Writing a Showreel Scene: The Basics
When creating a showreel scene, you always want to ensure that you’re staying on the right side of copyright law.
In short - don’t use a scene you’ve found in an existing TV show or film! Not only is that a sure-fire way to shout “this is a showreel scene, not something I was actually cast in or a role I actually played”, but it’s also not ideal when it comes to respecting both the law and the creativity/intellectual property of the original writers.
Luckily - we offer both a bespoke script-writing service, as well as the opportunity to use scripts that you have written yourself. So, for top tips when writing your own scenes, just keep reading!
Location
It’s all well and good writing a scene set on the moon, but unless you have access to a spaceship (or a REALLY convincing set) - maybe think twice! Nothing spoils an otherwise brilliant scene like bad set design, so think simple. What do you have access to?
A bar? A stable? A student flat?
Start there - then create a scenario that fits within the space. It’s all too easy to get carried away when writing a scene, but as much as you want your reel to have the “wow” factor, make sure that you’re properly considering the very real limitations you may face due to access, budget, etc.
A well-considered and realistic scene in a living room is 10x better than a cheap, makeshift attempt at something more outlandish.
2. Your Scene Partner
Before writing your scene, consider the actor that you will be working opposite. It is best to know who your partner will be before writing your scene, rather than trying to cast a role that has already been created.
Sit down together and consider the roles you’d each like to portray, then workshop scenarios where each of those characters could plausibly interact. When writing specifically for a showreel, it’s also worth considering the relationship and the balance of power seen between the characters. This goes back to your casting bracket, as well as the casting bracket as your partner. Make sure that you’re writing a scene/placing your characters within a scenario that allows each of you to shine in a role that you could realistically audition for/be cast in.
3. Your Current Reel
What is missing from your reel? Is it still up-to-date and working for you within your current casting type?
Consider the types of roles you could be auditioning for right now - your showreel is not the place to be aspirational. You want to give yourself the best chance to secure the role - don’t fill your reel with scenes that make no sense for you as an actor.
Consider your diversity as an actor - remember, working within your casting bracket is not the same as limiting yourself to one genre!
If your reel is filled with scenes within one genre, consider the roles you’re seeing in other genres that you would be suitable for and mould your reel to fit.
3. The Big Picture
A showreel scene is designed to feel like it has been taken from a larger project, so work from the outside-in!
You don’t have to plan a whole movie, but consider the wider background of the scene you’re writing. If you were choosing the best scene from an entire project - what might that look like? What could the stakes be? Why would you have chosen that scene as a showcase of your best work?
Write the best scene - and know exactly what that looks like for you as an actor. Also, don’t give too much context - just enough the establish the relationship and the stakes of the scene.
Don't forget, we offer bespoke and affordable showreel scenes for actors in Manchester and the North West!