The Purpose

Film and television production is a world of high stakes, tight timelines, and fast decisions. On set, mistakes are expensive, time is precious, and no one has the luxury of learning things the hard way. That’s why I wrote Copy That! — to give people a real-world, plain-English resource that helps them understand the world they’re entering faster, easier, and with more confidence.

This book was born from a simple truth: there are no problems in film — only solutions. Every day on set is a complex puzzle, and everyone — from the PA to the production designer — plays a role in solving it. But for newcomers, that puzzle can feel overwhelming. The unspoken rules. The fast-moving chain of command. The endless sea of jargon. The crew culture that no one ever explains.

Who This Book Is For

• Aspiring filmmakers trying to figure out where they fit or get their first job
• College grads and film students who want the real picture
• Crew members in smaller markets or other departments who want to work smarter or move up
• Indie producers learning how to build a production
• Anyone who’s ever looked at a call sheet and thought: “What is this or how do I read it?”
• Film aficionados who want a peek behind the scenes

While Copy That! is grounded in the fast, union-dense, high-stakes world of NYC production, its knowledge translates to any market, city, or set.

Meet the Author

My name is Andrew Devlin, and I work deep inside the world of film and television production, primarily in New York City. My specialty is logistics — the behind-the-scenes planning, coordination, and problem-solving that keeps productions running smoothly, no matter the chaos around them.

I’ve worked on projects for Netflix, HBO, Showtime, CBS, NBC, Amazon, and many indie films. I’m also a published author of two nonfiction books: North America: Trade, Borders, and Shared Industry and NYC Film Terms. Additionally, I write a screenwriting-focused Substack and am directing a Kickstarter-funded documentary about pizza culture in Connecticut.

Commitment to the Environment

Copy That! is created with sustainability in mind. It uses print-on-demand to reduce waste, FSC-certified paper where possible, and recyclable, biodegradable packaging. Digital editions in PDF and EPUB are available as eco-friendly options delivered instantly.

Special Rewards

Backers can choose from multiple tiers:

• Digital copies at early bird prices
• Beautifully printed paperback and hardcover editions
• Signed collector's editions
• Exclusive invitations to the NYC book release party

Stretch Goals

Additional funding unlocks:

• Glossy cover upgrades
• Premium paper options
• Sticker packs and extended Substack access
• Audiobook edition
• Bonus chapters on virtual production and AI
• Teaching toolkits and a documentary on set life

Special Note for Pizzatown Backers

If you supported my previous Kickstarter documentary, Pizzatown, you’ll receive free access to my screenwriting Substack as a thank-you, regardless of your pledge tier here.

My Dedication to This Project

I’ve spent years on sets in all conditions, witnessing the triumphs and challenges of production life. Copy That! is my answer to the gap in clear, accessible crew knowledge. I wrote it not just to sell, but because I needed it to exist — to shorten learning curves, reduce confusion, and help new crew members succeed.

If this book helps even a few people feel more confident and prepared, it will have done its job.

Risks

The book is fully written at 406 pages. I intend to publish it regardless of Kickstarter success, but backing this campaign allows for better materials, early rewards, and extra resources. Printing and fulfillment use Amazon's trusted print-on-demand service, ensuring reliable delivery worldwide. Delays due to volume are possible but unlikely. Minor typos may exist despite careful editing, reflecting the care and passion invested in this work.