DeVon Franklin, the Sony movie executive who penned the book, unapologetically lays bare the trials and rewards of working in "the business" as a born again Christian. Splitting the book into two parts, Development and Production, Franklin congenially styles life as a Hollywood film, with none other than God Almighty as the Director.
As the executive who purchased the "Jumping the Broom" script, Franklin resides in an eviable place in Hollywood, however, he humbly admits that he still feels that he is in Development, both professionally and personally. The book's progression maps Franklin's life from childhood until the present, exposing deep pain, his relentless ambition, and his faith without trying to explain it all away and without dwelling on it. But Franklin is a "process" man and does a remarkable job of meticulously arranging all of his difficulties (and ours) as a script on its way to production, with a bump or two along the way.
Outlining a path to success by just following God's will seems deceptively easy and it is. But Franklin doesn't sugarcoat (he really doesn't) and challenges the reader with lists of probing questions at the end of every chapter as a kind of raw self-assessment. Many are difficult to answer, hence, why I suggest reading the book twice. But ultimately the author does hold your hand. He's the big brother you always wanted and the executive who's actually on your side. Each chapter is gently crafted to speak specifically to your career situation with humorous anecdotes, bold advice, and a tongue-in-cheek look at his own mistakes.
This book is for EVERYONE who is at a career crossroads, dead end, or doing a u-turn, but is particularly useful for Christian writers and filmmakers who may feel that Hollywood is out of reach or the gateway to hell. Even as a Christian producer, he apparently does not feel bound to one particular film genre. Franklin optimistically argues that there is room for every script, if you're willing to go through the entire development process, no matter how long it takes.
Having met Mr. Franklin at a book signing, I can report that the authenticity and earnestness I felt in his book does carry through to the person. He does not "look" like a slick Hollywood exec, but is more or less reminiscent of a young English professor and speaks clearly, without rancor or buzz words sounding, frankly, more like an idealistic young preacher (incidentally, he is ordained).
Well, preach on, Mr. Franklin. The Christian film making world is listening, reading, and watching.
http://producedbyfaith.com
Sounds like a good read!
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