The Staffa Corner | Film Industry, Entertainment & Celebrity Interviews

Entertainment & Film Industry - Ross Macdonald on National Treasure: Book of Secrets, & Props

Greg Staffa / Ross MacDonald Season 1 Episode 4

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Entertainment & Film Industry -  Ross Macdonald on National Treasure: Book of Secrets, and Hollywood Props.

Ross MacDonald is a man of many talents. His illustrations have appeared in Vanity Fair, The New York Times, The New Yorker, Newsweek, Time, and Rolling Stone. He’s also written and illustrated several books and created props for over 100 film and television productions, including Greyhound, Zombieland: Double Tap, and John Wick.

In our conversation, we dive into the incredible level of detail behind props often seen for only a split second and the craftsmanship required to make them feel authentic. From recreating vintage circus posters to choosing the right fonts for period pieces, Ross shares insights that bring these hidden elements of filmmaking to life.

He also breaks down the collaborative nature of prop creation, challenging the assumption that it’s a simple request-and-deliver process. One standout story involves the challenges he faced while working on Boardwalk Empire, including the balance between historical accuracy and personal integrity.

It’s a fascinating, thoughtful conversation with a true craftsman whose passion for history and authenticity shines through in every detail.

I hope you enjoy listening to him as much as I did. For more on Ross MacDonald’s work you can check him out at https://www.ross-macdonald.com

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