The Six Day Horror Movie

<p> When someone offered Michael DiPaolo $5000 to help make a Digital Video horror film he jumped at the chance to test a theory: an ultra-low budget feature shot in less than a week with a paid cast and crew could be successful if meticulously planned. Using one computer and one camcorder he produced and edited <I>Daddy</I> which had its theatrical premier in New York City in 2004.</p><p> This book breaks down the production through a detailed daily diary emphasizing that the most important aspects of successful producing are careful planning and camaraderie in the group. The work covers many points important for the low-budget filmmaker including selecting a story; budgeting; scheduling; picking cast and crew; scouting locations; finding wardrobe food and transportation; and what to do if you run out of time or money. Postproduction is also covered (editing computer work and sound design) as is the result of all this hard work: screenings festivals and distributors. One chapter covers the primacy of cinematic point-of-view and another profiles some role models for the aspiring low-budget filmmaker: Edgar Ulmer Val Lewton Roger Corman John Cassavetes Ed Wood Jr. and Jean-Luc Godard. Later chapters explain strategy and tactics of guerrilla filmmaking and show the budding filmmaker how to recognize both his limitations and his strengths.</p>