Stuntman (1973)

Documents a day in the life of a stunt man as Greg Anderson reveals the work he does. Shows how certain stunts are performed and tells why he decided to work in films as a stunt man.

Offers an intimate look into the life of a professional stuntman. It begins with a routine morning departure, setting the tone for a day filled with risky stunts. The film delves into the technical aspects of stunt work, particularly the use of squibs for simulating gunshots and the intricacies of executing car stunts, where precision and reliability are paramount. The stuntman, who chose this career for its physical demands and excitement, shares his journey from a small town to the big city, seeking a profession that would keep him fit and engaged. He describes preparing for a dangerous stunt involving falling from a roof and simulating a dynamite explosion. His enthusiasm for the job is palpable, especially when discussing the adrenaline rush from explosions and high-risk maneuvers. The film also highlights the importance of executing stunts in one take and capturing them from multiple angles for the best cinematic effect. Despite the inherent risks, the stuntman finds fulfillment in executing high falls, enjoying the sensation of freedom and the adrenaline rush. His past as a telephone lineman, where he disliked relying on equipment, contrasts sharply with his current profession’s reliance on physical prowess and mental fortitude. The film concludes on a philosophical note, with the stuntman musing about reincarnation and his desire to return as a bird, symbolizing his love for the freedom and exhilaration found in his daring career.

We digitized and uploaded this film from the A/V Geeks 16mm Archive. Email us at footage@avgeeks.com if you have questions about the footage and are interested in using it in your project.