein
This book is a series of interviews with directors like Gary Oldman, Barry Levinson and the Coen Brothers. They speak about what it took to make their first movie. It’s a GREAT read and very insightful into what needs to happen for a first time producer/director to pull off a feature film

The Guerilla Film Makers Movie Blue Print – Chris Jones
This reads like a combination of school text book and the Idiot’s Guide series. It’s got a chapter on just about every basic skill needed to light, stage, recruit, sound and distribute a movie. Sample legal documents are included. A great resource for beginners who want to know all about the film business, what everything is called and who does what.

The Complete Film Production Handbook – Eve Light Honthaner
Contains step by step instructions, checklists, and valuble forms/contracts.

How NOT to Make A Short Film – Roberta Marie Munroe
A primer that walks you through the minefield of mistakes that an aspiring filmmaker can make.