reels

Reels commonly refers to two related concepts in media. In cinema, a reel is a spool that carries motion-picture film used for projection. In digital media, Reels (capitalized) is a short-form video feature launched on Instagram and later extended to Facebook.

Film reels vary by format; a typical reel holds 200 to 400 feet of film and runs for about two to four minutes at sound speed, with 1,000-foot reels covering roughly eleven minutes. Digital projection largely replaced physical reels for viewing, though reels remain used for archival and production workflows.

Social Reels are designed for quick, vertical videos. They support recording and editing, music or original audio, effects, speed controls, timers, and alignment tools. Posts can include captions and hashtags, and are discoverable via a dedicated Reels tab and algorithmic feeds. Some platforms offer monetization options and creator programs to encourage publishing.

Impact and usage include broad adoption by creators and brands for engagement and marketing. The format favors trends and bite-sized content, aiding reach and visibility, while also raising concerns about algorithmic competition, copyright, and the pressure to produce frequent content.