Best Seat in the House

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What to expect

Shooting a feature film is a fascinating and complex process. With his uniquely personal insight and experience, David McGiffert offers a captivating and entertaining view of moviemaking from the Best Seat in the House. Drawing from over three decades as an assistant director, McGiffert charts a revealing and informative journey through the making of many major films working with noted directors such as Robert Zemeckis, Tim Burton, Cameron Crowe, Sydney Pollack, Milos Forman, Peter Weir, Steve Zaillian, Jon Avnet, and Terry Gilliam. This behind-the-scenes book is a must-listen for casual moviegoers and committed film lovers alike.

Critics Review

“I met David while preparing to make Vanilla Sky, a challenging New York movie that would star Tom Cruise. Cruise himself had told me about McGiffert. They’d worked together several times (as you’ll read in McGiff’s terrific accounts to follow) and Cruise indicated that we’d be lucky to get him. ‘He’s the best.’”

Cameron Crowe, Director and Writer

“You are such a great storyteller! I am loving everything I’ve read in your book so far. You are as good a writer as you were an AD.”

Jeff Wexler, Production Sound Mixer

“I have spoken to many directors, DPs, actors, etc. over the years and sometimes it’s hard to find a Hollywood book that offers something new and a fresh insight into the filmmaking process, and yours did just that. I haven’t come across a book which is so easily readable in a long time, you struck the perfect tone in your literary voice.”

Wayne Byrne, Author and Film Historian

“Your book is an utter and complete delight and absolutely crystalizes how a First AD functions, and in turn, how an entire crew functions. The Vignettes are fascinating, often funny and revealing, not only of your subjects, but also, despite your complete lack of ego, yourself.”

Michael Singer, ICG Publicists Lifetime Achievement Award Winner and Author

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