ABSTRACT

Directing for the Screen is a collection of essays and interviews exploring the business of directing. This highly accessible guide to working in film and television includes perspectives from industry insiders on topics such as breaking in; developing and nurturing business relationships; the director’s responsibilities on set and in the field; and more. Directing for the Screen is an ideal companion to filmmaking classes, demystifying the industry and the role of the director with real-world narratives and little-known truths about the business. With insight from working professionals, you’ll be armed with the information you need to pursue your career as a director.

  • Contains essays by and interviews with television directors, feature directors, documentary filmmakers, commercial directors, producers, and professors.
  • Offers expert opinions on how to get started, including landing and succeeding in an internship and getting your first gig.
  • Reveals details about working with actors, overseeing the work of often hundreds of crewmembers, writing last-minute on set, and developing a working relationship with producers and screenwriters.
  • Explores strategies for doing creative work under pressure, finding your directorial voice, financing shorts and independent films, breaking down barriers and overcoming discrimination, shooting in less-than-ideal situations, and recovering from bad reviews or box office results.
  • Illuminates the business of directing in the United States (New York and Los Angeles) as compared to other countries around the globe, including England, Ireland, Spain, Australia, Denmark, Pakistan, Belgium, and Canada.

chapter

Introduction

chapter 1|51 pages

Getting Started

topic |8 pages

Taking Risks and Finding Mentors

topic |10 pages

Short ‘N Sweet

topic |10 pages

Getting A Seat at the Table

topic |4 pages

You and your Director of Photography (DP)

topic |5 pages

You and your Director of Photography (DP)

topic |11 pages

Breaking in to Features

chapter 2|53 pages

Sticking It Out

topic |6 pages

What’s an Assistant Director Anyway?

topic |10 pages

Film Festivals and Development Programs

topic |9 pages

Getting Fiscal Sponsorship

topic |7 pages

Developing Business Acumen

topic |8 pages

Directing for Television

topic |11 pages

Directing The One-Hour Television Drama

chapter 3|49 pages

Finding Success

topic |10 pages

Pursuing Truth In Storytelling

topic |9 pages

Documentary Filmmaking In Pakistan

topic |8 pages

Directing The Personal Documentary

topic |11 pages

Directing for Studios Vs. Independent Filmmaking

topic |9 pages

Becoming Independent

chapter 4|54 pages

Getting Ahead

topic |10 pages

Independent Film Distribution

topic |8 pages

Independent Filmmaking

topic |8 pages

The Evolution of a Directing Career

topic |4 pages

Rolling with the Punches and Discoveries

topic |10 pages

Directing Television Commercials

topic |11 pages

Directing Documentaries

chapter 5|49 pages

Starting Again

topic |11 pages

Transmedia Storytelling

topic |6 pages

Navigating The Creative Process

topic |10 pages

Processing Box Office Results

topic |9 pages

Bouncing back after a Setback

topic |10 pages

Directing Sitcoms and Theater