Apple Box
An apple box is a strong, simple wooden box. It is one of the most common and versatile tools on a film set. Grip crews use apple boxes for countless on-set problems. This makes it a fundamental and indispensable piece of grip equipment. Its simple design is incredibly strong and reliable. Grips use it for support, elevation, leveling, and even temporary seating.
The “Family” of Apple Box Sizes
Apple boxes come in four standard thicknesses, or sizes. This “family” of boxes allows for precise, stackable height adjustments. The sizes are all fractions based on the height of a Full Apple Box when it lies in its lowest, flattest position.
| Full Apple | This is the standard box. It typically measures 8 inches high. (The length is usually 20 inches and the width 12 inches). |
| Half Apple | This box is half the height of a full. It stands 4 inches high. |
| Quarter Apple | This box is a quarter of a full. It stands 2 inches high. |
| Pancake (or Eighth Apple) | This is the thinnest box. It stands 1 inch high. |
The Three Positions
A Full Apple Box’s true versatility comes from its three standard orientations. Grips have industry nicknames for these positions. These names refer to the amount of height the box provides.
- “LA” Position (or “C” Position): This is the lowest, flattest, and most stable position. The box lies on its widest side. In this position, it provides 8 inches of height.
- “Chicago” Position (or “B” Position): The box rests on its long, narrow side. In this position, it provides 12 inches of height.
- “New York” Position (or “A” Position): This is the tallest position. The box stands on its end. In this position, it provides 20 inches of height.
Grips can create almost any height by stacking boxes in these different positions.
Common On-Set Applications
Crews from every department find uses for apple boxes. Their applications are nearly limitless.
| Leveling and Support | Grips use pancakes and quarters to level dolly track. This ensures a perfectly smooth camera movement. They also use them to stabilize wobbly furniture or props. |
| Raising Equipment | Crews often place camera tripods or light stands on apple boxes. This gives them extra, stable height. |
| Adjusting Actor Height | An actor might stand on an apple box to fit a specific framing. This is very common for “over-the-shoulder” shots. It helps create a more balanced and cinematic composition. This is sometimes called a “man-maker.” |
| Platforms and Risers | Grips can stack and screw apple boxes together. This builds a safe, temporary platform or riser. A camera operator or a piece of equipment can then sit on this riser. |
| Temporary Seating | The apple box is the universal “seat” on a film set. Crew members often sit on them during breaks or while waiting for a setup. |
In short, the apple box is a simple but brilliant tool. It is one of the most useful and ubiquitous items on any film set. No grip truck is complete without a full set.
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