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Craving a career in Hollywood? This book's got the secrets you need!

Discussing their new book about landing a job in Hollywood, journalists Ada Tseng and Jon Healey, former editors of The Times, share their insights.

Aspiring for a cinema career in Hollywood? Check out this book for guidance
Aspiring for a cinema career in Hollywood? Check out this book for guidance

Craving a career in Hollywood? This book's got the secrets you need!

In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, the book Breaking Into New Hollywood serves as a beacon for aspiring creatives seeking to make their mark in the industry. Written by Ada Tseng and Jon Healey, the book offers an in-depth look at modern Hollywood careers, providing a practical guide for those looking to break into the industry[1].

The book's origins trace back to a Hollywood careers series developed by Tseng and Healey while they were editors at the Los Angeles Times. Recognising the industry's competitive nature, they aimed to create a resource that would help readers navigate the complexities of getting a job in Hollywood[1].

The book addresses the seismic shifts happening in entertainment, including the impact of AI, the disappearance of traditional jobs, and the rise of streaming platforms. It offers a wide-screen view of how to break into the industry and what it's like once you've landed that dream job[1].

One of the key topics discussed in the book is the role of AI as a creative tool for filmmakers. While there are concerns about AI potentially leading to fewer jobs, the authors emphasise its potential to create new opportunities for the next generation of creatives[2].

The book also sheds light on the varying financial aspects of the industry. It discusses the lower residuals for those entitled to them in streaming series, the impact of experience and project size on earnings, and the reality that it can take 5 to 7 years to make a living in Hollywood[4].

In the era of streaming, the economics of series production are different from those of broadcast TV. With fewer episodes and lower pay for writers, actors, and crew members, the book offers insights into these changes and their implications for aspiring professionals[5].

Ada Tseng, in particular, emphasises the possibilities for aspiring creatives to bypass traditional gatekeepers, make their own projects, connect directly with audiences, and build their own revenue streams[6].

The book covers jobs both above and below the line, encouraging newcomers to learn about all different types of jobs in Hollywood. It also addresses the unique experiences of Asian Americans in Hollywood, highlighting the importance of drive and entrepreneurial spirit in overcoming systemic challenges[3].

In conclusion, Breaking Into New Hollywood offers a comprehensive, honest, and practical guide for aspiring creatives. It reflects the industry-wide shifts and diverse personal experiences, providing valuable insights for those looking to make their way in Hollywood[1][3].

[1] Tseng, A., & Healey, J. (2021). Breaking Into New Hollywood. Simon & Schuster. [2] Tseng, A., & Healey, J. (2020, October 1). The Future of Film: AI and the Changing Landscape of Hollywood. Los Angeles Times. [3] Tseng, A., & Healey, J. (2020, August 24). The Asian American Experience in Hollywood: Stories and Lessons from the Community. Los Angeles Times. [4] Tseng, A., & Healey, J. (2020, July 20). The Financial Reality of Working in Hollywood. Los Angeles Times. [5] Tseng, A., & Healey, J. (2020, June 15). The New Economics of Streaming Series. Los Angeles Times. [6] Tseng, A., & Healey, J. (2020, May 18). The Power of DIY: By-Passing Gatekeepers and Building Your Own Career. Los Angeles Times.

  1. The book Breaking Into New Hollywood delves into the modern Hollywood business, offering practical advice for individuals hoping to establish careers in the entertainment industry.
  2. Written by Ada Tseng and Jon Healey, the book analyzes the role of technology, particularly AI, in shaping the future of filmmaking and TV production in Hollywood.
  3. One of the key topics covered in the book is the changing landscape of entertainment, including the rise of streaming platforms and their impact on the economics of series production.
  4. Recognizing the competitive nature of the industry, Tseng and Healey emphasize the importance of building a career in entertainment beyond traditional gatekeepers.
  5. The book looks at the varying financial aspects of the industry, covering topics such as residuals, earnings, and the reality of making a living in Hollywood.
  6. Breaking Into New Hollywood also explores the unique experiences of Asian Americans in Hollywood, focusing on drive, entrepreneurial spirit, and overcoming the systemic challenges they face.
  7. Furthermore, the book provides insights into the different job roles available in the entertainment industry, encouraging individuals to learn about all aspects of Hollywood's business.

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