Demo Reel
 

Don't really think this belongs in this forum but didn't know where else to post it. I was asked to do an actors demo reel and wanted to get some suggestions. How do you set one up? what background music or do you use background music? how much do you charge for one. I would say about a 5 min reel. Please give me some feedback. It will involve shooting the actor plus maybe putting some pictures with it all to music.

What type of demo? You mean you want to collect clips of what he's done and put them together? Or he has to shoot new material to make a demo from scratch? From your post, it sounds like the second option, which is the least valuable as a demo, but the only option you have if you are starting out.

What's the target audience? He wants to get an agent? It's for casting agents?

In general, 5 minutes is probably too long, though mine might be that long, I have to check...

Make sure you identify him clearly with contact info beginning or end. Name and phone number of his agent. Get his headshot in there.

Start off with the best material. Casting agents looking at demos will stop after the first 15 seconds of the opening scene if it's not good. Don't save the best for last. They'll never see it.

If you shoot a scene, make sure his partner doesn't come off looking better than him.

I would say yes to music or whatever you think works to make the material more interesting.

Okay, I just rewatched my demo and it's too long...

Most CD's (Casting Directors) want to see an actor 'in action' in a variety of clips showing footage from films, short or feature, TVC's etc.

they usually aren't impressed by college or acting school stuff or monologues to camera. if that's all he's got then I guess you have to work with that.

What did his agent say? or is that the purpose of the reel - to get an agent?

Don't know it he's looking for an agent or already has one. It was a rushed call because I was headed out of town. I am going to give him a call this evening. I do know he said he wanted me to film him acting out a script. Don't know if he already has mat'l. that is something I will ask him when I call.