The Unsung Heroes of Film Production: What Is a Best Boy?
In the captivating world of film production, many roles and titles come together to create the magic we see on screen. Among these essential roles, one title often sparks curiosity: What is a Best Boy?
This blog post delves into Best Boys's vital, yet often overlooked, role in film and television production, shedding light on their contributions behind the scenes.
The Best Boy Explained
The Best Boy is the chief assistant to the department head in two crucial departments on a film set: the lighting and the grip departments.
These professionals are indispensable to the seamless operation of film production, yet their roles are not always understood by those outside the industry. Let's break down their responsibilities:
Best Boy Electric
The Best Boy Electric is the Chief Lighting Technician's right-hand person, often called the Gaffer. Their domain is the lighting department, overseeing the management and maintenance of all electrical equipment to illuminate the film set.
This includes tasks like organizing equipment rentals, managing power distribution, and ensuring that every light works perfectly to set the scene.
Best Boy Grip
Conversely, the Best Boy Grip supports the Key Grip, who heads the grip department. Grips are responsible for all the camera support systems and equipment that shape the light and the image.
The Best Boy Grip takes care of the logistical side, ensuring that the grip crew has everything they need, from dolly tracks to cranes, and that it's all safe and ready to use.
Skills and Qualities of a Best Boy
Becoming a Best Boy requires a unique set of skills and qualities. These include:
Technical Knowledge: Profound understanding of camera and lighting equipment.
Communication Skills: Effective coordination between departments and with the production office.
Problem-Solving Skills: Quick and efficient resolution of on-set challenges.
Leadership: Guiding and managing crew members to ensure the department runs smoothly.
The Path to Becoming a Best Boy
No one way or formal education is required to step into the Best Boy role. Many start as a Production Assistant or an entry-level position within the grip or electrical department, gradually gaining experience and climbing the ranks.
Working closely with department heads and learning on the job are key steps toward this position.
Why "Best Boy"?
The origin of the term "Best Boy" remains a bit of a mystery, echoing back to the early days of film production.
It implies a level of reliability and competence, suggesting that the person in this role is the best person the department head can rely on for the day-to-day operation of their department.
A Day in the Life
A typical day for the Best Boy involves various tasks, from coordinating equipment deliveries to managing the safety protocols on set.
They work closely with their respective departments to ensure that each scene is shot as planned, solving problems as they arise and often being the last to leave the set to secure all equipment and ensure everything is ready for the next day.
Recognition and Salary
While the role of the Best Boy might not always be highlighted in the end credits, their contribution is invaluable to film production.
The average salary varies widely, depending on factors such as experience, location, and the production budget.
However, Best Boys can see their earnings and recognition within the industry grow significantly over a few years.
In Conclusion
Best Boys are the unsung heroes of the film industry. They play a crucial role in creating movies and television shows.
Their technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage both equipment and personnel make them indispensable to the film crews they work with.
The next time you watch a film or TV show, remember the Best Boys who helped bring that visual story to life.
Frequently asked questions about best boys (FAQs)
What is a Best Boy?
The Best Boy is the right-hand assistant to the department head in the lighting and grip departments on a film set.
They play a crucial role in film and television production, ensuring the smooth operation of their respective departments.
What are the two types of Best Boys?
Best Boy Electric: Assists the Chief Lighting Technician or Gaffer.
Best Boy Grip: Works under the Key Grip, managing all grip equipment.
What does a Best Boy Grip do?
The Best Boy Grip oversees the grip crew, handles camera support and rigging, and sometimes works closely with the camera department to provide all necessary equipment for shaping and controlling lighting on set.
What does the Best Boy Electric do?
They are essentially the head electrician's deputy, managing the electrical department, organizing the power distribution, and ensuring all lighting equipment is correctly set up and maintained.
How do Best Boys contribute to a film set?
Best Boys are the backbone of their departments. They handle the day-to-day operations, from managing equipment rentals and transportation to maintaining safety protocols.
They ensure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, allowing for the successful capture of each scene.
Do Best Boys need technical knowledge?
Absolutely. Best Boys possess deep technical knowledge of their equipment, be it lighting or grip. They also have strong problem-solving skills, excellent communication abilities, and an understanding of safety protocols.
What skills are crucial for a Best Boy?
Technical Knowledge: Understanding of camera and lighting equipment.
Communication Skills: Coordination with various departments.
Problem-Solving Skills: Quick thinking to address on-set challenges.
Physical Strength: Handling heavy equipment.
Leadership: Managing crew members effectively.
How do you become a Best Boy?
No formal education is required, but starting as a Production Assistant or in an entry-level position within the grip or electrical department is common.
Gaining experience, learning on the job, and working closely with department heads can pave the way to becoming a Best Boy.
What's the average salary of a Best Boy?
Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the production budget. Best Boys can earn an hourly wage or a negotiated rate per project. With a few years of experience, their earnings can grow significantly.
Why are they called Best Boys?
The title's origin is a bit of a mystery, harking back to the early days of film. It suggests a level of trust and reliability, as these crew members are considered the "best" person the department head can rely on.
Can Women Be Best Boys?
Yes, the job title is not gender-specific. Women fulfilling these roles might sometimes be credited as "Best Girls," though "Best Boy" remains the standard industry term regardless of gender.
