The first thorough guide to the subject. A unique and vital work for filmmakers." --Michael Deeley, Oscar-winning producer of The Deer Hunter and Blade Runner "Paul Lazarus's book is not only an essential tool for aspiring technicians, writers, directors, and producers, it is also informative and entertaining reading for anyone who loves the movies." --Richard Donner, producer and director, The Omen, Lethal Weapon, Conspiracy Theory This concise and well-written guide takes the novice producer (or interested film buff) on an informative and insightful tour of the film producer's world?from the development process through the various stages of production and the final marketing of a completed project. Lazarus discusses the role of the producer at each moment of a project's life and clearly explains the duties and roles of all the rest of a production's principals, crew, and staff and the primary legal, accounting, and creative concepts underlying any film production.