Making Movies

I have ordered many books from Amazon, but clearly can say that this is by far the worst experience I have ever had. After not seeing the book for a couple of weeks; I decided to query it from Books etc who had explained that the book was 'Print on Demand' therefore it would take about a month for the book to be made available before even dispatching. This is fair enough, but it would have been good to supply me with that information before I ordered it. Nevertheless, I decided to wait as I had waited long enough already (about 2 weeks) but after a couple more weeks no book had materialised. If it wasn't for the fact that I was relying on the book for an assignment then I would have forgotten about it. There is no tracking information available and they do not send their books out recorded signed for so when the 'delivered by' date had expired a representative of the company said and I quote: "a small portion of our books do get reported as missing in the post" I am all for ordering from book shops as I am a collector of books and love to support businesses, but surely if there was a problem like that they should look to rectify it. Anyway; I had spoken to the publishers of the book who said that I could have ordered direct from them but it does take a while due to the fact that the book is out of print; so I recommend to other people interested in this book to exactly that. As I had started the process, I didn't chose this option as time was ticking and the book shop didn't come up with a resolution other than re-ordering the book and waiting another couple of weeks. (It's way over a month now) So I did a bit of research and ordered a new copy from waterstones marketplace for a tenner which came in two days, then requested a refund from Books etc. On the positive side; they refunded me straight away. About the book. The book is a brilliant interpretation of Sidney Lumet's personal experience filming. He touches on every aspect of creating a film from the actors input to working with lighting, camera positions and writers. There is so much that goes into creating a movie and this book is very eloquently written with clear explanations and funny recollections of his direct experience with working with the big names in Acting, Directing, Writing, Producing and the Artistic Creation side of things..,(the list is not exhausted) I read this book fairly quickly with my busy schedule, but can clearly see that it is a book that I will hold onto, and re-read time and time again. I also want to watch some of the films that he used as examples so I can truly get to the essence of his expressions. I love this book and I am confident that if you are in this industry and/or you would like to know how everything works; you will love it too.

It's a great insight on a big director's process. A very good reading for any aspiring directors. The only thing is that it's a bit old and was written before digital cameras, so take that into account when reading the camera chapter.

Great insight into film making by one of my favourite movie makers the director of a big favourite film of mine ,Twelve angry men this book takes you behind the scenes helping you to understand the routine and process involved in movie making. Also helps you to understand the mindset of this great director and his love of the city of New york where most of his movies were set,also takes a look at technical side of film making lighting a scene,set building,etc great read all round.

What's not to like. This man was a genius and this book shows why. I would highly recommend to anyone, whether they want to make films or not.

What any reader wants from a book like this, be they a student of cinema or merely a movie fan, is a book that can find the correct balance between information and anecdotes. Making Movies by Sidney Lumet achieves that balance in my view. This book provides the reader with immediate insights into the process of one of the most important American directors of the 20th century. Lumet's credits include such masterpieces as Twelve Angry Men, The Pawnbroker, Serpico, Dog Day Afternoon, Network, Prince of the City and The Verdict. Although this book is not up to date in terms of some of the more recent advances in film technology, it is still indispensable for any budding filmmaker seeking to understand what it is a director does.

Very informative and entertaining. Great stories from the industry and good practical advice.

Tis is a wonderful book full of greta tips for aspiring film makers and I have recommended it to many other people

Worth the money

I haven't read extensively on film but this is far and away the best book on the subject I've encountered. Lumet's anecdotal style is accessible to a wide audience but also revealing the deeper aesthetic and psychological motivation for his stylistic choices that will inspire novice and experienced filmmakers alike.

Ok

Great way to understand the business and what it actually takes to make movies. Great for anyone interested in making movies

One of the best books I have read on filmmaking from a master in the business. I bought this used, in perfect condition, minus dust jacket plus it is a first edition!

I am using this book in my classes at Colorado University. Lumet describes the process we need to be aware of in order to make a movie. Having 30 years in production and now sharing this with my students, Making Movies has become the perfect compliment to my discussion with the class before they decide on a script, or go on set and/or location to experience the moments. I understand, and Laumet's text helps me explain, the collaboration, attention to detail, and the creative decisions, necessary to complete a film. I am also aware that, as university students, they won't have the budgets to play with, yet this book helps express the decisions that must be made whether, or not, a budget is attached.