Rebel Without a Crew

Or How a 23-Year-Old Filmmaker with $7,000 Became a Hollywood Player

By: Robert Rodriguez

Narrated by: Robert Rodriguez

Named One of The Hollywood Reporter’s “100 Greatest Film Books of All Time”

Famed independent screenwriter and director Robert Rodriguez (Sin City, Once Upon a Time in Mexico, Spy Kids, Machete) discloses all the unique strategies and original techniques he used to make his remarkable debut film El Mariachi on a shoestring budget.

This is both one man's remarkable story and an essential guide for anyone who has a celluloid story to tell and the dreams and determination to see it through. Part production diary, part how-to manual, Rodriguez unveils how he was able to make his influential first film on only a $7,000 budget. Also included is the appendix, The Ten Minute Film Course,” a tell-all on how to save thousands of dollars on film school and teach yourself the ropes of film production, directing, and screenwriting.

A perfect gift for the aspiring filmmaker.

©2024 Robert Rodriguez (P)2024 Dreamscape Media

Critic reviews

“There's no one in the American film business quite like Robert Rodriguez, who plays completely outside the rules imposed by Hollywood studios… Given his success rate, it's clear his method works… Rodriguez has long been a hero to independent filmmakers.” (Named One of The Hollywood Reporter’s “100 Greatest Film Books of All Time”)

Chapter Titles are Off

Great book, enjoyable listening experience from the author with fun interjections, but not having the chapter titles synced with the audio correctly is a weird oversight.

Perfect Real Inspiration

Just get this and listen to it. Now. Like right now. Enough already. This book is the creativity memoir of all creativity memoirs.

I have given away this book to so many people

I’ve bought this book so many times for myself and then turned right around and given it to aspiring creators of all types. Robert Rodriquez inspired so many filmmakers, including myself to get scrappy and pick up a camera and make a movie. I’m so glad it’s finally out in audiobook form so I can listen to it when I need a little inspiration.

The greatest book on pursuing creative goals!

I have had this book on my radar for a few years now, and snagged it as soon as it dropped on audible. This is the most down to earth and comprehensive guide on how anyone can persue and achieve their creative vision. The story being told is a very human one, of perseverance and sacrafice. The payoff is a handful of real life lessons on what it takes to start a project with nothing, and end up with a finished copy on the other side. I've read dozens of books in this genre, and most aren't worth their salt, I'd trade half my bookshelf for the wisdom I gained in this one title. This book is real knowledge for real creatives willing to put in the work. Couldn't have asked for better!

It's More Than Acting

The detail is amazing! Robert Rodriguez was hungry. He saw a plan and pursued his dream. He didn't steal or kill. He found a way to better his life, his families' lives, and his friends' lives. Talk about spreading the love!

Utmost recommendation!

A wonderful audiobook edition of Rodriguez’ seminal book. I’ve owned a copy of the paperback for many years and reread it once a year. Thus, when I saw this available for pre-order, I clicked with no hesitation.


Rodriguez’ narration is perfect with his voice maintaining a calming rhythm with inflections of excitement/disbelief as he navigates the Hollywood ecosystem.
Best of all (and what I hoped he would do on this edition) is Rodriguez having asides he where he would add new anecdotes or updates to the text. A very nice touch.

Highly recommended!

An enjoyable extension of the book

While the book was motivating, its a great ride to have Robert tell the story and add updated interjections. I could feel the energy even more with him reading and his passion for his craft. Extremely motivating. I'm going to go create right now!!! No excuses.

Always a fan n student.

When I was a teenager, I’ve always loved movies and when I discovered Robert Rodriguez when he gave an interview back, I believe in 1993 or 92 that’s what hit me like wow this guy made a movie for seven grand and wow he did it and now I want to do that and now that I’m an adult I’m still following Robert Rodriguez Rodriguez methods. You know what he wrote in his book rebel what our crew to me is at the definite Bible book for Filmaker so it’s a great book If you want to be a Filmmaker this is a great way to learn by reading Robert Rodriguez, Rodriguez book.

Inspirational

This book got me pumped. I highly recommend to all filmmakers. Robert Rodriguez is the man

Inspiring

I've listened to over 200 books, and this is by far the most inspiring one yet.