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Dangerous Jobs: Stunt performers take enormous risks to wow film fans
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By Kris Paterson in Dangerous Jobs, posted July 12, 2023
Stunt performers are the unsung heroes of the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with their daring and death-defying feats.
However, beneath the glitz and glamour lies a profession fraught with a some real dangers.
In this article, we delve into the dangers faced by stunt performers, highlighting the extraordinary challenges they confront in pursuit of creating awe-inspiring on-screen moments.
Directors are searching for more and more spectacular scenes in their films, which means the stunt team are going to have to do more and more crazy things.
Here are some of the risks:
Physical Injuries
Stunt work involves performing high-risk activities like falls, fights, car chases, and fire stunts.
As a result, stunt performers are constantly exposed to the risk of physical injuries.
Despite safety measures and precautions, accidents can occur, leading to broken bones, concussions, lacerations, dislocations, and even severe spinal or head injuries.
The physically demanding nature of stunts places immense strain on the performers' bodies, making injuries an inherent part of their profession.
High-risk falls from great heights
Stunt performers often undertake high-risk activities that involve extreme heights, complex aerial manoeuvres, and daredevil stunts.
These feats require meticulous planning, precision, and skill, as even the slightest miscalculation can result in catastrophic consequences.
Hanging from tall buildings, performing dangerous jumps, or executing intense fight sequences heighten the potential for accidents and life-threatening injuries.
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Deliberately getting hit by cars
Stunts involving vehicles, such as car chases, motorcycle jumps, or crashes, carry their own set of hazards.
Maneuvering at high speeds, performing precise stunts while driving, or executing jumps with limited visibility all pose significant risks.
Despite the use of safety harnesses, protective gear, and well-designed vehicles, the potential for collisions, rollovers, or equipment failures can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities.
Fire and Explosions
Stunt performers often face scenarios involving fire and explosions, which demand exceptional bravery and expertise.
Fire stunts, such as being set on fire or performing stunts near intense flames, require strict safety protocols, specialized training, and protective gear.
However, the risk of burns, inhalation of toxic fumes, or unexpected fire spread remains a constant concern.
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Water and Underwater Stunts
Water-based stunts, including underwater scenes, diving, or performing stunts in turbulent waters, present unique challenges.
Dangers like strong currents, entanglement, lack of oxygen, or unforeseen equipment malfunctions can jeopardize the safety of stunt performers.
The risk of drowning, hypothermia, or injuries from collisions with submerged objects necessitates meticulous planning and rigorous safety measures.
Mental and Emotional Stress
Stunt work can also take a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of performers.
The pressure to execute dangerous stunts flawlessly, constant adrenaline surges, and the expectation to push boundaries can lead to stress, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Coping with the psychological impact of performing life-threatening stunts requires resilience, support, and access to mental health resources.
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Stunt performers willingly put their lives on the line to entertain audiences and bring thrilling action sequences to the screen.
The dangers they face are inherent to their profession, encompassing physical injuries, high-risk stunts, vehicular challenges, fire and explosions, water-related hazards, and the mental and emotional stress associated with their work.
Their commitment to safety, rigorous training, meticulous planning, and the expertise of dedicated stunt coordinators and support teams are vital in mitigating risks and ensuring the well-being of these remarkable professionals.
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