They are an accessory item for grips. They are used to prop people higher, seats for various crew people, lifters for tracks and other stuff. They are basically a multifunction grip tool.
For one, they're handy for camera operators and boom operators when they need to gain a little height--they provide a nice stable platform for standing on. Also good when you need to raise something in a scene. Makes a handy seat when there isn't a chair around. Nail a baby plate to an apple box and you have a low light stand. Use some to level dolly track over uneven terrain. Make a short actor taller.
[quote author=powerdog link=board=Links;num=1107730188;start=0#7 date=02/07/05 at 02:51:30]They're generally considered more expensive than Windows boxes, but they're better designed.[/quote]
, took a second to make me laugh..
the last time I heard the term was in reference to any old box that gives something a little elevation..even just any old useful box, I think also..
you know those plastic storage boxes that are sold at home depot and just about everywhere for $5.99? two flaps open on each side to let you acces the contents. I heard someone refer to that as an apple box.