In a long-overdue move, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced plans to introduce a new category for stunt design at the Oscars, starting with films released in 2027. This decision marks a significant recognition of the crucial role stunt performers play in the film industry, an aspect that has largely been overlooked until now.

The Academy's CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their pride in honoring the innovative work of stunt designers, acknowledging their commitment and dedication to the craft. The introduction of this new category is a testament to the growing importance of stuntwork in filmmaking, which has become an integral part of the cinematic experience.

Despite the significant contribution of stunt performers to the success of films, they have historically been underrecognized by the Academy. To date, only two honorary Oscars have been awarded to stunt performers, a stark contrast to the numerous awards given to other technical and creative artists. The introduction of this new category is expected to change this narrative, with studios likely to place greater emphasis on their projects' death-defying set pieces.

The Academy has yet to announce the eligibility rules for films to be nominated in the new category, which will be determined by the Board of Governors and executive leadership at a future date. However, with over 100 stunt workers already members of the Academy's Production and Technology Branch, the stage is set for a new era of recognition and appreciation for stunt designers.

This development is not only a victory for stunt performers but also a nod to the evolving nature of filmmaking. As the film industry continues to push boundaries in terms of action sequences and visual effects, the importance of stunt design will only continue to grow. The introduction of this new category is a timely recognition of this trend, and it will be interesting to see how it shapes the future of filmmaking.

As the Oscars prepare to celebrate their 100th anniversary, the introduction of the stunt design category is a fitting tribute to the unsung heroes of the film industry. It is a long-overdue recognition of the skill, creativity, and bravery of stunt performers, and it is likely to have a significant impact on the way films are made and appreciated in the years to come.