What is Craft Services on a Movie Set? And Why Do They Always Have the Best Snacks?

What is Craft Services on a Movie Set? And Why Do They Always Have the Best Snacks?

When you think about the glamour of a movie set, your mind might immediately jump to the dazzling lights, the cameras, and the actors delivering their lines with precision. But behind the scenes, there’s an unsung hero that keeps the entire production running smoothly: Craft Services. Often confused with catering, craft services is the backbone of any film set, providing sustenance, comfort, and sometimes even a morale boost to the cast and crew. But what exactly is craft services, and why does it hold such a pivotal role in the filmmaking process? Let’s dive into the world of craft services, exploring its history, its importance, and the little-known secrets that make it so indispensable.


The Definition of Craft Services

Craft services, often referred to simply as “crafty,” is the department responsible for providing snacks, beverages, and light meals to the cast and crew during a film or television production. Unlike catering, which handles full meals, craft services focuses on keeping everyone energized and hydrated throughout the long, grueling hours of shooting. Think of it as the snack station that never sleeps, always stocked with coffee, pastries, fruit, and other quick bites to keep the team going.


The Origins of Craft Services

The term “craft services” has its roots in the early days of Hollywood. Back then, the “crafts” referred to the various departments on set—camera, lighting, sound, etc. These departments were often referred to as “the crafts,” and the people who provided food and drinks to these hardworking individuals became known as the “craft services” team. Over time, the term stuck, and today, craft services is an integral part of any production.


The Role of Craft Services on Set

  1. Keeping Energy Levels High: Filming can be exhausting, with long hours and intense focus required from everyone involved. Craft services ensures that there’s always a steady supply of snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up.

  2. Boosting Morale: A well-stocked craft services table can be a huge morale booster. After all, who doesn’t love a good snack break? It’s a small but meaningful way to show appreciation for the hard work of the cast and crew.

  3. Saving Time: With tight schedules and limited breaks, craft services allows people to grab a quick bite without having to leave the set. This helps keep the production on track and minimizes downtime.

  4. Accommodating Dietary Needs: Craft services often caters to a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring that everyone on set has something they can enjoy.


The Craft Services Table: A Closer Look

The craft services table is a sight to behold. It’s typically a long table filled with an array of snacks and beverages, carefully arranged to cater to different tastes and needs. Here’s what you might find on a typical craft services table:

  • Coffee and Tea: Essential for those early morning calls and late-night shoots.
  • Fresh Fruit: A healthy option for those looking to stay energized without the sugar crash.
  • Pastries and Baked Goods: From muffins to cookies, these are a favorite among the crew.
  • Chips and Pretzels: Quick, easy, and satisfying.
  • Sandwiches and Wraps: For something a bit more substantial.
  • Water and Soft Drinks: Hydration is key, especially during long shoots.

The Unsung Heroes: The Craft Services Team

While the craft services table is the star of the show, it’s the craft services team that makes it all possible. These individuals work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that the table is always stocked, the coffee is always hot, and the snacks are always fresh. They’re often the first to arrive on set and the last to leave, and their dedication is a testament to their passion for their craft.


The Evolution of Craft Services

Over the years, craft services has evolved to meet the changing needs of the film industry. With the rise of health-conscious eating, many craft services tables now feature organic, gluten-free, and vegan options. There’s also a greater emphasis on sustainability, with reusable cups and plates becoming more common on set.


Craft Services vs. Catering: What’s the Difference?

While craft services and catering both involve food, they serve different purposes on a film set. Catering is responsible for providing full meals, usually during scheduled meal breaks. Craft services, on the other hand, is all about the snacks and drinks that keep everyone going in between meals. Think of catering as the main course and craft services as the appetizers and desserts.


The Cultural Impact of Craft Services

Craft services has become such a staple of the film industry that it’s even made its way into popular culture. From movies and TV shows to memes and social media posts, the craft services table is often depicted as a place of comfort and camaraderie. It’s a reminder that even in the high-pressure world of filmmaking, there’s always time for a snack break.


The Future of Craft Services

As the film industry continues to evolve, so too will craft services. With advancements in technology and a growing focus on sustainability, we can expect to see even more innovative approaches to keeping the cast and crew fueled and hydrated. Whether it’s through eco-friendly packaging or high-tech snack dispensers, the future of craft services is sure to be as exciting as the films it helps bring to life.


FAQs About Craft Services

Q: Is craft services the same as catering?
A: No, craft services focuses on snacks and beverages, while catering provides full meals.

Q: Who pays for craft services?
A: Craft services is typically covered by the production budget.

Q: Can anyone on set access craft services?
A: Yes, craft services is available to everyone on set, from the lead actor to the production assistant.

Q: Are there any rules for using craft services?
A: While there are no strict rules, it’s generally expected that people will be respectful and not take more than they need.

Q: What’s the most popular item on a craft services table?
A: Coffee is usually the most in-demand item, followed by fresh fruit and pastries.


Craft services may not be the most glamorous part of filmmaking, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most important. From keeping energy levels high to boosting morale, craft services plays a vital role in ensuring that every production runs smoothly. So the next time you see a movie, take a moment to appreciate the unsung heroes behind the craft services table—they’re the ones keeping the magic alive, one snack at a time.