Keeping It Reel

Just Keeping It Reel

           A picture says a thousand words.  A crisp clean head shot is usually associated with entertainers.  The inclusion of a musical instrument with the photographed individual generally says this person can play that instrument.  A microphone indicates a singer, a comedian or maybe even a public speaker.  For actors, it’s a little vague.  The posed picture could be for commercials, movies, theatre, comedy, drama, etc.  It may say this actor has the look of the leading lady, best friend or even something in-between.  However, for all that is implied by this single captured image, it does not answer a very important question.  “Can this person act?”  The reel begins to answer this question.  When a picture says a thousand words, a thousand pictures make a statement.

           Because casting agents value their time, more audition breakdowns are requesting a reel, a small or short collection of scenes that highlight performance.  Not only does this give them a glance at potentials before they compete for roles, it saves time by dropping a lot of questionable players.  This is not to say that there aren’t talented people without reels, so much as it is to say that there are so many more untalented people without reels too. Reducing the question marks and increasing the statements mean more audition time for actors with reels.  

           Competition is fierce for desired roles.  A montage of work on video displays the ability to take on characters, interact in scenes and convince casting agents that you may be right for the role.  Those without it won’t even be in the room.  If a reel is requested but not available, there probably won’t be an invitation to audition. Most ambitious actors have already been eliminated because they simply don’t have a reel.

Even if a particular role doesn’t fit, a reel can leave a lasting impression. Since casting directors book so many roles and view a ton of head shots, it’s in their best interest to keep reel talent close.  With today’s technology, it’s just a few clicks away and can be passed to other projects with the ease of an email.  If it’s memorable enough, it won’t easily be forgotten when the right role becomes available.

If you’re serious about being an actor, showcasing your talent is a priority.  To the casting director, the convenience of video make your abilities available, easy to access and goes beyond competing with countless, standard head shots.  Show them you can act.  Your reel says you can.

                                                                       M.C. Franklin