Shooting to Kill

Shooting to Kill is a memoir and industry guide by independent film producer Christine Vachon, chronicling her experiences bringing controversial and boundary-pushing films to the screen. Through candid storytelling, Vachon details the practical realities of producing independent films in the 1990s and early 2000s. The book provides step-by-step insights into the filmmaking process, from securing financing and managing budgets to navigating relationships with directors, actors, and studios. Vachon shares specific examples from her work on films like Kids, Boys Don't Cry, and Far From Heaven to illustrate the challenges and solutions she encountered. The producer's no-nonsense approach demystifies the complex world of independent cinema while addressing both creative and business concerns. Her accounts reveal how independent producers must balance artistic vision with commercial viability. Beyond its practical value, the book serves as a cultural document of a pivotal era in independent film, when the line between mainstream and arthouse cinema began to blur. The text highlights the role of producers in bringing marginalized stories and voices to wider audiences.

Readers describe this as a practical, no-nonsense look at independent film producing from a producer's perspective. The book's direct tone and insider tips resonate with film students and aspiring producers. Liked: - Detailed budget breakdowns and contract examples - Behind-the-scenes stories from films like Boys Don't Cry and Safe - Focus on practical producing challenges rather than theory - Clear explanations of film financing and distribution Disliked: - Some readers found the writing style dry - Content feels dated (published 1998) - Limited coverage of digital/streaming evolution - More focus needed on modern producing challenges Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (517 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (43 ratings) Sample review: "Perfect for anyone who wants to know what really goes into getting an independent film made. Vachon doesn't sugarcoat the difficulties but provides a roadmap." - Goodreads user Several readers noted this works better as a supplemental text rather than a comprehensive producing guide.

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🎬 Christine Vachon has produced over 100 independent films, including Academy Award-winning projects like "Boys Don't Cry" and "Still Alice" 📚 The book reveals how Vachon mortgaged her apartment three times to fund different film projects, demonstrating the financial risks independent producers often take 🎥 Through her production company Killer Films, Vachon helped launch the careers of directors Todd Haynes and Todd Solondz, fundamentally shaping American independent cinema 💫 The book's title "Shooting to Kill" refers not to violence, but to the producer's need to complete films despite seemingly impossible obstacles and limited resources 🏆 Vachon's candid writing style breaks from typical Hollywood memoirs by openly discussing budget numbers, deal structures, and failed projects - information usually kept private in the industry