Pop culture — TV, movies, books, radio, music, magazines — influences our perceptions of law enforcement. While we may know better than to believe everything we see on TV or in the theaters, we often have no idea what real law enforcement is like. Reel to Real offers a fresh perspective with an entertaining look at how law enforcement has been portrayed in the media and how that compares to the lives of real, working officers.

Everyone knows that cop shows are exaggerated, but just how much is the truth stretched? Find out by joining real law enforcement officers for fun and insightful commentary about their fictional on-screen counterparts in the "Cop Critique Theater." Stop by the Reel Cop kiosk to view video clips from law enforcement shows and movies and vote on your favorites.

America's fascination with crime did not start with Hill Street Blues or CSI. For over 300 years the media have depicted law enforcement in our country. Follow the "Media Timeline" and see how both positive and negative media portrayals have shaped the public's perception of law enforcement over the years. Compare real-life police officers such as Wyatt Earp and Eliot Ness to their fictional Hollywood counterparts.

Reporting on police matters accurately and fairly has always been a major challenge for the news media. Interact with a video piece in the "Issues Alcove" to see several different versions of the same story and give your perception of what the truth really is. Learn how your perceptions are influenced by media coverage and how in turn, public perceptions can influence law enforcement.

When you call 911, someone answers and sends the police. Problem solved, right? It's not that simple. Behind every squad car on the street, there's a team of people working to quickly direct communications and get the right people to the right place — fast.

Take the call at the "Motorola Dial 911 Emergency Call Center". Experience the high-energy ins and outs of work as a 911 Operator as you dispatch units from one of three interactive stations. Following your shift, step back from the console to see how your split-second decision-making turned out for the officers handling the call and the people they serve.

Everyone knows that cop shows are exaggerated, but just how much is the truth stretched? Find out by joining real law enforcement officers for fun and insightful commentary about their fictional on-screen counterparts in the "Cop Critique Theater."