Gustharts has played an integral role in providing some of the best rigging equipment to FOX UK Productions, Longcross Film Studios and Pinewood Studios, assisting in constructing their creative projects to ensure the highest standards.
The need for film riggers is universal, from Hollywood blockbusters to intimate indie films. These unsung heroes are crucial in the creative process amidst the more visible actors, directors and writers, which is why this guide is designed to shine a light on film riggers and the essential roles they carry out day to day.
Table of Contents
- What is a rigger?
- What do film riggers do?
- Film rigging equipment
What is a rigger?
The role of the rigger has transformed throughout history, initially deriving from the boating domain, overseeing the ropes and sails to allow for seamless and protective transportation. Now, riggers' duties within respective arenas across multiple industries differentiate to suit their professional remits. One thing that does remain at the forefront of all rigging jobs is the prioritsation of safety and strong outcomes.
So, what is a rigger within the film industry? A film rigger specialises in constructing and overseeing scaffolding on sets which support the lighting and scenery structures of all television or film productions. Through meticulous training and strong attention to detail, riggers are responsible for maximising the secure utility of ropes, lifts, hoists, booms, cameras and lights, amongst other apparatus, to allow for a filming experience of precision and protection.
What do film riggers do?
Like many professions, film rigging has several avenues to specialise in, ranging between camera work, lighting, stunts and animation. Within the productions of current best-selling films such as Dune: Part 2 or the heavily animated Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, it is important to acknowledge the centrality film riggers demonstrate on every project.
Camera work
Film riggers specialising in camera work closely with cinematographers to create revolutionary angles and innovative shots. With access to exclusive heights and positions thanks to the essence of their role, they are often granted the freedom to design and capture content that reflects their creativity.
Lighting
Similarly to riggers assisting in filming techniques, those working with lighting devices can offer insight into crafting inventive effects and ambience. So, regardless of whether on location or working from studio space, film riggers will bring their expertise for optimum outcomes.
Stunts
In action films, actors and stunt doubles are often required to perform extreme choreography to convey pace or danger. However, riggers position and supervise various equipment to minimise danger to the cast and crew when filming. So, not only do they play a part in the aesthetic of the scenes, but also in evoking the audience's adrenaline and emotion.
Animation
For film riggers driven towards the animation world, pioneered by Pixar, Walt Disney and Dreamworks, their working day focuses heavily on computer-generated imagery. Away from the physical safety of actors, animation riggers will work on crafting and developing digital skeletons and 3D characters to bring different characters to life.
So, instead of working with ropes, hoists and lifts, film riggers in animation assist in sculpting and defining the movements of computer-based characters to create high-quality imagery and magical worlds.
Film rigging equipment
At Gustharts, we act as a resource for providing the best film rigging equipment, making sure riggers have easy access to required tools of thorough reliability and quality. Here, you can browse our range of items that have played their part on real, professional film sets.
ISC: Large Cast 20mm Pulley
The ISC Large Cast 20mm Pulley is a perfect rigging apparatus with its heavy-duty purpose and large sheave, which enables it to accommodate larger roles and high-load applications. Rigorous efficiency is also guaranteed with its smooth, round design that minimises friction.
Fox UK Productions has sought this product from Gustharts for past productions, ensuring their SFX department is sourced with the highest quality equipment.
ISC: HMS Supersafe Carabiner
As stated in the product name, the ISC HMS Supersafe Carabiner guarantees maximum safety with its 27kN breaking strength and triple-locking mechanism.
The product has been used by world-renowned Longcross Film Studios, the production company of globally recognised films such as Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One and The Marvels.
Rock Exotica: Omni Block 2.0 Single
This easy-to-use Rock Exotica Omni Block 2.0 Single provides film riggers with a lightweight and compact design to keep proficiency at the heart of their task.
Utilised by Wired Stunts LTD in some of their projects, our products are of the highest quality regarding health and safety.
ISC: Large Double Pulley Bushed Aluminium Red
Specifically designed to suit heavy rigging, this fully CE-certified Large Double Pulley accommodates the attachment of a second rope to give film riggers mechanical dominance.
Shepperton Studios has incorporated this item into their set construction as the home of one of the most established film studios, with credits such as Enola Holmes 2, The Sandman and 1917.
NOTCH EQUIPMENT: Throw Bag Weights
As an essential tool for film riggers working from significant heights, these Throw Bag Weights come in various colours reflecting their five respective weights.
Pinewood Studios has used this Notch Equipment product, potentially benefitting films such as Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Jurassic World: Dominion or No Time To Die.
NOTCH EQUIPMENT: Notch Big Shot Catapult 8ft
When film riggers need a powerful and versatile tool to launch a throw weight or line accurately and easily, the Notch Big Shot Catapult from Notch Equipment does just that. With a robust construction of durable fibreglass and a fully variable thrust force, riggers can gauge precision, limiting over-shooting of low to mid-range targets.
Available from Gustharts, riggers at state-of-the-art Sky Studios Elstree have employed products from our catapult range into their process, evidencing the value of our products within the most esteemed creative companies.
Rigging equipment at Gustharts
As a frequent resource of rigging equipment, we know the importance of film riggers and the uncompromising need for their expertise at the core of every film or television set. So, should you be met with questions going forward about what film riggers do, you will have all the answers.
Purchase from our extensive rigging and climbing ranges, keeping confidence and control central to every task.
