When you watch a movie or a television show, you might be wondering if the actors are using real money. After all, it looks so real and convincing! While it may look like real money, it is usually prop money, which is a special type of money used for filming and other entertainment purposes. In this article, we will take a look at what prop money is, the different types of prop money, and whether or not actors can use real money.
I. What is Prop Money?
Prop money, also known as movie money, is a type of currency specifically designed for use in films and television shows. It is printed on one side only and is not legal tender, meaning it cannot be used to purchase goods or services. Prop money looks very realistic and is often indistinguishable from real money from a distance. It is typically used in scenes where characters are handing money back and forth, or where money needs to be shown in a certain way without being actually exchanged.
II. Different Types of Prop Money
Prop money comes in three different types: standard, high quality, and real money. Standard prop money is printed on both sides and looks great from a distance, but it is noticeably different when viewed up close. High quality prop money is printed on one side and looks very realistic when viewed up close. Real money is actual US dollars, but it is not legal tender and is not allowed to be used in filming.
III. Can Actors Use Real Money?
In general, actors cannot use real money in a production. This is due to the fact that real money is illegal to use in filming and could be considered counterfeit money. The US Secret Service has strict regulations regarding the use of real money in films, and any production using real money could be subject to criminal charges.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. In some cases, a production may be granted special permission to use real money by the US Secret Service. In these cases, the production will be required to provide detailed documentation of how the money will be used and must ensure that it is not used for any illegal purposes.
Conclusion
When watching a movie or TV show, it may look like the actors are using real money. However, it is usually prop money, which is specifically designed for use in films and television shows. There are three types of prop money: standard, high quality, and real money. Real money is not allowed to be used in filming, but in some cases, a production may be granted special permission to use real money by the US Secret Service.
