Synopses & Reviews
This book is not about where to put the camera. It's not about the great masters of the cinema. This book is about one thing: being hired to direct film and television again and again. Truth is, short of a $50 million opening weekend or an Academy Award, you're up against serious competition for every directing job. And there are things you do or neglect to do every day that affect your chances of being hired. That's what this book is about.
From that all-important first phone call through prep, production, and post, right up to getting your next and better job, Charles Wilkinson tells you how to get the job, do it well, and make the friends who will hire you to do the job again. Because producers hire and keep hiring working directors like you for a list of reasons so long it would fill a book. And it has.
Review
"[S]nappily written, candid and informative....Told briskly, in the style of an old, trusted friend....[A] meticulously organized book, one that should prove highly useful for aspiring directors." Publishers Weekly
Review
"A working director himself, Wilkinson thoroughly covers everything from choosing suitable material to casting, locations, cinematography, and editing. Also offered are keen insights into filmmaking nuances....Recommended." Library Journal
Review
"Wilkinsons approach is absolutely invaluable to anyone considering directing. On set Charles practices what he preaches in this book, which is why each time I've had the privilege to work with him, he has drawn from me some of the most artistically satisfying performances I've ever given." Brian McNamara, actor, The O.C., Judging Amy, Arachnophobia
Review
"This book is spot on. A perfect primer. Read closely and know, without a doubt, that Charles knows exactly of what he speaks. And when you are done, you will know it all too." Melissa Gilbert, President, Screen Actors Guild
Review
"The Working Director is instructive and enlightening, offering countless real-world tips on how to stay calm, cool and collected in one of the world's most stressful jobs. A a must-read for anyone seriously considering a career as a director of film or television." Pi Ware, Filmmakers Alliance
Synopsis
A step-by-step guide to the rules of engagement--starting with what and what not to say on the first producer phone call, how to deal with writers, with stars, with crews. A fun, irreverent, informative, gloves-off guide to landing the work, doing the work, and getting more.
About the Author
Charles Wilkinson has directed numerous films and television shows for theatrical and network release (including Max, Breach of Trust, Quarantine, and The Highlander). His most recent work is the 2004 independent feature The Heart of the Storm, starring Tom Cavanaugh (Ed) and Melissa Gilbert (Hollywood Wives).