Editorial Reviews
Product Description:For the first time since its publication in 1984, The Filmmaker's Handbook--the classic volume highlighting the techniques and technologies needed for the creation and production of movies--has been completely revised and updated. Written by filmmakers for filmmakers, this essential text now includes the latest information on digital age filmmaking, where the shifting boundaries between film, video, and computer systems have introduced a wide range of methods and equipment every filmmaker must master to be competitive. This comprehensive reference guide addresses the techniques necessary to make feature, documentary, industrial, and experimental films while detailing the possibilities and limitations of various formats. New chapters spotlight video camera and video editing, essential information for modern film students and makers who focus on video production exclusively. The Filmmaker's Handbook is the perfect primer to guide novices and professionals alike into the twenty-first century of motion picture production.
Amazon.com Review:If film has a language,
The Filmmaker's Handbook is your translation guide, dictionary, and phrase book. In over 600 pages, 18 chapters, and nine appendices, the authors detail virtually everything you need to know about filmmaking.
There is probably more information here than anyone needs to know, from which lens to choose all the way through final editing and sound mixing. But too much information is not a bad thing. This is the kind of book that a blossoming filmmaker will surely grow into.
Much of the book focuses on gear and hardware, and rightly so since making a film or video is both dependent on and influenced by the gear that is used. This handbook describes the differences between the tools--film stock, lenses, lighting setups--and the impact of each on the look of the finished product.
This new edition has been updated to include information on digital cameras, the digital video format, nonlinear editing systems, and other contemporary tools. It's odd to see a picture of the Canon XL-1--a very popular and state-of-the-art digital video camera--in a book whose first edition came out in 1983.
The Filmmaker's Handbook is an indispensable guide for any filmmaker, or for anyone who wants a better understanding of the language of film. --Mike Caputo
Customer Reviews
Average Customer Review
Out of date, but still a good start, July 29, 2008
By
L. Jean (Antibes, France)
This was my first book on filmmaking howto, and i don,t regret it. This is a general introduction to film making, covering both traditional 16-35 mm mediums and video. It's out of date if you're looking for references to all the latests video hd tech, but a nevertheless very worthwhile.
Bravo!!! The Filmmaker's Handbook is EXCELLENT!!!, September 2, 2006
By
The RavenThe Filmmaker's Handbook is exquisitely detailed in it's delivery of filmmaking knowledge and know-how. It cover's everything from film to video and from the film industry to the television industry, delivering updated information that will prepare even the most amateur videographer for the professional industry. However, it would be a good idea to start with some basics before tackling this book because it IS quite detailed and technical in it's delivery. Overall though, it is an excellent resource! Bravo!!!
Great Book with comprehensive coverage, June 9, 2006
By
Sachin Walia (Sunnyvale, CA, USA)
I bought this book few months back in order to study the film making process. The book has details for practically everything and best for beginners as well as professionals. however since the version dates 5 years old so I'd suggest anybody interested in learning the aspects to consider this book as a base and then also subscribe to a magazine as you'll have a know how of latest stuff happening in the movie making technology. something like movie maker magazine. anyway the book still deserve 5 stars for its content.
cinema student, March 12, 2006
By
Amy Lishman (Los Angeles)
This is a required text book, and is used in many colleges. It is a great book and it is so good to read that studying is not a chore
the filmmaker's handbook, February 19, 2006
By
Nichole D. Chichester (pittsburgh, pa)
great book if you plan on going into the film industry. i would recommend this book.
