The world of stunt work is thrilling, offering the opportunity to perform in movies, television shows, commercials, and live productions. Stuntmen (and stuntwomen) are the unsung heroes behind the most heart-pounding action scenes—whether it’s a high-speed car chase, a dangerous fall, or an epic fight sequence.
While it’s an exciting career, breaking into the industry requires dedication, physical ability, and a commitment to safety. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get into a stuntman career.
1. Understanding the Role of a Stuntman
Before jumping into how to become a stuntman, it’s important to understand the role. Stunt performers are trained professionals who take on risky and challenging physical tasks that actors cannot or should not do for safety reasons. These stunts can include anything from basic falls to intricate fight choreography, and sometimes more complex feats like handling explosions or performing underwater sequences.
There are several categories within the stunt profession:
- Stunt Performers: The core of the industry, responsible for general stunts, falls, fights, etc.
- Stunt Drivers: Specialized performers who handle car chases and vehicle stunts.
- Stunt Doubles: Individuals who take the place of actors in high-risk scenes.
- Stunt Coordinators: Veterans who manage the logistics and safety of stunts on set.
2. Essential Skills and Physical Requirements
Stunt work is a physically demanding profession. To get started, you need to be in excellent physical condition and have a versatile skill set. Many successful stunt professionals have backgrounds in:
- Martial Arts: Learning martial arts is key for performing fight scenes. Skills in boxing, karate, judo, and other forms of combat sports are essential.
- Gymnastics and Parkour: Having acrobatic skills is a huge advantage. It allows you to handle falls, flips, and fast movements more fluidly.
- Driving: Stunt driving requires precision and control. Many stunt performers undergo specialized training in handling cars and motorcycles at high speeds.
- Swimming and Diving: Some scenes require underwater action, making swimming and diving skills an asset.
- Horse Riding: If you’re aiming to work on historical or western films, being able to ride a horse can set you apart.
- Weapons Handling: Knowing how to handle weapons safely and realistically, from swords to guns, can make you more versatile.
Maintaining peak physical condition is also crucial. A stunt performer’s body is their most valuable asset, and injury or lack of stamina can seriously derail a career. Regular training in flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular endurance should be part of your routine.
3. Training and Certifications
Though there are no official “stuntman schools,” there are many programs and training centres that offer specialized stunt training. These programs can help you hone your skills in a variety of areas, including fight choreography, high falls, and stunt driving.
Consider pursuing certifications and attending workshops to build your expertise. Many professional stunt performers recommend taking courses in the following:
- Stage Combat: Learn the techniques needed to create realistic, safe fight scenes.
- Advanced Driving Courses: These often include stunt-specific skills like high-speed driving, precision parking, and evasive manoeuvres.
- Fire Stunts: Some organizations offer training in how to safely execute fire stunts.
- High Falls and Rigging: Learn to perform falls from various heights and how to use safety rigs and harnesses.
In addition, first aid and safety training are a must. Having certifications in first aid or CPR can help you stand out and prepare you for any emergency situations on set.
4. Building Experience and a Stunt Reel
Getting your foot in the door often requires proving your abilities. A great way to start is by gaining experience in live shows, small productions, or independent films. These platforms allow you to build a resume and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
As you accumulate experience, put together a stunt reel—a video portfolio that showcases your best work. A good stunt reel is key when applying for roles or connecting with stunt coordinators. Include a variety of stunts that highlight your versatility, and ensure that the footage is clear, well-edited, and professional.
Some other tips for building experience include:
- Networking: Attend industry events, such as film festivals or stunt workshops, where you can meet other stunt professionals and filmmakers.
- Volunteer for Student or Indie Films: These smaller projects may not pay much (or at all), but they provide a platform for you to practice your skills and build your reel.
- Work as a Production Assistant or Extra: Working on a film set, even in non-stunt roles, helps you learn the ropes and connect with people in the industry.
5. Join Professional Stunt Organizations
Once you have some experience under your belt, consider joining a stunt union or professional organization. These groups offer resources, networking opportunities, and job boards to help you find work.
- SAG-AFTRA: In the U.S., the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists represents stunt performers. Joining SAG-AFTRA opens the door to higher-paying union gigs and protections.
- Equity (UK): In the UK, Equity represents stunt professionals working in theatre, television, and film.
- Australian Stunt Academy: For those in Australia, the Australian Stunt Academy offers various training and networking opportunities.
In addition to unions, there are independent associations, such as the Stuntmen’s Association of Motion Pictures, that provide networking, training, and advocacy for stunt professionals.
6. Safety First: Importance of Risk Management
Stunt work, while exciting, is inherently dangerous. Safety should be your number one priority on every set. This means not only learning how to perform stunts but also understanding the importance of safety measures, rigging, and rehearsals.
Before performing any stunt, always:
- Perform a Risk Assessment: Evaluate the potential hazards involved in the stunt.
- Wear Proper Safety Gear: Use the necessary helmets, pads, or harnesses to protect yourself.
- Follow the Stunt Coordinator’s Instructions: They are responsible for ensuring that the stunts are executed as safely as possible.
Never take shortcuts when it comes to safety. Even experienced stunt performers can suffer severe injuries if protocols aren’t followed.
7. Perseverance in a Competitive Industry
Breaking into the stunt industry can be challenging. It takes perseverance and thick skin, as competition is fierce, and work can be inconsistent, especially when you’re just starting out. Keep in mind that many stuntmen begin their careers by working other jobs while waiting for their big break.
Success in this field often depends on who you know. Networking and forming relationships with other stunt performers and coordinators are crucial. Don’t be afraid to start small—whether it’s volunteering on student films or working as an extra—those experiences can be stepping stones to larger, higher-profile opportunities.
8. Maintaining Your Career and Expanding Your Skillset
As you continue to gain experience, it’s important to evolve and expand your skillset. The stunt industry is constantly changing, with new technologies, techniques, and trends emerging regularly. You may find it helpful to learn about:
- Motion Capture (MoCap): Many modern productions use CGI and motion capture for stunts, and understanding how to perform for MoCap can add value to your resume.
- Drone Operation: Drones are increasingly being used to capture stunt sequences. Familiarity with drone technology could open new opportunities.
- Safety Coordination: Some stunt performers transition to safety and stunt coordination roles later in their careers.
Conclusion
Becoming a stuntman is a journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and continuous training. By acquiring essential skills, gaining experience, and networking within the industry, you can break into this exciting and demanding career. While the road may be tough, the thrill of performing unforgettable stunts and contributing to the magic of filmmaking makes it a worthwhile pursuit.
