Anyone Can Earn Big Money In T.V. Commercials

A veteran actor and teacher, Bob Collier offers aspiring thespians some very good tips and information in this abbreviated version of his "TV Crash Course in Commercials" seminar. Apparently shot in a room overlooking heavy traffic (a traffic buzz is evident on some portions of the tape), the program gets off to a less than promising start: Collier talks about success in the Napoleon Hill vein, and counsels the course attendees to read three assigned "texts" (which are not included with the video). Fortunately, the books aren't necessary, and Collier soon gets down to the business at hand--a nuts and bolts guide to breaking into commercials. He describes in detail the 8" by 10" head shot, and what typed information needs to appear on the back, counsels viewers to use a telephone answering service (not an answering machine), and shows viewers "picture postcards"--postcard size shots of the actor with vital information on the back, which can serve as a calling card. In the "hands-on" section of the workshop, the attendees read for the video camera, while Collier offers suggestions for improving their performances. The final section of the tape examines the possibilities for both fashion and "real people" display ad work, discusses the pertinent publications necessary to the trade, offers tips on landing an agent, and lists the various unions and trade groups germane to the profession. The tape closes with an "advertisement" for Collier's book and other items. Although the program has its flaws, the unique nature of the material and the expertise behind the advice still make it a good choice for public libraries. Recommended. (Available from: Video Learning Library, 7201 Haven Ave., Suite E301, Alto Loma, CA 91701; 1-800-383-8811.)