Last Updated 3 months ago
Definition
The Best Boy Grip is the second-in-command in the grip department, working directly under the Key Grip. While the key grip focuses on the creative and technical rigging solutions that shape light and support camera movement, the best boy grip manages the department’s logistics, equipment, and personnel to keep everything organized and efficient.
Responsibilities of the Best Boy Grip
- Crew Management: Supervises the grip crew, assigning tasks and ensuring safety on set.
- Equipment Coordination: Orders, tracks, and organizes grip gear such as stands, rigging hardware, and rigged camera platforms.
- Truck Organization: Maintains the grip truck or staging area so gear is accessible and properly stored.
- Scheduling & Paperwork: Manages crew schedules, timecards, and rental lists for grip equipment.
- Problem-Solving: Troubleshoots rigging challenges, whether it’s securing a dolly track, mounting a camera, or building rigging structures.
- Communication: Acts as the liaison between the key grip, production office, and rental houses.
Best Boy Grip vs. Key Grip
- Key Grip: Department head who works with the Director of Photography (DP) to control lighting (via flags, diffusion, and rigging) and camera movement.
- Best Boy Grip: The operational manager, ensuring the grip team and equipment are ready to execute the key grip’s plan.
In other words, the key grip designs the rigging and light control strategy, while the best boy grip ensures it happens smoothly.
Why It’s Called “Best Boy”
Like the Best Boy Electric, the term comes from early Hollywood when department heads would request their “best boy”—their most reliable assistant. Over time, the title became formalized for both grip and electric departments.
Why It Matters
The Best Boy Grip is vital for keeping the grip department organized, efficient, and safe. From truck organization to crew coordination, this role allows the key grip to focus on creative and technical problem-solving while ensuring the team can execute quickly on set.
Related Terms
- [Key Grip] The head of the grip department, responsible for shaping light and overseeing rigging and movement.
- [Best Boy Electric] The second-in-command in the electric department, supporting the gaffer.
- [Grip Department] The crew handling rigging, shaping, and controlling light, as well as supporting camera movement.