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Subject:
From:
"Butler, Jeremy" <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Film and TV Studies Discussion List <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 8 Jul 2020 20:36:43 +0000
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Veteran TV & Film director, Ken Kwapis, has written a behind-the-scenes memoir covering his work on shows like THE OFFICE and THE BERNIE MAC SHOW and the films HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU and SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PANTS. I haven't read it yet, but I've talked to Ken many times about his experiences behind the camera and I feel certain this book will be both educational and entertaining.

BUT WHAT I REALLY WANT TO DO IS DIRECT: Lessons from a Life Behind the Camera

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250260123

More info, from the St. Martin's Website:

For over three decades, director Ken Kwapis has charted a career full of exceptional movies and television, from seminal shows like The Office to beloved films like He's Just Not That Into You.

He is among the most respected directors in show business, but getting there wasn't easy. He struggled just like everyone else. With each triumph came the occasional faceplant. Using his background and inside knowledge, But What I Really Want To Do is Direct tackles Hollywood myths through Ken's highly entertaining experiences. It's a rollercoaster ride fueled by brawls with the top brass, clashes over budgets, and the passion that makes it all worthwhile.

This humorous and refreshingly personal memoir is filled with inspiring instruction, behind-the-scenes hilarity, and unabashed joy. It's a celebration of the director's craft, and what it takes to succeed in show business on your own terms.

"Ken Kwapis always brought out the best in the actors on The Office. Whenever Ken was directing, I always felt safe to go out on a limb and take chances, knowing he had my back. Every aspiring director should read this book. (I can think of several 'professional' directors that should read it too!)" -Jenna Fischer

"A vital, magnificent manifesto on the art and craft of directing, written with emotional, instinctual and intellectual depth by one of America's most beloved film and television directors" -Amber Tamblyn

"In the years that I was fortunate to work with Ken on Malcolm in the Middle, he had an uncanny ability to guide actors right to the heart of a scene and reveal its truths. He admits that he doesn't have all the answers, he'll make mistakes, and at times he'll struggle, but as he says in the book, 'It's the struggle to get it right that makes us human.'" -Bryan Cranston

"Good luck finding a more kind, passionate, and talented director alive than Ken. Seriously, good luck." -Tig Notaro

"'Action!' is what most directors bark out to begin a scene. But Ken Kwapis starts by gently intoning the words 'Go ahead...' That simple suggestion assures everyone they're in smart, capable, humble hands. That's how you'll feel reading this book. And so, if you're anxious to discover how a top director always brings humor, honesty, and humanity to his work, all I can tell you is...Go ahead." -Larry Wilmore

St. Martin's Griffin
On Sale: 10/06/2020
$19.99
ISBN: 9781250260123



Jeremy Butler
Professor Emeritus of TV & Film Studies
The University of Alabama
http://jbutlerphd.com/


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