The International Stunt Academy
+4794815653
Slåstad, Norway
Reception Open 9-3pm
 Imagine standing on the edge of a building, preparing for a High-Fall Stunt. Or even just repeating a simple movement that might aggravate a previous injury .... Fear can set in. Your heart races, palms sweat—fear sets in.
But what if we told you that "Fear is just a lack of knowledge", and by understanding and managing this fear it could be the key to not just performing the stunt successfully but also performing even better, and more safely?  Imagine watching your favourite action-packed movie scene - let's say, its the car chase sequence in "Mad Max: Fury Road" - but you're watching it with the sound turned off. The roaring engines, screeching tires, and heart-pounding music are all missing. Suddenly, a scene like this loses its thrill, doesn't it? You don't engage in the same way, because you don't feel the action.
That is the power of Sound in action sequences. So often sound is overlooked, because we can't see it, but there is no doubting the truth that we really feel it! In this article, we'll explore the crucial role sound plays in stunt work and action film-making and how you can harness this invisible actor to really enhance the power of your scenes and sequences.  In a previous article, we explored the role of macronutrients and fat-burning in Stunt Work and Acting. With so much advice orientated towards short and intense bursts of energy and performance we often see people deploy methods that are actually detrimental to maintaining the physical and mental performance that is required by Performers who need to sustain their energy on long sequences or long days on set.
To go deeper into this, today, we'll focus on two equally crucial aspects: hydration and micronutrients. Also we'll look at the role of ATP energy and Creatine in improving physical performance.  Unlock the secret weapon of successful action filmmaking with our Guide to Action Previsualisation. Whether you're a novice action filmmaker, an aspiring stunt performer, or an experienced Director of Photography, our comprehensive guide lays out the crucial steps for prepping jaw-dropping action scenes.
Learn how to maximise efficiency, enhance safety, and make every shot count, all while discovering why the The International Stunt Academy (The ISA) should be your go-to hub for Action Previs. Jump in and let's get started...  Welcome to another ISA feature article. Today, we're diving deep into a topic that often takes a backseat in the adrenaline-filled realm of action and stunt filmmaking ... colour grading. If you wonder, "Why focus on that when there are high-octane explosions and heart-stopping stunts to choreograph?" The answer is simple: colour grading is an unsung hero of Film that amplifies the visual impact and sensory experience of those very elements, giving your audience an unforgettable cinematic experience instead of bland / realistic colour and tone.
When executed correctly, color grading can heighten the tension in a chase sequence, add depth to a dramatic standoff, or even enhance the raw energy of a fight scene. Just like a well-timed stunt or a meticulously choreographed action sequence, colours on screen play a crucial role in storytelling. Whether you're a filmmaker, editor, or anyone involved in the creative process, understanding the nuances of color grading is indispensable. In this comprehensive article, we'll demystify the art and science of colour grading. You'll learn about its significance and some iconic uses in film, and even get hands-on advice to start grading your own sequences. Step into the edit suite and let's begin...  In the world of stunts and action acting, the physical demands are far from ordinary. Long, grueling days, high-impact activities, and the need for quick decision-making are par for the course. Traditional nutritional advice often leans toward carbohydrate-loading for quick energy, but is that the most effective strategy for the unique needs of stunt professionals? The answer may actually lie in promoting fat burning for sustained and stable energy. This article explores why fat burning could be the superior choice for those in the stunt industry
 When it comes to stunts and action sequences, you may think strength, agility, and coordination are the most important aspects to focus on. While these are undoubtedly crucial, there's a lesser-known "sixth sense" that stunt performers should not overlook: proprioception. This article aims to shed light on this essential yet often-ignored element in stunt training.
 Stunts? It's not all about guns and explosions... In the dynamic world of film and entertainment its important to be able to cater to diverse audiences, evoking a range of emotions from laughter to tears. One genre that has really stood the test of time is slapstick. Often misconceived as something from the past, simplistic or 'just for laughs', slapstick is a sophisticated, physical style of humour that requires impeccable timing, coordination, and, importantly, safe execution. At the International Stunt Academy, we run a short course dedicated to studying slapstick. Read on to learn why...
 Today, we're looking back to remember those who came before us and explore the thrilling history of stunts. As we chart this daring journey across the decades, we'll recognised some of the iconic names, mind-blowing moments, and pivotal breakthroughs that have defined the exhilarating world of stunt work. Buckle up!
 So you've been dreaming about this moment, right? You've been training like a beast, mastering your flips and falls, and now the time has come: your first stunt gig! Exciting? Heck, yeah! Nerve-racking? Absolutely! But don't fret, because we've got your back with a super handy checklist to help you nail your first day on set.
 In the high-octane world of stunts, understanding the mechanics of the human body isn't just a necessity; it's an obsession. As a pioneer in our field, wholly devoted to the study and training of stunts, The International Stunt Academy is a leading source of research and development related to body dynamics, movement, and optimum performance. Our explorations often lead us down unexpected paths, unearthing fascinating insights about the extraordinary interconnections within our bodies.
One such discovery is the surprising link between foot posture, specifically pronation, and knee pain - an issue that transcends disciplines and affects athletes worldwide. In this article, we'll explore the intricate relationship between pronation and knee health, examining how footwear choices and functional training can play a pivotal role in both causing and preventing these issues. Knee pain, particularly prevalent in athletes and stunt professionals, is often traced back to an unlikely suspect - the feet...  At The International Stunt Academy, we pride ourselves on incorporating cutting-edge knowledge and techniques in psychology and learning to ensure our students excel in their careers. One such model, which forms the foundation of our approach to skill development, is the "Four Stages of Competence." This highly effective and widely recognised model is rooted in the fields of psychology, education, and learning and development.
Have a read and discover how to supercharge your development and enable yourself to push to new levels of awareness, knowledge and capability.  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.  As an aspiring stunt performer or a professional seeking to improve your skills, it's crucial to recognize the importance of balancing physical prowess and acting abilities. By honing your acting skills alongside your physical training, you'll open up a world of opportunities and avoid potential pitfalls in the early stages of your career. In this article, we'll explore the reasons for embracing acting skills, explain the differences between dialogues and monologues, and provide you with examples to practice. Let's dive in and discover how to unlock your full potential as a stunt actor!
 The International Stunt Academy is renowned for training individuals to excel in stunt acting and roles that demand exceptional mental and physical strength, agility, and endurance. A common issue that arises among trainees is reaching their physical peak before developing sufficient mental strength. This can lead to mental fatigue, reduced self-awareness, and ultimately, a higher risk of injury. This article delves into the science behind mental fatigue and offers real-world examples to demonstrate its impact. We also provide practical tips on increasing self-awareness and mental endurance to help aspiring stunt actors and others facing similar challenges.
 Active listening is a critical skill for anyone pursuing a career in the high-pressure, high-risk world of stunt acting. It's especially important for those with neurodiverse backgrounds, as it can help enhance their communication skills and improve their overall performance. This guide aims to explain what active listening is, its importance in high-risk and high-pressure work, and provide self-help exercises to help you become an active listener.
 In the high-stakes world of stunts and performance, it's not uncommon for aspiring athletes and actors to encounter mental roadblocks along the way. These challenges can stem from various factors, such as fatigue, pressure to adapt, or confronting uncomfortable truths. This article aims to provide a soothing and supportive guide to understanding the reasons behind these mental walls, unpacking the inner workings of our minds, and offering advice on how to overcome these barriers in a calm, adult, and professional manner.
 Welcome to The International Stunt Academy's guide to saying something without speaking... Today, we're diving into the world of non-verbal communication and exploring how stunt actors can leverage body movement, mechanics, and non-verbal cues to create distinctive, authentic, and interesting characters in film and television roles, without relying on voice or dialogue. By mastering these techniques, stunt performers can elevate their craft, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and filmmakers alike.
 Unleash your inner action hero with our in-depth guide on alpha and beta type behaviors, designed for aspiring action actors. Learn key traits, characteristics, and seven powerful vocal and behavioral cues to transform your performance and dominate the screen.
To portray realistic characters in action films, actors need to understand the differences between alpha and beta type behaviors. In this guide, we will explore the characteristics of both types and provide seven vocal and behavioural cues to help you embody an alpha character or role. Lets begin.  Humour is an essential aspect of our daily lives, providing us with a way to connect with others, make light of difficult situations, and often, to mask our insecurities. While humour can be a valuable tool in various social settings, it may also hinder personal growth and obstruct learning experiences, particularly in acting classes. This article will explore why individuals use humour to cover up their insecurities, the impact it has on acting classes, and techniques to address this behaviour both in the moment and long-term.
 Acting is a challenging and rewarding career that requires a deep connection with one's emotions and the ability to convey them through performance. However, actors often bump into inhibitions and barriers that can prevent them from fully immersing themselves in their characters. These barriers may stem from personal insecurities, fear of judgment, or a lack of experience in accessing intense emotions. In this self-help guide, we will explore some reasons why actors face these challenges, how to prepare to face them, and provide a list of exercises to help aspiring actors break free and find their own path to emotional freedom.
 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.
3/27/2023
Practical vs. CGI Special Effects: Exploring the Art of In-Camera Magic and Post-Production Wizardry In the world of film and television, creating spectacular and visually stunning scenes often requires the use of special effects. These effects can be achieved through various methods, two of the most popular being practical (in-camera) effects and computer-generated imagery (CGI). As the International Stunt Academy continues to train action actors and stunt performers, it's essential to understand the differences between these two techniques and the reasons productions may choose one over the other. This article will delve into the world of practical and CGI special effects, exploring their unique characteristics and the factors that influence their selection in the industry.
The International Stunt Academy pays tribute to the trailblazing women who defied the odds and broke barriers in the world of stunt acting, inspiring a new generation of fearless female performers. A tribute to the trailblazing women who defied the odds and broke barriers in the world of stunt acting, inspiring a new generation of fearless female performers.
3/25/2023
The Impact of Weightlifting on Neck, Upper Back, and Shoulder Health: A Simplified Explanation The International Stunt Academy's mission goes beyond basic Stunt Training. We are also committed to studying the impacts of training and performance on mind and body, and researching and developing better methods to help performers and athletes condition and prepare their body for what can be physically challenging career.
As part of our comprehensive series on training and joint/spine health for stunt performers and athletes this article explores the common problem of neck, upper back, shoulder, and rotator cuff issues. These complications often arise from repetitive stress and imbalances caused by weightlifting and linear training. In this essential guide, we'll uncover the underlying causes of these problems, discuss typical symptoms and affected locations, and provide practical solutions for prevention and recovery. By integrating targeted exercises and optimizing training techniques, our expert advice aims to enhance overall spinal health and athletic performance for those in physically demanding professions. Stay ahead in your fitness journey by understanding how to maintain a strong, flexible, and healthy spine. |
AuthorThis blog os co-authored by The ISA Team Archives
September 2024
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed
10/13/2023