I Wake Up Screening » (Bargain)

John Anderson, chief film critic at Newsday, is a past member of the selection committee of the New York Film Festival as well as a member and two-time past chair of the New York Film Critics Circle, a member of the National Society of Film Critics, and a member of the National Book Critics Circle. He lives in Los Angeles.

Laura Kim is the executive vice president of marketing and publicity for Warner Independent Films. Previously the senior vice president for the publicity firm mPRm, she has worked on such films as American Splendor, Dirty Pretty Things, The Pianist, and Being John Malkovich. She lives in Los Angeles.

• Every film student needs this book!

• Insights from top industry executives, critics, and filmmakers

• Perfect for film festivals or anywhere independent films are shown or discussed

The explosion of independent cinema over the past fifteen years has created thousands of would-be filmmakers, all dreaming of becoming the next Quentin Tarantino or Steven Soderbergh—and all working away like beavers, making thousands of independent films. But what do they do once the movie is made? In I Wake Up Screening, powerhouse authors John Anderson and Laura Kim tell emerging filmmakers how to (and how not to) get their movies talked about, written about, sold, and seen. The authors’ advice is supported by insightful interviews with more than sixty top industry insiders, all offering priceless behind-the-scenes tips and tricks. Making a film isn’t the end anymore—it’s only the beginning. I Wake Up Screening can make the difference between a movie that gets into theaters and one that ends up on the floor of the director’s bedroom closet.

Library Journal

Veteran screenwriter William Goldman once said that when it comes to predicting success in the movie business, nobody knows anything; this truism applies especially to independent filmmaking. Anderson (chief film critic, Newsday) and Kim (executive VP of marketing & publicity, Warner Independent Films) offer some peace of mind in this anecdotal examination of how indie filmmakers can get their film visions financed, made, launched, and noticed in today's glut of product. A diverse group of more than 60 publicists, producers, agents, critics, and others address such topics as crafting the script, navigating the maze of legal rights and clearances, and putting together a production and publicity team. Ultimately, a film stands or falls on its own merits, but proper presentation, according to the experts, is the key to success. Though filled with plenty of up-to-date information, this book features insider jargon and dense references to current studios, agencies, and marketplaces that are likely to put off novice readers. Still, it contains solid advice, helped by a dash of humor. Recommended for academic libraries and public libraries serving wannabe filmmakers. (Index not seen.)-Stephen Rees, Levittown Regional Lib., PA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.