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Becoming A Stunt Performer Frequently Asked Questions

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What's the best way to start in stunts?

If you want to become a stuntman or stuntwoman, one of the easiest and quickest ways to get going is to become a background performer (an Extra), and then you can see how a film set works, how the actors do their thing, and especially how the stuntmen and stuntwomen operate (if there is a stunt being performed the day that you're working). Being an Extra will also enable you to see (note: I didn't say meet) the stunt coordinator, and get an idea how he/she does things. Every stunt coordinator has their own unique way on set, and it's good to get to know their way first, before attempting to meet them.

When can I go from being an extra to being a stunt performer?

When you have been training for a while (see training question below), and you have been on numerous film sets working as an Extra, and you have introduced yourself politely (with headshot and resume) to a few stunt coordinators, then you will probably get upgraded to an SAE position (Special Ability Extra) at some point. A stunt coordinator will hire you for your unique skill (unicycle riding, gymnastics, etc.) or sometimes they need you just to ride by on a bicycle, which isn't exactly a stunt, but it doesn't fall into the general Extra category either. So you get a day working as an SAE performer (it pays more than being a general Extra, but most importantly, it gets you working for the Stunt Coordinator for the first time). After a few SAE days for this Stunt Coordinator (ie: build up trust), they will probably give you a shot at your first real stunt.

What kind of stunt training do I need to be a stuntman / stuntwoman?

There are 4 skills that are considered essential to begin your quest into the stunt industry: 1. gymnastics (or trampoline or high diving) 2. martial arts (or stage combat training) 3. motorcycle riding / racing (and/or car racing)

4. people skills

Of course, the more skills you have in your arsenal and in your resume, the better - such as horses, rock climbing, scuba diving, white water, parachuting, rollerblading, skiing, etc. Also, get as many licenses as possible: street bike, advanced driving courses, first aid tickets, skydiving certificates, etc… And yes, it does make an impact if you're already a champion at some sport (show it off - it proves that you can handle a high level of competition and are competent under pressure! This is not necessary to become a stunt performer, though.)

"I'm an awesome motorcycle stunter", or "I can do car stunts", or "I won the World Championships in my martial art", so shouldn't it be natural for me to be a stunt performer?

No, you need to be an all-rounder to have a stunt career. And it doesn't make a difference how great you are at motorcycle stunts, or if you're an Olympic gymnast or not - what matters is how great your "total package" is, and how good you are with people, too.

Are there stunt schools out there?

Yes, there are many. Some are stunt driving schools, some are aerial stunt schools, and some are just plain stunt training schools. Check into this VERY carefully, as there are a lot of fly-by-nights out there, too.

What kind of stunt equipment do I need?

At the very least, as a budding stunt person, you should get some small elbow and knee pads (usually you can find these at sports consignment shops, in the youth section - don't forget to get as small as possible, but still protective, because you'll be fitting these under your wardrobe on set, and you can't have them showing). Also, for stunt padding, you should grab a set of padded shorts (at bike shops or martial arts stores), and a back protector (also at motorcycle shops). Later on, you'll build up your stunt equipment for different gags like gel for fire stunts, and helmets for driving stunts, and gymnastics mats and weapons, etc. But start with the basics - you don't need to spend much to get going in the stunt business.

Are stunt wages pretty good? Will I make a lot of money?

Of course this depends on your commitment, your location, and your years in the stunt business, etc. but in general, yes - stunt pay is great. An established stunt professional will make in the six figures, and can sometimes make $10,000 per day even. But there are also a lot of struggling stunt performers out there, who have to hold down a "normal" job and do stunts on the side, in order to supplement the dry times. Some make huge money the first year they try, and others try for decades just trying to make it. Depends how much you want it.

Can I become a stunt coordinator right away?

No, not usually. Most stunt coordinators have put in years as a stunt performer first, and have garnered the respect and trust of their fellow stunt community and the various stunt teams, before they are given their first stunt coordinating job. But it is a natural progression to become a stunt coordinator after being a stunt man or stunt woman for a while, if one so chooses. Then you can go on to become a 2nd unit Director, as well (in charge of the Stunt Coordinator and all the stunt action on a separate unit).

It's all so overwhelming. Where do I really start?

Read every little bit of information out there on the subject first. Become prepared first, don't just leap in there. Don't bug the stuntmen or stunt coordinators - they hear from newbies every day about how great they are. Impress them by going in with knowledge and background. Hope some of this helps! Believe me - I've been there - it's a daunting task trying to embark on a stunt career choice, and every little bit of info is great. Good luck - see ya' in the movies!

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K H has sinced written about articles on various topics from Recreation and Sports. From a performer 25 years in the business, learn all the insider tricks to becoming a stuntman or stuntwoman in the lucrative film industry. Check it out at www.getintostunts.com. K H's top article . to your Favourites.

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