What Does a Stunt Coordinator Do?
A film set has several moving parts and jobs that happen on and off set, with so many jobs it may be overwhelming to even know where to start on getting your production off the ground.
Well have no fear, here at Aura Casting we’re breaking down the basics of video production in our “What Does a … Do?” answering all your questions on what people do on and off sets.
Today, we’re breaking down what a stunt coordinator does.
A stunt coordinator is the person responsible for the planning, organizing and oversight of all physical stunts on a set. They ensure that all stunts and all actors are being safe while working with the creative team to get the desired look of the action. Keep reading for a list of other jobs a stunt coordinator can have.
Designing Stunts
The planning of stunts typically happens with the director and sometimes a screenplay writer to go over how they envisioned the stunt and how they can realistically film it. Stunts can include but are not limited to fight scenes, car chases, falls, explosions or any other physically demanding scenes.
Choreographing Stunts
Once a the directing and stunt team have agreed on how the action will look, the next step is choreographing the stunts. This includes blocking out the action, deciding on movements, timing and overall movement of the stunts.
Safety Protocols
The stunt coordinators are responsible for the safety of everyone on set including the actors, stunt crew, and film crew. This involves assessing the risks, choreographing safe stunts, hiring a stunt performer when needed, making sure the environment is safe, weather safety and overseeing safety gear.
Training talent
A stunt coordinator is also in charge of training the actors and stunt doubles in how to safely do the movements. This includes having stunt rehearsals, coaching and teaching them specific techniques.
Working with the Camera Department.
Working with the camera department to ensure safety of the camera crew is a key responsibility of a the coordinator. This includes potentially training the camera crew in the stunt, how to get the stunt captured and how to set up the set for the stunt.
Working with the Art Crew
Collaborating with the art department crews for any stunt-specific hair, makeup, and costume needs such as fake blood, bruises and/or props needed for the stunt to look believable on camera.
Overall, a stunt coordinator is a vital element to any set that requires physically demanding movement. They ensure safety is upheld while capturing the look needed to tell the story.
Written by Lauren Ulveling
