I found Mackendrick’s reading “On film-making” exceptionally useful, and something I will be re visiting numerous times throughout this process.
He has produced somewhat of a film making bible, identifying the do’s and don’ts of film making, and exploring some of the challenges that are more common then not. Issues that may arise are explained and broken down, with guidance provided not just for the screen play, but for directors, producers and actors.
It is hard to choose just a few points, as I think the majority of what is said is crucial for everyone undertaking this subject to read, and I think we should have it framed on our wall or perhaps even memorized.
Choosing just a couple of important considerations that really stuck out for me, especially at this early stage in the process is the point of “Infinite patience is necessary” (p.194). Here he is talking specifically about the director, however I think this is applicable to everyone in the production process.
Another quote that is highly relevant is that “Screenplays aren’t written. They are re-written and re-written and re-written” (p.40). I am most definitely holding on to that one.

Mackendrick, A. On film-making : an introduction to the craft of the director, (p. 40-43, 179-194). London : Faber and Faber, 2004.