The Reeling: Part II

So it was pointed out to me by a great guy named Peter, that many of you out there in Readerland might not know all the lingo that I'm spouting on a weekly(ish) basis.  In the interest if keeping all y'all well informed, I thought I'd start by explaining the purpose of a reel.

So an actor's reel (as well as one for sound and video editors, and other entertainment folk) is used much in the same way a portfolio is used for other artists and visually-geared professions.  You submit your reel, which is composed of clips from the various films, commercials, plays, tv's anything you've done, that will highlight your talents as an actor, to a casting director along with your resume and your headshot.  


In the same way that many actors will have different headshots to submit for different roles (i.e. a smiling picture for a leading man/clean cut role, or a serious expression for a more evil part), it's not uncommon to have different reels for different types of work.  So if you're looking to land a commercial, people will have a reel cut together of all their commercials they've done.  Because generally, casting directors don't want to see stuff that doesn't apply directly to what they're casting.  


In addition, it's a good idea to portray a range of different characters and emotions in your reel, so that a casting director or producer can see what you're capable of.  Sometimes if you submit for a certain role, they may decide you're not quite right for it, but because of a performance on your reel, feel that you might fit in another roll.


Because an actor's reel is supposed to highlight their talents, in many cases it will be very disjointed, only showing one or two lines from a particular scene in a movie, just so they can capture a great moment of acting.  In many cases, films will decide on who to ask for an audition, if not cast a part based entirely on headshots and reels.  That is why it is quite important for an actor to have a reel that showcases themselves in the best possible light.


So there you have it!  I hope this helps, Pete.  I think I adequately described that whole thing.  If you're not completely satisfied, contact my agent and he'll give you a full refund. And maybe one of these days I'll actually get an audition, and I can describe that experience for you!  Who knows, crazier things have happened.


Update: Jan. 9 2012 - Haha, I totally did get an audition, and I totally described the audition.  I didn't even remember writing this at the time.  Here's a link to the post in question, if you don't remember.