MAKING THE MAGIC HAPPEN: The Art and Craft of Film Directing by Peter D. Marshall
Filmmaking can be a complicated and risky adventure, but Making the Magic Happenshows you why directing a movie is actually simpler than you think. The trick is to properly learn the "craft" of filmmaking first, and then adapt your logistical and creative skills to the "art" of filmmaking.
Making the Magic Happen demystifies every aspect of film directing by demonstrating what you must learnabout the CRAFT of directing before pursuing the ART of directing. It is the most empowering book of its kind!
Great Introduction to the Craft and Art of Directing Films, Review by Tom Farr
I've written a few scripts. They're stories I love and would love to see on the big screen, but in Hollywood, writers hand off their scripts to directors who make the real magic of production happen. Which is why I've always wanted to be both a writer and a director. I've read a ton of books on screenwriting. Making the Magic Happen by Peter D. Marshall isn't my first book to read on directing, but it is the most concise and clear that I've read. I love the way Marshall talks about craft and art and how it's important to master the craft before you get to the art.
Marshall walks readers through the entire process of directing a movie. I especially enjoyed the part about breaking down a script, but also about understanding and working with human nature. When and if I direct my first production, Marshall's book is going to be one I go to again and again to make sure I get the process right.
Film and TV directing lessons in a logical and organized book. A must have for movie makers. Review by Forris B. Day
I have mostly worked as a grip on low budget films but have never directed aside from throwing in my two cents when a few friends and I would create a short or movie. I learned quite a bit from this book. I learned that if you have an interest you can learn to direct. I also learned that I am not nearly organized enough to be the actual director of a film. Perhaps a topic for another book.(Ha Ha)
The book is well organized in a logical order. It covers topics that I think any director would need to learn about. A wonderful book for aspiring directors of films or TV.
A pro shows "How to make it work" Review by Tony Levelle
From the book: "The trick is to learn the “craft” of filmmaking first, and then adapt your personal skills and creative ability to the “art” of filmmaking. In other words, there is an “art and craft” to making movies. Learn the craft first — then perfect your art!"
Marshall spent his career in the trenches of the Hollywood system. He was often the guy who "had to make everything work" As that guy, he learned the practical steps to making a film that is a success. Two other things, however, make his book interesting to me. First, he's a good writer. He's easy to read, and what he says has the ring of hard earned truth. Second, he's worked with beginners in film school. He knows how to handle both big budget problems, and beginner no-budget problems. Highly recommended.