QUESTION:
Demo Reel vs. Showreel: What is the Difference?
(By AM Staff)
(Photo: Bruno Massao | Pexels)
QUESTION:
What is the difference between a demo reel and a showreel?
ANSWER:
A demo reel and a showreel are two industry terms that largely mean the same thing. There isn’t much distinction between the two. The terms “reel” and “sizzle reel” can also be used. These words describe the same thing.
How to Make a Reel Without Experience
These terms refer to a short (usually 1-2 minutes in length) video compilation of some of the acting roles you’ve done. And, whether you call it a reel or showreel or demo reel or sizzle reel, the bottom line is every actor needs one. It’s the easiest way to show casting directors what you can do.
If you do not have one, you should make it a priority to develop one as soon as you can. The best way to do this is to book acting roles, accumulate footage and make a reel. This is the standard way to do it. It can also be painfully slow.
(Photo: Vanilla Bear Films | Unsplash)
A faster route to take would be to turn to a reel company. There are also companies you can hire that specialize in helping actors put together their reels. This option may be best, if your budget allows.
Finally, you can go the way of putting together your own reel. You can find scenes to perform (or write them yourself) and get a friend to help record them. The challenge here is quality. Doing it yourself might mean putting together a reel that is not up to standard. So, do it yourself only if you’re confident that you can do it well.
(Photo: Jakob Owens/Unsplash)
The bottom line is, no matter what you call it, every actor needs to make a reel at some point in order to compete. If you don’t have one, set it as a goal and take steps to make it a reality.
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