Becoming AFI: 50 Years Inside the American Film Institute

by Jean Picker Firstenberg, James Hindman, Dana Gioia (Foreword)

For over fifty years, the American Film Institute has flourished as one of America's great cultural entities. Its graduates, faculty, supporters, and trustees have included such acclaimed individuals as Steven Spielberg, Maya Angelou, Gregory Peck, Meryl Streep, Les Moonves, Patty Jenkins, David Lynch, Jane Fonda, Edward James Olmos, Shonda Rhimes, James L. Brooks, and many other respected leaders in the worlds of film, television, digital media, and philanthropy. Written in a unique memoir style, Becoming AFI: 50 Years Inside the American Film Institute offers a candid look at how this remarkable organization has brought together aspiring filmmakers, outstanding educators, and visionary artists in the film industry. The book also details AFI's journey to becoming the foremost national champion for moving images as a vital form of art and a critical component of America's cultural record. From its early years operating out of the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, and the legendary Greystone mansion in Beverly Hills under the leadership of George Stevens, Jr., through its incredible growth into an influential cultural institution at its landmark Hollywood campus under the guidance of Jean Picker Firstenberg, to its continued excellence today under the dynamic leadership of Bob Gazzale, Becoming AFI chronicles the history of the organization through in-depth essays from those who have been involved in its adventures, growth, and success. Becoming AFI provides an insightful, behind-the-scenes look at how AFI, with passionate determination, overcame the hurdles of advancing technology, political shifts, and new audience dynamics to turn its aspirations into a substantial and highly successful organization, becoming a tireless advocate of moving images as one of America's most popular forms of art, and maturing into one of the world's most respected educational and cultural institutions.

Genres: Film, Nonfiction

464 pages, Hardcover

Published October 10, 2017

About the author

Co-author of Becoming AFI: 50 Years Inside the American Film Institute.

Jean Picker Firstenberg served as president and CEO of the AFI from 1980 to 2007 overseeing the development of AFI as one of America’s greatest national, cultural and educational resources. She received an AFI Life Achievement Award for Service to the Institute and was named President Emerita and a Lifetime Trustee.

In 2016, Firstenberg was named to the California State University Board of Trustees by Governor Jerry Brown, overseeing the largest four-year public university system in the United States, with 23 campuses educating the most diverse student body in the nation. Prior to serving at AFI, Firstenberg spent four years as a program officer at the John and Mary R. Markle Foundation. She also served as Director of Princeton University’s Publications Office.

Reviews

[AnnieM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having a passionate interest in films and filmmaking, I have attended virtual events and film festivals of the American Film Institute. I realized I did not know a lot about them but more recently have read Director biographies that talk about their time studying there. The book is not a dry PR history of AFI, but rather told from the perspective of multiple people in a series of essays. This makes for a much more interesting read from people who were there as opposed to a distant narrator. AFI has played a huge role in film preservation which is becoming more and more vital. But my absolute favorite part of the book is the afterward -- it is a handwritten note with drawings from David Lynch giving his personal tribute to the main author - Jean Picker Firstenberg and AFI. Just a beautiful way to sum it all up!

Thank you to Netgalley and Santa Monica Press for an ARC and I voluntarily left this review.

[Marge · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is such a celebration of and a tribute to an esteemed list of people committed to the significant role and impact of film on our culture and psyche. Every reader of AFI even if he/she is very knowledgeable of the film industry will end his/her AFI reading experience with new knowledge and a greater appreciation for those who have cared enough over the decades to act on their passion for film to not only honor its history but guide its future. While I recommend AFI to just about all readers because they will find it engaging as well as fascinating, it is a must read for serious/curious film buffs.

[Nick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Considering that I wrote a chapter in this book, perhaps you'll need to take my rave review with a grain of salt, but I must say, my former bosses Jean Firstenberg and Jamie Hindman (and a few contributors like me) have delivered an excellent survey of the 50 year history of an important cultural institution, telling the story of how the institute managed to pivot its entire business model to continue to stay relevant and meaningful during a time of great challenge. It's a breezy and juicy read, as well. Buy now.

[Katie Blythe · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say that I am a fan of the film industry is an understatement. It comes second to my love of books, which is why I was so pleased when I came across this particular book. It was very knowledgeable and walked you through every step and every process that is AFI. I enjoyed this read immensely. This book is not about film’s specifically, it is about the institution that respects, judges, critiques and spotlights incomparable talent from every aspect of the film industry.

[Magen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating read for film lovers. So much insight and behind the scenes looks, I really enjoyed this! For how long it is, it felt like a quick read. Learning about the judges and process behind the American Film Institute.

Thank you to NetGalley and Santa Monica Press

[Literary Redhead · Rating 4 out of 5]

A comprehensive and compelling look at the 50-year impact of the American Film Institute on the world of cinema. I adore films and want to get a hard copy for reference purposes and entertainment.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becoming AFI is an in-depth look at how the American Film Institute grew from a Presidential mandate fifty years ago into the non-profit and educational organization that it is today. This book shows the massive undertaking it has been to interpret and fulfill that mandate. This book gives you a backstage pass to how decisions were made, battles were fought and the institution has evolved over the years in it's attempt to best fulfill the President's goal. If you love non-profits, arts education and or AFI this book is for you.