Stunt performers finally catch a break with new Oscar category

The film industry has long been advocating for the recognition of the art of stunts at the Oscars, and now, the film academy has finally decided to add an achievement in stunt design prize starting with the 100th Academy Awards in 2028. This new award will honor films released in 2027 and will celebrate the technical and creative artists who bring these heart-pounding action sequences to life on the big screen.

According to Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy president Janet Yang, stunt design has been an integral part of filmmaking since the early days of cinema. They expressed their pride in honoring the innovative work of these talented individuals and congratulated them for their dedication and commitment to the craft.

The film academy’s production and technology branch boasts over 100 stunt performers among its ranks, highlighting the importance of these skilled professionals in the industry. Director David Leitch, known for films like “The Fall Guy,” played a significant role in advocating for the addition of this new award. Leitch, who started his career as a stuntman before transitioning to directing, emphasized the essential role stunts play in every genre of film.

Stunt designer Chris O’Hara, who worked on “The Fall Guy,” was credited as the first person in this new designation. O’Hara expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating that being seen as stunt designers sheds light on the creative aspects of their work. He compared their role to that of production designers or costume designers, highlighting the creativity and innovation that goes into crafting thrilling stunts.

While the Oscars have finally acknowledged the importance of stunt design, there is still work to be done. Stunt performer and director Chad Stahelski raised questions about the selection process for the award, emphasizing the collaborative nature of stunt work. He stressed the importance of ensuring that the award goes to the right people who have contributed significantly to the success of a film.

Overall, the addition of the achievement in stunt design prize at the Oscars marks a significant milestone in recognizing the talent and hard work of stunt performers, coordinators, and designers. This new award will shine a spotlight on the incredible artistry and dedication that goes into creating jaw-dropping stunts that captivate audiences around the world.