How To Make Home Movies And Still Have Friends: The Camcorder Course

You've got to give credit to Arnie Ytreeide, the producer, writer, director, and host of this low-budget but exceptionally comprehensive guide to getting the most out of one's camcorder, and re-igniting the spark in those acquaintances who crossed your home movies off the fun-things-to-do list eons ago. Many feature films are made without half the preparation that has gone into this production, and even when the jokes are so cheesy that you want to hurl your foam referee's brick at the screen in protest, they are delivered with such "so what?" self-confidence that you have to smile. The program is divided into 9 sections which cover everything from the basics of video tape selection and camcorder operation to the more arcane mysteries of the no-budget crane shot. People who have never heard of the rule of thirds, jump cuts, or transition shots will learn a whole new vocabulary, and quite possibly start making some good home videos. The only real drawback to the tape--besides some of the deadlier jokes--is the fact that the editing was done on the cheap, and viewers will occasionally see the tell-tale tear at the top of the screen. Ordinarily, this would be enough to bounce this tape out of the running; however, Ytreeide and his cohorts have gone all out in most other aspects, and you've got to admire and respect that. Plus, the tape emphasizes what every good writer knows and many videomakers have yet to realize: a good story--regardless of whether you're talking about a "how-to" video or a picture book--is essential. Minor technical considerations aside, then, How to Make Home Movies and Still Have Friends: The Camcorder Course is highly recommended. And I think I know a great gift for my auteur wife this year... (Available from: Storyteller Productions, P.O. Box 252, Nampa, ID 83653; (800) 468-6585.)