What is the primary role of grips in film production?

The primary role of grips in film production is to handle technical crafts. Grips are essential members of the film crew who work primarily with lighting and rigging equipment. They are responsible for setting up and maintaining the equipment that supports the cameras, such as tripods, dollies, and other apparatus that facilitate the filming process. Their expertise ensures that the camera operators and cinematographers can achieve the desired shots and lighting setups.

Understanding the correct answer requires recognizing the unique responsibilities of grips compared to other roles in film production. They do not engage in editing, perform in front of the camera, or scout locations, which differentiates their role from those of editors, actors, and location managers. Grips play a crucial behind-the-scenes part that contributes significantly to the overall smooth operation of a film shoot.