7 Filmmaking Books That Will Change How You See Movies FOREVER!

Without boasting too much, if you’ve chosen to read this article, it suggests you’re a dedicated film enthusiast. You don’t merely appreciate watching movies; you also enjoy delving into their intricacies through reading about them, and not just the upcoming releases of 2025.

Frankly, have you ever pondered upon the challenge of persuading individuals to engage with written content nowadays? It’s quite astonishing how many people turn down reading even a film adaptation that originated from a book, responding with “I’m fine as is” when invited to discuss their familiarity with the original work.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d like to delve into an array of fascinating reads that I’ve recently come across. Film production isn’t merely directing; it encompasses a multitude of other facets. Without any further delay, here are seven exceptional books that offer insights into the art of filmmaking:

1. The Art of Director’s Cut by Taylor Hackford
2. Filmmaking: An Interactive Approach by Barry Salt & Michael Kindon
3. Directing Actors by Judith Weston
4. The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson
5. Storytelling for Screenwriters: How to Write Gripping, Unpredictable, and Cinematic Plots by Robert McKee
6. Adaptation: The Craft of Screenwriting by Charles J. Kavelin
7. In the Blink of an Eye: A Journey to Understand the Mystery of Time in Our Perception of the World by Walter Murch

Room To Dream-David Lynch and Kristine McKenna

Recently, we bid farewell to the one-of-a-kind director, David Lynch. His departure left a significant void. While I’ve previously discussed how his unique filmmaking style can’t be replicated, reading his book “Room to Dream“, which is a blend of memoir and biography, reveals that there will never emerge another person like David Lynch.

Collaboratively written by Kristine McKenna, who covers the biographical aspects, while Lynch takes charge of the memoir sections, where he offers comments on McKenna’s writings and shares his unique perspectives on events she discusses regarding his films, as his recollections may not always align with her descriptions.

Intellectual, indeed. Witty too, without a doubt. Moreover, he provides profound insights by delving into the obscure elements of his movies.

Moreover, though I’ve long admired his films, I wasn’t well-versed in his personal life beyond the silver screen. This book, however, sheds light on the fact that David Lynch is not merely his work; he also has a rich and private existence.

In short, if you love (and miss) David Lynch, then there’s no better book than Room to Dream.

Pick up Room to Dream on Amazon

Lloyd Kaufman: Interviews

Moving from fine art to popular culture, Lloyd Kaufman, a co-founder of Troma Entertainment, is often recognized for his grisly films like “Terror Firmer”. Yet, your opinion about him might shift after reading “Lloyd Kaufman: Interviews”, which includes op-eds, commentaries, and yes, interviews with the creator behind The Toxic Avenger – a character I admire deeply.

This book is remarkable because it demonstrates that creating even seemingly effortless ‘schlock’ requires a lot of hard work. In fact, the author, Kaufman, has built an entire career on shocking and entertaining audiences with his work.

The book delves into Kaufman’s shrewd business strategies, occasionally noting that certain Troma films, despite being quite shocking, might not have been profitable in theaters but found success with home video viewers instead.

Additionally, I’m fond of discovering the significance of branding, just as Kaufman explains how the Troma brand effectively markets itself (A fact I can confirm personally, since I’ll watch virtually any production from Troma–such as Surf Nazis Must Die)).

This outstanding book, titled “Lloyd Kaufman: Interviews“, provides an intriguing exploration into the world of filmmaking, complete with a captivating introduction by Mathew Klickstein. Moreover, it includes Lloyd Kaufman’s top 5 Troma movies, making for an entertaining read!

Pick up Lloyd Kaufman: Interviews on Amazon

All About Me! My Remarkable Life in Show Business-Mel Brooks

When it comes to discussing business, nothing compares to the excitement of show business, don’t you agree? And who could provide a more insightful conversation on this topic than Mel Brooks?

In this engaging and enjoyable read, author Brooks shares his modest origins in Brooklyn, his military experiences, and most importantly, his cinematic journey.

It’s wonderful to find that following the discussion about encountering his future spouse, Anne Bancroft, we delve into several chapters detailing some of his most renowned films, including “The Producers”, “Blazing Saddles”, and “Young Frankenstein”.

I particularly enjoy the later chapters focusing on Mel Brooks films such as “Life Stinks”, “Robin Hood: Men in Tights” and “Dracula: Dead and Loving It”. These films delve into the transformation of the entertainment industry over time, as per Brooks’ perspective.

If you’re keen on exploring a book that delves into the journey towards Hollywood success, you might not find better mentors than Mel Brooks.

Pick up Mel Brooks: All About Me! On Amazon

Every Frame a Rembrandt: Art and Practice of Cinematography-Andrew Laszlo

As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but emphasize that while directors undeniably play a pivotal role, it’s the mesmerizing world of cinematography that truly brings films to life. One book that has deeply enriched my understanding of this art form is Andrew Laszlo’s masterpiece, “Every Frame a Rembrandt: Art and Practice of Cinematography.” It stands as one of the most insightful guides on the subject, offering a profound exploration into the world of cinematography.

This book delves into various aspects of film production, particularly those I hadn’t considered in relation to his five movies, such as achieving ideal illumination.

I discovered that cinematography involves more than just taking photographs (Admittedly, my knowledge was limited on the topic of cinematography, but after reading this book, I gained a better understanding).

What stands out to me is that it focuses on films I’m particularly fond of, with three of them being movies directed by Walter Hill: “The Warriors,” “Southern Comfort,” and “Streets of Fire.

Additionally, certain question-and-answer segments could use improvement, yet this book is an excellent resource for delving into the art of cinematography in its entirety.

Pick up Every Frame a Rembrandt: Art and Practice of Cinematography on Amazon

Purple Fury: Rumbling With the Warriors-Rob Ryder

Talking about Walter Hill’s films, it would be incomplete without mentioning my top pick – “The Warriors”, a classic representative of ’70s cinema.

In “Purple Fury: Rumbling With the Warriors,” the perspective we receive is unusual. Rather than hearing the story from the director, main cast members, or scriptwriter, this book offers insights from one of the supporting actors instead.

Among all books of its kind that I’ve encountered, “Purple Fury” stands out as an authentic account. This book tells the tale of a production assistant who transitioned into a location scout, and unexpectedly ended up appearing in the film itself as one of the Baseball Furies.

As a passionate cinephile, I’ve delved deep into the revelation that filmmaking is no walk in the park – it’s a high-pressure environment where every single player contributes significantly, regardless of their role on set, from the humblest intern to the visionary director at the helm.

It’s an exciting tale, and I think you’ll find it captivating if you appreciate getting insider perspectives.

Pick up Purple Fury: Rumbling With the Warriors on Amazon

Stuntman! My Car-Crashing, Plane Jumping, Bone-Breaking, Death-Defying Hollywood Life-Hal Needham

For someone standing on the ground level, to someone plummeting from a skyscraper, this upcoming book promises to be one of the most thrilling and heart-stopping reads you’ll encounter.

Narrated by arguably the most renowned stuntman ever, Hal Needham, this account recounts his journey from humble beginnings to achieving immense success during the ’60s and ’70s.

It wasn’t until later that I discovered the director behind films such as “Smokey and the Bandit” and “The Cannonball Run” had once served as a stuntman for Richard Boone earlier in his professional life.

A skilled stunt performer meticulously prepares and executes risky stunts, breaking down each one in intricate detail. Reading about these death-defying feats is just as exhilarating as watching them unfold on set.

This book is so captivating that it seems urgent for the Academy to establish an award category for stunt performers right away. For an exhilarating reading experience, be sure to pick up this book.

Try this book titled: “Grab Stuntman!: My High-Speed Crashes, Aerial Leaps, Broken Bones, and Near-Death Experiences in the Thrilling World of Hollywood” available on Amazon.

Acting In Film: An Actor’s Take On Movie Making-Michael Caine

To wrap up, let me share some insights about acting, and who could be a better guide than Michael Caine, a man known for his captivating words in this field.

In his publication titled “Acting in Film: An Actor’s Perspective on Filmmaking“, he discusses various aspects, including readying oneself for a role, the experience of standing before the camera, and even the unique life as a film star.

This book stands out in a special way as it seems like Michael Caine himself is narrating it to you, an experience I imagine would be consistent across all his books, old or new.

I enjoy most the section where Caine contrasts the roles of a stage actor and a film actor, providing multiple examples that demonstrate their striking differences.

If acting is something that interests or even captivates you, I wholeheartedly suggest you check out this book – it’s a must-read for anyone who shares that passion.

Pick up Acting in Film: An Actor’s Take on Movie Making on Amazon

Have you considered reading seven terrific books on movie-making? If so, which one would you start with, fellow cinephile? This version maintains the same meaning while being more conversational and easy to read.

2025-04-10 15:08