If you're an actor in need of a theatrical demo reel you need to STOP dead in your tracks and thank…read moreyour lucky stars that you found RFW.
I've been in the business for over 15 years and enjoyed most of my career successes as a voice actor.
A few years ago I decided to make the transition into film and television. If you're on a similar path, you know that having a GREAT demo reel isn't just important - a GREAT reel is a necessary element in your overall marketing efforts.
If you've never had the opportunity to be a part of a professional film or television production you can't simply splice nonexistant work product together to showcase your talents and abilities. That said, if you don't have actual footage of film or TV work you can't make a demo - which means you will most likely not be provided with the same opportunities that seasoned, actors get on a daily basis from agents and casting professionals.
In my humble opinion, you are left with two choices:
1.) PRAY that a casting director likes your headshot, calls you in to read, sees your potential in the audition, takes a chance and hires you. Then, after you're hired, cross your fingers that footage from that ONE gig can be leveraged into a legitimate piece of marketing to generate more audition opportunities (assuming your scene(s) aren't lost on the cutting room floor).
2.) Make your demo reel by enlisting friends or fellow actors to shoot fabricated scenes that you HOPE end up being an excellent marketing showpiece (which they probably won't).
Frankly, both options suck (I've tried both).
1.) You can't bank on casting directors recognizing your abilities or talents without providing proof of such outside of an audition. The entertainment business is somewhat of a closed system. Most actors are banking on luck, and the law of averages is (regretfully) not in your favor. Casting Directors aren't always willing to take a chance on an unknown commodity, regardless of how great your performance in the audition might be. A casting professional NEEDS to see what you're capable of before they can gain the confidence to advocate on your behalf.
2.) Being resourceful is great/admirable, but if you're not a seasoned filmmaker, your bootstrapped demo reel might elicit the opposite reaction. In a world of cheap, proliferated technology, aspiring actors and filmmakers forget that end-results are not directly connected to the great gear. DSLR's and moderately priced cinema cameras might be capable of capturing beautiful images, but you need vision, experience, and finesse to utilize those tools properly. That said, even if you manage to capture beautiful footage - other elements of the production will (most likely) suffer if you're not experienced in filmmaking. Writing, sound, lighting, editing...These skill sets are not easily mastered.
So, what is the hell are you supposed to do? Hire Relentless Film Works!
Steve, Troy, Amber, Arnella, Peggy, Steven (and everyone else I may have left out) are working PROS. They create THE BEST demo reels in the business. Their original writing, directing and set dressing is amazing. They take care of everything except your actor homework and wardrobe.
My experience with RFW was STELLAR. DON'T HESITATE FOR A MOMENT. They know how to get shit done! In fact, they were more productive and streamlined than some professional studio productions in which I have taken part. Their stable of talent both behind (as well as in front of) the camera is impressive. You will NOT be disappointed.
Be Fearless! Be Relentless! Let the crew at RFW provide you one essential marketing tool you'll need to move your career forward. Chance always favors the prepared!
If you require more information to make a decision, I will happily provide a more detailed reference - email me at robertgunton@yahoo.com
It should be known that no member of RFW requested this endorsement. It's not often you encounter people like the RFW crew, and all actors in LA need to know about this hidden gem!
