ABSTRACT
The script is the fundamental building block to a successful film. One way to get some outside perspective is to select three trusted readers, who are not their relatives or friends and who are experienced at reading scripts, and ask them to give their honest opinion about their treatment or script. On Kissing Jessica Stein, the filmmakers used readings as a three-pronged strategy: First, the readings served as a development tool, allowing us to hear what was and was not working in the script. Second, the readings functioned as a fundraising tool; that is, they invited potential investors to these readings, who aided us in securing a significant portion of our budget. Third, the readings served as rehearsal time, as several of the actors who participated in the readings were cast in the film and gained familiarity with the material through the readings. Equipment and film stock will be affected by extreme cold.
