In a significant move for the film industry, Chad Stahelski, renowned director of the 'John Wick' franchise, has expressed his gratitude to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) for its recent decision to introduce a new category dedicated to stunt design at the upcoming 100th Academy Awards. This announcement, made on Thursday, marks a monumental recognition of the vital role that stunt professionals have played in the cinematic arts over the last century.

Speaking with Deadline while engaged in a color-correcting session for his upcoming project 'Ballerina', Stahelski emphasized the importance of this acknowledgment: None of us in the industry would be here if it wasnt for the last 100 years of stunt people, he remarked. He reflected on the journey of the stunt community, noting the sacrifices made by countless individuals who paved the way for the current generation of filmmakers and stunt performers. Its pretty cool to be here and be at the apex of an entire century of performers and coordinators and action directors, he added, lamenting that many pioneering figures will not witness this historic moment.

The push for the Oscars to recognize stunt professionals has gained momentum over the past few decades. Stahelski commended the Academy for actively seeking input from key figures in the stunt community, including directors who have transitioned from stunt work, such as David Leitch, J.J. Perry, and Sam Hargrave. Were very lucky to be at the tail end of this, or at the apex where, a couple of years ago, the Academy came to us going, Hey, how do we help? How do we get this going?' he shared. Though some might perceive the wait for this recognition as lengthy, Stahelski expressed admiration for the Academys thorough approach. He noted, They took their time. They talked to a lot of the stunt community stunt coordinators, 2nd unit directors, the womens groups, the mens groups, ensuring diverse perspectives were included in the conversation.

Stahelski hailed the newly established Stunt Design category as the best case for celebrating the contributions of stunt professionals. He explained that the collaborative nature of stunt work necessitates careful consideration of how awards should be distributed. Unlike a lot of departments, we have many different coordinators, he pointed out, highlighting the roles of various specialists, including flight coordinators, choreographers, driving coordinators, and underwater coordinators. This complexity raises important questions regarding fairness in acknowledgment and representation of the entire stunt department.

The inaugural award for Achievement in Stunt Design will be presented for films released starting in 2027, with specific eligibility criteria and voting procedures to be finalized and announced that year. The details surrounding the award's presentation will be further clarified by the Academys Board of Governors and executive leadership in due course.

Chad Stahelskis own journey in the film industry began more than three decades ago, with his initial work as a stunt performer on notable films such as 'The Crow' (1994), 'Escape from L.A.' (1996), and the iconic 'Matrix' (1999). His diverse experiences in the stunt department have provided him with a comprehensive education in filmmaking. He remarked, It was probably one of the best ways to go to film school, to be exposed on literally every aspect of filmmaking from in front and behind camera. This diverse background has undoubtedly contributed to the success of the 'John Wick' franchise, which has grossed over $1 billion worldwide.

As he gears up for the release of 'Ballerina', a spinoff that features Ana de Armas, Stahelski revealed that they are in the final stages of editing the film, which is set to hit theaters on June 6. With this new category at the Oscars and an upcoming spinoff, its an exciting time for Stahelski and the stunt community, marking a turning point in the recognition of their invaluable contributions to the film industry.