Keeping It Real (novel)

Keeping It Real is a 2000 novel by Lynda Obst and Carol Wolper. The book is a satirical, fictionalized account of the cutthroat world of Hollywood film production. It follows the career trajectory of fictional Hollywood producer, Harry Stein, from his idealistic beginnings to his eventual compromising of his artistic integrity in pursuit of blockbuster success.

The novel explores themes such as the commodification of art, the influence of money on creative decisions, and the challenges of maintaining personal values within a highly competitive and often superficial industry. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the studio system, the power struggles between executives, and the development process from initial concept to final release. The book uses humor and exaggerated scenarios to critique the film industry's obsession with profit and its tendency towards formulaic storytelling. Keeping It Real is often considered a cautionary tale about the perils of succumbing to the pressures of Hollywood.