What's happened
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will add an Oscar for Achievement in Stunt Design starting with the 100th Academy Awards in 2027. This decision follows decades of advocacy from industry professionals, including director David Leitch, who emphasized the importance of stunt work in filmmaking.
What's behind the headline?
Significance of the New Award
The introduction of the Achievement in Stunt Design Oscar marks a pivotal moment in recognizing the contributions of stunt professionals in filmmaking. This award:
- Acknowledges Historical Contributions: Stunt work has been integral to cinema since its inception, yet it has often been overlooked in major awards.
- Encourages Industry Standards: By formalizing this recognition, the Academy sets a precedent for quality and safety in stunt work, potentially leading to better practices across the industry.
- Reflects Changing Perspectives: The growing acceptance of stunt work as a legitimate art form mirrors broader cultural shifts in how audiences perceive action and physical performance in film.
Future Implications
The establishment of this award could lead to:
- Increased visibility for stunt professionals, potentially influencing casting and production decisions.
- A ripple effect in other awards shows, prompting similar recognitions in various categories.
- Enhanced appreciation from audiences, who may begin to recognize the artistry behind stunts, similar to how they appreciate cinematography or editing.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, the Academy's decision to add a stunt design award is seen as a long-awaited recognition, with CEO Bill Kramer stating, "We are proud to honor the innovative work of these technical and creative artists." The Guardian highlights David Leitch's role in advocating for this change, noting his background as a stuntman and director of stunt-heavy films like *John Wick*. AP News emphasizes the historical context, mentioning that other awards shows, such as the Emmys, have already recognized stunt work, suggesting a growing trend in the industry. The Independent reiterates the Academy's commitment to honoring the contributions of stunt professionals, marking a significant shift in the recognition of their work.
How we got here
The push for an Oscar recognizing stunt work has been ongoing for over 30 years, with notable figures like Jack Gill and David Leitch advocating for recognition. The Academy recently added a casting award, reflecting a broader trend of acknowledging technical contributions in film.
Go deeper
- What prompted the Academy to add this category now?
- How will this change affect stunt professionals in the industry?
- What other awards have recognized stunt work?
Common question
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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The Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, are awards for artistic and technical merit in the film industry. Given annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the awards are an international recognition of excellence in cinematic