Specialized wheeled platform used to tow vehicles during filming, allowing actors to 'drive' while actually being towed – enables safe capture of driving scenes with cameras mounted on follow vehicles or process trailers while actors focus on performance.
What is a Tow Dolly?
A Tow Dolly is a specialized towing device used to pull vehicles during filming. The actor sits in the "driving" car, which is actually being towed by another vehicle – enabling safe driving scenes with a focus on performance.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Vehicle towing platform |
| Function | Towing a car |
| Purpose | Safe driving scenes |
| Alternative | Process Trailer |
Construction
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Platform | Supports front wheels |
| Wheels | Roll on the road |
| Tongue | Connection to tow vehicle |
| Securing | Straps, chains |
Types
| Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Standard | Front wheels loaded |
| Flatbed | Entire vehicle |
| Specialty | Film-specific |
| Heavy Duty | Larger vehicles |
Vs. Process Trailer
| Aspect | Tow Dolly | Process Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Stability | Lower | Higher |
| Camera Options | Limited | Diverse |
| Setup | Faster | More complex |
Applications
| Scene Type | Usage |
|---|---|
| Dialogue Drives | Conversations in the car |
| Reactions | Actor reactions |
| Night Driving | Nighttime journeys |
| POV | Driver's perspective |
Setup
| Step | Activity |
|---|---|
| Positioning | Align dolly |
| Loading | Drive vehicle onto dolly |
| Securing | Strap down |
| Check | Safety inspection |
Tow Vehicle
| Type | Usage |
|---|---|
| Picture Car | Visible in frame |
| Work Truck | Out of frame |
| Insert Car | With camera rig |
| Specialty | Film trucks |
Safety
| Aspect | Measure |
|---|---|
| Straps | Secure vehicle |
| Speed | Limited speed |
| Communication | Walkie connection |
| Backup | Safety personnel |
Camera Positions
| Position | Mounting |
|---|---|
| Hood Mount | On the hood |
| Side Mount | On the side of the car |
| Following | Camera car behind |
| Drone | Aerial shot |
Rigging
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Suction Mounts | Suction cups |
| Speed Rail | Pipes/tubing |
| Hostess Tray | Side mount |
| Interior | Interior rig |
Crew
| Position | Task |
|---|---|
| Driver | Tow vehicle |
| Grip | Rigging |
| Safety | Coordination |
| Camera Op | With moving camera |
Speed
| Scenario | Typical Speed |
|---|---|
| Dialogue | 15-25 mph |
| Action | 30-40 mph |
| Highway | 45-55 mph |
| Stunt | Variable |
Challenges
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Vibration | Dampening |
| Sync | Communication |
| Traffic | Road closure |
| Weather | Adaptation |
Permits
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Road Permit | Street permit |
| Police | Escort |
| Insurance | Special coverage |
| Traffic Control | If necessary |
Alternatives
| Method | Application |
|---|---|
| Green Screen | Studio driving shots |
| LED Volume | Virtual Production |
| Rear Projection | Classic method |
| Actual Driving | With stunt driver |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Safety First | Always the priority |
| Test Run | Check before shooting |
| Communication | Clear signals |
| Backup Plan | Have alternatives |
Today
Tow dollies remain a practical tool for driving scenes, although LED volumes and virtual production are increasingly offering alternatives. For certain shots – especially with natural light and real roads – the combination of a tow dolly and a practical vehicle continues to be the most convincing solution for authentic driving scenes.