Historic Milestone for Stunt Performers: The Introduction of Stunt Design Oscar in 2028
In the early 1990s, an idea sparked by filmmaker Sydney Lumet took root in the mind of stuntman Jack Gill: the establishment of an Oscars category to honor the intricate artistry of stunt performers. This initial concept led Gill to engage with the Academy’s leadership, marking the beginning of a long, dedicated journey. “They said, ‘OK great. It will probably take three to five years. Are you ready to put that much effort into it?'” Gill reflects on that moment, confidently affirming his readiness. Fast forward 34 years, and the dream is finally set to become a reality.
Celebration of Achievement
Today, Gill and the wider stunt community celebrate a significant advancement—on Thursday, the Academy announced the introduction of a Stunt Design Oscar for the 2028 awards. This achievement is attributed to the relentless advocacy of Gill and many others, culminating in a pivotal moment shaped by influential industry figures.
The Role of Influencers in Stunt Recognition
Recent years have seen increased momentum in this movement, particularly through the efforts of notable stunt coordinators like David Leitch, known for his work on The Fall Guy. Leitch’s rise to A-list director has brought focus to the essential contributions of stunt work in cinema. Alongside stunt designer Chris O’Hara, Leitch campaigned robustly for Oscar recognition, presenting their case to the Academy’s board and gaining traction with key leaders, including CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang.
Education and Advocacy
Leitch highlights the importance of educating various Academy branches, particularly those outside physical production, on the vital role of stunt design across all genres—not limited to action films but encompassing dramas, comedies, and indie productions alike. Drawing inspiration from the advocacy tactics of casting directors, who successfully gained their own Oscar category last year, the push for a Stunt Design Oscar required coalition-building and strategic lobbying.
Forward-Thinking Strategies
As the 2028 Stunt Design Oscar approaches, questions about the nomination process arise. O’Hara suggests that a model similar to the bake-off process used in the visual effects category may be adopted, allowing shortlisted films to present their stunt work.
Holistic Evaluation of Stunt Contributions
O’Hara expressed the hope that, much like production design, the evaluation of stunt contributions will consider the overall impact on the film, rather than focusing solely on individual sequences. He anticipates that with this new recognition, stunt coordinators will refine their craft and enhance their storytelling abilities, creating captivating and seamless moments that enrich the film’s narrative.
Stunts Beyond Action Films
Conversations with industry professionals underscore the belief that the significance of this award extends beyond just blockbuster action films. Chad Stahelski, a stuntman turned director renowned for the John Wick franchise, acknowledges the Oscar as a testament to the critical position that stunt teams hold within production—performers who contribute significantly behind the scenes and also appear on camera.
A Shift in Perception
Historically, there was a tendency for stunt performers to operate in obscurity, with some actors reluctant to acknowledge their contributions to maintain the illusion of performing their stunts. “We’re supposed to be the quiet ones, the covert operators, the ninjas,” Stahelski shared, highlighting a cultural shift that has emerged through social media and behind-the-scenes content that has normalized the recognition of stunt work.
Community Support and Industry Evolution
Prior to the announcement of the stunt Oscar, many stunt professionals harbored fears that the actors’ branch would resist supporting such a category. Jeff Wolfe, president of the Stuntmen’s Association of Motion Pictures, recalls a time when recognition from actors was rare. Yet now, it is increasingly common for actors to openly attribute their stunts to their doubles—signifying a positive change in attitude towards stunt work.
A Long-Awaited Victory for Jack Gill
For Jack Gill, whose extensive resume includes titles like First Blood and Fast Five, this development represents a culmination of years of determination and hope. In the early 1990s, he gathered notable signatures from industry giants like Dustin Hoffman and Martin Scorsese for a petition advocating for stunt recognition, yet progress was slow. Despite numerous attempts—including a protest in 2016 that saw Gill and his colleagues demand recognition from the Academy—real change seemed distant.
Reflecting on Past Achievements
As Gill looks towards the future, nostalgia washes over him as he recalls films that deserved this accolade in years past: “Raiders of the Lost Ark, True Lies, Mad Max: Fury Road, and the original Mad Max. Fantastic,”he mused. The introduction of the Stunt Design Oscar not only marks a pivotal moment for the stunt community but also promises to elevate the standards of filmmaking, inspiring a new generation of artists to hone their craft and redefine what is achievable in cinema.