Duplicate props, costumes, or set pieces kept on standby. When the hero item gets destroyed, soiled, or a stunt requires multiple takes, the duplicate ensures continuity without reshooting earlier scenes.
What are Multiples?
Multiples are identical duplicates of props, costumes, or set elements. They allow for repeated takes, stunts, and effects without waiting for repairs or cleaning.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Replacement and backup |
| Identical | To the original |
| Purpose | Continuity, efficiency |
| Areas | Props, costumes, sets |
Areas of Use
| Area | Example |
|---|---|
| Action | Destroyed props |
| Stunts | Costume duplicates |
| Effects | Breakaway versions |
| Continuity | Clean backups |
Prop Multiples
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Hero Prop | Main version |
| Stunt Prop | For action |
| Breakaway | For breaking |
| Backup | In case of damage |
Costume Multiples
| Type | Usage |
|---|---|
| Hero Costume | Close-ups |
| Stunt Doubles | For doubles |
| Wet/Dirty | Soiled scenes |
| Backup | Repair/cleaning |
Quantity
| Factor | Influence |
|---|---|
| Usage | More for action |
| Takes | Repeats |
| Damage | Expected destruction |
| Budget | Limiting |
Hero vs. Multiple
| Aspect | Hero | Multiple |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Highest | Identical |
| Usage | Close-ups | General |
| Quantity | Usually 1 | Several |
| Cost | Higher | Cheaper possible |
Breakaway Multiples
| Material | Application |
|---|---|
| Sugar glass | Windows |
| Balsa wood | Wooden props |
| Styrofoam | Large objects |
| Special | Custom effects |
Planning
| Phase | Activity |
|---|---|
| Pre-production | Determine quantity |
| Manufacturing | Create duplicates |
| Storage | Organized |
| Set | Keep ready |
Cost Calculation
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Per piece |
| Material | Depending on complexity |
| Quantity | Planned amount |
| Buffer | Extra reserve |
Quality Control
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Matching | Identical to hero |
| Details | All match |
| Color | Exactly the same |
| Patina | Match if necessary |
Labeling
| System | Description |
|---|---|
| Numbers | #1, #2, #3 |
| Status | Clean, Used |
| Type | Hero, Stunt |
| Scene | Assignment |
Prop Department
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Create multiples |
| Tracking | Monitor status |
| Provision | On set |
| Repair | If possible |
Costume Department
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Duplicates | Sew/Buy |
| Fitting | For doubles |
| Cleaning | Cleaning |
| Continuity | Matching |
Example: Action Sequence
| Multiple | Usage |
|---|---|
| 1 | Master/Hero |
| 2-3 | Clean backups |
| 4-6 | Dirty/Wet |
| 7+ | Stunt/Breakaway |
Communication
| With whom | About what |
|---|---|
| Script Supervisor | Continuity |
| Director | Requirements |
| Stunt Coordinator | Stunt multiples |
| VFX | Hero tracking |
On-Set Storage
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Organization | Clearly sorted |
| Access | Quickly reachable |
| Protection | From damage |
| Climate | Controlled if necessary |
Challenges
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Matching | Reference photos |
| Patina | Artificial aging |
| Availability | Plan enough |
| Cost | Budget planning |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Plan early | Manufacturing time |
| Order extra | Unexpected events |
| Document | Track status |
| Communicate | With all departments |
Today
Multiples are a fundamental component of professional film production. From simple costume duplicates to complex breakaway props, they enable creative freedom and production efficiency. Careful planning and manufacturing of multiples are essential for smooth shooting.
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