Actors Demand Separate Oscar Category for Stunt Performers at Movie Premiere

At the premiere of the upcoming film 'The Fall Guy,' actors Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt voiced their support for creating a separate Oscar category to recognize the work of stunt performers. They believe that the impressive and often dangerous stunt work in films merits the same recognition as other technical aspects of filmmaking, such as makeup, costumes, and cinematography.

Gosling and Blunt pointed to examples of exceptional stunt work in movies like 'Mad Max,' 'The Dark Knight,' and the films of Tom Cruise, asserting that Cruise himself merits an Oscar for his stunt performances. The push for a Best Stunts Oscar has gained momentum in recent years, especially with the release of 'John Wick: Chapter 4' in 2023.

Chad Stahelski, the director of 'John Wick: Chapter 4,' revealed that discussions have taken place between the Academy and stunt coordinators about potentially introducing a stunt category in the coming years. Other prominent figures in the film industry, including actors Chris Hemsworth and Harrison Ford, and director Christopher McQuarrie, have also expressed support for recognizing stunt performers at the Oscars.

Why this matters: The demand for a separate Oscar category for stunt performers highlights the growing appreciation for the skill, risk, and artistry involved in creating realistic and thrilling action sequences on screen. Recognizing stunt work at the Oscars could elevate the status of stunt performers and bring greater attention to their vital contributions to the filmmaking process.

The premiere of 'The Fall Guy' itself celebrates the collaboration between stunt work and charismatic movie stars. The film, directed by David Leitch, features several practical stunts that are treated with reverence. For the first time, stunt designer Chris O'Hara is credited, reflecting a shift towards acknowledging the importance of stunt professionals.

As the film industry grapples with the overuse of CGI and the challenges posed by AI and the SAG-AFTRA strikes, 'The Fall Guy' represents a return to practical moviemaking and a celebration of the skill and bravery of stunt performers. Gosling and Blunt's call for a separate Oscar category for stunts underscores the growing recognition of their integral role in creating compelling and authentic action sequences on screen.

Key Takeaways

• Actors Gosling and Blunt call for Oscar category to recognize stunt work.
• Stunt work in films like 'Mad Max,' 'Dark Knight,' and Tom Cruise's movies merits recognition.
• Discussions between Academy and stunt coordinators about introducing a stunt category.
• Recognizing stunt work could elevate status of stunt performers and their contributions.
• 'The Fall Guy' celebrates collaboration between stunt work and movie stars.