How to Plan and Shoot Action Sequences - Learn From a SAG Award -Nominated Stunt Performer (THE MEG, AQUAMAN)
Webinar hosted by: Philippe Deseck
SAG-nominated Stunt Performer & Coordinator,
Philippe Deseck has been involved in the film industry for over twenty years as a Stunt Performer and Stunt Coordinator earning him a Screen Actors Guild Nomination for outstanding performance by a stunt ensemble in motion picture Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Having worked on nearly 50 films & TV shows, some of his notable credits include Street Fighter, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Killer Elite, Spartacus, San Andreas, Kong Skull Island, Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar’s Revenge, The Meg, Aquaman, Mortal Combat, The Tidings for Netflix and his SAG Nomination for Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and many more. He is regularly commissioned for major motion pictures to create the Previs where he recreates the live action sequences required in the script of the movie. He has hosted stunt workshops around the world for actors and is dedicated and passionate about a life in film and televison. Full Bio »
Webinar Summary
Learn everything you need to know about how prep and shoot a world-class action sequence in your films or TV shows from a SAG-nominated stunt performer and coordinator on THE MEG, AQUAMAN, MORTAL COMBAT, STREET FIGHTER, KILLER ELITE, SPARTACUS and more!
Action is a universal language in film.
A well designed and well shot action scene in a movie can define a film and be the most memorable part, whether its Steve McQueen's car chase in BULLITT or Tom Cruise's motorcycle jump in MISSION IMPOSSIBLE - DEAD RECKONING PART ONE. However, film schools tend to shy away when it comes to teaching students on how to shoot an action sequence. It’s either too dangerous, too expensive, stunt coordinators are required, insurance does not cover action sequences, or a myriad of other. reasons. As such, many filmmakers only focus on drama as they do now know how to craft and execute an action sequence in a professional and safe manner. The result is most filmmakers miss out on the opportunity to expand their film making skills when it comes to shooting action. On independent films, more often than not, action is usually the first thing producers will cut out of a script in order to meet their budget criteria.
In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, stunt performer and coordinator Philippe Deseck will take you through the fundamentals of how to shoot an action sequence like a pro. Philippe has been involved in the film industry for over twenty years as a Stunt Performer and now Assistant Stunt Coordinator. Some of his films include THE MEG, AQUAMAN, MORTAL COMBAT, STREET FIGHTER, KILLER ELITE, SPARTACUS, SAN ANDREAS, KONG SKULL ISLAND, PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: SALAZAR’S REVENGE, THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER, SHANG-CHI, and many more… In addition to his credits as a Stunt Performer, Philippe is gets involved in directing and editing, giving him expert perspective on how to create masterful action sequences from all sides. His skill has also taken him to performing safety on set and writing safety reports for action sequences. Philippe has also taught action workshops for actors and has taught stage combat at the New York Film Academy in Australia.
Philippe will teach you everything you need to know about shooting action sequences. He will demonstrate the basic fundamentals which can be applied to any action sequence and he will show you how to bridge the gap between a stunt coordinator and a director so they get the most out of every opportunity together. Building productive, effective and trusting relationships is an important part in any filmmaking process and it is critical when it comes to filmmakers and stunt coordinators.
In this information-packed webinar you will learn how to design an action sequence from script to final print on film and how you can collaborate with all relevant departments in order to get the shots required and piece them together to take your audience on a ride they will never forget. You will walk away with a comprehensive understanding of the different filming styles that are used in Hollywood and around the world, and you will get a true sense of how to create the illusion of action safely.
This webinar is a rare opportunity to educate yourself and open your mind to new possibilities of how to design your action sequences, shoot them and have them shown on the silver screen.
What You'll Learn
An Introduction to Stunts/Action
- What is the function of a Stunt Coordinator
- What is the function of a 2nd Unit Director
- What is the function of an Action Director
- What is the function of a Stunt Double
- What is the function of a Choreographer
What are the different hierarchy systems used in Hollywood and Asia
- What is the difference between Hollywood and Asia
- Where does the Stunt Coordinator fit in
- Where does the 2nd Unit Director fit in
- Where does the Action Director fit in
- Who are the most renown Action Directors in the film industry
- Recommended movies to watch
Designing your Action Sequence from Script to Final Product
- What’s your interpretation of the Script
- Deciding what System is going to be used in order to hire the right people
- Hiring a Stunt Coordinator, 2nd Unit Director, Action Director
- Using Insurance indemnity
- Thought pattern of the Stunt Coordinator
- Designing the Action with the Stunt Performers
- Designing the Action with the Actors
- Collaborating with the different HODs (Head of Departments) such as Art Department, Props Department, Costume Department, Make-Up Department, Special FX, Visual FX, DOP, Writers, Directors
- Creating a Pre-Set Design and demonstrating your Action Sequence
Filming an Action Sequence
- First Rule of Film Making
- What are the different filming Styles – Master Shots vs Sequential Shooting, Docu Drama Action, Symmetric Shots, Shakey Camera vs Steady shots on a tripod
- Story line of an Action Scene: Beginning – Middle and End, Protagonist, Antagonist
- Filming of Time within an Action Scene: Long Span of Time, Short Span of Time
- How to create the Illusion of Action: How to make things look real in an unreal manner
- How to Film an Action Sequence using Stunt Doubles
- How to Film an Action Sequence with Visual Effects in mind
- The Rule of Three shots per action
- Using a Stunt Lens
- Framing of an Action Shot
- The benefits of using Variable Frame Rates in your Action Scene
Previsualization
- Benefits of using Live Action Previsualization AKA Previs
- Examples of Previs with animation and without animation
- Different kinds of Previs used e.g. audience rating Previs
- What to look out for when presenting your Previs to Directors/Producers
Editing an Action Sequence
- Principles of Editing an Action Sequence
- The use of Sound FX
- The Difference of editing Master Shots vs editing Sequential Shooting Shots
How to Practice Shooting Action Sequences
- Find a simple action scene and recreate it shot for shot
- Create a storyboard of the action sequence
- Splice the action sequence and duplicate each shot
- Rehearse with your performers
- Use a camera with variable frame rates
- Use a camera with interchangeable lenses
- Start experimenting with your own shots
Q&A with Philippe
About Your Instructor
Philippe Deseck
FAQs
Q: How do I watch my webinar live?
A: If you received a confirmation that your webinar is on Go to Webinar, you will receive an email from Go to Webinar with further instructions for participating in the live webinar. You can also access your webinar link in your purchase history located under settings in the top right-hand corner of your Stage 32 profile.
If you received a confirmation that your webinar is on Zoom, you will receive a separate email from Zoom with further instructions for participating in the live webinar. Your login link will not be in your Stage 32 profile. If you did not receive your link via Zoom please email support@stage32.com.
Q: How do I watch my webinar on demand?
A: You will be able to watch your webinar on demand as many times as you’d like inside your Stage 32 profile. The recording is processed and posted between 24-48 hours after the webinar concludes. You can follow the instructions below.
YOU MUST HAVE A STAGE 32 PROFILE TO WATCH YOUR VIDEO – STAGE 32 IS FREE TO JOIN
If You Already Have a Stage 32 Profile:
- Log into your Stage 32 profile
- Click "Settings" in the top right-hand corner (gear icon)
- Click "Purchase History"
- Choose this webinar and click the link to view
- Go to www.stage32.com
- Create a profile using the SAME email address you used to sign up for this webinar. The email addresses must match in order to watch the webinar.
- Once you have your profile set up, you can view the webinar by clicking "Settings" in the top right hand corner (gear icon)
- Click "Purchase History"
- Choose this webinar and click the link to view
Q: What is the format of a webinar?
A: Stage 32 Next Level Webinars are typically 90-minute educational broadcasts that take place online using a designated software program from Stage 32. Your webinar will be taught by a working industry professional with in-depth teaching on a topic. If you are able to attend live you will be able to ask your Stage 32 Educator questions during Q&A.
Q: What are the system requirements to watch my webinar live?
A: You will need to meet the following system requirements in order to run the webinar software: Windows 7 or later Mac OS X 10.9 (Mavericks) or later.
If you have Windows XP, Windows Vista and Mac OS X 10.9 (Mountain Lion): The webinar software does not support these operating systems. If you are running one of those operating systems, please upgrade now in order to be able to view a live webinar. Upgrade your Windows computer / Upgrade your Mac computer.
Q: What if I cannot attend the live webinar?
A: If you cannot attend a live webinar or purchase an on demand webinar, you will have access to the entire recorded broadcast, including the Q&A.
Q: Will I have access to the webinar afterward to re-watch?
A: Yes! Like all Stage 32 education, after the purchase of a live or on demand webinar, you will have on-demand access to the recording.
Q: How do I get a copy of the handouts provided?
A: If the webinar you take included handouts you can find them as downloads underneath your on demand video. You must be logged into your Stage 32 profile to view the video and get the handouts by clicking settings in the top right hand corner, then clicking purchase history.
Q: What if I need accessibility and accommodations?
A: Email support@stage32.com to request accommodations.
Thanks for your loyalty to Stage 32 Education. We value having you in the Stage 32 community.
If you have any further questions, we are always happy to help. Please contact Stage 32 support at support@stage32.com.
Relevant Tags
Share with friends:
Questions?
Other education that may be of interest to you:
How To Be a Power Producer In Today's Market
The director and actors may get the lion’s share of the credit, and the writer might be the one who thought up the story in the first place, but it’s the producer who actually puts a film together and who turns ideas into reality, all the way from conception through distribution and beyond. The role of a producer can be enigmatic, though. It’s not as straightforward of a job as, say, an actor or a DP, and with so many different types of producers (Line producer? Associate producer? Executive producer? Co-Executive Producer?) it’s a hard concept for people to wrap their heads around. But if you’re interested in being a producer yourself and in leading the charge in creating great content that people want to watch, it’s important you better understand the role and find ways you can separate yourself from the pack and excel. There are a lot of producers out there, a lot of people working to create content. However there are a lot fewer who are prolific, who have multiple projects under their belt and have the know-how to make any project they have their sights set on a success. So what makes these power producers stand out? How do they choose what to produce and how do they operate within the industry to make things happen? And how can you join their ranks? A good step might be to learn directly from a power producer herself. Luckly, successful producer Aimee Schoof will lend her experience exclusively to the Stage 32 community. Aimee Schoof is the co-founder of Intrinsic Value Films and has produced more than 35 feature films. Of those, nine have premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, four at the Tribeca Film Festival, three at SXSW, and one each at LA Film Festival, Toronto, Venice, New York FF, New Directors/New Films, and Berlinale, to name a few. Aimee’s company develops, produces and sells independent films that have been distributed worldwide, have won many awards and been honored with numerous nominations. Accolades include winning a Sloan Sundance Award and a Sundance Special Grand Jury Prize. Aimee’s work has led her to be nominated five times by Film Independent as a producer. She is currently both a Sundance and Film Independent Fellow and has worked in international sales attending all major markets, and regularly lecturing on film finance and production. Aimee has had more than 25 years’ experience working as a hands-on producer on projects of all shapes and sizes and knows what I takes to thrive in this role. She’s excited to share that with you. Aimee will give you a soup-to-nuts overview of what it takes to produce a film of any level and how to position yourself for success not only on your current project, but for your career moving forward. She will begin by teaching you the different types of producers on a film and what each person’s responsibility is. She’ll then give you strategies of how to choose your own path as a producer, including what it means to be an independent producer. She’ll walk you through how to find partners, collaborators, and mentors in this industry and will discuss the crucial but tricky task of finding and selecting material to produce. She’ll also break down whether a producer should focus on just one project at a time or multi-task. Aimee will illustrate what exactly a day in the life of a producer actually looks like. Aimee will then focus on relationship building, one of the biggest parts of a producer’s job. She’ll break down how to form and maintain relationships with agents and managers, actors, casting directors, and fellow producers, among others. She’ll then discuss the best practices for networking to build your connections, including how to work film festivals and markets to meet new and exciting potential partners or friends. Next, Aimee will delve into how best to source IP as opposed to working with original stories. She’ll go over the balance between holding your relationships close and expanding your network and how a good producer budgets their time when working on multiple projects. Aimee will also give you tips on how you can produce a science fiction film, even on a budget. Then, Aimee will give an honest and realistic breakdown of what a film’s timeline actually looks like—how long it actually takes to make a film and how you can stay motivated along the way. Aimee will use examples and case studies from her own past films, including projects made from existing IP, to further break down the role of a producer. Like what you heard from Aimee during this webinar? Send your script to Aimee and speak with her for an hour by clicking here. Praise for Aimee’s Webinar: “I loved this! Aimee knows so much about the subject. I really learned a lot” -Cheryl B. “Aimee was able to take these big ideas and make them feel totally accessible and easy to understand. I really enjoyed hearing from her” -Howard F. “This was great! Thank you!” -Joanne D. “I feel ready and inspired to set out on my own and make some great movies after listening to Aimee!” -Hannah W.
How to Find & Adapt Comic Book, Video Game, Book & Article IP for Film & TV
State of the industry Why the majority of TV/Film comes from pre-existing IP "The Executive Bias" Pre-existing Fan Base/Fleshed Out World Adapting Books/Articles Where to Go! How To Choose Material Who To Contact For Film/TV Rights How To Close The Deal Case Study: Game of Thrones, Sex and The City Case Study: The Wedding Sting in the Atlantic, now going to be a film at Paramount Adapting Comic Books / Video Games Where to Go! How To Choose Material Who To Contact For Film/TV Rights How To Close The Deal Case Study (Comics): Guardians of the Galaxy (Marvel/Disney, lesser known/less successful comic became a blockbuster) Case Study: Jessica Jones (Marvel / Netflix) Case Study (Video Games): Assassin's Creed (FOX, to be released this December) Making it your own Most say DO NOT adapt your own material (leads to being too protective of your work/not as open to change) Fun thing about IP, when you build a world, it can keep being adapted into other mediums (Example: Orphan Black the comic book was one of the best-selling comics last year, adapted from TV show. Goes in both directions) The heart of this, however, is making sure the new versions are different enough from the old, AND have your voice in them. LIVE Q&A with Maggie!
Producing 101
Learn the essential fundamentals of producing from the 2-time Emmy-nominated producer of GENIUS: MLK/X, which premieres on Nat Geo and Disney+ on February 1st, 2024. PLUS! You’ll receive the pilot script to Sam’s Emmy-winning series GENIUS: EINSTEIN, a shopping agreement template and an option/purchase agreement template to use on your own projects. The entertainment business is built around content. Movies, TV series and digital content are all pieces of entertainment that are "produced" and while technology continues to evolve in so many ways the fundamental process of producing has remained largely the same - meaning you can learn it. Stage 32 is here now to teach that process to you. No matter what you choose to do in the entertainment business, having a basic understanding of producing is invaluable. In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, you will learn the basic principles and processes of producing from start to finish. We will delve into the entire process including creative development, talent packaging, budgeting, scheduling, physical production, post-production and final delivery. Teaching you everything you need to know to become a successful producer is Sam Sokolow, a 2-time Emmy nominated executive producer and Stage 32 Director of Education. Sam has put almost 20 original shows on television, including the 20-time Emmy-nominated limited series GENIUS for National Geographic Channel and Disney+. The fourth season of GENIUS – GENIUS: MLK/X – will premiere on February 1, 2024. Sam is currently in development on several films and television series based on real people or true events from history. Over 90 information-packed minutes, you will learn the art and business of producing, an invaluable skill, which is critical for those who want to create or be a part of making movies, TV shows, and digital content. You will walk away from this webinar with a comprehensive understanding of producing, which will empower you to navigate the challenges and contribute effectively to the creation of compelling content in the entertainment industry. Whether you’re a veteran producer or looking to make your first project, this webinar is a must! PLUS! You’ll receive exclusive handouts to help you become a better Producer.. Downloads include: The pilot script to Sam’s Emmy-winning series GENIUS: EINSTEIN A shopping agreement template An option/purchase agreement template Praise For Sam's Teaching on Stage 32 "I'm so glad I got to work with Sam. His knowledge is very evident in his teaching and I'm better for it! After taking this course, I feel much more confident in pitching." -- Carolyn R. "There's a lot of info I learned here that I had no idea I didn't know. The pitch can really sink or swim your project, so I can't express the importance of learning this material enough!" -- Amanda H.
Stage 32 Presents: COVID-19 - A Conversation with Industry Professionals of the Current State of the Entertainment Industry
Founded in 2011 by Richard "RB" Botto, Stage 32 is the world's largest online platform connecting and educating film, TV and new media creatives and professionals worldwide. Stage 32 works with over five hundred industry professionals and executives who provide education, instruction and professional opportunities for members of the platform. Stage 32 currently has over 1,200 hours of exclusive film, television and digital craft and business education in its library. Stage 32 members use the platform daily to build their network, take online webinars, classes and labs, find work and cast and crew their projects. Stage 32 members range from students to Emmy, BAFTA and Academy Award Winners. Over the last few weeks, we have been working tirelessly to ensure that you know that Stage 32 is your online home to stay connected with over 600,000 creatives and professionals from across the globe. Now, we are looking forward to bringing you another virtual event to help you stay up-to-date about the state of the entertainment industry featuring some of the top professionals in the business. In this special event webcast we presented a virtual panel featuring some of the top minds in the Stage 32 community to discuss the current state of the entertainment industry as we are all faced with the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Stage 32 Managing Director, Amanda Toney, hosted this incredible lineup, where you will hear the point of view of a production company (Andrew Fried of Boardwalk Pictures), a lender (Viviana Zarragoitia of Three Point Capital), lender counsel (Carolyn Hunt of Barnes & Thornburg LLP), a talent representative (Tracy Christian of TCA Management), all moderated by producer and production company counsel (Elsa Ramo of Ramo Law PC). Stage 32 is proud to be putting the "social" in #SocialDistancing. Please share this event on your social media and tag @stage32 on Twitter and @stage32online on Instagram.
Filmmakers: How to get Cinematic Images in Ugly and Small Locations—includes 6 case studies
Any independent filmmaker can tell you that one of the key rules to creating a successful film is to use what you got. This is especially true (and especially challenging) with cinematography. With a limited budget you’re likely not going to have the state-of-the-art equipment or perfectly lit soundstage to get the optimal shot. Often you’re going to have to make do with the locations the team was able to rustle up. These locations might be too small, might lack natural light, might be the wrong color. Well that’s too bad. If you want your indie film to look great, you’re going to have to be scrappy, adapt quickly, and be ready to pull a couple miracles out of your hat. Don’t think this won’t be noticed though; having the tools to make any location look great will not only elevate the film you’re working on, but also bolster your own reputation and prove your worth as a DP or director. It might not always be fully appreciated, but if you’re serving as DP, it’s down to you to take any shot and make it cinematic. Sometimes this might be as easy as setting up a fill light, but especially for low-budget projects, it’s often much more complicated. With a lack of access to sufficient resources, it can feel like reinventing the wheel to make any shot work. However, coming to set knowing the questions to ask and the tools at your disposal can make all the difference. What combination of a fill light, key light, and back light will work best? How can you use the props and materials that happen to be around to draw the eye to your subject? And perhaps most importantly, when should you push to make the shot better and when should you recognize that it’s as good as it’s going to be? Barry Andersson is an award-winning director and cinematographer. He has directed 5 feature films, many of which were released in theaters—his most recent film is being distributed by Lionsgate. Barry’s career as a cinematographer includes several television pilots, acclaimed short films, numerous commercials, and countless commercials and corporate videos. Barry is also the author of the DSLR Filmmakers Handbook. Barry has had to light and shoot more ugly locations than he can count and has developed a slew of strategies to tackle the challenges they bring. Barry will give you tips and tools to pull beauty out of the ugliest of locations. Barry will start by going through the basics of art direction and what expectations directors will have of you as a DP. Using case studies and practical examples, Barry will outline how to find and create depth in flat locations and how to use available lighting to your advantage, even if it’s not ideal. He’ll then give you ideas of how to find use available props and items you might not have considered to add dimension to your shot. Then Barry will discuss the importance of where in the location to place your talent to elevate or destroy your scene. Finally Barry will delve into the best way to choose the right lens for each shot. You'll walk away from this fun webinar knowing how to navigate any small space surprises once you get on set with your equipment. Praise for Barry's Webinar: "Very professional and Barry gave good advice" -Carol L. "Excellent webinar . Many great tips I can definitely use. Thanks!" -Ron H. "Barry has a bunch of great strategies that I'm totally going to use on my next shot" -Charlie C. "Super interesting and super practical advice. Thank you!" -Tina R.
International Women's Day: Stage 32 + Female Voices Rock Celebrate Women In Entertainment
In Stage 32's continued effort to shine the light on women in the entertainment industry we have partnered with Female Voices Rock for a thrilling virtual event. On March 8, International Women's Day, some of the industry's top leaders who are dedicated to empowering women will be coming together to host an inspiring webcast celebrating women in entertainment. The panel features five powerhouse female voices of entertainment, including: Carmen Carbana - Cinematographer, Marvel & Disney Plus Ms. Marvel; Hulu's High Fidelity; Lionsgate/Starz LatinX hit show Vida, Netflix's Narcos Robyn Watson - Director, WarnerMedia Distribution & Board President of Women in Film & Television, Atlanta (WIFTA) Kristi Shuton - Walt Disney Television, Creative Talent Development & Inclusion Amanda Toney - Stage 32, Managing Director Moderator: Catherine Delaloye - Female Voices Rock,Founder & Executive Director After our live panel, join us for an exciting networking happy hour! We will break off into smaller groups and meet and toast your fellow female filmmakers, actors, screenwriters, cinematographers, production designers, and entertainment creatives & professionals from all over the world.
Register / Log In
