Whether you are producing an entry-required short for acceptance into film school, a student film as a class assignment, a demo reel for prospective employers, or a home video, making a film is a challenging task. The Beginning Filmmaker"s Guide to a Successful First Film can make your task much easier. Combining classroom theory with practical, hands-on advice, Renee Harmon and Jim Lawrence offer helpful tips and detailed guidelines on choosing the right kind of project, from a slice-of-life video to a documentary or short dramatic film; writing a script that can be produced within the resources and time available; assembling film financing and preparing a budget; casting the right actors and making the most of the rehearsal process; and selecting and entering the more that 35 film festivals that showcase new films nationwide. This book is an essential production and career resource for every beginning and intermediate filmmaker.