A great reel is around 2 minutes long.  It moves along at a brisk pace, has a good flow to it, and leaves the viewer with a clear understanding of how to cast you. 

Your strengths are your most marketable traits.  If you have great credits, those belong up front.  If you are a fantastic comedian or a character actor, the reel should be cut and enhanced to feature those qualities.  Beware the temptation of making your reel too lengthy.  It doesn’t take an agent or casting director long to figure out what roles you should be submitted for.

The One-Minute reel is becoming very popular (especially in Los Angeles).  Many actors have this 60-second version of their reel posted online.  The One-Minute reel has a specific purpose: some casting directors will view a One-Minute reel to see if they want to bring you in for the role they are currently casting.  To actors, it may sound brutally short.  But it can be an effective tool for getting you more auditions.

For the most part, actors love them and agents can’t stand them.  This is because most agents don’t want a lot of smoke and mirrors; all they really want to see is your work.

In general, it’s best to avoid the dreaded montage–especially if you have recognizable credits.  There are some exceptions.  Please see our sample reels for examples.

Yes, yes, yes.  There’s no doubt that the Internet has become an integral part in the entertainment industry.   Many actors have a link to their reel attached to their email.  It’s an easy and instant way to guide an industry contact to your work.  Feel free to contact us for your options in getting your reel online.