Well, how about that!
In Tuesday’s post about the fantastic launch of a wagon, horses and several people over a cliff and into a river in 1940’s The Dark Command, I mentioned that stunt performers have been rightfully campaigning for Oscar recognition since time immemorial. Finally, their dream has come true. Note the Academy’s press release below that hit my inbox late yesterday morning.
Since stunt performers do not yet have their own dedicated Academy branch as the other crafts do, it will be interesting to see if one is designated. I’ll also be paying attention to how the nomination criteria and voting for their award will evolve. In today’s special effects-rich environment, the line between someone actually risking their neck to deliver the goods and the process of removing support wires in post can be very thin, indeed.
Nonetheless, it once again goes to show what persistence and passion can deliver. Congratulations to David Leitch and Chris O’Hara for leading the charge. I’m already excited to see who will be the first winner for Stunt Design at the 2028 ceremony!
