Chad Stahelski Praises Academy’s New Stunt Design Category
Chad Stahelski, renowned director of the John Wick series, has expressed his enthusiasm over the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ decision to introduce a category for Best Stunt Design. This significant development comes at a time when the John Wick franchise, launched in 2014, has expanded to four films and an upcoming spinoff film titled Ballerina, set for release on June 6. Given the franchise’s reputation for exceptional action sequences and fight choreography, the Academy’s move to acknowledge stunts reflects an evolving appreciation for the art of stunt performance.
Stahelski’s Reflection on Stunt Work Recognition
In an interview with Deadline, Stahelski shared his thoughts on the addition of the Best Stunt Design category, commending the Academy for their deliberate approach in honoring the contributions of stunt teams. He remarked, “none of us [in the industry] would be here if it wasn’t for the last 100 years of stunt people,”highlighting the essential role stunts have played in cinematic history. While many in the industry consider this recognition overdue, Stahelski noted his gratitude for the Academy’s thorough consultation with the stunt community prior to making this decision.
None of us [in the industry] would be here if it wasn’t for the last 100 years of stunt people. We’ve come a long way because a lot of other people have sacrificed a lot. So, it’s pretty cool to be here and be at the apex of an entire century of performers and coordinators and action directors. And it’s a shame that a lot of them won’t get to see where it all went to.
We’re very lucky to be at the tail end of this, or at the apex where, a couple of years ago, the Academy came to us going, ‘Hey, how do we help? How do we get this going?’ And for some people, it may have looked like it’s taken a long time, but actually, I give a lot of credit to the Academy for doing it right. They took their time. They talked to a lot of the stunt community — stunt coordinators, 2nd unit directors, the women’s groups, the men’s groups. Every different aspect of the stunt community, they went and talked to and tried to find out, not just should we get an award — no one argued that — they wanted to know how to give the award, who to give it to, how do we select it, and they really did their homework. And when they felt like they had a good handle on it, they announced it.
Implications for the Oscars
Significant Acknowledgment from Stahelski
Given Stahelski’s background as a skilled kickboxer and his evolution into a prolific stunt coordinator on blockbuster films such as The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Wolverine, and Deadpool 2, his endorsement of the Academy’s decision is particularly significant. His insights illuminate the industry’s longstanding desire for recognition in this area, which has gained momentum through advocates like director David Leitch.
The decision to recognize stunt work with a dedicated award was not without complexity. The Academy grappled with different roles within the stunt profession, ultimately branding the category as Best Stunt Design to encompass the diverse contributions of stunt performers, coordinators, and supervisors.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Oscars Categories
New Categories Acknowledging Behind-the-Scenes Talent
Stahelski’s remarks also emphasize the Academy’s thoroughness in recognizing stunts. The recent introduction of the Best Casting category further illustrates this trend towards valuing technical achievements in filmmaking. The Oscars are gradually enhancing the prominence of behind-the-scenes roles, thus benefiting the entire industry.
To stay updated on developments, you may find more information in an article featured on Deadline.