This is the first book to fully integrate the technical aspects of screen directing with practical methods for directing actors, deeply and carefully exploring how these two primary aspects of the director's craft work together.

This is the first book to fully integrate the technical aspects of screen directing with practical methods for directing actors, deeply and carefully exploring how these two primary aspects of the director's craft work together. Viewed from a perspective that seeks a balance successful work with actors and technically high-level production values, the complete directing process is discussed in detail from the start of script development through the delivery of a finished project covering every aspect of preparation and decision-making with solid background information, practical suggestions, and clear illustrations. Topics include: Project development; Screenplay analysis; Choosing and working with a production team; Auditioning and casting; Script preparation; Using the language of acting; Working with a set; Understanding screen acting styles; Conducting a rehearsal; Blocking camera and actor moves; Using improvisation; Working with storyboards; The Hollywood continuity style; Choosing camera shots and lighting; Multi-camera directing; Preparing for each day's shoot; Editing and working with editors and much more.