ABSTRACT
Mary Lou Belli takes the reader through her initial steps reading a script, and provides tips for learning the visual style of a show – such as watching as many episodes as possible with the volume off. She discusses her relationships with the producing director and actors, and talks about how her own background as an actor informs her directing style. Belli also discusses the differences between directing sitcoms and hour-long dramas, and between working on a long running show and a new one. Belli also discusses her casting methods and how she blocks scenes with the actors, and how to balance planning with spontaneity. She explains how she collaborates with directors of photography, and what it was like directing for Shonda Rhimes’ company, where women were largely in charge of the production. Finally, Belli talks about her work as a mentor and discusses how much of directing can be taught and how much is dependent on instinct.
