It takes far too long to read doesn’t it? In the time it takes me to plod through the typical novel, I can probably watch at least 5 average-length movies and 10+ episodes of TV. It usually takes me under 3 hours to watch and review a typical movie for this site, so it’s really only once in a blue moon that I attempt to crack open a tome to give my two cents on. One volume that seemed worth my time to peruse was Creative Producing: A pitch-to-picture guide to movie development by Carol Baum.
You likely haven’t heard of Baum, but there’s a good chance you’ve seen one of the many movies she has produced over a multi-decade career whether it’s the beloved Steve Martin comedy Father of the Bride, the franchise-launching Buffy the Vampire Slayer starring Kristy Swanson, or the uplifting family film Fly Away Home. The anecdotes of how these and many more projects came together are related with candour and frankness as Baum expertly illustrates the various stages of producing a project from conception to screening.
Gathering ideas, pitching, script development, raising the budget, filming, editing, marketing, and more are all covered in a swift and concise 186 pages plus appendices. Each page is packed with earnest, practical advice illustrated by stories of it being put into action, or the consequences of that advice not being followed. From assembling the right talent for the project to ensuring it reaches the right audience, it’s all solid guidance and you’ll likely learn some fascinating things about your favourite movies and filmmakers along the way.
One pleasant surprise at the back of the book are genuine samples of supporting documents described earlier in the text including examples of cover letters, loglines,studio notes, and standard agreements. These are all taken from actual movies and for those who often get tripped up on the devil in details, they will likely prove invaluable.
Lastly, it’s worth noting the unique female perspective that Baum brings. She was able to become a successful producer while also raising a family, a rather difficult feat for female professionals in the late 20th century (her husband Tom is a screenwriter and helped co-write this book). She isn’t shy about the unique barriers and biases she encountered on her way up the ladder and this is most aptly illustrated in her chapter on her various bosses, both good and bad. Her triumphs and trials are all quite inspiring to say the least.
Even if you never plan to have the word “producer” on your business card or nameplate, Creative Producing has plenty to offer those just wanting to be a part of the mighty movie-making machine whether that be Hollywood or (increasingly likely) elsewhere. It’s clear, honest advice from someone who has been in the trenches for longer than many of us have been alive. If you’re anywhere on the filmmaking ladder, it deserves a prominent place on your bookshelf. Highly recommended.
9.5/10
Creative Producing is available on Amazon and other major book retailers