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“I was an avid consumer of Michael's books on the media business; so, it was a great pleasure, and honor to work with him on the PBS Home Video label at Pacific Arts. As an industry expert and former acquisitions executive at a respected home entertainment company, Michael provided great insight for identifying marketable product, and negotiating the licenses for distribution. Titles such as "The Astronomers," "Eyes on the Prize" and "Masterpiece Theatre" were tentpole releases in the early days of PBS Home Video. His efforts were key to establishing the success the label enjoys today. I am happy (and not at all surprised) to see he has achieved much success in his multi-faceted career.”

Greg Boegner , Director, Acquisitions , Pacific Arts & PBS Home Video

Greg Boegner

“Michael is a top quality film and video professional, equally expert in tapping new trends in the fast evolving marketplace and in connecting effectively with the consumer. I value his skills as a producer and a collaborator and look forward to working with him again.”

Nora Ryan , SVP, Marketing , Showtime Networks

Nora Ryan

“Michael is an inspiring speaker whose engaging style prompts new collaborations and enthusiasm. He works with a diverse range of excellent speakers and experts to provide great tailor-made training solutions. He is a pleasure to work with.” January 11, 2009

Pippa Best , Director, Cornwall Film

Pippa Best
PippaBest.com

“When I wrote my book about freelance writing for Michael's publishing shingle, he was always supportive, encouraging, and forthcoming. He is also an effective regular communicator and takes a personal interest in all of the projects that come to his company. Furthermore, Michael is an accomplished filmmaker - his HARDWARE WARS was a cult classic!!!”

Scott Essman , Owner, Visionary Cinema

Scott Essman
ScottEssman.com

"I've read many of Michael Wiese's line of books, and I haven't found a clinker among 'em.  The writers are people in the trenches, people who've been there and done that. Further, they've come out the other side wiser, braver, and willing to share their insights.  Since the bewildering field of film slides between craft and art, a new or experienced filmmaker needs some maps.  Michael Wiese's books are road signs."

Mary J. Schirmer, absolutewrite.com

Mary J. Schirmer
Absolutewrite.com

“As Director of Eastman Kodak's Worldwide Student Filmmaker Program, I had the pleasure of working with Michael for several years presenting workshops for student filmmakers at the International Cannes Film Festival. Kodak sponsored student interns (over a hundred) working in The American Pavilion during the Cannes film festival---these interns were students interested in production and the motion picture business from dozens of the top film schools in the US and Canada, and around the world. For several years in the early 2000s, Michael presented a full day workshop to these interns which dealt with independent film production, financing, development, and marketing and distribution. Of all the great things that happened to these students while at Cannes, Michael's seminar was always a distinct highlight of their experience. He is a natural presenter who knows the nuances of the entire spectrum of independent production from a true insider's perspective. He was spontaneous and creative with the students, and very skilled at involving them with Q&A and other activity. His development tutorials are still being talked about by those who were there. The students always gave him high marks, he delivered on Kodak's goals to promote film and understanding of the business, and it was a delight working with such an accomplished professional.”

John Mason, Director of Eastman Kodak’s Worldwide Student Filmmaker Program

John Mason
FilmBigIsland.com

“Michael Wiese is a fabulous publisher. In 2003 he published my book, “First Time Director – How to Make Your Breakthrough Movie.” He was everything I would hope for in a publisher. Writing a book is a daunting task and Michael gave me much needed support every step of the way. He encouraged me and gave direction to my thinking, whenever it was needed. He told me what to cut out and what to compress. He helped me shape my ideas into a product that he could sell. When the book was done, he did a brilliant job of putting it out and promoting it. He provided me with a proof-reader who was a joy to work with, and who successfully eliminated every typo, misspelling and grammatical error from the manuscript. The cover art and design of the text and illustrations was classy and eye-pleasing. And Michael and his very savvy partner, Ken Lee, knew just how to market the book to its target audience. In addition, Michael has been unfailingly honest and fair in all of our business dealings. I have recommended him as a publisher to all of my colleagues in academia and the film industry who want to publish a how-to book on filmmaking. One, David Worth, has recently published a book through Michael Wiese Productions, and another, Ross Brown, has a contract with Michael and is currently completing his manuscript. They both report to me that my glowing assessment of Michael as a publisher is 100% accurate and thank me repeatedly for referring them to him.” January 18, 2009

Gil Bettman , Professor, Chapman University

Gil Bettman
FTV.Chapman.edu

“Michael was a very creative and enthusiastic VP at Vestron. I produced trailers and advertising for some of the shows he executive produced. Most of his shows were cutting edge and very successful for Vestron Video. His staff regarded him with the utmost respect and his affable personality always made it a pleasure to work and interact with him.”

Denise Farley , creative director , Vestron

Denise Farley

“Michael is a wealth of knowledge, insight and inspiration. I have worked with him as a publisher (of my books) as a director (I was consultant and co-producer) as writer (he has written novels, screenplays and some amazing books on filmmaking) and as a student (when I was teaching). No matter Michael's role, or mine, Michael has always led me to a greater understanding of the filmmaking process. His insights are amazing, his knowledge is deep and valuable and his passion and persistence always inspire the rest of us to overcome the constant flow of obstacles. I highly recommend Michael as a participant and ally in any project.”

Mark W Travis , Creative Consultant

Mark W Travis
MarkWTravis.com

“Michael is that rare media professional who is driven by a vision bigger than himself; an artist and businessman who is willing to take risks to create something fresh and meaningful or support those who are; someone who cares not just about the project but the people involved and the people who will be touched by the work. It has been my honor and pleasure to work with him and I can't recommend him enough!”

Derek Rydall , Owner, ScriptwriterCentral.com

Derek Rydall
DerekRydall.com