Period Settings and Props

February 18th, 2010

Whenever you watch a television programme or film that is set in a particular time, you can be certain that the prop buyers on that production have gone to painstaking trouble to ensure that the props used are as authentic as possible. One of the most common comments for filmmakers to receive is that something was not correct.

For example, the lantern held by the Great Northern Railways porter was not issued to staff until 1946 whereas the film is quite clearly set in 1945. This might seem pedantic on the part of the viewer and most people suspend their disbelief so that they can enjoy the story being told, but props are a vital part of the film’s overall atmosphere.

The most difficult periods to get right are the more recent ones because many viewers will have their own memories of those times. However, there is nothing better than being transported to another time and place and the props team have a huge part to play in that. The everyday items such as bicycles, bags and telephones, whilst all relatively minor, add up to give a real flavour of a particular period.

At Keeley Hire we have over half a million props covering everything from mundane everyday articles to the positively exotic. Our premises are just outside London and you can arrange to collect your items or we can have them delivered to you if you prefer. Don’t let a lack of attention to detail spoil the reception of your production, especially when such an efficient prop hire company is at your disposal.


Authentic Props

February 4th, 2010

One of the most enjoyable programmes on television over the Christmas period was arguably Victoria Wood’s ‘Midlife Christmas.’ At its centre was a spoof of the BBC’s costume dramas. What made the comedy particularly effective was the setting. Because Victoria Wood was working for the BBC she was able to use the sets, costumes and props from the series ‘Larkrise to Candleford’ in her spoof ‘Lark Pies to Cranchesterford.’ The fact that we supplied props for the original television series only makes this slightly more interesting for us!

Whether you’re making a period drama, something very topical or a story set in the far future, it is vital that the props look like the real thing. Think how disappointing it would be if Doctor Who appeared on our screens with a sonic screwdriver that looked like it came out of a breakfast cereal packet.

At Keeley Hire, we have over half a million props which have been used in Hollywood blockbusters, popular television series and award winning advertisements. We have a selection of these items listed on our website but these are just the tip of the iceberg.

We have been supplying television, film and events with the perfect props for over forty years. Our personnel have a wealth of experience. In fact any problems you’re having with regard to sourcing props have probably been dealt with by our experts before. We have everything in our covered warehousing where you can collect your requirements or we can arrange to have them delivered.