How many hours do you think it took to render your latest demo reel?
No idea for that demo. Each shot had its time ;-) Some of them were very long. But I can say it is always between 2 or 3 days 480x270 pixels, on 1 PC (a P IV 2.53).
The most longer was the first shot of Fools Games: 5 days!
Before I launch a render of a complex camera mvt, could have between 40 ans 90 previews. And all of my shot has is own method. Perhaps patience is the first secret, isn't it?