What do you think?
Rate this book
The Filmmaker's Handbook- A Comprehensive Guide for the Digital Age by Ascher,Steven; Pincus,Edward. [1999,Revised.] Paperback
The Filmmaker's Handbook- A Comprehensive Guide for the Digital Age by Ascher,Steven; Pincus,Edward. [1999,Revised.] Paperback
Paperback
First published January 1, 1984
452 people are currently reading
2493 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 21, 2012
This would be a great reference, if it weren't so dated. It needs to be gutted and reborn for the digital era, basically.
The information in this book is 1-2 decades out of sync with reality. All of the information about film stocks and analog editing is unnecessary, for example.
If you know absolutely NOTHING about the film making process, and get it used for next to nothing, there may be some beneficial stuff in there. I'd say that if someone didn't know anything about film making, just the introduction to various concepts like dolly-shooting and such would be good information.
The information in this book is 1-2 decades out of sync with reality. All of the information about film stocks and analog editing is unnecessary, for example.
If you know absolutely NOTHING about the film making process, and get it used for next to nothing, there may be some beneficial stuff in there. I'd say that if someone didn't know anything about film making, just the introduction to various concepts like dolly-shooting and such would be good information.
December 10, 2020
A little outdated book on how to film-making works in practice.
July 2, 2019
Most of us love watching Hollywood movies and we greatly enjoy doing it. So far there several genres of movies. From my childhood, I was interested in various kinds of films and questioned myself how entire movies are made. This big handbook was a great illustration of how movies are produced.
Huge and wide content of this book touches almost all necessary parts of movies: camera, sound, editing and filming as well as distribution and many other relative areas. Authors show each part and explain processes clearly with demonstrative pictures.
Huge and wide content of this book touches almost all necessary parts of movies: camera, sound, editing and filming as well as distribution and many other relative areas. Authors show each part and explain processes clearly with demonstrative pictures.
November 14, 2020
This book is extraordinarily broad in its approach, covering everything about the filmmaking process from the early planning stages through distribution of the finished product. It manages to maintain this broad scope despite no shortage of detailed discussions of highly technical aspects of filmmaking. Of course, no single book can say everything. It's certainly true that technology develops so rapidly these days that no book could ever hope to remain completely up to date. Indeed, in the time it takes to merely print a book, some new technology might be marketed. It's also true that one could read entire books (sometimes entire libraries) dedicated to any one of the topics covered here.
However, this book manages to remain both relatively up to date (minor technological details may change, but the underlying theory largely remains the same, so adapting this book's content to new hardware or software should be relatively easy) and relatively complete.
It can also be something of an overwhelming read. The number of elements that must come together in the production of even a relatively simple film is astounding. The beginning hobbyist or amateur would be forgiven for, upon reading this book, throwing up his arms in despair. In fact, if you are a complete beginner with no prior knowledge, this is not the book I would recommend for you. Though it covers virtually every aspect of the filmmaking process, it is not a step-by-step guidebook for the complete novice. Even someone with a bit more experience might be overwhelmed by the prospect of mastering everything at once. Yes, I did read the book straight through, cover-to-cover, but I don't really recommend it. Rather, I recommend reading it chapter by chapter as you prepare to embark upon each separate task. Treated more like a reference book than something you'd read in one go, its value becomes immediately clear. If you're not sure how to perform some task, there's a good chance this book either contains the answer or will at least give you enough knowledge to frame the question well enough to find the answer elsewhere.
However, this book manages to remain both relatively up to date (minor technological details may change, but the underlying theory largely remains the same, so adapting this book's content to new hardware or software should be relatively easy) and relatively complete.
It can also be something of an overwhelming read. The number of elements that must come together in the production of even a relatively simple film is astounding. The beginning hobbyist or amateur would be forgiven for, upon reading this book, throwing up his arms in despair. In fact, if you are a complete beginner with no prior knowledge, this is not the book I would recommend for you. Though it covers virtually every aspect of the filmmaking process, it is not a step-by-step guidebook for the complete novice. Even someone with a bit more experience might be overwhelmed by the prospect of mastering everything at once. Yes, I did read the book straight through, cover-to-cover, but I don't really recommend it. Rather, I recommend reading it chapter by chapter as you prepare to embark upon each separate task. Treated more like a reference book than something you'd read in one go, its value becomes immediately clear. If you're not sure how to perform some task, there's a good chance this book either contains the answer or will at least give you enough knowledge to frame the question well enough to find the answer elsewhere.
August 9, 2011
Well it took most of the summer to read, but was well worth it. If you ever thought filmmaking was fairly straightforward, take a crack at this book. From pre to post-production, scheduling a shoot and which equipment to choose and why, lenses and filters and sound systems and editing platforms/techniques, blocking a concept all the way to marketing and distribution, this book has it all, in almost ridiculous detail. Highly technical but unpretentious and readable. As assigned readings go, this one has been by far the most helpful.
March 13, 2013
As most people have noted in their reviews, this is a reference book that feels a bit dated. However, it remains a useful introduction to the topic and had good tips for orienting a project. The technical information is perhaps the least relevant section of the book because this changes so quickly (as the authors surely knew) and so much of what's written no longer applies. Best read checked out from a library, borrowed from a friend, or bought at a used bookstore at a good price.
July 19, 2018
My God was this boring. But I guess I can't hold my own stupidity and small attention span against the writers. Overall it was a very informative book. Just a shame I can't remember that much of it. Anyway, the proper review is on its way. I have to get up early tomorrow morning for work. I'm going to bed now.
January 10, 2023
About filmmaking - excellent for film appreciation
This may be a tad dated. But still relevant.
It would take a book length to give this book a decent review. So, excuse me if I miss the information, you are looking for.
This book will be helpful for anyone interested in all things film; however, it is not in textbook form so we do not have to answer questions at the end of each section.
I have not got the time or economics for filmmaking. But I do have the time to read this book and appreciate others' skills. We can rematch those classics or experiments and now see the professionalism that went into their creation.
You will want to keep up with information on technical changes allowing more creativity. Therefore, you will want the latest version but keep this version for the items that did not make it into the newer version. Just because new technology is available, we can appreciate the creators that keep to rational methods.
I mostly used this book for technical definitions or to understand the vocabulary used by the filmmaker so I can better understand what he/she is trying to accomplish. This is why I like to watch the extras o DVD's then watch the film again knowing what to look for.
I am disappointed that the pictures and graphs are in black and white. However, I am glad that they do show what the words are trying to portray. You may even see a still from your favorite movie.
While the book talks about such things as lenses and lighting, I now see what was used to create some of my favorite scenes. Then I wonder how they could have been made differently.
You will wonder how you could have missed this book until now.
This may be a tad dated. But still relevant.
It would take a book length to give this book a decent review. So, excuse me if I miss the information, you are looking for.
This book will be helpful for anyone interested in all things film; however, it is not in textbook form so we do not have to answer questions at the end of each section.
I have not got the time or economics for filmmaking. But I do have the time to read this book and appreciate others' skills. We can rematch those classics or experiments and now see the professionalism that went into their creation.
You will want to keep up with information on technical changes allowing more creativity. Therefore, you will want the latest version but keep this version for the items that did not make it into the newer version. Just because new technology is available, we can appreciate the creators that keep to rational methods.
I mostly used this book for technical definitions or to understand the vocabulary used by the filmmaker so I can better understand what he/she is trying to accomplish. This is why I like to watch the extras o DVD's then watch the film again knowing what to look for.
I am disappointed that the pictures and graphs are in black and white. However, I am glad that they do show what the words are trying to portray. You may even see a still from your favorite movie.
While the book talks about such things as lenses and lighting, I now see what was used to create some of my favorite scenes. Then I wonder how they could have been made differently.
You will wonder how you could have missed this book until now.
October 16, 2021
Good grief, this book is outdated. I read the newest edition of this book which promises to be up to date with the latest developments in digital filmmaking technology, but it still reads like it's from 2006. The authors seem to think that the H.264 codec and LEDs are "cutting edge" while SD broadcasting and telecines are still commonplace.
If you can get past the fact that half of this book is antiquated, the remainder still does not live up to its promise. It is mostly dense, wordy information that is not well suited for learning the material. The content would be better suited in video form where the imagery would be extensively detailed, rather than the sparse screenshots scattered throughout. The book itself would be better suited as a reference work to be consulted after learning it in a more effective way.
The information that was actually useful was the (mostly) timeless parts of the industry, like the best strategies to beg for funding, the headaches of copyright law and the exhausting rodeo of chasing exhibitors and marketing. That would have been excellent as its own book.
If you can get past the fact that half of this book is antiquated, the remainder still does not live up to its promise. It is mostly dense, wordy information that is not well suited for learning the material. The content would be better suited in video form where the imagery would be extensively detailed, rather than the sparse screenshots scattered throughout. The book itself would be better suited as a reference work to be consulted after learning it in a more effective way.
The information that was actually useful was the (mostly) timeless parts of the industry, like the best strategies to beg for funding, the headaches of copyright law and the exhausting rodeo of chasing exhibitors and marketing. That would have been excellent as its own book.
July 9, 2018
Be aware that this book is extremely dry. In fact, it's mostly a technical manual, although there are a few chapters at the end about other aspects of filmmaking. Framed like this, however, it really is a very good book if you want to make movies since every single aspect of the production process is detailed: cameras, lights, sound, editing, and many other areas, including logistics, legal, etc. I read it beginning to end, which may not be the best way, using it as a reference book makes more sense.
June 4, 2017
There are many forms of film production, and what I was looking for was a book that focused more on the business side of film production. This book is far more technical. It would make a good reference for camera operators, editors, and sound technicians. It would also be useful for the filmmaker that actually has a film budget in which to purchase/rent equipment.
April 11, 2021
The first half of the book is interesting and timeless as its explains the ins and outs of filmmaking and the basics. However, the following chapters are very outdated and only interesting if you want to know how a film was made and processed years ago.
July 3, 2017
Didn't get through it.. big and wordy.
October 31, 2017
This book was very helpful and detailed for any digital age filmmaking.
September 4, 2018
Bible for digital filmmaking.
July 1, 2023
3.0/5
Although it looks and is outdated, considering the huge improvements in tech of the medium, still there are a lot of things that are valuable for a filmmaker.
A good but not great read.
Although it looks and is outdated, considering the huge improvements in tech of the medium, still there are a lot of things that are valuable for a filmmaker.
A good but not great read.
August 24, 2009
This book is a wealth of information. You won't could come away from it feeling completely proficient in any one of its many topics, but you'll certainly know a little bit about all of them.
I learned the most in the topics I'd not previously researched: processing and editing actual film stock. The subject of optical soundtracks was particularly interesting to me.
I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the subject. The text is all highly relevant and current.
I learned the most in the topics I'd not previously researched: processing and editing actual film stock. The subject of optical soundtracks was particularly interesting to me.
I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the subject. The text is all highly relevant and current.
February 17, 2009
A lot of information in one volume. Couldn't find an earlier copy I had, and glad I bought the latest version.
Lots of new data about HDTV, and updates of older still very important reference information.
You can also read my comments from Barnes and Noble at:
Filmmaker's Handbook
Lots of new data about HDTV, and updates of older still very important reference information.
You can also read my comments from Barnes and Noble at:
Filmmaker's Handbook
September 23, 2014
Not finished. I acquired this book for a film making class. I'm driven to do. the book is best for reference due to its length. I am finding also that the instructors at SMC are using different books now. I want to direct, edit, and not shoot per se. I think simplification for me is best. so I place this book unread completely on my read shelf where it stands as reference.
September 17, 2009
Another rather technical book, but one I found palatable enough at a time when the possibilities of filmmaking really seized me by the proverbial lapels and shook me to my young foundations. I miss that kid who used to really, really care about creating artistic things.
May 29, 2016
Something to return to as a reference not to read straight through. Some good information, although as with many film books, everyone has their own way of doing things. Take note some information may be out of date, as with any reference book.
March 11, 2008
It's a text book for me and it's freaking awesome!
April 3, 2011
Very great supplement to an education. Thorough and easy to follow. Covers everything generally.
November 17, 2009
If I wanted to read an instruction manual... I'd read this.
December 28, 2010
"the 'bible' of film and video production"... great stuff. I didn't read the book cover to cover, but it is a great reference and overview of video production from start to finish.
December 14, 2011
Not quite as up-to-date as I would have liked (the edition I had was the 2004) but quite an interesting reference book. The section on Marketing was both fascinating and applicable.
February 26, 2013
It will be useful to improve the knowledge in film making.
July 18, 2013
A must have resource for anyone interested in film. Outlines all necessary technical information from equipment of jargon.
August 29, 2013
Very informative!
Read
September 28, 2014Finally sinking my teeth in with the 2013 edition. Self-teaching, for the win.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews