On Directing Film Study Guide & Notes

On Directing Film Plot Summary

Preview of On Directing Film Summary:

In his book, "On Directing Film" famed writer/director David Mamet lays out his theories and his path to them in an informative, straightforward and entertaining manner. Mamet's book is based on a series of lectures before students of the Columbia University Film School. These discussion sessions are an enjoyable aspect of Mamet's book. While they provide a good dose of technical and theoretic information, they give insight into Mamet's style as an open and flexible artisan, characteristics essential for the successful film director.

The prolific Mamet certainly has the credentials to teach about writing and story construction. At the time of the book's publication, Mamet had written many notable screenplays including "The Verdict," "The Untouchables," and the modern version of "The Postman Always Rings Twice," to name just a few. He had also directed two major movies, "House of Games" and "Things Change." Prior to his film making work,...
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