Tips for Becoming a Stunt Person in Movies

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by Lewis Robinson

Stunt work in the movie industry is both thrilling and dangerous, requiring a unique combination of physical skill, mental toughness, and professional training. Stunt people—often referred to as stunt performers or coordinators—play a critical role in creating high-intensity action sequences that bring excitement and realism to films. While becoming a stunt person can be an incredibly rewarding career, it requires dedication, preparation, and a deep understanding of safety protocols. This article provides an overview of how to enter the world of stunt performance in movies, including essential steps and legal considerations.

Physical Preparation and Training

The foundation of a successful stunt career begins with exceptional physical fitness. Stunt work requires strength, agility, endurance, and coordination. Stunt performers are often tasked with executing complex physical tasks, such as high falls, fight scenes, car chases, or fire stunts, which demand a high level of physical conditioning. To prepare for a career in stunt work, aspiring stunt performers must engage in extensive physical training.

Strength training, flexibility exercises, and cardiovascular conditioning are critical components of a stunt person’s fitness regimen. In addition to these general fitness principles, aspiring stunt performers should focus on specialized skills such as martial arts, gymnastics, parkour, and precision driving. Many stunt professionals take classes in these areas to gain the expertise required for specific types of stunts. Building a versatile skill set not only opens more opportunities but also helps stunt performers become adaptable to the wide range of physical demands they will face on set.

Learning the Basics of Stunt Coordination

While it’s important to have the physical capability to execute stunts, understanding the art of stunt choreography is equally crucial. Stunt coordinators are responsible for designing the action sequences and ensuring that the stunts are executed safely and effectively. As a stunt person, you may be called upon to perform as part of these choreographed sequences, and it’s essential to understand how stunts are planned and executed.

To learn the basics of stunt coordination, many stunt performers begin by working as stunt doubles for other actors. This allows them to observe experienced coordinators in action and learn firsthand how stunts are crafted for safety and impact. Many stunt people also undergo formal training in stunt coordination, either through accredited stunt schools or apprenticeships with experienced professionals. It’s important for aspiring stunt performers to gain experience not only in performing stunts but also in understanding how they fit into the overall narrative of a film.

Building a Network and Gaining Experience

As with many professions in the entertainment industry, success in stunt work requires building a strong network of contacts. Aspiring stunt performers should attend industry events, such as stunt workshops, conventions, and film industry expos, where they can meet key people, including directors, stunt coordinators, and casting agents. Networking with professionals in the field can lead to invaluable opportunities, such as being invited to auditions or hired for stunts on upcoming film projects.

Another important way to gain experience is by starting with smaller, independent films, commercials, or television shows. These productions often have smaller budgets and may require more stunt work, offering opportunities for newcomers to build their portfolios. Starting with less prominent roles can help stunt performers demonstrate their abilities and gain visibility within the industry. Additionally, joining a union, such as the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), can provide access to more substantial job opportunities, training programs, and industry benefits.

Legal Considerations and Protection

While the physical and creative demands of stunt work are well known, the legal aspects of the profession should not be overlooked. Stunt performers, like any other professional in the entertainment industry, must protect their legal rights. One important consideration is ensuring that contracts are carefully reviewed, especially those that outline compensation, working conditions, and expectations. Stunt performers should consult with legal professionals to ensure their contracts reflect fair terms and protect their interests.

Additionally, accidents can happen on set, and when they do, it’s important for stunt performers to know their rights. If a stunt person is injured during a stunt, they may need legal assistance, especially if the injury was caused by negligence or unsafe practices. In such cases, wrongful death lawyers or personal injury attorneys can assist in navigating the legal process and seeking compensation for damages. While the risk of injury is part of the job, having the proper legal protections in place ensures that a stunt performer is covered in the event of an accident or injury.

Looking Ahead: Building a Sustainable Career

Becoming a stunt person is just the beginning. A successful career in stunt work requires continuous learning, adaptability, and commitment to personal and professional growth. As a stunt performer gains experience, they can take on more complex and rewarding roles, including serving as a stunt coordinator, action director, or even transitioning into acting. Building a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and high-quality work can lead to long-term success in the film industry.

In conclusion, becoming a stunt person in movies is a challenging but rewarding career choice that requires a combination of physical skill, technical knowledge, and strong networking. Through dedication to training, a commitment to safety, and understanding the legal aspects of the profession, aspiring stunt performers can navigate the path to success and establish a lasting presence in the movie industry. By continuously honing their craft and taking the necessary precautions, stunt performers can enjoy a fulfilling career while minimizing the risks associated with their work.