The Town with Matthew Belloni How the Oscars’ Best Stunt Category Will Work (and Why Stars Are Still Doing Their Own)
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Apr 24, 2025 
David Leitch, a renowned director and stunt coordinator known for 'Deadpool 2' and 'Bullet Train,' shares insights about the new Academy Award category for stunt design, debuting in 2028. He discusses how the category will be judged, the impact of CGI and AI on stunts, and why some stars still prefer doing their own stunt work. Leitch also highlights the historical importance of stunt performers and the evolving landscape of stunt design, offering a closer look at the artistry behind action sequences.
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Stunt Design: Art Meets Science
- Stunt design is both a science and an art involving creative choreography and narrative storytelling.
- Oscar recognition for stunt design highlights its creative importance beyond logistics.
Criteria for Judging Stunts
- Judge stunt design by narrative integration, innovation, safety, and memorability.
- Look for sequences that advance the story and feature fresh, original action.
Balancing CGI and Human Stunts
- Modern stunts often combine human performance with CGI to create seamless effects.
- A human component in stunt design remains critical to maintaining authenticity.