Last Updated 3 days ago
Definition
An Apple Box is a sturdy wooden box used on film sets for a wide variety of practical purposes. They come in standardized sizes—full, half, quarter, and pancake—and are considered one of the most versatile tools in the grip and electric departments.
When someone says “apple box” without specification, they typically mean a full apple.
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Standard Sizes of Apple Boxes
- Full Apple: 20″ × 12″ × 8″
- Half Apple: 20″ × 12″ × 4″
- Quarter Apple: 20″ × 12″ × 2″
- Pancake: 20″ × 12″ × 1″
These are common nominal sizes. Actual dimensions and construction vary by manufacturer; check the boxes you are using before combining them.
Quarter Apple Box
A quarter apple is the approximately 2-inch-thick member of a conventional apple box set, with a nominal 20-by-12-inch footprint. “Quarter” refers to its thickness compared with the 8-inch full apple; it does not mean a box with a quarter of the footprint. Manufacturers may make the actual length and width slightly smaller than those nominal dimensions.
A quarter apple provides a small height adjustment, such as raising a stationary performer for a close-up or bringing a supported object into the desired position. It is thicker than a pancake, commonly about 1 inch, and thinner than a half apple, commonly about 4 inches.
Use the broad face for a low platform, with full contact on a suitable surface. Check the box for damage and confirm that the arrangement suits the person, equipment and movement involved. A loose stack, an unsupported edge or an uneven floor can create instability. Do not assume that naming a box size establishes a safe load or makes it suitable for a particular rig.
For example, a quarter apple may provide the small lift needed to align two stationary performers in a close-up. Confirm the framing, explain the change to the performer and reassess the setup if they will step or move during the take.
Find this term in the Q dictionary index or compare it with a half apple box.
Common Uses on Set
- Actor Elevation: To subtly boost an actor’s height in a shot (“give them an apple”).
- Camera Support: Used under tripods, dolly track, or handheld rigs for extra height or stabilization.
- Grip & Rigging: Provides a solid base for rigging lights, stands, or gear.
- Step or Seat: Crew members use them as makeshift stools or platforms.
- Leveling: Helps stabilize equipment on uneven terrain.
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Terms & Phrases
- “Standing on an Apple” — a performer raised on a suitable apple box for framing.
- “Pancake” — the thinnest conventional apple box, used for small height adjustments.
Why Apple Boxes Are Essential
- Durability: Professional boxes are built for repeated set use; inspect their condition and follow the manufacturer’s intended uses.
- Versatility: A single apple box can serve dozens of purposes in a day.
- Standardization: Common nominal sizes make it easier to request a particular height, while actual dimensions should still be checked.
- Efficiency: Saves time by offering quick solutions for elevation, support, or rigging needs.
Historical Context
Apple boxes have been a staple of film production for decades, evolving from makeshift wooden crates into standardized, professionally built grip equipment. Despite advances in technology, their design has remained largely unchanged because of their practicality.
Fun Facts
- In some regions, apple boxes are called “man makers” (because they make actors taller).
- They are sometimes painted or wrapped to match set design if they appear in frame.
- A conventional apple box set contains a full, half, quarter and pancake.
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Related Terms
- Grip — the department that handles many support and rigging tasks.
- Half Apple Box — the approximately 4-inch-thick member of a conventional apple box set.
- Sandbag — weight used where appropriate to stabilise stands and other equipment.
Browse terms beginning with A or return to the filmmaking dictionary.