Stunts are often seen as raw displays of physicality—jumps, falls, punches, and fire. While the spectacle is undoubtedly thrilling, stunts without context are hollow. What many performers overlook is that stunts are not simply about executing a well-rehearsed physical routine; they are an integral part of the storytelling process in filmmaking. Without a deeper understanding of how films are crafted, a stunt performer’s work risks being disconnected from the narrative.
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In truth, mastering stunts requires more than physical skill. It demands an understanding of filmmaking fundamentals: how scenes are shot, how cameras move, and, crucially, how performances—both verbal and non-verbal—drive the emotional heartbeat of a film. In short, to truly excel in stunt work, one must learn how to make action work for the camera and for the story.

For Stunt Actors, conveying genuine emotion under physically demanding circumstances really is an art form. We have to be technical and perform stunts flawlessly. We have to be emotional and act as we perform the stunt, which changes so many things about our body movement, vocalisations and how the character would act in the situation. That's a lot for a brain to understand and get right, under pressure.  

​Among these emotions, Anger and Rage stand out. They are essential's for any action actor and for many they're the most challenging to portray authentically (or safely). This ISA masterclass article dives deep into the complexity of these intense emotions, exploring how stunt actors can effectively and safely express them on screen.

Mindfulness often seems like a buzzword now, but it is a science, and and art form, and its applications in high-pressure or high-risk activities like Acting and Stunts are invaluable. This article aims to be a standalone resource while also serving as a follow-up to our previous piece on the Psychology of Fear in Stunt Work.

Welcome, intrepid students of The International Stunt Academy! As future stunt Performers and Stunt Actors, you are no strangers to risks, excitement, and pushing boundaries.

However, one of the most essential aspects of your training lies not in perfecting your acrobatics, parkour, or high-speed chases, but in embracing the power of failure.

​In this article, we'll explore why sometimes, "to become a great student, we have to go be a bad student, but in a good way." We'll discuss the importance of seeing failure as a stepping stone to success and how becoming comfortable with it can help you learn and grow in your craft.

​Pyrotechnics are an essential component of the movie magic we witness on the big screen. From action-packed blockbusters to heart-wrenching dramas, these special effects bring stories to life and engage audiences like never before. The International Stunt Academy not only trains people in stunt and action acting but also offers education in practical special effects, including pyrotechnics. This article serves as an introduction to pyrotechnics, exploring their usage, main types, and iconic examples in action films.

The Ghillie suit is a type of camouflage clothing that is designed to help military snipers blend into their environment. However, it has become popular among hunters, paintball enthusiasts, and even Stunt & Action Actors who need to remain hidden while performing stunts and action scenes. In this article, we will explore the history and uses of the Ghillie suit and provide a guide for Stunt & Action Actors to create their own suit. Let's get started...

Kali is a unique martial art originating from the Philippines. In this article we'll explore its origins, what makes it unique and why it can be a fantastic discipline for Action Actors and Stunt Performers to explore.  Let's get started...

There are many different roles open to people who want to work in the Stunt  Industry. Here's a quick guide to some of the terms you'll hear used and a quick explanation of what each does when they work together as a unit on a film or production. 

One of the most common questions people ask when we meet them is how they can get into Stunt Performance and Action Acting?  The answer is to do it properly and ensure you train with a leading stunt school, gain your certificates or a formal qualification, and learn all you can about the industry before you try to make your name. In this article we share some good tips and advice that should help you start a career in Stunts and Action Acting.