The term PLAYS OUT can be broken down into two crossword solutions, ENACTS (6 letters) and UNREELS (7 letters). ENACTS is a verb meaning to perform or represent a role or character in a play, movie, or other form of entertainment. UNREELS is also a verb, meaning to unwind or unroll something, such as a film or tape. Together, the two words suggest the idea of performing or enacting a role while unrolling or unwinding a film or tape.