Backstage at a Movie Set ANNOTATION
Explores the history of motion picture production, key players in the process of making a film, a typical day of shooting, and how to pursue one's interest in the field, either as a career or as a hobby.
FROM THE CRITICS
VOYA - Sherry Korthalls 051624325X
This five-volume "Backstage Pass" series hones the cutting edge of career-guidance literature for adolescents. Providing realistic behind-the-scenes looks at some high-profile industries, these books introduce readers to the myriad employment opportunities available. Formatting is formulaic: a bold introduction, a historical overview of industry developments and pioneers, a chapter devoted to basic production processes, one chapter outlining a typical day "backstage," and another offering career advice. Appendixes include professional and Internet resources. Movie Set delivers a fresh, unaffected look at the movie industry, legitimatizing careers frequently viewed by the average teen as inaccessible. Her concise history traces cinematography's evolution from thirty-second black-and-white silent films to the full-length special-effects epics produced today. Citing such recognizable figures as Steven Spielberg, Denzel Washington, Harry Potter, and Austin Powers, Wessling does a superb job of introducing the various specialists who contribute to a film's production. Proffered career advice is excellent, and supplemental resources are sure to aid young filmmakers, actors, and designers pursuing their professional goals. The complete series proves an on-target addition to Scholastic's High Interest Books collection, despite some inconsistencies in writing quality that stronger editing could have precluded. Consistent use of simplified vocabulary and the series' strong visual appeal makes each title an easy and exciting read for young adults. Vibrant covers, smart formatting, and a plethora of appealing photographs will attract even the most reluctant readers, while a complement of insider"trade secrets" and contemporary cultural references will maintain interest. Trade pb. Glossary. Index. Photos. Further Reading. Appendix. VOYA CODES: 4Q 2P M (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; For the YA with a special interest in the subject; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8). 2003, Children's Press/Scholastic, 48p. PLB
School Library Journal
Gr 4-8-Intermediate readers are sure to enjoy these appealing titles. The texts provide historical background and the development of each type of performance. They explain technological advances, the roles of the many different people involved, and take readers through the paces of creating a production. Students learn that each art form requires creativity, commitment, determination, and stamina to meet grueling schedules. The final chapters recommend learning more through interning, volunteering, auditioning, and clubs. The simple, well-organized texts will appeal to reluctant readers. Numerous black-and-white and full-color photos appear throughout. Students interested in the arts are sure to find these books informative.-Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.
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