What is a Best Boy on a Movie Set? And Why Do They Sometimes Wear Invisible Hats?

What is a Best Boy on a Movie Set? And Why Do They Sometimes Wear Invisible Hats?

When you hear the term “Best Boy” on a movie set, you might imagine a young, eager assistant running around with a clipboard, or perhaps someone who has won an award for being the most helpful crew member. However, the reality is both more specific and more fascinating. The Best Boy is a crucial role in the filmmaking process, but their job description is often misunderstood. And while they don’t actually wear invisible hats, their work often goes unnoticed—much like the hats themselves.

The Role of the Best Boy: A Deep Dive

The Best Boy is a position within the electrical and grip departments on a film set. There are two types of Best Boys: the Best Boy Electric and the Best Boy Grip. Each serves a distinct purpose, but both are essential to the smooth operation of a production.

Best Boy Electric

The Best Boy Electric is the right-hand person to the Gaffer, who is the head of the lighting department. Their primary responsibilities include managing the electrical crew, maintaining lighting equipment, and ensuring that all power sources are safe and functional. They also handle the logistics of transporting and setting up lighting gear, which can range from small LED panels to massive 18K HMI lights.

Best Boy Grip

On the other hand, the Best Boy Grip works under the Key Grip, who oversees the grip department. Grips are responsible for rigging camera equipment, building scaffolding, and setting up any equipment that supports the camera or lighting. The Best Boy Grip manages the grip crew, schedules their work, and ensures that all equipment is in good condition and ready for use.

The Origins of the Title

The term “Best Boy” has its roots in the early days of filmmaking. It’s believed to have originated from the practice of selecting the most skilled or reliable assistant from a pool of workers. Over time, the title became formalized, even though it sounds more like a nickname than a professional designation. Interestingly, the role is not gender-specific; women can and do hold the position of Best Boy.

Why the Invisible Hat?

Now, about those invisible hats. While it’s true that Best Boys don’t literally wear invisible hats, the metaphor speaks to the often-overlooked nature of their work. They operate behind the scenes, ensuring that everything runs smoothly without drawing attention to themselves. Their contributions are vital, yet they rarely receive the spotlight—hence the “invisible” aspect.

The Unsung Heroes of Film Sets

Best Boys are the unsung heroes of film sets. They work long hours, often in challenging conditions, to ensure that the director’s vision can be realized. Without them, the lighting wouldn’t be perfect, the cameras wouldn’t be stable, and the entire production could grind to a halt. They are problem-solvers, organizers, and technicians all rolled into one.

The Evolution of the Role

As technology advances, the role of the Best Boy continues to evolve. With the rise of digital cinematography and LED lighting, Best Boys must stay up-to-date with the latest equipment and techniques. They are no longer just managing cables and lights; they are also troubleshooting complex digital systems and ensuring that the set is future-proof.

Conclusion

So, what is a Best Boy on a movie set? They are the backbone of the electrical and grip departments, the behind-the-scenes maestros who keep the lights on and the cameras rolling. And while they may not wear invisible hats, their work is often as unseen as it is indispensable. Next time you watch a movie, take a moment to appreciate the Best Boys—because without them, the magic of cinema wouldn’t be possible.

Q: Can a woman be a Best Boy?
A: Absolutely! The title is not gender-specific, and many women hold the position of Best Boy in the film industry.

Q: What’s the difference between a Best Boy Electric and a Best Boy Grip?
A: The Best Boy Electric works with the lighting department under the Gaffer, while the Best Boy Grip works with the grip department under the Key Grip. Their responsibilities are distinct but equally important.

Q: Do Best Boys ever interact with the actors?
A: Rarely. Best Boys are primarily focused on technical aspects of the production and usually work behind the scenes.

Q: Is the term “Best Boy” used outside of the film industry?
A: No, the term is unique to the film and television industry. It’s a specialized role that doesn’t have a direct equivalent in other fields.

Q: How does one become a Best Boy?
A: Most Best Boys start as electricians or grips and work their way up through experience and networking. It’s a role that requires both technical expertise and strong organizational skills.