Action Stunts

What does every action packed-car flipping-fire burning-gun shooting-building jumping scene have in common? The answer: a highly trained stuntman risking his or life in place of your favorite actor/actress. These stuntmen have years of experience and training behind them. To become a successful stuntman (or woman), you’ll want to follow these simple tips:

1. Get connected: The best way to form connections in the world of Hollywood is to hire an agent. Your agent can hook you up with a stunt coordinator who casts stunt doubles, choreographs stunts, and fulfils the director’s creative vision. Directors usually hire the same stunt coordinators, and stunt coordinators tend to use the same talented stuntmen, so getting a good word in with a stunt coordinator is a surefire way to make it into a movie.
2. Know how to fight: Stuntmen are most commonly used because they possess skill sets that typical actors do not. Instead of training an actor to sword fight or throw a fake punch, stuntmen who are well versed in combat and fighting techniques are brought in. While it helps to have other skills (like falling or fire training), stage fighting is the most basic and necessary skill stuntmen should possess.
3. Gain valuable experience from live shows: Theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios that feature live action shows provide great training for beginning stunt artists. In addition to the training and experience, you get paid to learn and perform plus health insurance is included. Look into Disney’s Tarzan show or the Pirates Dinner Adventure.
4. Apply for the United Stuntmen’s International Stunt School: The only licensed and registered stunt school in the industry with a team of 12 professional stunt instructors who cover 15 disciplines. If you’re 20 or older and have 4000 dollars, the Stunt School will develop your skills and connect you to the world of onscreen stunts so you’re ready for the big screen.