Today, Explained – The Most Dangerous Award

Release Date: April 25, 2025

Hosts: Sean Rameswaram and Noel King

Introduction

In the April 25, 2025 episode of Today, Explained, the Vox team delves into a significant development in Hollywood—the introduction of a new Academy Award category: Best Stunt Design. Hosts Sean Rameswaram and Noel King explore the implications of this addition, the historical context of stunt work in cinema, and the ongoing efforts to secure recognition for stunt professionals who have long operated behind the scenes.

The Historical Role of Stunt Performers

Bilga Abiri opens the discussion by highlighting the enduring relevance of the Oscars and the surprising news of including stunt design as a new category.

Chad Stahelski, director of the John Wick series, provides a historical perspective:
“Stunt people were here before the movie stars were, like stunts built Hollywood. And the idea that over the years they never quite got their due just seemed to be such a miscarriage of justice.” ([00:15])

He emphasizes that early cinema relied heavily on stunt performers, many of whom remained anonymous despite their crucial contributions. Stahelski mentions iconic figures like Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, whose physical performances were foundational to their success: “Charlie Chaplin would also count. So much of his slapstick comedy is predicated on stunt work.” ([02:16])

The Fight for Recognition

The conversation shifts to the efforts undertaken to secure an Oscar for stunt design. Stahelski recounts the pivotal role of Jack Gill, a legendary stunt coordinator:
“The real movement for it begins in 1991. Jack Gill begins to advocate for a stunt Oscar... over the years, doors just shut in his face.” ([05:28])

Despite initial openness, the Academy resisted adding new categories, citing concerns like the ceremony's length and the belief that stunt work was too technical and lacked the glamour associated with other Oscar categories.

Concerns and Challenges

Bilga Abiri raises an important concern:
“Is there also an issue with the very work being rewarded here? The fact that it's dangerous to do these stunts could be a deterrent.” ([07:09])

Stahelski acknowledges this risk:
“Some folks in the Academy felt that if you gave an Oscar for stunts, stunt people would start hurting themselves trying to create more elaborate stunts.” ([07:17])

Zoe Bell, a renowned stunt performer, adds:
“Safety is key... As we evolve inherently, the risk goes up across the board because we're always pushing and always breaking boundaries.” ([08:47])

Industry Perspectives

The episode features insights from key industry figures:

• Chad Stahelski emphasizes the collaborative nature of stunt work and its evolution towards greater safety:
  “The more focused we've become on stunts, the safer they've gotten.” ([09:48])

• Ryan Reynolds highlights the balance between creativity and safety in stunts:
  “We're not out there to win an award for who's toughest. We're out there to win an award to who wows the audience.” ([09:32])

• Zoe Bell speaks about the validation and recognition stunt performers receive:
  “It's a deep sense of validation for her entire career and her entire family and the generations.” ([17:22])

The Future of the Stunt Oscar

As advocacy grows, the inclusion of stunt design in the Oscars gains momentum. Stahelski discusses the logistical challenges of awarding a collaborative field: “Will it go to one person or be shared among multiple coordinators? It’s a collaborative effort.” ([15:34])

The first Best Stunt Design Oscar is anticipated for the 2028 ceremony, recognizing films released in 2027. Speculation arises about potential recipients, with humorous mentions of Tom Cruise, though it’s acknowledged that specific performers won’t be eligible until later.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Best Stunt Design category signifies a long-overdue recognition of stunt professionals' vital contributions to filmmaking. With support from influential filmmakers and actors, stunts are finally poised to receive the acknowledgment they deserve at the Oscars, fostering greater appreciation and encouraging the continued evolution of safe and innovative stunt work.

Notable Quotes:

• Chad Stahelski ([00:15]): “Stunt people were here before the movie stars were, like stunts built Hollywood.”

• Chad Stahelski ([02:16]): “Charlie Chaplin... so much of his slapstick comedy is predicated on stunt work.”

• Chad Stahelski ([05:28]): “Jack Gill begins to advocate for a stunt Oscar... doors just shut in his face.”

• Chad Stahelski ([07:17]): “Stunt people would start hurting themselves trying to create more elaborate stunts.”

• Zoe Bell ([08:47]): “Safety is key... As we evolve inherently, the risk goes up.”

• Ryan Reynolds ([09:32]): “We're out there to win an award to who wows the audience.”

• Zoe Bell ([17:22]): “It's a deep sense of validation for her entire career and her family.”

This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, providing an engaging and comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened. It highlights the key discussions, insights, and conclusions, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.