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THE HOLLYWOOD MBA [Paperback] [Jan 01, 2017] Books Wagon
BRAND NEW, Exactly same ISBN as listed, Please double check ISBN carefully before ordering.
- GenresBusinessNonfiction
272 pages, Paperback
Published January 18, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
July 13, 2017
This book provides an interesting, different take on management by giving a humorous, insightful and novel crash course, based on the author’s life in the film business over three decades. It can be more than just another how-to business book. It feels to be a mixture between novel, autobiography and textbook. It just works!
It can be very giving if you let it. It will let you experience many experiences you may rather not experience in-the-flesh, whilst delivering a lot of great knowledge that can be stored ‘just in case’ the future comes to throw a curveball or two at you. At the heart of the book are ten strategies that the author says have helped, whether managing a big Hollywood production or dealing with a complex business problem. This book is not written solely for the film and media industry’s benefit.
To be fair, you may not consider it a ‘breakthrough’ book on one hand. It is hardly going to the business bible that may lead to a seismic change of thinking, yet it does not set out to be that. It encapsulates the author’s experiences and details how problems were resolved. It is a practical, personal guide to show how real-world, actual problems were dealt with, enhanced by some great writing, funny stories, serious anecdotes and a little bit of Hollywood magic for best effect.
This could be an ideal ‘commuting companion’ or bedtime reading.
It can be very giving if you let it. It will let you experience many experiences you may rather not experience in-the-flesh, whilst delivering a lot of great knowledge that can be stored ‘just in case’ the future comes to throw a curveball or two at you. At the heart of the book are ten strategies that the author says have helped, whether managing a big Hollywood production or dealing with a complex business problem. This book is not written solely for the film and media industry’s benefit.
To be fair, you may not consider it a ‘breakthrough’ book on one hand. It is hardly going to the business bible that may lead to a seismic change of thinking, yet it does not set out to be that. It encapsulates the author’s experiences and details how problems were resolved. It is a practical, personal guide to show how real-world, actual problems were dealt with, enhanced by some great writing, funny stories, serious anecdotes and a little bit of Hollywood magic for best effect.
This could be an ideal ‘commuting companion’ or bedtime reading.
July 1, 2017
I was intrigued to see how management of a film set could apply to my leadership of staff at my library. Reilly details his experience and gives advice on both management and leadership.
It was hard to get into his writing style, but once I did, it was good reading. I learned a few new techniques and confirmed I was doing some things right. In addition to the management and leadership tips, Reilly included a great deal of detail about how movies are made. I now see movies in a whole new light.
Highly recommend.
It was hard to get into his writing style, but once I did, it was good reading. I learned a few new techniques and confirmed I was doing some things right. In addition to the management and leadership tips, Reilly included a great deal of detail about how movies are made. I now see movies in a whole new light.
Highly recommend.
April 12, 2018
The conclusions at the end of each chapter were a little preachy and unnecessary, but overall this was a very interesting and insightful look in the world of film and management.
June 30, 2021
Simply put, this is a fun and simple read.
For anyone who is - like I was - looking for a book that would very benevolently and thoughtfully introduce you to the management/business side of the filmmaking industry, this book is the right pick. This book does not overwhelm you with complex business management lingo. Rather, this book presents you some very great tactics on how to manage a team on movie sets. Although, they might seem obvious to one at times, the way the author puts it followed by a detailed case study on how he applied it in real life, really makes it worth the read.
Best part is, even though this targets the film industry, the content and tactics presented in this book can be applied to any industry.
The conclusions (bullet points) at the end of every chapter on what you have just studied is really helpful. I first sat down with a pencil to take notes, but very quickly realized, I didn't need one.
Overall, the case studies, the format of the writing, the ease of language all together make this book a pleasant introductory book for management in the film industry. Go for it!
For anyone who is - like I was - looking for a book that would very benevolently and thoughtfully introduce you to the management/business side of the filmmaking industry, this book is the right pick. This book does not overwhelm you with complex business management lingo. Rather, this book presents you some very great tactics on how to manage a team on movie sets. Although, they might seem obvious to one at times, the way the author puts it followed by a detailed case study on how he applied it in real life, really makes it worth the read.
Best part is, even though this targets the film industry, the content and tactics presented in this book can be applied to any industry.
The conclusions (bullet points) at the end of every chapter on what you have just studied is really helpful. I first sat down with a pencil to take notes, but very quickly realized, I didn't need one.
Overall, the case studies, the format of the writing, the ease of language all together make this book a pleasant introductory book for management in the film industry. Go for it!
October 23, 2025
Tom Reilly’s Customer Service Is More Than a Department: It’s an Attitude is a timeless and essential read for anyone who interacts with people which, in truth, means everyone. In just under 100 pages, Reilly distills decades of insight into a powerful reminder that great service isn’t a policy it’s a mindset.
Through practical wisdom and cultural reflection, Reilly highlights the erosion of courtesy and attentiveness in modern business culture, arguing that genuine service begins with respect, empathy, and personal accountability. His writing feels direct, accessible, and deeply human a perfect blend of motivation and actionable guidance for managers, sales teams, and frontline professionals alike.
What makes this book enduring is its universal message: service excellence doesn’t come from manuals or management systems but from individuals who choose to care. Reilly transforms customer service from a business function into a philosophy of human connection, making this a valuable tool for anyone seeking to rebuild a culture of kindness and professionalism in a fast paced world.
Through practical wisdom and cultural reflection, Reilly highlights the erosion of courtesy and attentiveness in modern business culture, arguing that genuine service begins with respect, empathy, and personal accountability. His writing feels direct, accessible, and deeply human a perfect blend of motivation and actionable guidance for managers, sales teams, and frontline professionals alike.
What makes this book enduring is its universal message: service excellence doesn’t come from manuals or management systems but from individuals who choose to care. Reilly transforms customer service from a business function into a philosophy of human connection, making this a valuable tool for anyone seeking to rebuild a culture of kindness and professionalism in a fast paced world.
August 19, 2025
Truly a great management book with very interesting insights into the film business. On average a feature film cost $20,000/hr to make and when time is money you have to have great bosses in place to make it happen.
January 3, 2018
This is very good book, many things comes and the talk decision to make the star go out.
May 31, 2020
Full of wisdom and insightful as can be.
September 6, 2024
The conclusions at the end of each chapter were a little preachy and unnecessary, but overall this was a very interesting and insightful look in the world of film and management.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews