Stunts and Coordination

Some projects have stunts; a stunt can be as small as a trip and fall or as complex as a physical fight. If there is any uncertainty, the student should meet with Production Services to identify any stunts in their projects and determine the safest way to execute them.

The School of Theater has a fight choreographer (who charges a fee) and there are numerous Youtube videos on simulated violence and stunts.

Working with a Stunt Performer

Physical action requiring an actor to fight, fall, jump, run and, in essence, perform in an athletic manner and/or in hazardous situations may require the services of a stunt performer to double the actor. Many common activities, which may be simple tasks for someone familiar with the tool, toy, appliance or device, can be dangerous to someone unfamiliar with its proper and safe operation—for example, skateboards, manual transmissions, scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles.

Often, even professional filmmakers need to not appreciate what is and is not a stunt. If you have any questions, check with a stunt coordinator. Have the coordinator read the script and discuss the action with them.

Another challenge is to make the physical action look “real.” Awkward or clumsy physical action can destroy the illusion.

Professional stunt players are actors and many are members of SAG covered by the provisions of the Basic SAG Agreement. Directors and producers cast stunt persons as primary cast whenever possible to avoid the cost and hassle of doubling. 

What is a Stunt Coordinator?

A Stunt Coordinator is a stunt player responsible for supervising all the stunt work and all stunt players in a film. In addition to hiring the stunt performers and arranging for any necessary equipment, the coordinator works with the cinematographer to plan the best possible camera angles for each stunt to achieve the most effective visual impact. They also have the responsibility for keeping all members of the crew, the camera operator, and the stunt people safe during the filming of stunt work. 

The Stunt Coordinator is sometimes employed months before a film starts shooting to help the writers and director work on the action in the story. Then, the coordinator breaks down the script and develops a stunt budget. Once a budget is accepted by the producer, the coordinator is expected to stay within it. 

On smaller shows, the Stunt Coordinator may perform many of the stunts themself. 

Working with a Stunt Coordinator

The performance of all stunts or hazards is preceded by a meeting on the event site with all people concerned. This meeting includes a “walk-thru” or “dry-run” with the stunt coordinator and/or special effects crew and all of the persons involved in the event. An understanding of the intended action, possible deviations, and authority to abort should be made clear.

All stunts and special effects should be reviewed by all participants prior to execution to help ensure that they are performed in the safest manner possible.

Sources for Stunt Coordinator