The Stunt Pod: Recent Episodes
The Stunt Pod
Episode 2 of our chat with 2nd Unit Director Paul Jennings.
We chat further about his career and delve into such films as Munich and The Dark Knight, plus look at his work on the horizon.
Hope you enjoy this as much as we did.
Don't forget to subscribe and leave as review!
Back in 1989 a young man wanted to be a stuntman. A film crew followed his journey and once it was aired the amount of people up and down the country who realised stonework was an actual job was huge.
His story is one of dedication and drive - gaining all of his appropriate qualifications and one or two bruises along the way. His impact on the film business has been extraordinary not only here but in particular in the US with work on movies like Batman Begins, Jack Reacher and Munich.
He has branched into the world of 2nd Unit work and directs action all over the world.
In this two part episode, we talk about his career and the TV show that started it all.
Enjoy, please subscribe and leave a review.
Lilly Aspell is Scottish-born actress famous for portraying the main Young Diana (Gal Gadot) in Wonder Woman 2017 and the eagerly anticipated Wonder Woman 1984. Her parents are both professional jockeys and have encouraged Lilly to enjoy the equestrian world. She combines both acting and showjumping. Jon talks about her career to date and her aspirations for the future in this week's episode of The Stunt Pod
HAYDN DALTON is an Australian, so don't mention the rugby, or the cricket for that matter! However, his a good bloke. He's also a talented stuntman and the creator of STUNT BOOK AUSTRALIA, a dating app for production companies and stunt coordinators enabling them the chance to find their perfect match....for a stunt performer anyway. We talk about his background and entry into the stunt business and how the stunt business in Oz if very different to that of the rest of the western world. We ask him about his early stunt jobs, doubling for ZACH GALIFIANAKIS on the HANGOVER movies, tearing all the ligaments in both knees during a stunt, his love of PINBALL, everything EVEL KNIEVEL and doubling for DONALD TRUMP! All this and so much more on this weeks show. Don't forget to leave us a five star review and help us get the pod to the top of the charts!
JEAN COULTER is one of those stunt pioneers you read about in cinema history books. When many of today's top stunt professionals were either in kindergarten or in utero Jean was falling down stairs, being knocked down by a car or rolling a car in a very short skirt, high heels and limited or no padding.
She has worked very hard to get to where she needed to be in order to work on shows like CHARLIES ANGELS, KOJAK, HART TO HART & THE STREETS OF SAN FRANSISCO - and has performed on the big screen in AIRPORT 77, CUJO, HONKY TONK FREEWAY, JAWS 2 & A VIEW TO A KILL.
She has also come up against those men, working in the business, who set out to make her life nothing short of downright difficult. A good looking girl on a movie set back in those days may, to some, have been considered fair game for almost anything, but some went just that bit bit too far. It started with cat calling and ended with inappropriate suggestions and threats that ultimately blacklisted her and caused her to rethink her career.
JEAN COULTER is a survivor and we are very grateful for her for giving her time to chat.
Enjoy.
ROY ALON was one of the most prolific stuntmen the world has ever seen. He was introduced to the business through VIC ARMSTRONG who was good enough to join us and share some of his favourite stories about Roy.
ROY ALON got a reputation for being a high fall man and performed some of the very best. In particular a 100ft fall in the 1981 film GREEN ICE which was admired by stunt performers the world over including the great DAR ROBINSON who was no stranger to a high fall as you all know.
I was lucky enough to know ROY ALON in the late eighties and got to perform a few falls with him whilst I was training for the Stunt Register - he was a lovely guy. A hero and a great teacher, he also made you feel so much better after you'd spoken to him.
This episode is a celebration of his life so if you haven't seen him work, check out some of the titles we talk about and either find the clips on YouTube or watch the films themselves.
Download, Subscribe and Enjoy
TANNER FOUST is one of those guys who just needs to be behind the wheel of a car. He's the guy who will volunteer to be the designated driver just because he hasn't driven this particular make or model yet.
His incredible rise is down to his determination and drive and his ability to make a car do absolutely anything....and very quickly.
Professional Rally X, Formula Drift, X Games and holder of the worlds longest jump in a 4 wheeled vehicle....332ft.
This ability was spotted by Hollywood and he was then asked to perform driving stunts in a number of big budget adventures including NEED FOR SPEED, THE DUKES OF HAZARD & FAST AND FURIOUS TOKYO DRIFT
So buckle up and don't touch anything on the dashboard - TANNER FOUST is in control and when he stomps on the gas you'll wish you'd gone 10-100 before the show.
Hello One and All
Just a quick podcast to support the efforts of Paul Lowe, who is paddling his kayak from the mountains of Cumbria to London via all manner of tributaries and canals. Not as easy as it sounds. You may ask why? Well, it's to raise money for Alder Hey Children's Hospital where the life of his nephew Daniel was saved.
Please support Paul on this worthy cause by visiting: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/littleloweykayak
Support him here Instagram: @littlelowey
Thank you
This week we look at how he does what he does to make the action happen. What does he do when he reads the script? Does he create the action in his head or does he get out his little cars and work out the chase right there on the living room carpet? All will be revealed as Greg gives us his insight into creating the very best action based on whatever condition the script is in when he gets it.
He also speaks his mind about the business today and his take on the stunt register. Is it a good thing? What changes can he see on the horizon and what does he expect from stunt performers on set these days?
All this on top of the state of the world and will the film business survive COVID-19? Ironically the one virus that stops the world in its tracks sounds like a really good sci-fi sequel.
So tune in to THE STUNT POD and find out more this week.
Recorded 2nd May 2020
GREG POWELL is a big name in the industry. One of those names that has pedigree and family connections with that industry that go back to the 1940s.
His father FRED ‘NOSHER’ POWELL and his uncle ‘DINNY POWELL’ have both worked on numerous film and television productions over the years. Greg was destined to join the family business and now, finally after years of asking we get an opportunity to get him on THE STUNT POD.
We talk about his early career and what living with a stuntman was like. Early memories and we explore some of Gregs back catalogue to find out more about him as the performer and as the stunt coordinator. Work on classic action movies like SUPERMAN, THE WILD GEESE, THE SPY WHO LOVED ME and NEVER SAY NEVER AGAIN - also his recent ventures as coordinator on all the HARRY POTTER films, AVENGERS AGE OF ULTRON, THE FOREIGNER, THE HITMAN’S BODYGUARD and its sequel the highly anticipated THE HITMAN’S WIFE’S BODYGUARD
We also get chance to have a laugh - its not all hard work on set and Greg has one or two stories to explain set life to us.
So pull up a comfy chair, sit back and enjoy as we invite Greg Powell onto The Stunt Pod.
Recorded 2nd May 2020
Ladies and gentlemen it is our pleasure to have with us as our guest this week 6 time world kick boxing champion Lee Charles.
We discuss his love for Bruce Lee and how that was the start of this incredible journey into Film and TV - over the last few years he's really come to the forefront with performances in big pictures like Final Score and The Courier.
Most recently his performance in the Sky Atlantic drama 'Gangs of London' has made him the darling of the press interview circuit so we are thrilled that he's been able to squeeze him in.
We've hidden all the sharp objects just in case....you can't be too careful these days right?
Well folks, we pulled out the stops for this one to bring you not one, not two but three of the people behind the Netflix blockbuster Extraction.
We are joined by Director SAM HARGRAVE, Chris Hemsworth's Stunt Double BOBBY HOLLAND HANTON and! RANDEEP HOODA, one of the top Bollywood actors who plays Saju.
We discuss the behind the scenes prep and the hard work that went into making this brilliant action movie.
Do like Sam did and strap yourself into something for an epic episode.
Welcome to Part 2 of our MELISSA STUBBS chat.
Here she takes us through her breakdown of the action from script to screen. How does she understand the action on the page, what tools does she use to make creating the action scene easier for her stunt team to understand, why is her dog a wolf?
These questions and many more will be answered as with explore more fascinating facts from the world of MELISSA STUBBS.
How has Hollywood changed today, is it easier to be a woman in Hollywood now than every before and does she really like to start rumours on set just to get a laugh…who doesn’t?
Find out as we hot foot it into Episode 2 with MELISSA STUBBS
MELISSA STUBBS was born in Canada, lived in Liverpool and has travelled the world in search of action, adventure and somewhere quiet to sit and drink Merlot. We find out what it was like growing up with two older brothers and how this sibling rivalry may have helped towards her love of competitive sports. We chat to her about her incredible career and about many of the movies she has worked on over the years including Batman and Robin, The Last Samurai and Suicide Squad. She has now moved into the world of Stunt Coordination and has once again applied the same hard work and determination in this side of the business as she did when she was performing full time. So pull up a sun lounger and pour yourself a cold one as we crash through the window of MELISSA STUBBS place, avoid the wolf and get her on THE STUNT POD
JUDE POYER is the reel deal - he once had a dream, then followed it to Hong Kong and became a part of the industry that would shape him and continues to challenge him.
It took him eight years of solid work to create the Jude we know today. He has worked alongside some of the biggest names in Hong Kong cinema including JACKIE CHAN, JET LI and SAMMO HUNG.
His transition from Hong Kong to the UK was more of a return, as he is originally from the UK, but was able to bring the experience he had gained abroad back with him to continue creating action for Film and Television.
His recent work on GANGS OF LONDON has brought him to the attention of the average TV viewer. Director GARETH EVANS has been so very complimentary about Jude’s work that its very obvious the two men are really great friends with similar visions and goals to achieve.
We talk to JUDE POYER about everything, his background, his career to date and his ability to get employed even without being on the British Stunt Register. Prepare yourselves for a great chat with JUDE POYER who has, as you will note from the interview, a very calming voice and if the film business should never recover after this COVID-19 lunacy he might consider those restful peace and calm recordings the gives your inner mojo a happy safe place to be.
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In this episode, Jon gets his soapbox out and, with help, jumps straight on it.
We talk about the current issues facing the Film Industry and the proposed DRAFT ideas of how to operate on set coming form the UK and the US.
Then Jon gets on his high horse about, well most things to be honest.
Have a listen, enjoy a free flowing natter about the current world we are living in.
Don't forget to do the right things and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or where ever you get your podcast from.
'Makes Death Wish look like a Disney Musical'
Every once in a while an 'event' moment happens in the entertainment world. It could be the long awaited release of an album by an artist who’s last release was 25yrs ago or a movie so important world events stop to let it have its time in the spotlight. Well, this time its TV’s turn to shine. As the world around us is locked down due to the outbreak of COVID-19 the spotlight once again turns to needles slaughter. Not by the virus but by the point of a pistol and on this occasion it was pointed at the head of a very powerful family.
Director GARETH EVANS brings us ‘GANGS OF LONDON’ a nine part exploration of everyday underworld folk. His vision in creating something that the average telly viewer hasn’t seen yet has been brought to life with the assistance of many of the very best stunt performers the UK has to offer. Under the watchful eye of stunt coordinator JUDE POYER the action is given new areas to explore, new ways to dress up the old ideas of the fight routine and new ways of making the audience hide behind the cushion on the sofa in fear.
We have been lucky enough to get to speak to three members of this production to discuss the many action sequences and the creation and technology behind them. We speak to creator and director GARETH EVANS, we speak to stunt coordinator JUDE POYER (full Bio episode coming next week!) and we talk to cast member LEE CHARLES who is now recognised wherever he goes as “Lenn’, the underpants bruiser from episode 1 and 2.
So join us for a good old fashioned chat about fights and families in this weeks STUNT POD episode.
No stuntmen were harmed in the making of this podcast.
Do the right thing, subscribe, share, download and revue.....or we'll send Len 'round!
This Episode has a look at Previs (previsualisation) on stunt teams with Mark Kelly of Project 44 Action. As part of a special series of episodes we delve into action design.
Mark and the team from Project 44 Action have pushed the envelope with how they design and create their action sequences and package them quickly so the Director can see and adjust what he or she needs on set.
Working for the last year on TREADSTONE with Coordinator Buster Reeves, Mark and the team choreographed the fights and created previs for the series Directors and Action Directors.
Mark joined the British Stunt Register in 2012 and has quickly made a mark as the whiz kid with a camera.
Hope you enjoy the episode and if you do, let people know.
There are not many stores or companies that spring to mind when you need kit to fall into, specific pads to wear, things to clip on to or gel to set your self on fire with. It's not the kinda department that can go into a high street store and find everything it needs. Hence the brilliance of Action Factory.
Jayson Dumenigo realised that there is a need for such a supplier and that he will not be able to perform stunt work forever. He and his crew have created a company that quickly redefined the service and supply for the stunt industry. From design and hire to clothing and pads, you can find a high standard of equipment and skills at Action Factory. Whats more, Action Factory are at the cutting edge of automated wire work. Check them out at www.afstunts.com
Do the right thing too by subscribing, sharing and downloading the Podcast
Till next time......
Matt Stirling is a very familiar face - he has one of those faces that just doesn't allow him to make it through an entire movie without being killed. This bothers us because he's such a nice guy. A very talented stuntman and coordinator who has been on the UK Register since 1999 and a world class magician and hypnotist who has been putting me under since I started this paragraph.....and I'm back in the room!! We talk to Matt about his childhood and his passion for life and entertaining. Plus some of the incredible stories that seem to follow him around on set. We also talk to him about his brilliant performance on Britains Got Talent. Its a great thrill to finally have him on the show.
Welcome folks to this weeks episode and we find ourselves in Berlin, no not the band from the eighties although that wouldn't have done me any harm at all, the city through the medium of Skype and we chat with top German stunt professional Melanie Benna.
She has been on top of her tree for many years having worked on numerous Tv and Film projects including Who Am I, Sense 8 and A Cure for Wellness, all of which we discuss whilst she lounges comfortably in her penthouse suite.....
So Ladies and Gentlemen Meine Damen und Herren please welcome this weeks guest
MELANIE BENNA
A J Bakunas was only 27 years old when he died on the set of the movie 'Steel' in 1978, but whilst he was part of the Hollywood stunt business he had become a very important player.
Join us as we look at his life through film and interviews and try to understand the man who took the stunt business to new heights.
This is the first in a series of podcasts about those stunt professionals, sadly no longer with us, who changed the business forever.
Don't forget to download and subscribe for more of the same. Thank you.
Hi Folks
Well since the World is in doom and gloom we thought we could be the good public service broadcaster we always have aspired to and give you lonely, house bound individuals a list of things to watch.
These lists are no means the definite list, just things we turn to watch for our action fix (no, not that HUB). Plus a few recommendations to while away the hours in doors.
PLUS, we have a few extra special guests calling in to leave heart felt wishes for our poor Jon, who's leaving his training a little too late for some!
Enjoy, comment, share and do the decent thing, subscribe.
Lots more little nuggets like this in the pipeline.
Rick Avery started out in life as a man with passion for karate and judo, found himself, pretty much by accident, on a Hal Needham movie and the rest as they say is history. Rick has done it all from fights, to fire jobs and high work. He is considered by many as one of the best car men in the business and in 1998 was given the job of coordinating the stunts on the movie Blues Brothers 2000. The 1980 original contained a mass car crash sequence that had to be topped. And boy did he top it! He talks us through his career and that incredible car crash sequence in this weeks episode.
An episode where we talk about news, that Virus and the implications to the film industry and Jon's latest attempt at being a Stunt Performer.
2012 saw the release of Batman The Dark Knight Rises. Bringing Christian Bale and director Christopher Nolan back together once again. It produced many memorable scenes but all paled into insignificance behind the opening aerial sequence. The capture and rescue of Bane played by Tom Hardy. Tom Struthers, the stunt coordinator, wanted something that had actually never been seen before, not without a back projection and Borehamwood high street in the background anyway. So he went to the best. One of which was David Garrick who not only is an expert when it comes to aerial activity, after spending many years in the Parachute Regiment and Special Forces, but a highly trained stuntman who has worked for many years in Film and Television. We talk to him about his career and he tells us how this incredible sequence was conceived and put together. Get in touch and subscribe, share and download.
If you've ever eaten a great Italian meal and drunk the best in Italian wine you are getting somewhere close to what being Massimiliano Ubaldi is like. He's a full bodied red who does a bit of action on the side. In fact he is from Italian stunt stock. His father Giorgio Ubaldi was one of an elite crew who kept the action in Italian films for over 25yrs. Massi, started back in the early eighties and has continued to produce high end action on Film and TV in nearly 200 projects including 'Gangs Of New York', 'Mission Impossible 3' and a very brief moment in the brand new James Bond adventure 'No Time To Die'. So make sure you haven't eaten for a while, wear your most comfortable eating trousers and dive into our main course of the very best in Italian cuisine. Do the right thing and subscribe to get all the latest episodes.
Yancy Butler is a fully blown Hollywood actress. Which makes her the very first actual actress we've had on the show. The possibilities are now endless. Sandra Bullock....stand by your phone! Yancy has been an actress for many years and has worked on a number of action packed movies including big box office projects like 'Hard Target' with Jean Claude Van Damme and 'Drop Zone' with Wesley Snipes. She is also very comfortable on the small screen and this year see's her celebrate the 20th anniversary of the show 'Witchblade' which broke US TV ratings records back in the day. In direct connection with that her current project 'Emerald Run' is written and directed by ex cast members from the 'Witchblade' show. She talks TV and Film, stunts and how she thinks we are just the greatest podcast around......okay she didn't exactly say that, but we knew that's how she felt.
Zoe Bell joins us to tell us about the sequences on the Oscar winning ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD which she not only Coordinated but had role in too as Janet Miller alongside KURT RUSSELL.
Zoe is a wealth of information and tells it like it is. Starting her career as Lucy Lawless's double on the smash TV hit XENA: WARRIOR PRINCES she has not looked back and is now one the top stunt coordinators in Hollywood.
We hear what it's like to work closely with BRAD PITT and QUENTIN TARANTINO
We hope you enjoy this little snippet and we look forward to having Zoe back on in the future.
Don't forget to subscribe, download and do the sharing thing.
Brian was a unique man, a salt of the earth kinda bloke. Hard as hell in an industry of 'artists', he would brighten up any set up with his infectious humour.
His sudden passing shocked the British stunt community and we have lost a true professional. Best known for his role in the opening fight sequence on the 2016 JASON BOURNE with Matt Damon, Brian was a former professional boxer who brought his fighting skills to the big screen.
Brian joined the British Stunt Register in 1995 and quickly became known as a fearless stunt performer.
We are joined by one of his best buddies Dave Garrick who gives us a flavour of Brians approach to life.
We will miss Brian and our collective, deepest sympathy goes to his family and friends at what must be a very difficult time.
RIP Brian and whenever you hear 'SECOUNDS OUT!' think of Brian.
Here we are!
We've had a little break and now we're back! Jon & Blake are preparing some awesome episodes and have some plans to expand the Podcast.
This is just a little update on what's coming up in the near future.
To be honest, the only reason we did this was to make sue the equipment still worked and Jon could speak coherently!
Dearly beloved we are gathered here today in the presence of action to bring you Jim Churchman. A stuntman and coordinator who has given new life to the action franchise with his quick thinking and his ability to try new and never before attempted feats of greatness. CAPTAIN MARVEL, X-MEN DARK PHOENIX and ANT MAN are just three of the occasions where Jim has pushed the envelope. His work on IRON MAN 3 is possibly the finest ever captured on screen - and yet deep down he is a man who likes to achieve. I ask you who considers breaking an existing high fall record of 370ft by attempting 25000ft? He is also a passionate family man and a very special human being, who tries, through his work to make other peoples lives just that little bit better. His work on behalf of children battling incredible physical and mental challenges is something he is hugely proud of. We urge everyone to visit www.flyingheroclub.com to discover more about this wonderful project and this incredible man. Ladies and gentlemen this is JIM CHURCHMAN Please don't forget to subscribe, download, share and leave a review. Until next time....
This week we return with a Super Hero Landing of a show with Super Hero flyer himself, Jim Churchman, Co-ordinator of Doctor Strange, First Man, X Men - Apocalypse & Dark Phoenix and Captain Marvel among others!
Putting all aside, Jim is joining us to talk about his passion, The Flying Hero Club. His charity gives terminal ill children the experience of a lifetime by making them fly like a super hero.
Jim took time out of his schedule to sit down with us and tell us all about it.
If you are in the industry, hopefully this will inspire you to give a little person the chance to smile.
Next week, Jim's full episode.
Please visit the Flying Hero Club here: www.flyingheroclub.com
Did you know that as of 2016 only 14,725 people lived in Ireland who were from the Philippines with Irish decent. To the best of our knowledge only one works in our industry. That someone is the legendary Tara Macken. Her dad is Irish and her mum is Filipino and Tara is was is commonly known as a'bad ass'. Having worked on such pictures as SUICIDE SQUAD, FAST 7, MEN IN BLACK INTERNATIONAL and 7 Marvel Universe projects she is the go to girl when it comes to petite action adventure. We had a great time chatting to Tara about her career and her incredible journey from Kuwait to the third season of WESTWORLD Ladies and gentlemen, hold on tight its going to be an exciting ride! TARA MACKEN
Part 2 with Will covers his gags on tons of films, his take on the industry today and some fun stuff on the way.
Don't forget to subscribe and share, get the word out and help us turn the spotlight on the people who make the action happen.
From being knocked down by a car to sliding a motorcycle under a truck to falling down a flight of stairs or fighting the lead in a Hollywood blockbuster. Will Willoughby can literally do it all and has been doing so for the last 21yrs. 214 credits doubling the likes of Matt Damon on The Martian and Hugh Grant on Paddington 2 and playing 6 roles in the Star Wars pictures has given him a fair bit of kudos over the years. Today we examine what its like to be Will Willoughby - the stuntman, the husband the father. He tells us about starting out and his dreams and aspirations growing up. He talks about some of his many on screen appearances and gives us a bit of technical talk about how the 'gags' were done. So sit back, pull up a pouffe and dive into the deep clear waters of action adventure. Ladies and gentlemen, Meine Damen and Herren - Will Willoughby
Here we have part 2 of our chat with Chris. In this episode we talk about his take on the industry today and the lighter side of set life.
A great chat with a devout family man and we hope you enjoy this as much as we did.
Please don't forget to share, download and subscribe.
We are joined in this episode by Chris O'Hara. Born in New York, Skied for his country and now creates some of the most exciting action sequences in Hollywood.
His work includes Bourne Legacy, Red Dawn, Jupiter Ascending, Jurassic World, Red Sparrow, Venom and Hobbs & Shaw.
Hugely experienced and a bloody nice bloke too.
Find his career on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0641233/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1
Gregg Smrz: Part 2.
Here is the second part of our chat with Hollywood stunt royalty Mr Smrz.
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Gregg Smrz: Part 1 Gregg Smrz really does have it all. Not content with being one of the very best stunt coordinators and 2nd unit directors in the business he also has two 'G's' in his first name. Some might say that's extravagant, but let me tell you he is fully aware of how good he is and what he can bring to any production. The first G is for 'grunt'. No, not what he does on set - its the sound of the motorcycle engines that brought him to join the sport he loves so much. A professional for many years, he raced with the best and then chose a different path. The second G is for 'gasp' which is what the audience do whenever they see his work on screen. Throw a stick and you'll hit a Smrz action sequence in a big budget picture. Face Off, Inspector Gadget, Knight and Day and Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol - his 2nd unit directing work is once again very much on its A-Game. Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters, Mission Impossible Rogue Nation and the soon to be released 6 Underground. He's a biker with a passion for movies and a need for speed - ladies and gentlemen we give you GREGG SMRZ Website: https://greggsmrz.com/#home-pattern Don't forget to share, download or subscribe!
If you're a budding filmmaker then you have to listen to the INDIE FILM HUSTLE. Jam packed full of helpful advice and experts giving 'knowledge bombs' galore!
Alex Ferrari, operating out of his back alley in Hollywood has forged a career as an editor and filmmaker, made short and feature films on low budgets, been there, done that, got the T shirt and made a podcast all about it.
We had a blast talking to Alex about negotiating the pitfalls of shooting action with cock all money and getting his take on how he did it and what advice he can give to others.
Enjoy!
Share, Subscribe and do all the stuff you know you need to.
Alex's website which has links to all his goldmine of knowledge! https://indiefilmhustle.com
See you next time!
Kachina Dechert was born in London England to Rock and Roll Musicians Jody Linscott (The Who, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Tom Jones... ) and Greg Dechert (Bad Company, Uriah Heap, David Gilmore...). Kachina spent most of her youth and teens on the road touring the world with these bands - and more. Drawn to high speed vehicles Kachina started racing Motorcycles on and off road. Her skills on the track soon lead her to the Stunt World where her size, look and all around athletic abilities lead quickly to a full time career. Always looking to expanding her skills Kachina joined, Drivers East, as the only female on one of the top Driving Crews in the US.
Kachina has appeared in such blockbusters as MISSION IMPOSSIBLE 6, THE MUMMY, INFERNO, AMERICAN HUSTLE, JOHN WICK, THE AMAZING SPIDERMAN 2. Her work includes doubling such stars as Jessica Biel, Anette Benning, Mila Kunis, Uma Thurman, Famke Jansen, Megan Fox, Selma Hayek and Sophia Bush.
Find Kachina on all the social media platforms and here on her website:
https://www.kachinadechert.com
Don't forget to share, subscribe and download. See you next time!
Hang on tight!
Luci Romberg is a professional stuntwoman in Hollywood, CA. Luci is a member of the Stunt Women’s Association of Motion Pictures and Tempest Freerunning. Luci has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, commercials, and freerunning competitions (11 time female world champion in Red Bull Art of Motion). As a national champion gymnast and all-league soccer player in college, Luci’s transition into stunts was seamless.
She has performed stunts on films such as the up and coming Ghostbusters reboot, Spy, Zombieland, Transformers 4, The Conjuring, and Indiana Jones 4, to name a few. She has also worked on numerous TV shows including NCIS, Criminal Minds, Suburgatory, and Raising Hope. In 2014 she won a Taurus World Stunt Award for Best Overall Stunt By a Stuntwoman for her car hit doubling Melissa McCarthy on Identity Thief.
For more information on projects Luci has worked on, listen to this weeks episode of THE STUNT POD
http://www.luciromberg.com
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2086539/
https://www.tempestfreerunning.com
Don't forget to subscribe, download and share. See you next time!
Here is part 2 with Sam Hargrave
Samuel Ambler Hargrave portrayed Gladiator in Thor: Ragnarok and New Asgard Truck Driver in Avengers: Endgame. You may of heard of the film, you know! the one that has made over a BILLION DOLLARS WORLDWIDE!!!!!!!! He was a stunt double for Chris Evans in The Avengers and Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Brett Dalton in the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. episode Pilot. He was also a fight coordinator in Captain America: Civil War, a stunt coordinator, fight coordinator and additional second unit director in Avengers: Infinity War, a stunt coordinator and second unit director in Avengers: Endgame and a stunt performer in Thor: Ragnarok. What this man doesn't know about the Marvel universe probably isn't worth knowing. The stunt coordinator and 2nd Unit Director on Avengers Endgame is giving us the lowdown of how these incredible action sequences were put together for this truly exceptional final Avengers outing. Enjoy, share, subscribe and download
Sam Hargrave has had a monumental rise to the very top of the tree as a Hollywood stuntman, a true life Captain America.
His love of filmmaking is only matched by his love of playing Bluegrass music with his band.
We got to spend some quality time with Sam and talk about his career path into stunts and the progression to 2nd Unit Director and then to Director.
Get ready for part 2 next time, 'cause it's a corker!
Don't forget to subscribe, share and download.
Australian Stunt Woman, Ingrid Kleinig is a LA based Stunt Coordinator & performer who fell into the world of stunts while swinging 140ft above the arena for the Opening Ceremony of the 2000 Olympic Games. Having toured the globe with renowned physical theatre company Legs on the Wall as well as the Sydney Theatre Company - performing alongside the likes of Cate Blanchett & Joseph Fiennes, she had formed a wealth of physical, technical & artistic vocabulary across multiple fields including directing & rigging that lent itself precisely to the stunt industry. In recent film endeavours Ingrid was the stunt double for Margot Robbie on Suicide Squad & The Legend of Tarzan, Brie Larson on Captain Marvel & Kong: Skull Island & Evangeline Lilly on Ant Man & The Wasp & The Hobbit Trilogy. She was one of only two female stunt drivers on Mad Max: Fury Road, can drive a big rig truck & hold her breath underwater for five & a half minutes. She is also the first female to be officially graded as an Assistant Stunt Coordinator in Australia where, to date, no female has ever held the position of Stunt Coordinator. She continues to pursue her passion for movement within the realm of film by creating action that serves the story. All this and now she takes time from her library and billiards room to tell us her story ....join us as we delve into the world of the sensational, the award winning, INGRID KLEINIG
What do all these movies from the last 5 years have in common? THE DUKES OF HAZZARD JACK AND JILL TED SPONGEBOB MOVIE JOHN WICK 3 - PARABELLUM They all have coordinated action by this weeks guest. SCOTT ROGERS. We look at some of his past glories in the business and then take an in-depth look at JOHN WICK 3 and how Scott creates the action that we see on the screen. Hold on for an extraordinary ride into the mind of one of the top coordinators around today. Ladies and Gentlemen......SCOTT ROGERS
Pete Antico’s film credits as an actor include; The Creators, opposite Gerard Depardieu, Bruce Payne & William Shatner, Oliver Stone’s Wall Street 2 in which he consulted lending his vast economic knowledge to Stone, portraying a hedge fund manager, The Other Guys with Will Ferrell & Mark Wahlberg, Black Dynamite, The Hunt For Red October, Con Air, Lethal Weapon III and Time Cop II. Antico has had memorable roles in such films as 29th Street with Danny Aiello and Motorcycle Gang directed by John Milius (Apocalypse Now, Clear and Present Danger) which Antico also had the privilege of befriending as well as being mentored by the legendary writer/ director for the last 15 years. On top of all this he is a respected and highly regarded member of the Hollywood Stunt community. Having worked as stunt double for Robert DeNiro on Midnight Run and Syvlester Stallone in Tango and Cash. And now he has reached the very top of his career......Pete Antico is on The Stunt Pod Find out more about Pete here: www.peteantico.com
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As promised, a review of the awards night including all the winners speeches curtesy of Taurus.
Our immense gratitude to the Taurus office for allowing us to have the audio recorded live on the night.
You can find all the listings here on the Taurus website including ways to donate to the foundation.
https://www.taurusworldstuntawards.com
We hope you enjoy it.
Please share, subscribe and download.
Frank Henson was without doubt one of the finest stunt drivers the UK has ever produced. His work throughout the seventies and eighties with Peter Brayham on iconic TV shows like The Sweeney and The Professionals has gone down in history. He was also a regular in some of the biggest movies of the late 20th century including the James Bond series, Indiana Jones and most notably in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi as one of the stunt Biker Scouts. Frank sadly passed away in April and as a tribute we have put together an interview that our Jon did with him about five years ago, intertwined with our thoughts on the great man and a tribute from stuntman, stunt coordinator and Franks friend for the last forty years Paul Weston. A lovely man who has a story to tell - enjoy.
In the world of indie films people are always looking to include action without breaking the bank. In this special series of bonus episodes we look at various ways to that people are using innovative methods to 'get the shot'.
Part 2 of the series takes us to New York and we meet Metro Camera Cars. We speak to Joe Bearese, co-owner and former stuntman, DOP and now runs his own tracking vehicle company catering for the mid range budgets on the East Coast, Detroit and Atlanta.
Joe gives some great advice for filming on a low budget and tells us of his passion for helping people get the shot.
Find out more here: www.metrocameracars.com
Next episode, we catch up with a Podcast legend in LA.
Please subscribe, download, review, share and get in touch if you want to. thestuntpod@gmail.com
It's that time of the year when the great and the good are nominated for their deserved Taurus Award.
In the is Episode we are joined by the brilliant Carl Ciarfalio who together with Lane Levitt and Spice Williams helped create the Taurus Awards and now sits on the Blue Ribboned Committee for the World Stunt Awards.
Courtesy of the Taurus Office, we have been granted exclusive access to preview the awards with Carl and discuss each nomination at length and promote all of the Performers, Riggers and Coordinators involved.
A few list of categories and nominations can be found here: https://www.taurusworldstuntawards.com/2019-nominees/
We will have a second show about the awards night in a few weeks with clips from the evening as well as some exclusive content.
Please don't forget to subscribe here or via Apple Podcasts, share and download and enjoy.
!
In the world of indie films people are always looking to include action without breaking the bank. In this special series of bonus episodes we look at various ways to that people are using innovative methods to 'get the shot'.
This episode is looking at Wiral Lite. A company started from a kickstarter campaign that wanted to film the 'impossible' shot and was blown away by the reception raising over a million dollars more than the funding goal! Founded in Norway the company is exceeding all exceptions.
The system is comprised of a motorized, remotely-controlled device that rolls across a cable fixed to two poles or similar structures. A camera can be attached to the bottom of Wiral LITE, which itself rolls across the cable while the camera records cinematic motion shots.
The cable cam system is being presented as an alternative to portable motorized slider devices, offering the ability to record motion shots over much larger distances than the average portable slider. It even can outdoor a drone!
Please don't forget to subscribe, share, download and leave us a review. Enjoy
Next Bonus Episode: Metro Cars NY
eu.wiralcam.com
In the old days a healthy regime for a stunt performer would have included only having one pork pie for lunch and just 3 or 4 pints after work instead of a massive lager bender. Times have changed. Society has changed. So how do stunt professionals fine tune their bodies to be at the peak of physical fitness all the time and why is there a massive industry based around this form of regime change. We ask one of the countries leading authorities, Fit For Films Steve Grant is one of the UK’s leading and award winning Nutritionists & Functional Medicine Practitioners. He has supported those with health, performance and physiques goals for well over a decade and supported well over a 100 clients in the film industry alone since 2010, working on multiple movie productions. His clientele range from directors & actors through to stunt performers, wardrobe and anything in-between. Steve also runs busy clinics in and around London supporting people from all walks of life. So chances are he knows his stuff. Find out more here: www.fitforfilms.com
Rocky Taylor is without question one of the UK stunt industry's legendary figures. Rocky's first job was back in 1961 in the film 'The Young Ones', after this he never looked back. His extraordinary career has been brought to life in book form thanks to our very own Stunt Pod co host Jon Auty and is released on April 18th by Pegasus books in all good book stores. Rocky talks to us about some of those moments that have left quite an impression on him and his reason for writing the book in the first place. To say that his life has been simple would be an understatement. He's had tragedy and joy in his life but one thing that remains is his ability to laugh. The book is filled with many very funny stories about his life as a professional stuntman. JUMP ROCKY JUMP - How one man fell into stunt work. Find the book at the links below and don't forget to subscribe, share and review. Thank you https://www.foyles.co.uk/witem/biography/jump-rocky-jump,rocky-taylor-jon-auty-ray-winstone-mark-witherspoon-9781910903247 https://pegasuspublishers.com/books/coming-soon/jump-rocky-jump-
Arsha Aghdasi is a stuntman, stunt coordinator and founding father of stunt work in Iran and he's only 36! Having worked extensively in the Iranian and Turkish film and television market he gained international acclaim as a member of Gary Powell's stunt team on the James Bond adventure 'SKYFALL' for which he won a Screen Actors Guild Award. We discuss his path from adventure seeker to action designer. An extraordinary man with an extraordinary story to tell. IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3646747/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1
In this episode we celebrate the life and times of a man who brought joy and love to everyone he met.
Anthony ‘Bronco’ McLaughlin sadly passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday morning at the age of 80. His passing leaves an empty space, but his memory and film and television adventures remain for us all to relive and learn from.
Bronco was an important cog in the wheel of success on many box office hits over the last fifty years like ‘Ryan’s Daughter’, ‘Total Recall’, ‘Gangs of New York’ and two outings with ‘Indiana Jones’, not forgetting his work on the small screen with 'Father Ted'.
We talk about his career and explore some of his highlights and a few funny stories along the way.
Join us as we take a look at the life of a wonderful stuntman.
Bronco McLaughlin August 10th 1938 – March 26th 2019
To contribute towards the Go Fund Me Campaign:
https://www.gofundme.com/bronco-mcloughlin-tribute-fund
This week we complete our epic two parter with British Coordinator MARK MOTTRAM.
We chat about Marks Coordinating and we delve into the Q&A.
We also talk more about MARY POPPINS RETURNS and CURFEW, the new Sky One action Series.
Thanks for listening. Please don't forget to subscribe, either here or on Apple Podcasts and be sure to share and leave us a review.
In this Episode we talk, extensively, to Mark Mottram.
Starting his stunt career in 1996, Mark found his way into the world of movie action after being chased around an obstacle course by bodybuilders in brightly coloured leotards. Takes all sorts I suppose, but at the same time he was busy winning everything in the gameshow GLADIATORS he started his career as non other than PIERCE BROSNAN'S double in JAMES BOND appearing in TOMORROW NEVER DIES, THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH and DIE ANOTHER DAY.
BATMAN, CAPTAIN AMERICA AND X MEN all followed where Mark doubled for just about every superhero there is!
We chat to Mark about his early career and becoming a Coordinator where his credits include: 24: LIVE ANOTHER DAY, NOVEMBER MAN, DOCTOR STRANGE, MARY POPPINS RETURNS and CURFEW.
Don't forget to subscribe, download and share.
Marks IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0609561/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Meredith Richardson’s walk through life has had more than a few crashes, burns, explosions and brawls, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Known by many in the trade as “Bama,” Meredith is a professional stunt woman. If you’re a fan of action in TV and movies, especially shows like "Ghostbusters", odds are you’ve seen plenty of Meredith’s work. We talk about her early life growing up with a passion for gymnastics and a head full of dreams to her many credits on film and TV. We also ask her to look at the industry and give us her opinion on what makes the stunt business tick. She is very qualified to give us her opinion as she is supremely talented in the art of falling over. Follow her on Instagram: Bamastunts IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4928398/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1 Don't forget to subscribe here or on Apple Podcasts, share, download and leave us a review.
Colin Skeaping will be forever remembered by the film loving public as Mark Hamill's stunt double on the STAR WARS pictures, but believe it or not he has done lots of other work. SUPERMAN, BOND, INDIANA JONES and BIGGLES for starters as a performer and a very successful career as a stunt coordinator on both the big and small screen with such titles as RETURN TO OZ, HAUNTED HONEYMOON, MR BEAN and MIDSOMER MURDERS. We talk about his career and his work on all these projects and more. Including his love of dogs. A great thrill to speak to a man who is internationally recognisable as a stunt professional. Please Subscribe, Download and Share. Write a review or Subscribe on Apple Podcast. IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0803943/
It's Oscars night again and once again the Stunt/Action Teams/Coordinators are not honoured in a separate category. 24 categories covering aspects of the filmmaking process, but look at the the biggest box office films in the last twenty years and see what action was involved. Is this less important than Hair And Makeup or Supporting Artist?
In this episode we discuss the current debacle and unjustified silence form the Academy. We talk to JACK GILL who has campaigned for 28 years to get recognition. We also chat with BUDDY JOE HOOKER who gives us some insight into the behind the scenes problems with the Academy.
Please share, download and subscribe and help the STAND UP FOR STUNTS campaign by signing the petition via the link the below.
https://www.thepetitionsite.com/en-gb/810/757/136/stand-up-for-stunt-people-they-deserve-an-academy-award-too/?fbclid=IwAR2Pybh42p1LDM71lKVomKDsShRfcQymluTkEJYYGc_t0KqY4QUWSDzc1WY&src=referrer&campaign=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F
www.oscarsforstunts.com
Facebook: Stand Up For Stunts
@StandUPforStunts
Dayna grew up in the saddle. Little did she know it would lead her on the path to becoming a professional stuntwoman. She’s gone from suiting up for XENA: WARRIOR PRINCESS, to stepping in for Charlize Theron in MAD MAX: FURY ROAD, Tilda Swinton, Gwyneth Paltrow International double, performer, hobbit & coordinator, Dayna’s skills encompass horse expert, martial arts, rescue diver, weaponry, high falls and fire burn to name a few. As the founder, Dayna passes on her stunt knowledge to her students at the New Zealand Stunt School. Oh...all this and she is mad as a box of frogs!! LOL Her sense of humour shines through during our chat so enjoy Dayna at full gallop....... IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1677589/?ref_=nv_sr_1 New Zealand Stunt School https://www.newzealandstuntschool.com Reins of War Proof of concept: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3-Q_hxrLJ8&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR39nV7bz-xUfHe1pZLmxd5R4Q1xhIl5leWbmlO0tuWW9Hct1AKep0vhxSU
In this Episode we finish our chat with Rick. We talk about his way of doing what he does and his approach to stunt work. We also have our Q&A with him and find out what makes him tick.
Enjoy! Please don't forget to subscribe and review.
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0257670/?ref_=nv_sr_1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickstunts/ Website: http://rickenglishstunts.co.uk
Rick English is without doubt one of the busiest stunt performers on two & four wheels. In this Episode we discuss his career since joining the British Stunt Register in 2001, his aspirations to get into the business and we look at some of his most challenging stunts to date, including work on MISSION IMPOSSIBLE, CASINO ROYALE, GHOST RIDER: SPIRIT OF VENGEANCE and SKYFALL. We also chat about Rick's extensive work on KINGMSAN: SECRET SERVICE & THE GOLDEN CIRCLE doubling COLIN FIRTH. So pop the clutch and give it some gas with us as Rick English wheelies into the StuntPod and power slides his way through this weeks episode. IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0257670/?ref_=nv_sr_1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickstunts/ Website: http://rickenglishstunts.co.uk Please share, download, review and subscribe!
If you've ever seen a Ben Stiller movie then you will have see Greg Fitzpatrick in action. An actor who 'fell' into stunt work and has made a massive success of both ever since. A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM, WALTER MITTY, DODGE-BALL, MEET THE FOCKERS....the list is endless. Not only that but he's also doubled Robert Downey Jnr on Iron Man....is there anything he can't do? Well apart from finding Lop Sang obviously.... Discovery Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vU11yEk26Zk&index=364&t=0s&list=WL
World Stunt Awards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcNHSyiJoJI&t=135s&list=WL&index=361
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0280525/?ref_=nv_sr_2
MARIA HIPPOLYTE is a relatively new member of the British Stunt Register. She's determined, she's a great dancer and when she relaxes, she likes to knit....yep....you heard me correctly. There's a new breed on the streets and they are knit a mean beanie hat! We talk about her career as a dancer and the circus which led her to a career in stunts. We speak at length about her first job on WONDER WOMAN and her role in BLACK PANTHER as a DORA MILAJE. We also speak about her thoughts on being only the second black female stunt professional since the British Stunt Register began in 1973. Maria is huge fun and we hope you enjoy the episode as much as we did putting together. Sit back and enjoy Maria in full flight. Find Maria on Instagram @mariahippolye_x_ Twitter: @mariahippolyte Please subscribe on Apple Podcast, download, share and leave a review.
Updated 'louder' episode
This episode we visit Planet Knox where we discuss the use of their pads within the film and TV industry with Aaron Travell, Operations Director at Knox.
Knox began back in 1981 with the first ever back protector and have since won countless awards for their innovation and quality. They quickly became the go to equipment for motorcycle riders. Stunt Performers across the globe began to see the potential benefits and the kit rapidly became a performers favourite.
We also speak to Knox Ambassador Rick English about his experience as a stunt motorcyclist, stunt performer and double using Knox Armour.
Knox have been kind enough to off a 20% discount on their kit to all StuntPod listeners purchased from their website (valid up to 1st March 2019). Simply type in 'thestuntpod' in the coupon box for your discount.
Enjoy, subscribe, download and review.
www.planet-knox.com
If you anagram Ben Dimmocks name it gives you Combed Mink which kind of describes Ben down to the ground. Five foot ten of pure gentleman. We had such a great time interviewing him about his career and talked about films such as CAPTAIN AMERICA, BOURNE ULTIMATUM and JASON BOURNE where he began his relationship with MATT DAMON as his stunt double. We look into his early career - his love of motorcycles and his thoughts of how being a professional stunt performer is the greatest job in the world. Plus a load of laughs too. You can find more about Ben on IMDB and at Rage Stunts www.ragestunts.com Enjoy, subscribe, download and review.
Here we go with Part 2 of an audience with Andy Armstrong. Again.
We discuss with Andy what is a stunt, his favourite gags and generally lift the lid on the process of one of the most successful men in the film action industry.
Enjoy, subscribe on Apple iTunes, download and leave us a review.
Have a great Christmas and Happy New Year to you all. See you in 2019!
From Megan, Blake & Jon
Since everyone else is doing a re-boot. We thought we will too. Here is one of our favourite every episodes and to this date, no one has equalled the record of 5 hours recording! They're even having bets bow to beat it!!!
WOW! It's only Andy Armstrong!!!!!!!!
We can't tell you what a honour this was. Andy has had a monumental rise in the industry since his Dad found him on the M40 motorway fixing his truck who then took him to the airport and put him on a plane to the south of France to work for his Brother Vic on THE ZOO GANG in 1974.
Since then he has worked as a Production Assistant, 1st AD, Director, Writer, Producer, Stunt Performer, Stunt Coordinator and 2nd Unit Coordinator on some of the biggest films in Cinema. In this episode we chat to Andy about his career and he tells some fantastic stories about films such as HIGHLANDER, THE AMAZING SPIDERMAN and many more.
Please share, download, subscribe, tell your friends and leave a review. Most of all thanks for listening and next week we will have part 2 for you where Andy tells about his process and more hilarious stories about life as part of Clan Armstrong.
Andy on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0035609/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
In this episode we talk to Writer/Director MATTHEW HOPE.
Matthew has just released his new action film ALL THE DEVILS MEN and is his latest production following THE VETERAN and THE VANGAURD.
As you know, we don't review films. So we didn't. Instead we chatted to Matthew before he headed off to the USA for the Opening in LA about the action sequences and his unique position of being able to Direct what he wrote.
Coordinated by British Stunt Register member JOHN STREET, it's realism is one of the things that stand in from the film in which John acted as Military Advisor too.
The Film is out on all the online platforms, the trailer can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ilw3BXyqtzQ
IMDB Link here: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6012244/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Please like, share, download, chat to your friends about it and subscribe either here or on Apple Podcasts. Please also leave a review, it helps.....apparently.
In this bumper episode we talk to the creators and the Stunt Coordinator of one of the funniest films of the 2017.
Ron Goossens: Low Budget Stuntman is the brainchild of Steffen Haars and Flip Van der Kuil who have secured a reputation in Holland and indeed around mainland Europe as the new 'alternative' comedy film kings with their previous films such as New Kids on the Block and Bro's Before Ho's.
We also talk to Dutch Stunt Coordinator Willem de Beukelaer about his career and the Dutch Stunt community.
Enjoy, share, download and review!
IMDB:
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5637542/?ref_=ttfc_fc_tt
ANDY ARMSTRONG joins us to discuss the October article from the Hollywood Reporter about the increase in injuries reported by Stunt Performers.
We hear from one of the most experienced 2nd Unit Coordinators on earth about the pressure to create action sequences and that the demand to produce 'the show' is possibly outweighing the need for safety.
You can find the article here:
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/features/dark-side-hollywoods-content-boom-1156094?fbclid=IwAR1zzPZ6udtf91Hs1uInDldMdm4BeROfTiWvPRjObq5ttJWe75BsW_GTQPM
Enjoy, share, subscribe and download for all the content you can handle!
Episode 2 finds us asking Keir about his process and how he designs his rigs and stunts. We also go into the Q&A with some surprising answers! Keir can be found on IMDB and at his website: https://www.stuntrigging.org
Interview starts at: 06:20
Keir Beck has been at the top of his tree for the last 20 years...ironically how he got up there in the first place was a major step on this road to success. We talk about his world of action and the rigging for stunts. He talks in depth about the technical side of the business and how anything is possible if you have a love of the movies and an imagination. Keir has rigged many of the top box office smashes over the years including Matrix Revolutions, Casino Royale and the highly acclaimed Mad Max - Fury Road. A rigger, stunt coordinator, performer, 2nd Unit Coordinator and winner of a Taurus World Stunt award. Sit back, relax and enjoy the magical world of our pal from down under. Keir Beck. Keir can be found on IMDB and at his website: https://www.stuntrigging.orgK
Interview starts at 04:50
In this episode with chat with British stuntman and living Legend Rocky Taylor.
Rocky has appeared in films such as Dr No, Indiana Jones: Raiders of the lost Arc, The Wild Geese, The Da Vinci Code and countless TV programmes. Rocky is best known for his car work and we chat to him about a few distinct stunts from his long career such as MONTE CARLO OR BUST, CONFESSIONS OF A DRIVING INSTRUCTOR and THE CURSE OF THE PINK PANTHER. Today we sit down with him as a teaser for his upcoming episode which we will combine with his book launch later this year.
Enjoy, Share, Subscribe, Download and tell your friends to do the same! Plus, please leave a review.
Rocky's IMDB page:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0853092/?ref_=nv_sr_1
We go straight into a chat with Hollywood Stunt Legend JACK GILL, Stunt Coordinator of VENOM with TOM HARDY.
Together with his brother ANDY GILL and CHRIS O'HARA they produced the action sequences on the latest MARVEL Blockbuster.
JACK tells us the behind the scenes stories of how some of the sequences didn't make it in the final edit and how they put together the first side by side double sidewinder in motion picture history.
Enjoy, share, talk to your friends, download, subscribe and leave a comment.
This episode starts a debate on when does a fight on screen become a stunt and where did all this need for everyone to be a martial artists come from?
We discuss the view from several angles and make a call to British Stunt Coordinator Ray De Haan to get his view on the question.
Please share, download and subscribe.
We make no apologie for the length of this episode, quite frankly, put the kettle on or grab a take out coffee, settle down for a unique insight into the Bickers World.
The Name Bickers is synonymous with film and TV stunt engineering within the industry. There isn't an action sequence shot in the UK or Europe that includes vehicles that has, most likely, been prepared by Bickers.
Nestled quitley in a quaint village in the East Anglian countryside of little old England, this family run business has been respobsible for action vehicle work from Bond films to Mission Impossible for forty years. They are THE to 'go to' people for TOP GEAR and THE GRAND TOUR. They were responsible for developing equipment such as the Fan Descender and has more ramps, pipes, tracking vehicles and stunt engineering equipment you can shake a stick at!
In this episode we are taken on a tour of their workshops, storage sheds, tracking vehicle containers and sit down with Paul Bickers himself where we talk about the history of the company, their process of working and discuss the role of stunt engineering within the industry today.
Enjoy this bumper episode. If you want to find out more about Bickers...
www.bickers.co.uk
Please share, subscribe and download.
BURT REYNOLDS
“There ain’t nothing like the life of a Hollywood stuntman”
Today we find ourselves looking back at the career highs of the man who made the transition from stunt work to box office gold. The late great Burt Reynolds.
Burt passed away recently at the age of 82, but what a life! The biggest box office sensation between 1975 and 1980 and the man who teamed up with stunt legend Hal Needham to create some of the very best action comedies of the last fifty years.
We look at his start in Hollywood as a stuntman on TV shows in the 50s to his great movie adventures of the 70s including DELIVERENCE, WHITE LIGHTENING and the classic SMOKEY AND THE BANDIT.
Come with us as we look at Burt, his movies, the stunts he performed and the friends and stuntmen he had worked with and inspired throughout his career.
Interview starts at 03:37
Gillian is one of the very first female stunt performers to work regularly in the British Stunt business and was there at the very start of the British Stunt Register back in 1973.
We talk about her fascinating background before she got into the business and her incredible career as a top stunt professional working on such classics as WHERE EAGLES DARE, THE WITCH FINDER GENERAL, MODESTY BLAISE and the original CASINO ROYALE from 1967 where she doubled Deborah Kerr.
A true inspiration and a true Action Icon.
Interview starts at 04:30
Derek is best known to British Television fans as Charlie Slater in the long running BBC soap EASTENDERS, but many may not know that before he became an actor he was a stuntman working alongside many top British stuntmen including Derek Ware. In fact Mr Martin was a part of the HAVOC organisation for a number of years working on TV and Film.
We talk about his background and his run ins with the law - before arriving at the door marked 'showbiz'.
A wonderful insight into a business we love from a man who has experienced both sides of the camera. Discusions include DR WHO and many more shows.
A true gentleman and all round lovely guy.
Interview starts at 08:20
Marie is a stunt performer who is continually striving to improve.
From her first foray into action she has always wanted to do the best job she possible can.
Here she talks about her early days and her goal of becoming a stunt performer.
She talks about her many credits including CSi and Boston Legal and her work on Inception, Dark Knight Rises and Bang Bang.
We also discuss the female stunt professionals padding options as costumes get smaller and risks get bigger.
She is also an active member of the SAG-AFTRA board where she is a spokesperson.
Marie Fink at V10 Stunts:
http://www.v10stunts.com/marie_fink_resume.htm
IMDB:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2315678/
Here is our seond episode with Hollywood Legend Terry Leonard. We talk about his way of dealing with Directors, a look at his budgeting and script breakdown method and a candid talk about why there are no Oscars for Stunts.
Please subscribe, download and share.
Enjoy
Terry Leonard is indeed a Hollywood great.
The word legend is over-used these days, but when you talk about Terry its perfectly acceptable to drop it into the conversation.
Have a look at the top 50 movies of the last 50yrs and Terry will have been involved in plenty of them.
A football scholar with bags of ability he found his career path on the big screen under the watchful eye of Chuck Roberson and Yakima Canutt.
Hes been stunt coordinator on some of the biggest box office successes of all time including APOCOLYPSE NOW, GREMLINS, THE FUGITIVE, DIE HARD WITH A VENGEANCE, RUSH HOUR, 2 FAST 2 FURIOUS and THE FAST & THE FURIOUS TOKYO DRIFT.
He is also responsible for performing many extraordinary stunts on films like ROMANCING THE STONE, CONAN THE BARBARIAN and RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK
Sit back, relax and enjoy the one and only TERRY LEONARD talk with such passion about the business he loves so much.
IMDB:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0502777/?ref_=nv_sr_1
We pick up with Jim talking about his career by discussing 'What is a stunt' and chat about GOLDENEYE, his position now as the Chairman of the BRITISH STUNT REGISTER, his process of script breakdown and we do the 'not so' Quick Cards.
Enjoy
Find Jim here:
http://www.jimstunt.com
Or on IMDB
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0235695/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Our first of a two part episode talking to stunt co-ordinator JIM DOWDALL. Jim's experience is vast and memorable. From a circus Rousatabout to being involved in some of the biggest war film in history, Jim has worn as many WW2 uniforms as he has his own clothes!
Using his extensive background as an armourer at BABTY, Europes longest and largest supplier of weapons to the film, TV and theatre industry, Jim forges a career as the go to man for WW2 films either as a military advisor or stunt co-ordinator. From WHERE EAGLES DARE to FURY (not to mention A BRIDGE TOO FAR along the way). PLUS!!!!!! appearing as a stormtrooper of a different kind in STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE, only the original one (still probably the best too)!
Now, as Chairman of the BRITISH STUNT REGISTER, we chat to Jim about his illustrious career, his steps up the ladder to co-ordinator and his experiences getting there.
Part 1 takes up to THE PIANIST with ROMAN POLANSKI. Part 2 will be next week where we talk about his process and 'What is a stunt'?
Jims website:
http://www.jimstunt.com
IMDB:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0235695/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
Today we talk to PAUL GINNS of The British Stunt Register. Paul was accepted in 2017 after three years of training and we talk to him about his journey and the reasons why he wanted to become a stunt performer in the UK.
Paul's short career has seen him work on some of the biggest films and TV shows of the last few years such as SOLO: A STAR WARS FILM & OVERLORD, as well as some upcoming blockbusters such as THE VOYAGE OF DR DOLITTLE & DETECTIVE PIKACHU.
His career can only go from strength to strength.
In this episode we talk to Roy Scammell. Roy began his career doubling Dirk Bogarde on ONCE A JOLLY SWAGMAN and he quickly got himself noticed and not just by the ladies!!!!
His career is a litany of iconic film and TV programs from MONTE CARLO OR BUST, THE ITALIAN JOB, A CLOCKWORK ORANGE and most notably today ALIEN where he divized many of the creatures movements and falls.
A member of HAVOC from 1965 he performed and created stunts with DEREK WARE on DOCTOR WHO and SOME MOTHERS DO 'AV 'EM which became a UK classic and launched the career of a certain MICHAEL CRAWFORD.
Enjoy and let us know what you think.
You can find out how long Roy's career spanned here:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0768882/?ref_=nv_sr_1
BOBBY HOLLAND HANTON is without question one of the busiest stunt professionals in the world today. He joined the British Stunt Register in 2008 and hasn’t looked back since.
From doubling DANIEL CRAIG on Quantum of Solace to being CHRIS HEMSWORTHS double not only on all of the MARVEL outings as THOR but on all of his subsequent movie projects.
We talk wire work on the AVENGERS movies and costumes on THE DARK KNIGHT RISES to ratchets on JUPITER ASENDING and his understanding of what a stunt double actually does.
If you are a fan of the MARVEL EMPIRE you cannot afford to miss this – BOBBY HOLLAND HANTON is THOR…well you would be after being thrown about all over the place making CHRIS HEMSWORTH look good right?
IMDB:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3479192/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Website:
www.bobbyhollandhanton.com
This week we are joined by former Royal Marine Commando, Stunt Performer and film maker ADAM COLLINS. Adam joined the BRITISH STUNT REGISTER in 2016 and has appeared, or dissapeared from right to left of screen depending on your view of stunt performers at work, in THE COMMUTER, AMAERICAN ASSASSIN and TRANSFORMERS: THE LAST KNIGHT, OVERLORD. Before this, Adam server in the British Armed Forces with the prestigious Royal Marines and then in the Private Sector in maritme security in the Middle East.
We talk about his early stunt career and the move into filmmaking and his upcoming feature film and the exciting upcoming trip to the Canne Film Festival.
Check out Adam here:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5143645/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Today folks we talk to DEREK LEA of The British Stunt Register. A talented actor and motocrosser who turned to stunt work in 1993 and performed stunts on major UK TV shows such as REBUS & TOUCH OF FROST and his well known face pops up in TITANIC, SAVING PRIVATE RYAN, GOLDENEYE, THE MUMMY and many more major blockbusters.
We talk about his career from a dodgy beach salesman in Spain to being TOP GEAR STUNTMAN and will go down in history as the only man to tell JAMES BOND to 'piss off' in QAUNTUM of SOLACE.
Derek forged a career not many performers can boast of as he was regular cast to act and perform the stunt.
To see Dereks career have a look at IMDB here: IMDB Derek Lea
And his website here: www.dereklea.co.uk
To celebrate the release of ANOTHER Start Wars film we thought we'd take you back to an earlier episode where we interviewed legendary Star Wars stuntman Dickey Beer.
In this episode we talk to Stunt Coordinator Dickey Beer. Dickey, originally from Holland, first saw film action in what was to become one of the biggest World War 2 films ever, A Bridge Too Far. He quickly became know an as innovator and pioneer of new methods and equipment which led to moving to England and joining the British Equity Stunt Register in the early 80’s and working on films such as An American Werewolf in London and the Fourth Man.
From Boba Fett to The Bourne Legacy, Dickeys career has spanned over 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge and experience. Now based in California, Dickey still uses his engineering experience to create some of the industries leading camera car rigs in Hollywood.
We discuss Dickey’s early career and his experiences fighting his corner to get established in England and working on the Bond films with Alf Joint and Vic Armstrong whom he became great friends with. We also find out he had a pretty good sense of humour.
You can see more about Dickey here: IMDB https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0066482/?ref_=nv_sr_1
www.dickeybeer.com
www.sfirig.com
In this episode we speak to the man who will forever be remembered as the stuntman who rolled the Aston Martin seven times in CASINO ROYALE.
We talk to ADAM KIRLEY who has had an incredible ride in some of the biggest movies to hit the big screens in the last 20yrs including stunt work on THE MUMMY RETURNS, DIE ANOTHER DAY, TOMB RAIDER, SAHARA and BATMAN BEGINS and as a stunt coordinator on THE WORLDS END, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, KINGSMAN and the very successful sequel KINGSMAN: GOLDEN CIRCLE.
We also talk about his upcoming projects including the anticipated live action version of Disney’s ALLADIN.
He’s a filmmaker who has recently directed a sci-fi short based on the 2000AD comic books called ROGUE TROOPER: THE QUARTZ MASSACRE. We talk about this and so much more in this chat.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is ADAM KIRLEY.
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1245015/
https://twitter.com/AdamKirley
In this episode we speak to Hollywood stuntwoman and actress TAMMIE BAIRD who started her journey into the business with a role in the 2005 Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie blockbuster MR & MRS SMITH.
If you’ve ever binge watched a US Television show on catch up you’re likely to have seen TAMMIE in action. DEXTER, CSi MIAMI, SONS OF ANARCHY, CHUCK and SUPERGIRL are just a few of the shows that she has been knocked down, shot or blown up in over the last ten years.
We chat about her early life and her love of horses to her recent role as Lorraine in the 2017 TWIN PEAKS.
An interview filled with fun and great passion about a business that she absolutely loves. Ladies and Gentlemen we present TAMMIE BAIRD.
http://tammiebaird.com
Well, we thought we would start with a bang and launch the Stunt Pod properly with a bumper episode chatting to Jack Gill from Hollywood.
Jack was kind enough to give us his time and then some. We discussed his background in MotoX and the journey into movie stunts and finding himself driving the General Lee in The Dukes of Hazard one day and the next sitting in KIIT on Knight Rider the next.
Jack is now one of the busiest Coordinatord and 2nd Unit Directors today and has just finished VENOM with Tom Hardy
We also discuss his 27-year campaign to finally get the stunt community recognised at Academy Award level.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is JACK GILL.
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0318678/
http://www.jackgill.com
Here is the first podcast in a brand-new series looking at the wonderful world of all things stunting in the Film & TV industries around the globe.
British Stunt Register member BLAKE SPORNE takes you behind the scenes with interviews and special features exploring the way the worlds movie makers look at the stunts they demand to have in their latest blockbuster.
Blake is joined by writer, producer and all-round fountain of stunt knowledge JON AUTY who is regarded by many the world over as the leading authority on stunts in Film and TV (self wrote!)
Between them they provide an informative, but most of all fun and entertaining look at the vital role that stunt performers play in the world of Film and Television.
Ladies and gentle this is the StuntPod1
The Stunt Pod is only a short time away so here is the trailer for the newest podcast around coming soon to an audio device near you!