Forum: Treat stunt action on screens as a professional discipline
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Singapore has made steady progress in developing its film, television and digital content sectors. As productions become more technically sophisticated, it may be timely to consider whether all specialised capabilities required in film-making are being adequately supported.
One such area is stunt action – the choreography and execution of physical movement for the camera, including falls, simulated combat and physically demanding storytelling. While often invisible to audiences, this scope of work plays a critical role across the industry.
In established markets such as Japan and Hong Kong, the role is treated as a professional discipline with decades of training. Over time, these industries have developed structured pathways that recognise performers and choreographers as skilled professionals whose work must be carefully managed to minimise injury and risk.
In Singapore, practitioners who invest years in building their skills often do so without visible career pathways or institutional support.
Over time, this may limit creative ambition as Singapore seeks to position itself as a serious content hub. Clearer professional frameworks can support regulators, venues and insurers by reducing ambiguity.
It may be worth considering how such specialised capabilities can be supported, ensuring that as our stories grow more ambitious, the people who bring them to life are properly cared for.
Cecilia Lim
