Documentary Filmmakers Speak

I purchased this book for my daughter in college and it arrived right on time for her class. She had no complaints. She said the book was in good condtion. If is she happy then I am happy.

I purchased this book along with "Directing the Documentary" by Michael Rabiger, and it's a great addition to Rabiger's work. Liz Stubbs' interviews with well known film makers provides important insights into their style of working, the physical and personal demands of the work, and the challenges of funding. For a beginner, this kind of knowledge is invaluable, especially the various attitudes towards shooting and editing; it's great to know that even successful film makers struggle with these issues.

I just finished reading this book and I really loved it. I'm an aspiring documentary filmmaker and this book gave me such a clear idea of what is really involved in the making of documentaries that matter, and the many approaches one can take to get there. It can be daunting to hear one artist declare that there is only one way to make a documentary, and think, "but I don't know that I can or want to work that way - perhaps I'm not cut out for this". But this book offers such a wide variety of voices that if one approach doesn't resonate, then another surely will. The only hard and true constant that every filmmaker shares is the absolute necessity for passion, empathy and stamina. The level of joy and passion that informs every voice in this book is truly inspirational. Now that I've finished reading my library copy, I'll be buying my own copy, as well as a copy for my documentary partner. It's my new bible.

Liz Stubbs Documentary Filmmakers Speak, is a fascinating account of the manner in which some of the greatest filmmakers of our country go about the process of creating masterpieces. Because Liz Stubbs is a truly brillant interviewer she has been successful in drawing out the humanity and the passion of these thirteen extraordinary filmmakers. It is a must read for anyone who has watched a Ken Burns, Bruce Sinofsky or a D.A. Pennebaker/Chris Hegedus production. It was a can't put down for me and a muxt for my Holiday giving list.