Production Design























Props

“Prop” is short for “property,” and refers to any object that is in the setting and/or handled by an actor during a scene. Props can take on many meanings from the practical to the symbolic. A “functional” prop is one that is used for obvious reasons — a knife to kill or a phone to make a call. A “metaphoric” prop is more subtle and can be used to symbolize something in the plot — women’s high heels indicate sexuality, or a balloon can symbolize innocence and happiness.

A prop can also be used to help define the meaning or the environment — a poster on the wall, or a set of chopsticks in a restaurant. Many films are made memorable by a creative use of props.

 

Select a category of props from the left. Watch the film clip to see how the props play an important role in helping to define the intention.