Filmmaking / Directing : Directing Action by Zachary Young

I don't know if I would say this is the most important aside from safety of both cast and crew. However I do think one of the most important things is having a flexible vision. Most really good action movies work in these kinda spur of the moment ideas, lines, scenes or camera movements that really help make it unique or fun. The director finds ways to feed off the energy that is being created and work it into the film. Because the director is working with the best elements of what his cast and crew are giving him/her to make it something original. A lot of lesser directors forget about the importance of going with the flow and making the most out of what you are given. Or they aren't open to hearing others thoughts and ideas.

Thanks for the tips, Noelle! I definitely agree with you on having a flexible vision when it comes to action. Filming action is like dance choreography. It is a group effort and definitely a collaborative vision between everyone involved.

the confidential safety of what each actor is paid and the best effects and emotional aggression coming out of a lot if not the main characters. ?

What sort of action are you speaking of: Car chases, fight scenes, aerial dogfights, foot chases...whatever? If it's fight scenes - your correct in that they really are dances. As an example: Look at Diana Cochran's home page on Stage 32 and watch her short clips. She is a dancer who decided to take up acting. (Aside: I've known Diana for years and I wholeheartedly recommend her as a strong female action character in Hollywood. She's certainly ready for a strong supporting role and you might want to consider her for a lead.)

Definitely fight scenes and possibly foot chases. I will look her up, thanks for the tip!

True action vs. I want my hero/villain to look like a badass. Good examples are the movies Red and Bright. Red: Victoria switches to boots for the gunfight in kitchen. Smart writing and good directing choice to show it. because that 4 seconds of screen time cemented her as a Pro. With Bright: The LA SWAT destroys itself on Leilah's blades in a fatal funnel one or two men at a time. NEVER would that happen. but to make it worse the none SWAT officer tools her up in hand to hand with no training later on.

and I liked Bright. Know your weapons and how they work.

So a safe rule of thumb ask your self what would Mythbusters say.

Rule of thumb: Either the actors move or the camera moves.... or both.

Hot meals for cast & crew every 6 hours.

An' I throw in free (craft) beer at the end of the day.

Movement I think - speed and accuracy of movement.

Determine if the action is necessary and moves the story forward.

Zachary - you should ask that question of Tarantino.