Importance Score: 53 / 100 🔵
Academy to Recognize Stunt Design with New Oscar Award
In a significant move acknowledging a long-underappreciated facet of filmmaking, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the introduction of a new Oscar category for stunt design. After years of the critical contributions of stunt professionals often being disregarded by the Academy, this dedicated award will be presented for the first time for films released in 2027, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the prestigious Academy Awards ceremony.
Recognition of Stunt Design as Integral to Cinema
“Since the inception of cinema, stunt design has served as an essential component of the art of filmmaking,” stated Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang in a joint announcement regarding the new honor. “We are honored to celebrate the groundbreaking contributions of these skilled and imaginative artists and commend them for their dedication and commitment in achieving this momentous milestone.”
Further Details on the Stunt Design Oscar to Come
The Academy has not yet disclosed specific eligibility criteria for movies vying for nomination in this newly established category. According to the official announcement from the Academy, “The particulars of the award’s presentation will be determined at a later date by the Academy’s Board of Governors and executive leadership.”
Elevating the Importance of Stunt Work in Film
Despite over a hundred stunt performers being members of the Academy’s Production and Technology Branch, it’s noteworthy that the organization has historically only presented two honorary Oscars to stunt artists, as previously reported by The Hollywood Reporter. With the creation of this new competitive category, studios are anticipated to place greater importance on the elaborate and spectacular action sequences featured in their film projects, potentially further elevating the art of stunt design in movies.