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Book into Movie

23 December 2002

'There is great frustration as an agent in the lack of influence you have on movies. An author trusts you to sell their book not only because you make them money, but because you understand their vision. Here, I went through three drafts with Bonnie before a publisher ever saw it. I'd like to be there to make sure we've got the right writer, one who understands. I'd like them to know my vision, to have to consider it. I've got a point of view and I want it to matter. There is a wall, with authors and agents on one side and screenwriters and directors on the other. It's not an intelligent or necessary wall, but it's always been there.'

American agent Richard Pine in Variety, talking about why he took on the assistant producer's role to protect his author's interests on set.