The Disaster Artist is a 2013 non-fiction book written by Greg Sestero and Tom Bissell. It tells the story of the making of the 2003 film The Room, which is widely considered to be one of the worst films ever made. Sestero starred in the film alongside his best friend and co-producer, Tommy Wiseau, who also wrote, directed, and financed the film.

The Disaster Artist by Greg Sestero


The book in three sentences:

  • The Disaster Artist tells the story of making the 2003 film The Room, which is widely considered to be one of the worst films ever made.
  • Sestero describes his friendship with Tommy Wiseau, who wrote, directed, and financed the film.
  • The book is both a hilarious and insightful look at the Hollywood film industry.

Here are the key takeaways from the book:

  • Friendship can overcome all odds.
  • Dreams can come true, even if they are a little unconventional.
  • Hollywood is a magical and crazy place.
  • It's okay to laugh at yourself, even if you're making a bad movie.
  • The best art is often made by people who are passionate, even if they're not the most skilled.
  • It's more important to enjoy the journey than to worry about the destination.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part tells the story of Sestero and Wiseau's friendship, from their first meeting in acting class to their decision to make a film together. Sestero describes Wiseau as a mysterious and eccentric figure, but he was also drawn to Wiseau's passion and determination.

The second part of the book tells the story of the making of The Room. Sestero describes the chaotic and often surreal experience of working on the film. Wiseau was a demanding and controlling director, and he had little or no experience in filmmaking. As a result, the film was plagued by problems, including poor acting, bad dialogue, and nonsensical plot twists.

Despite all of the problems, Sestero and Wiseau managed to finish the film. However, it was a commercial and critical disaster. The Room was released in only a handful of theaters and it was quickly pulled from circulation. However, the film gained a cult following over the years, and it is now considered to be one of the most entertainingly bad films ever made.

In addition to telling the story of The Room, The Disaster Artist is also a portrait of a complex and fascinating friendship. Sestero describes his relationship with Wiseau as both frustrating and rewarding. Wiseau was a difficult person to work with, but he was also a loyal friend and a source of support.

The book is also a hilarious and insightful look at the Hollywood film industry. Sestero describes the many challenges and absurdities of filmmaking, from dealing with difficult directors to finding funding. The Disaster Artist is a must-read for anyone who is interested in movies, Hollywood, or just a good story.

Here is a more detailed summary of the book, chapter by chapter:

Chapter 1: Tommy

Sestero describes his first meeting with Wiseau in acting class. Wiseau was a mysterious and eccentric figure, but Sestero was drawn to his passion and determination.

Chapter 2: Best Friend

Sestero and Wiseau become best friends. Sestero describes Wiseau's lavish lifestyle and his mysterious past.

Chapter 3: The Room

Wiseau tells Sestero about his idea for a film called The Room. Sestero is hesitant at first, but he agrees to star in the film.

Chapter 4: The Auditions

Wiseau holds auditions for The Room. Sestero describes the strange and often hilarious antics of the actors who audition for the film.

Chapter 5: The Shoot

The shooting of The Room begins. Sestero describes the chaotic and often surreal experience of working on the film. Wiseau is a demanding and controlling director, and he has little or no experience in filmmaking.

Chapter 6: Disaster

The problems on the set of The Room mount. Wiseau fires the original director and cinematographer, and he takes over both roles himself. The film's budget spirals out of control, and the actors become increasingly frustrated.

Chapter 7: The End

The shooting of The Room finally comes to an end. Sestero describes the post-production process and the release of the film. The Room is a commercial and critical disaster, but Sestero and Wiseau are proud of what they have accomplished.

Chapter 8: Aftermath

Sestero and Wiseau go their separate ways. Sestero continues to act, while Wiseau remains a mystery. However, they remain in touch, and Sestero still considers Wiseau to be his best friend.

The Disaster Artist is a hilarious, insightful, and ultimately heartwarming book about the power of friendship and the pursuit of dreams. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in movies, Hollywood, or just a good story.

Here are some additional thoughts on the book:

  • One of the things that makes The Disaster Artist so compelling is its honest and unflinching portrayal of Wiseau. Sestero doesn't shy away from Wiseau's flaws, but he also shows his genuine admiration and affection for him.
  • The book is also a fascinating look at the creative process. Sestero describes how Wiseau's unique vision for The Room led to both its brilliance and its flaws.
  • The Disaster Artist is also a love letter to Hollywood. Sestero clearly has a deep passion for movies, and his book captures the magic and madness of the film industry perfectly.

Conclusion

The Disaster Artist is a story about the power of friendship, the pursuit of dreams, and the magic of Hollywood. It is also a story about the importance of laughing at yourself, even when you're making a bad movie.

The Disaster Artist is a reminder that it's okay to be different, and that it's important to chase your dreams, no matter what anyone else says. It is also a reminder that the best art is often made by people who are passionate, even if they're not the most skilled.

The book is a testament to the unique vision and unwavering determination of Tommy Wiseau, and to the friendship and loyalty of Greg Sestero. If you haven't read The Disaster Artist, I highly recommend it.