Why You Need a Demo Reel and How to Make One

[@ActingCareerCenter]

Download my FREE 10-Step Audition Preparation Guide: www.actingcareercenter.com/cheatsheet

[@mrlizardmouth]

I have one question does the cheat sheet tell you ever thing for acting

[@Tony-vh9oe]

Kurt, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy personal day to give us all these pointers Very much appreciated sir! 👍

[@liquidbraino]

@@bighitonly You can't just join SAG-Aftra whenever you want. You'll get a letter from SAG informing you that you're now SAG eligible. We call that the "can join" letter. Then you'll get a second letter (after you've done a few more SAG jobs) indicating that you now MUST join the union. It's best to hold off on joining SAG until you have to join. Whether you have an agent or not. Joining too soon can potentially mean the end of your acting career depending on circumstances (seen it happen twice). Nobody wants to pay SAG wages for an inexperienced actor that's got nothing on their IMDb and/or no training.

[@liquidbraino]

@@mrlizardmouth I think his cheat sheet is mostly for auditions. You're not going to learn everything about acting by reading about it anymore than you're going to learn to ride a bike by reading about it. You could have a PhD in mechanical engineering but you'll never learn balance until you get on and ride.

[@mrlizardmouth]

@@liquidbraino ok thx

[@Mundillou]

KURT YOU ARE A WIZARD. Since I started watching you I moved out. started taking acting classes. and booked my first role BECAUSE OF YOU. Today I googled just what I need for my next step. It was a demo reel. THANK YOU KURT!!!!

[@liquidbraino]

Congrats & a High-Five!

[@nale8033]

what websites you used?

[@nale8033]

congrats!!!

[@Mundillou]

@@nale8033 Facebook and Backstage!!

[@ActingCareerCenter]

Well done! Congratulations!

[@ADifferentVibe]

As an actor in LA, I can attest to anyone pursuing this you MUST have a reel! Even if it is a high quality self-tape audition (and not the final clips from the film/TV show that you performed), that is better than nothing. Using myself as an example, a film I did took months in post-production. Instead of waiting for that footage, I took my best self-tape auditions for roles I didn't book (best performances AND best quality like lighting, sound etc) and posted that on my Backstage and Actors Access profiles when I submit for projects. Since then with new headshots, I've gotten more audition requests than I can count.

[@GiovanniMorenoMusic]

Hiya hows your acting adventure goin

[@LiminalityMedia]

Auditions will for sure come in! But when it comes time for a casting director to cast you, they'll go with your competition who has professional footage in their reel because they know they were actually hired for produced work and have experience on a professional set. Casting directors are risk averse and don't want to put - what looks like to them - an "amateur" on set and risk them not being able to hit their marks, remember lines, or risk them buckling under pressure. You will for sure be able to book unpaid roles to *hopefully* get more footage but usually with unpaid work, the footage also is not professionally produced. The problem is "amateur" footage actually hurts you. "Something is better than nothing" unfortunately doesn't apply here. Take it from us. We're a team of well seasoned producers, award winning DP's, etc. and we've seen it all. We put together a free demo reel training here. liminalitymedia.com/welcome

[@wyatthaas260]

I’ve only done two acting classes but, I’m going full force. I’ve already scheduled my headshots, I’m planning to create my demo reel here. I’ve memorized and practiced two commercials and one monologue. You’re an inspiration, Kurt! Your advice is so helpful.

[@Itsmelifeofzee]

How's it going

[@andergliding]

How is it going for you ?

[@azrielmateria8050]

Close to 100k subscribers a year ago up to almost 200k this year. Way to go dude. Invaluable advice and you give clear examples and explanations. Even someone like me with wondering attention can comprehend most if not everything you talk about, Great work.

[@tamarmuthama]

KURT I SAW YOU ON DYNASTY SEASON 4 AND LITERALLY YELLED AT MY MOM ''HEY THAT'S MY YOU TUBE ACTING COACH''😂❤ LOVE YOUUU

[@nikkikruz8458]

I thought that was you on Ordinary Joe!!! When I saw you, I was like, "That's Kurt"!!!!! I was so excited as if I really know you. Congrats Kurt!!!

[@tenpointlanding]

I said that about Black Widow and my wife was so confused about stoked I got, lol.

[@bambinocinefilo9702]

We’re really close to 100k subscribers!!! I’m so excited for you Kurt! Love this channel.

[@daniellasansom]

Are you kidding me! YOU GOT IN BLACK WIDOW :O. getting a audition is just... wow. Not only do you help other people reach their goals, you help youself. I LOVE YOU

[@DreaGiaAlice-Darko]

2:47 gets to the point. Also congrats keep on going don’t stop what you’re doing, let your art speak for itself and get more jobs I wish you the best my fellow artist. ❤🎉😊

[@iSoaring]

I know this was a year ago but thank you for showing us stuff like this because it shows that your advice/ videos work. You're an actively working actor and not just someone speaking with nothing to back it up.

[@TheAlejandroHernandez]

Very well-spoken point about taking control of your career. Far too many people wait around and wish for something big to happen without actually doing anything. It's especially bad with music. I cannot tell you how many times someone's said they wish they could play an instrument and then just don't. BTW, I would consider myself a musician who pretends to be an actor sometimes here to get a sense of what a reel consists of. Thank you for a great starting point.

[@Wildopal]

This man is booked! It’s great to see you thriving and still have time to mentor🌼

[@veronicasandre]

I am so happy you are working and getting so many new roles. You are a great actor and person! x Thank you! for sharing your knowledge with us!

[@navy_dude1343]

Can't thank you enough for spreading your knowledge, and helping other actors. It is much appreciated. -Shayne from Louisiana

[@thepowerofdancewithann]

Hi Kurt, great info on self-taping. I've been watching your videos for a while since deciding to go back into TV & film & want to thank you for the wide variety of information. I've been out of the industry for almost 35 years & had done cold readings on all my auditions back then (did get a few small parts & commercials). I dipped my toe back into live theater in 2007 & am still performing. And wow things have changed so much in the TV / film process! I'm brushing up on my technical skills & will be putting together my information soon. Thanks again, looking forward to more videos.

[@JoGirl]

This was helpful, I'm primarily a stage actor so I've been stumped on how to make a professional demo reel for agent submissions. Thanks for the tips!

[@1updaddySAS]

I quit acting in live shows 20 years ago. Thus has inspired me to get back at it. Thanks, I'm gonna make a demo reel

[@LizzieRFreeman]

Thank you so much for all your advice Kurt! I'm a working voice-over actor in LA and I have been so interested in trying film. Your content gives me a great place to start! I'm not sure if on-camera work is for me yet, but I'm excited to see what happens

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Excellent advice, Kurt! Actors have to sell themselves. When I cast a film, I really, really, really like demo reels. I ALWAYS ask for them. How else can I see what you can do, to see if you fit? Please give me a wide variety of your roles, so I can tell if you would be right for the part. A variety of your roles help, because the films I've made range from dramas to comedies to thrillers. Oh, and a good head shot with a resume.

[@ADifferentVibe]

Ditto. A demo reel, even if it is just a well-done audition tape, is PERFECT because of the 3 things you need (other 2 are professional headshots and a resume), a reel is the least thing you can FAKE. It is your showcase.

[@sconebonez6232]

Loved that you used Graphic Design as the illustration, because that is the line of work I am currently in. So it made it super relatable!

[@TimCharron]

Can you use self taped auditions in your reel ??

[@AnibalFraquelli]

As usual, so grateful to you Kurt, this information in awesome!

[@Julz]

Loving this channel Kurt, it's so helpful with getting started on this journey! oh and congrats on crossing 100k subs!🙌🏾

[@cipheragent9]

Thank you so much Kurt. I'm starting to get things going in film/TV after years of doing theatre and not knowing how to break in. Also, because of you, and I'm also now a student of Houde!! Thank you sir!!

[@JakeReehl]

Yep, this is on my list of things to do, I haven’t updated my demo reel in years. I have gotten some new footage since then. My main point of procrastination is that I want it to be close to perfect, and I don’t know if I should hire someone to cut it for me or if I should cut it myself. Also, there is some footage of me where I have no dialogue, but my action acting skills are highlighted, and since action is my main interest, I wonder if it’s ok to put a scene in my reel with no dialogue, just physical acting. Thank you for this video!

[@ActingCareerCenter]

Sometimes it's ok to have a scene with no dialogue on your reel, but scenes with dialogue should take precedence

[@Immarkyo58]

I hear you. I have several where I'm either alone or with the principal but have not actual dialogue. So it's a look; smirk a smile reaction to something. I'll beef that up with an audition tape.

[@anasarif5435]

Finally kurt! I waited for your video for a long time. Pleasure to see you again❤️

[@theastridgonzalez]

Thank you so much for the motivation. Your videos are so educational and uplifting. I was just feeling discouraged about finding an acting job but after watching this video, I’ve realized this is my next step and am hopeful again. Thank you thank you thank you.

[@tinaforrestel6500]

Thank you so much for this advice! I’m missing out on so many auditions bc I don’t have a reel! You’re the best for sharing your expert advice. You take the fear out of me! ❤❤❤

[@WalterTheActor]

I never knew that I could use my auditions as demo footage. That was awesome to learn.

[@kalebnaquin9696]

Hey Kurt! I was wondering maybe in a future video maybe you can talk about Demo Reels vs. Clips? I’ve been advised my multiple fellow actors/industry folks on podcast/KZbin videos that casting is more attracted to smaller clips opposed to only having a demo reel. Both reels and clips obviously serve different purposes and I’d love to hear your talk on that subject!

[@liquidbraino]

Short clips are good for sites like Casting Networks because when you post your resume you can add a short 10 second clip right next to each listing so they can actually "see" your resume & not just read it. A demo reel is more of a compilation of all those clips in a video (usually) no more than two minutes long which only contains your best work.

[@ADifferentVibe]

@@liquidbraino A demo reel of clips from your best professional work is good for your own website or submitting to AGENTS. For casting websites, you can still use that demo reel, but I think it's better in those short clips, especially if one of those fits best the tone or genre of the role you're applying. Casting directors DO NOT have time to go through your greatest hits reel to find that one 10-second clip that fits the role - they would much appreciate you finding your own best 10 seconds to show them you fit the part.

[@tudor_stefan]

love the way you always compare acting to other forms of art

[@onesinglestephealthwithnatasha]

Congratulations on hitting 100,000 subscribers!!🥳🥳

[@mattharmatuk9638]

I would love to see you put together a video on how to make a reel when you already have work to pull from tv and film. What software or apps do you use to pull the content, how to pull the content and how to piece it all together.

[@actressaureliagillium]

This was so helpful! I have everything else except for a reel. This year, I’m focusing on putting all my training to use. I book work but I’m not where I could be. I have no clips. Can’t sit and wait on footage. I’m in Ohio as well and looking to move to Georgia but just signed a 1 year contract with an agency here. Thank you so much for this!

[@lucascarter1995]

I friggin love you bro. You gave better advice abt this than actual casting directors..😘😘😘😘

[@anita3956]

Hey Kurt! How do we get a dialogue for a demon reel? Does it have to be created by me or can I use pre-existing scripts online?

[@Mannydagoat]

Thank Kurt, this was uploaded on my birthday and I started to attend drama class in my school and plan to learn the basics of acting

[@SG-xx3ir]

Just started my acting career and this channel always continues to motivate me. Thank you for this resource! If you don’t mind answering, how much are a: Marvel movie + 1 network + 2 streaming shows putting in your pocket for 2021?? You must be rolling in cash!!!

[@ActingCareerCenter]

Not as much as you might think. All of the projects paid at scale. So the network show and the two streaming shows paid about $1000 each. The marvel movie was filmed in 2019 so that paycheck was a while ago.

[@felicRed]

I’m gonna say it early but congratulations on 100k subscribers

[@marcelarancio6890]

You give good advice in every single video. Its very nice that you do that.

[@SimplyNaturalCai]

Kurt, you are killing it!! SO happy & proud of you 💙

[@ActingCareerCenter]

Thank you, Carla!

[@actorpoet53]

First, thank you so much for these videos. They have been immensely helpful! Next, would you recommend including self-tape audition videos in your demo reel, especially if it's been a long period of time since you auditioned for the role?

[@blackronin5578]

Dis man killing it this year, awesome job man💪

[@danicosmo7453]

Hey, hope your doing good. just showing love and Thanks for all your help and I appreciate the work you put in your videos to help us out with our journey to become a actress/actor!! Stay safe!

[@Airbrushwiz]

Yes! Finally saw black widow! Awesome movie, yeah saw you in it, kudos to you for getting that role! Thanks for making this video too, Kurt!

[@Vivitoss15]

i really want to make acting a career and your videos are really helpful to watch. soon you will see me on the big screen.

[@amarlounas1712]

Thank you Kurt . You inspiring us with your amazing talent

[@jeffHughWilliams]

Excellent no nonsense advice as always! Thank you. Gonna go buy my website now!

[@ItsATwinThingvlogs]

this was so helpful thank you so much ! :)

[@abdourahmanmbye6288]

Hi Kurt yue, I enjoy watching your videos and I do watch it almost everyday to gain more knowledge and prepare myself for my acting career. I’m pursuing my acting career and thanks to your videos I now went to school for acting to stand out.

[@raybuckproductions]

Another great video! Well done. I will utilize many of the things you have shared for my auditions. Thank you for sharing.

[@noahviningforprestige]

Thank you for this incredibly crucial info. You’re the best Kurt!!!!

[@CryingOrc1]

Thanks for the great tip Kurt. Can a demo reel be part of a scrip that already exists or something you need to create on your own?

[@maximecinema]

I don’t know if you would like that but you should put your video into podcasts and put them on Spotify for example 👍 Always good info !

[@thecardmaster01]

Thankyou so much for all the help you provide. Im moving to Los Angeles next month to pursue my dreams and make things happen!

[@liquidbraino]

I'm in LA & been here most of my life. Love this place; I couldn't imagine living anywhere else. Break stuff!

[@AndrewAbaria]

Hi Kurt - thanks for all of your consistent, helpful videos. As a new actor with no experience yet, how long should our demo reels be and how many/what kind of scenes should be in the reel?

[@anthonyvarzino1094]

Excited for you to hit 100k Subscribers Kurt!

[@KatyeOppizzi]

This was VERY helpful. Thank you for sharing this!

[@maggiejohnson9411]

Yes I will make my own demo reel. I have the lights and a little “pop voice “microphone . I can do many accents so I think I’ll do one for each accent.

[@tinaforrestel6500]

And thank you for sharing your resources. So appreciate you!

[@robodobro]

I just saw your scene in Dopesick. I was also in Dopesick! So cool lol

[@FerozKhan-vs7tv]

Thank you I really wanted this video to happen because I was clueless

[@riazs597]

You have a really great channel , such helpful advice ! Thanks so much !

[@evamachek]

I love watching something and going WAIT STOP....THAT’S KURT YUE!! Love your video’s, thank you so much for all the good information!

[@AZ-yc4js]

I was like: New video? Yeeeees!!

[@JasonSantiago2000]

Big help like always 🙏 I wish everyone the best!

[@kayoldfather-daigle7769]

YAY!! So happy for success! 😀

[@angy3332]

I’m so ready to start !!!

[@losloneone]

Mr. Yue, thank you for putting all this info online.

[@alexandrosg3728]

Thank you so much for sharing this great information, you are awesome!

[@kristofvegh6108]

Hi! Can you choose a monologue from a movie and act to it?

[@thelthrythquezada8397]

HEY okay, Ill watch it this weekend!

[@KJ-gt2wj]

Im 16 and I aspire to be an actor these videos help a bunch thanks a lot.

[@isabelleb826]

Hi Kurt! I would really appreciate a video on what a good agent is like and what they should be doing for you if you believe that would be useful and would like to make that! I currently have an agent but have never had one before so this would be helpful

[@clairavoynce3145]

So will multiple demo reels be good?

[@lasurviver5477]

Hey, Mr. Kurt. I really appreciate your videos. All I've wanted to do is to get into acting for a job and career. I've moved to Los Angeles to work a job to survive and take an acting workshop class to hone in on my acting skills and abilities. I'll make some videos on KZbin to use for my acting demo

[@DerykRonk]

Your videos have helped me so much. I’d love to talk with you about what I’ve done and where to go from here. Thank you!

[@adammiele6480]

Hey Kurt! First off, I really love and appreciate your KZbin channel/content. A cool story for you. I was recently on a couple days, shooting an HBO MAX limited series and meet a fellow actor from KY. As we were chatting in between takes, I started to mention/describe a KZbin channel I follow (Yours) and he says, "Kurt Yue?" We then started talking about different segments of you channel. Thank you!

[@ActingCareerCenter]

Congrats on the HBO Max role! That's awesome!

[@Tamara48748]

Thank you! You hit my spot “clearly “ ..Gracias

[@quanwe-tv]

Thank u for sharing. You will see my on your set. 😊

[@mackenziemosieur]

When doing a scene, are we trying to get as close and accurate to the original scene, or are we putting our own spin on it?

[@TimCharron]

Great video . Can you use self taped auditions in your reel ??

[@beastyla-co3zk]

thank you so much kurt! very helpful advice!

[@KevinJohnsonActor]

Awesome!! Perfect timing!!

[@ikandee1979]

How cool it as I get done watching this and a few others... U pop up on my TV on Down for Whatever

[@davidsymonette9014]

I love everything you said thanks for the info👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿

[@JoshKStall]

Great video, very helpful. And btw I have that same shirt 👕👍🏼👍🏼

[@igulotjudith581]

Mr Kurt, you are so amazing thank you so much for this advice may God bless u

[@hpac9051]

Awesome advice.. I'm at this very stage

[@vfernandes30]

Thank you, for one more awesome video ☺. Since you mentioned imdb I was wondering if one day u could do a video about how the imdb platform is/can be useful for upcoming actors? As well about any other important features in imdb that any actors should know about? Congrats, regarding your projects Kurt, can't wait to see them. ☺

[@liquidbraino]

IMDb-pro has a lot of great features. You can look up agents & casting directors; talent agencies; writers; directors; producers; actors etc. You can also add your headshots and a demo reel once you've got some credits but one of the COOLEST features is that you can look up movies that are in preproduction and submit for some of them.I'd love to see Kurt do a video on IMDb-pro.

[@vfernandes30]

@@liquidbraino Thank you so much ☺ great info, I appreciated...

[@chezandrewbrawlstars7051]

Great tips!

[@FrankOakleyTheThird]

Saw you on Dopesick, great work man! Keep going! 💯👏🏾

[@ActingCareerCenter]

Thanks, Frank!

[@moeydoesgamingyt6107]

CONGRATS ON DYNASTY

[@realebogapetlele6713]

Thank you so much for this incredible video….every-time I watch your videos I become more confident! Everyone likes making the process sound so daunting. 😭 I had a question, how many videos should a demo reel have? And how long should it be?

[@liquidbraino]

A demo reel should be one to two minutes, depending on how many 10-20 second clips you have to add to your demo reel. Those shorter clips can also be added under each listing in your resume on the casting sites.

[@amarlounas1712]

Hey Kurt , thanks for a wonderful experience you’re giving us. Can I I break down my own monologue to 2 or 3 different scenes and wearing different outfits, emotions for demo reels ?

[@keithbolton5466]

Do you have a video on the difference between demo reels and Monologues

[@CeliaBrown-xt2cp]

Hello! I am new to your channel and so far I am loving the short informative videos you are gifting out. I do have a question about self taping a reel as a start up actor. Does the script have to be original or can a scene from an already created script be used?

[@anderscreativearts]

Very helpful. Thanks❤

[@deniseadamo208]

Thank you very much for this video. It helpt me so much!

[@mostafanazmy4112]

it was very helpful, thank you.

[@MrActor30]

Great information. How many demo reels can you have on actors access?