Vale's Technique of Screen and Television Writing

Boston, Massachusetts: Focal Press, 1998. First printing. Moderate cover wear. Pages very good. 217 pages. Eugene Vale guides the aspiring writer through every phase of a film's development, from the original concept to the shooting script. Teachers of the craft as well as writers and directors have acclaimed it as one of the best. Combines practical advice for the writer with a lucid overview of the unique features of this most contemporary art form, distinguishing film and video from other media and other kinds of storytelling. Teaches the reader to think in terms of the camera and gives advice on the realities of filmmaking. Simultaneously, Vale, who began his own career as a scriptwriter for the great French director Jean Renoir, provides a solid grounding in the history of drama from the Classical Greek Theater through the great cinematic works of the twentieth century. Both philosophical and pragmatic, this is a readable book for students and active professionals who want to improve their writing skills, and for film enthusiasts interested in knowing more about what they see on the screen. Mr. Vale is that rare combination, a practitioner of great experience who can offer a lucid explanation of his craft. Eugene Vale was born in Switzerland and began his career in France in the 1930s. He was an award-winning novelist, film and TV scriptwriter and teacher, whose works include the bestselling novel "The Thirteenth Apostle" and the scripts for "Francis of Assisi", "The Bridge of San Luis Rey", and "The Second Face". He also worked in many other areas of the motion picture industry, including directing, producing, cutting, distribution and finance. His archives are held by Boston University and University of Southern California. Mr. Vale died in 1997, shortly after he completed the updated version of this handbook. It is the classic text and is updated, revised, and expanded to include examples from recent films. A guidebook to scriptwriting for both beginners and professionals, and a joy for the movie-lover.. Revised Edition. Soft cover. Very Good. 8vo - over 7¾ - 9¾" tall. Book.