Producing Film and Television
First In, Last Out
by Steve Pinhay and Alexandra Bentley
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Book Presentation:
This book is about what it takes to be a producer, the person responsible for getting a project off the ground and seeing it through to a conclusion sometimes years after things got started. For this reason, a thing often said about producers is that they are “first in and last out”, meaning they are there at the start of a film or television series and still there when everyone else has gone on to their next project. Written by two highly experienced television and film producers, this is the ultimate guide to navigating the world of film and television production in the UK – with lessons for anyone working or wanting to work in these industries across the world.
The book covers all types of television and film production, including drama, documentary, entertainment, comedy and children's programming. Through its step-by-step breakdowns of industry practices, first-hand insights and unique checklists, it gives readers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in these competitive fields. In addition, each section presents a deep dive into the mysteries of getting into the industry and useful infographics on key elements of the producing process.
Directed towards students, recent graduates or seasoned professionals looking to change direction, this book will help readers break into film and television industries or take their career to the next level.
About the authors:
Steve Pinhay has an extensive career in television and film including the creation of an award-winning media centre, heading a trade body for independent film producers, producing many hours of television in the UK and internationally for companies like the BBC, Channel 4, Discovery and Disney and a raft of innovative media courses. A senior tutor at the National Film and Television School, he was Head of Postgraduate Programmes at MetFilm School in Ealing Studios and is a consultant for London Film School.Alexandra Bentley is a producer whose career began in film distribution, working for major studios like Warner Brothers and Twentieth Century Fox before transitioning into producing. She has several feature films to her credit, all of which have enjoyed worldwide releases. She also produces commercials and video games including the BAFTA-nominated interactive drama game, As Dusk Falls. In addition to her industry work, she is a senior university lecturer, leading a variety of MA-level producing modules.
Press Reviews:
‘At a time when our industry is undergoing profound change with traditional film and television practices morphing into a new and exciting paradigm, it is a pleasure to read a book that addresses the mysterious and critical business of producing so well. This is the most well informed, and readable, guidebook to modern producing that I have ever read.’
Iain Smith OBE, Producer of Children of Men, 24: Live Another Day, Executive Producer of Mad Max: Fury Road
‘An essential roadmap for navigating the complex world of film and TV production. This book expertly combines industry wisdom with actionable advice, making it invaluable for both newcomers and veteran producers. Its comprehensive approach and easy-to-follow format ensure you'll refer to it throughout your career.’
Paula Hart, Executive Producer of Sabrina, the Teenage Witch and Melissa & Joey
‘At last a book that sets out what a producer does and gives out practical, sensible advice on how to find a route into producing for film and TV. Most people don’t know what a producer does, and obviously, there are many different kinds of producers, so it’s great to have a book to point people towards that and which explores the differences and provides something of a manual for the role. I really enjoyed reading it!’
Dr. Jon Wardle, Director of the National Film and Television School
‘A really interesting guide for anyone looking to enter the film and TV industry. Clear and informative throughout.’
Laura Mackie, Executive Producer of Unforgotten and Bleak House
See the publisher website: Routledge
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