If you are mystified by "Hollywood accounting," this legal expose outlines over 80 clauses commonly found in feature film distribution contracts that might be considered unconscionable or immoral, revealing the formidible odds facing the "talent" side of the industry. A thorough explanation of why there's no "net" profit, and a sobering dose of reality for any creative person who believes they should be paid for making a good product. The introduction lists the LA DA's Office among those who should read it.

How helpful this book is depends on how "green" you are about the film industry. Those with little to no knowledge about film production will find the book resourceful, informative and very "to-the-point" about the different types of financing available. The advantage/disadvantage sections are especially concise--it's always good to see both sides when it comes to deals potentially worth millions. The "further reading" sections at the end of chapter are also handy, if you want to do extra research on your own.

For those who are experienced film producers (or even those who have finished rigorous film producing and/or entertainment business academic programs, such as myself), the information may repeat many things you already know. Many of the strategies in this book I've learned about in producing classes and film financing seminars--and I'm just starting my career. So I'm sure that some seasoned producers may think this book is reinventing the wheel. However, I did think that the sections dealing with the different securities and corporation options were very informative as far as how they impact your tax status, the difference between active and passive investors, how your autonomy as a filmmaker/producer may be affected, etc. It breaks down a lot of tax legalese into layman's terms.

Overall, I recommend the book--as a primer for new producers and students, and as a great reference guide to those with experience.

This book really breaks it all down in terms of what the job responsibilites for film crew members are. You've seen all those titles in the head and tail credits and even if you're a seasoned professional, sometimes it's not clear what these people are actually doing. I love the way this book lays it all out there in great detail and how short and to the point it is. The introduction is a bit short and there's not much else in this book other than job descriptions. It's short on case studies ... but as for a dictionary of terms I think this book has it all, says it all, and should be a bible on every producer's shelf. I bought a copy for my producer - mainly because this is one book she needed and I wasn't prepared to part with.