Watch Prop Culture

Prop Culture is a mesmerizing Disney+ docuseries that takes viewers on a fascinating journey into the world of movie props and costumes. Hosted by the affable and knowledgeable film historian Dan Lanigan, each episode of the show delves into the making of iconic movies by exploring the making of their most famous prop or costume. With the help of his team that included archivist Becky Cline and model maker Don Bies, Dan sets out to track down these revered artifacts, and along the way, discovers some amazing stories that are sure to enthrall any cinephile.

The series opens with a captivating pilot episode, dedicated to Disney's classic movie Mary Poppins. Dan takes us through the journey of discovering the original "Jolly Holiday" dress worn by Julie Andrews in the film. He traces the dress's history through the different owners, finally finding it in a collection in a small town in Illinois. The episode is full of surprises and touching moments, including a surprise meeting with Dick Van Dyke's son, who shares some emotional stories about his father's legacy.

One of the remarkable things about Prop Culture is the way it explores the stories behind the props and costumes, and how they connect to the people and history behind them. In the second episode, titled "Tron," Dan explores the making of the iconic light discs from the 1982 sci-fi extravaganza. He visits the original model maker Richard Taylor, who shares some of the challenges he faced while creating the discs. Along the way, Dan discovers some interesting anecdotes about the production, including how Bruce Boxleitner's original costume was almost destroyed by fire on set.

As the series progresses, the show crisscrosses the country, visiting different collectors and experts who reveal the treasures they have hoarded. Some of the show's most memorable episodes include "The Nightmare Before Christmas," "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids," and "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl." In each episode, Dan and his team navigate the tricky world of film memorabilia, unearthing valuable gems that are priceless to collectors.

One of the things that make Prop Culture so enjoyable is the way it presents itself as a love letter to Hollywood and the creative process. As Dan says in the introduction of each episode, "props are not only a part of a movie's story but also a part of the world's story." The show celebrates the talent and hard work that go into making movies, and how a single prop or costume can embody the spirit of a film.

Another thing that sets Prop Culture apart is the way it transforms the viewing experience into a kind of treasure hunt for film buffs. Each episode is packed with rare footage, behind-the-scenes clips, and interviews with cast and crew, all of which add new layers of appreciation for the films being showcased. Even if you're not a hardcore cinephile, the show is accessible and engaging, thanks to Dan's easygoing style and the relatable human stories at its core.

In conclusion, Prop Culture is a one-of-a-kind series, an ode to the magic of cinema that will forever change the way you watch movies. With its rich storytelling, surprising discoveries, and unbridled passion for film history, the show is a must-watch for anyone who loves movies, art, and storytelling. So why not join Dan and his team on this incredible journey into the heart of movie culture? You won't regret it.