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How Not to Make it in Hollywood
How Not to Make it in Hollywood is a twisted comic memoir and a manual for struggling actors pursuing a career in Hollywood. It’s a mix of facts about the film industry that have never been revealed before – and stories of some of the weirder situations encountered over a decade there. It’s a book for actors, writers, filmmakers, and anyone who might enjoy a laugh about showbiz.
Most books about the Hollywood film industry contain a lot of celebrity adoration and are vague about the specific details of how an actor navigates an actual film career. They use terms like – an actor was “discovered” or “a star was born.” Hollywood maintains a veil of mystery around it on purpose. This book peels it back and deals directly with the nuts and bolts involved in pursuing a real career as an actor. There are facts and insights that come directly from decades of struggle and work in the industry. And there is also much fun to be had here.
Most books about the Hollywood film industry contain a lot of celebrity adoration and are vague about the specific details of how an actor navigates an actual film career. They use terms like – an actor was “discovered” or “a star was born.” Hollywood maintains a veil of mystery around it on purpose. This book peels it back and deals directly with the nuts and bolts involved in pursuing a real career as an actor. There are facts and insights that come directly from decades of struggle and work in the industry. And there is also much fun to be had here.
152 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
March 30, 2025
If you’ve ever dreamed of making it in Hollywood—or simply wondered what life is like for the countless hopefuls chasing their big break—How Not to Make It in Hollywood is a must-read. With humor, honesty, and an insider’s perspective, David Hern takes readers on a wild ride through his decade in Tinseltown, sharing both the highs and lows of trying to carve out a career in the entertainment industry.
This book isn’t just about actors; it’s about the countless hardworking people behind the scenes—those waiting tables, working office jobs, and doing whatever it takes to stay afloat while pursuing their dreams. Hern’s writing is engaging, clear, and effortlessly funny, making his stories both entertaining and insightful.
Beyond the humor, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into Hollywood before the digital age, capturing the city’s unique culture and the relentless hustle required to succeed. But more than that, How Not to Make It in Hollywood is an inspiring read for anyone chasing a dream and feeling discouraged. Hern’s journey serves as a reminder that setbacks and challenges are part of the process, and sometimes, a shift in perspective is exactly what’s needed to keep going.
Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a film industry enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys behind-the-scenes stories, this book is an absolute delight. It would also make a fantastic gift for anyone with even a passing interest in Hollywood life.
I highly recommend How Not to Make It in Hollywood—not only for the laughs but for the candid and compelling look at what it truly takes to chase a dream in the City of Stars.
This book isn’t just about actors; it’s about the countless hardworking people behind the scenes—those waiting tables, working office jobs, and doing whatever it takes to stay afloat while pursuing their dreams. Hern’s writing is engaging, clear, and effortlessly funny, making his stories both entertaining and insightful.
Beyond the humor, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into Hollywood before the digital age, capturing the city’s unique culture and the relentless hustle required to succeed. But more than that, How Not to Make It in Hollywood is an inspiring read for anyone chasing a dream and feeling discouraged. Hern’s journey serves as a reminder that setbacks and challenges are part of the process, and sometimes, a shift in perspective is exactly what’s needed to keep going.
Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a film industry enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys behind-the-scenes stories, this book is an absolute delight. It would also make a fantastic gift for anyone with even a passing interest in Hollywood life.
I highly recommend How Not to Make It in Hollywood—not only for the laughs but for the candid and compelling look at what it truly takes to chase a dream in the City of Stars.
September 12, 2025
what a great story that happens to be true
People should own their virtues and their faults
David does in this more hilarious than sad life lesson story set in Hollywood. A cautionary tale for rookies and a been there/done that for veterans of Life in or out of the movie business.
People should own their virtues and their faults
David does in this more hilarious than sad life lesson story set in Hollywood. A cautionary tale for rookies and a been there/done that for veterans of Life in or out of the movie business.
November 25, 2024
2024 BIBA Winner!
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews