Skip to main content
Action Filmmaking Decoded- The Story of Action Films

Action Filmmaking Decoded- The Story of Action Films

By Darren Tun & Mike Messina

This is the Action Filmmaking Podcast, the show dedicated to pure action analysis. Our passion for action films and martial arts has led us here where we do in-depth analyses and breakdowns of choreography and fight sequences as well as interviews with action filmmakers around the world. Join us to know more about the beauty of choreography and the arts of action filmmaking from the industry's best. Catch new episodes weekly!
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Castbox Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Mad Max: Fury Road - Keir Beck on Stunt Rigging for Film

Action Filmmaking Decoded- The Story of Action FilmsNov 19, 2020

00:00
01:04:00
Todor Lazarov Pt 2: RRR Action Scenes, Jail Break Sequence, Flaming Carriage Flips
May 19, 202340:38
TODOR “JUJI” LAZAROV: RRR Action Director, Horse Handler, and Opera Producer
Feb 18, 202301:01:07
GUI DASILVA: Black Panther Stunt Double, Stuntmen React & Punch 4 Punch Co-Host
Nov 02, 202201:31:35
Eric Linden: Punisher, Daredevil, Stuntmen React, & Setting Kanye West on Fire
Jan 22, 202201:11:16
Vanessa Campos: Never Back Down Revolt & Becoming an MMA Media Star
Jan 14, 202234:09
Halloween Action Movie Breakdowns feat. Jerry Horror! - Blade, Aliens, Freddy v Jason

Halloween Action Movie Breakdowns feat. Jerry Horror! - Blade, Aliens, Freddy v Jason

Happy Halloween! Today, we’ll be diving into three of our favorite action horror films, and helping us accomplish this spooky task is Jerry Horror, host of “The Offering” podcast!

In this episode, we break down the groundbreaking Blade and explore how Wesley Snipes laid the groundwork that the MCU would be built upon several years later. We also explore how Aliens was able to so effectively act as an action-oriented sequel to its horror-centric predecessor. Finally, we get into the divisive Freddy v Jason which was salvaged from development hell just like how Freddy brought Jason back from literal hell!

We also talk pure action films... shaky cam, martial arts choreography, and film history all get talked about because our guest really wants y’all to learn something!

Join us as we talk action horror alongside Jerry Horror: Host of The Offering Podcast!

-

Edited by Luigi Hernandez

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking.

Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice.

Find us at actiondecoded.com, on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @actionfilmmakingpodcast, or on Twitter @ActionDecoded

Until next time, thanks for listening.

Oct 31, 202101:27:33
Justin Eaton Pt 2: Falcon and the Winter Soldier Fight Breakdowns, Stair Flips as Scott Glenn for Daredevil, Bolting Dr Strange’s Cape

Justin Eaton Pt 2: Falcon and the Winter Soldier Fight Breakdowns, Stair Flips as Scott Glenn for Daredevil, Bolting Dr Strange’s Cape

Re-Introducing: Justin Eaton, stuntman and double in Banshee, Dr. Strange, Daredevil, and Punisher. He was Emmy nominated for his stunt performance as Captain America John Walker in Falcon and The Winter Soldier. He is also married to CC Ice, double for Black Widow and Scarlet Witch!

In this episode, we discuss his work on Daredevil where he doubled the legendary Scott Glenn! We also get a story about Scott Elk hunting on his front porch. Justin also talks about his time doubling Dr Strange for reshoots, what it’s like donning the Dr Strange cape, and doing motion capture for Deadpool as well as an NFL robot!

*SPOILER ALERT*

We also break down fights from Falcon and the Winter Soldier, specifically episode 4’s fight where Falcon, Winter Soldier, and Cap take on the Flag Smashers. We also breakdown episode 5’s fight where Captain America John Walker fights Falcon and Winter Soldier, something the action team dubbed “Civil War 2.0.”

In Part I, we discussed Justin’s work on American Horror Story, Bunraku, and more. Check it out if you haven’t already!

Join us as we chat with Justin Eaton: The Wicked Lion of Stunts.

-

Edited by Luigi Hernandez

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking.

Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice.

Find us at actiondecoded.com, on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @actionfilmmakingpodcast, or on Twitter @ActionDecoded

Until next time, thanks for listening.

Oct 22, 202146:15
AFD News: Scott Adkin's One Shot Film, Animated Blade Runner: Black Lotus, Sanak, & Squid Game Riot Breakdown
Oct 16, 202142:17
Justin Eaton Pt 1: Falcon and the Winter Soldier’s John Walker Double (Emmy Nominated), American Horror Story’s Bloody Face, Dr Strange Stunt Double

Justin Eaton Pt 1: Falcon and the Winter Soldier’s John Walker Double (Emmy Nominated), American Horror Story’s Bloody Face, Dr Strange Stunt Double

Introducing: Justin Eaton, stuntman and double in Banshee, Dr. Strange, Daredevil, and The Punisher. He was Emmy nominated for his stunt performance as Captain America John Walker in Falcon and The Winter Soldier. He is also married to CC Ice, double for Black Widow and Scarlet Witch!

In this episode, we discuss his work as Bloody Face on American Horror Story, scaring people on set with his monster makeup, and receiving an action stunt crash course for Bunraku. We also dive into his work relationship with Dave Macomber, having tattoos as a stunt performer, and that time he stretched his shoulder muscles til they "plucked" like the violin bow strings.

We also breakdown Banshee’s pit fight as well as the action short Identity Crisis which was filmed over two weekends with the Banshee action team!

In Part II, we’ll be going in depth about Daredevil, Deadpool, and Doctor Strange. We’ll also be breaking down action sequences from Falcon and the Winter Soldier.

Join us as we chat with Justin Eaton: The Wicked Lion of Stunts.

-

Edited by Luigi Hernandez

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking

Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice

Find us at actiondecoded.com, on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @actionfilmmakingpodcast or on Twitter @ActionDecoded

Until next time, thanks for listening

Oct 08, 202101:09:21
AFD News: Trailers for Matrix 4, Cobra Kai, Hawkeye, and more! + Matrix Shootout Breakdown
Oct 01, 202138:12
Andy Cheng Pt 2: Shang Chi Arena Fight, Making Rush Hour 1 and 2, & Dwayne Johnson Action Scenes
Sep 26, 202101:14:16
Andy Cheng Pt 1: Shang Chi Fight Coordinator, Jackie Chan Horse Fights, & The Beauty of Hong Kong Filmmaking

Andy Cheng Pt 1: Shang Chi Fight Coordinator, Jackie Chan Horse Fights, & The Beauty of Hong Kong Filmmaking

Welcome to the final stretch of Shang Chi Week! This week featured Joseph Le and Vi-Dan Tran. Today, we are…

Introducing: Andy Cheng. He is known as fight coordinator for Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. He is also a veteran of the Jackie Chan Stunt Team working on films such as Who Am I, Mr Nice Guy, Shanghai Noon, and Rush Hour 1 & 2. Other works of his include: Into the Badlands, The Rundown, Scorpion King, and 6 Underground.

In this episode, Andy regails us with his exploits as a Tae Kwon Do athlete and Bronze medalist. He’s been knocked out, knocked out others, and even had to fight his own teammate on TV! He also details his younger years imitating Jackie Chan stunts with his friends, including one near-death experience involving a loose pipe on the top of a building.

We talk about the blending of action movie styles for Shang Chi and break down scenes from the Jackie Chan film Mr. Nice Guy, including the horse carriage scene which resulted in someone “breaking their head.” We look at the construction site scene too, a scene that had the team filming absolutely nothing for two straight days as Jackie sat and thought about the sequence.

Andy also tells us about living with Jackie and throwing a Tomahawk at Jackie’s head!

In Part II, we’ll be breaking down other Jackie Chan works like Who Am I and Rush Hour 1 & 2, Andy Cheng’s works featuring Dwayne Johnson including The Getaway and Scorpion King, as well as his work on Michael Bay’s 6 Underground. We also cover Andy’s amazing fights on AMC’s Into the Badlands and, of course, dive into Shang Chi.

Join us as we chat with Andy Cheng: Taekwondo Champion, Stunt Golf Champion, Action Filmmaking Champion

-

Edited by Luigi Hernandez

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking.

Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice.

Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @actionfilmmakingpodcast

Until next time, thanks for listening.

Sep 17, 202101:15:17
Vi-Dan Tran & Joseph Le Pt 2: Shang Chi Bus Scene Changes, PlayStation Controlled Cameras, & Action Orgasms

Vi-Dan Tran & Joseph Le Pt 2: Shang Chi Bus Scene Changes, PlayStation Controlled Cameras, & Action Orgasms

Welcome to Shang Chi Week! We’ll be releasing Shang Chi action team interviews today, Wednesday, and Friday!

Introducing: Joseph Le & Vi-Dan Tran. Both were action designers on Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Vi-Dan is a member of the Jackie Chan Stunt Team. His works include The Foreigner, Bleeding Steel, and Into the Badlands as well as his original fan films such as Cyberpunk 2077: Phoenix Program and Darth Maul: Apprentice. Joseph Le is also know for fan films such as Mulan: An East Side Story and Afro Samurai Champloo as well as many action comedy videos with Martial Club.

In this episode, we break down the action of Shang Chi. We detail some of the biggest changes that took place in the bus sequence, a process dictated by character and story. Vi-Dan also talks about the crazy measures taken to get the correct camera angles in the confined bus space... PlayStation controllers were used and metal was cut through!

As always, the Five Second Fight Club challenges our guests to predict fight winners. This episode's matchups include Mugen (Samurai Champloo) vs Spike (Cowboy Bebop), Gangster Mulan vs John Wick, and a three-way battle between the live-action Spider-Men!

We also discuss Spider-Man. Vi-Dan loves Spider-Man... a lot. 

Join us as we chat with Joseph Le & Vi-Dan Tran: indie action darlings & MCU action masters.

-

Edited by Luigi Hernandez

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking.

Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice.

Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram and Facebook at @actionfilmmakingpodcast

Until next time, thanks for listening.

Sep 15, 202150:49
Vi-Dan Tran & Joseph Le Pt 1: Shang Chi Action Designers, Jackie Chan Stunt Team, & Making an Action Musical

Vi-Dan Tran & Joseph Le Pt 1: Shang Chi Action Designers, Jackie Chan Stunt Team, & Making an Action Musical

Welcome to Shang Chi Week! We’ll be releasing Shang Chi action team interviews today, Wednesday, and Friday!

Introducing: Joseph Le & Vi-Dan Tran. Both were action designers on Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Vi-Dan is a member of the Jackie Chan Stunt Team. His works include The Foreigner, Bleeding Steel, and Into the Badlands as well as his original fan films such as Cyberpunk 2077: Phoenix Program and Darth Maul: Apprentice. Joseph Le is also know for fan films such as Mulan: An East Side Story and Afro Samurai Champloo as well as many action comedy videos with Martial Club.

In this episode, we talk about getting involved with Shang Chi, working with Brad Allan, and putting your emotions aside in order to rapidly iterate.

Then, we take deep dives into some of our guests’ biggest fan films. Mulan: An East Side Story is an action-musical mashup combining Mulan and West Side Story. Joseph tells us about the short’s music and cocaine kicks. Vi-Dan tells us all about his 40+ minute sci fi action fan film Cyberpunk 2077: Phoenix Program. He tells us about the Keanu Reeves inspiration and how he built out a whole world starting from a single video game trailer.

Stay tuned for Part II releasing this Wednesday, in which we break down the action of Shang Chi, discuss Spider-Man a whole bunch, and bring our guests through the Five Second Fight Club!

Join us as we chat with Joseph Le & Vi-Dan Tran: Shang Chi brothers in arms.

-

Edited by Luigi Hernandez

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking.

Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice.

Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram and Facebook at @actionfilmmakingpodcast

Until next time, thanks for listening.

Sep 12, 202101:09:37
AFD News: Spider-Man NWH Trailer, Matrix 4 Resurrection First Look, Cowboy Bebop Live Action Photos, Shang Chi Breakdown

AFD News: Spider-Man NWH Trailer, Matrix 4 Resurrection First Look, Cowboy Bebop Live Action Photos, Shang Chi Breakdown

Welcome to AFD News for 9/3/21!

We discuss the newest Spider-Man: No Way Home trailer, the recent Matrix 4 Resurrection first look from CinemaCon, and the latest photos released from Netflix's live action Cowboy Bebop.

We also breakdown the bus fight scene from Marvel's latest film Shang Chi: Legend of the Ten Rings. You can see the scene here.

Other news includes the tragic events in Afghanistan and what it means for Afghan women and filmmakers, the passing of Ed Asner and Sonny Chiba. 

Also covered is Cobra Kai's season 5 renewal, Francis Coppola's sci fi epic 'Megalopolis,' 'The Expendables' returns with Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Tony Jaa, Megan Fox, and Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Mission Impossible 7 has Tom Cruise doing the "biggest [stunts] in movie history," Netflix announces MANY fall movie releases such as the assassin action film "Kate" and Zack Snyder's "Army of the Dead" prequel called "Army of Thieves."

-

Edited by Luigi Hernandez

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking.

Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice.

Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram and Facebook at @actionfilmmakingpodcast

Until next time, thanks for listening.

Sep 03, 202142:49
CC Ice: Scarlet Witch & Black Widow Stunt Double (Wandavision, Infinity War, Endgame)

CC Ice: Scarlet Witch & Black Widow Stunt Double (Wandavision, Infinity War, Endgame)

Introducing: CC Ice. CC is a professional stunt woman known for doubling Elizabeth Olsen’s Scarlet Witch and Scarlet Johansson’s Black Widow throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She is the owner of Space Cat Stunts Inc, Apex Entertainment Studios, and The Chamber Gym.
In this episode, we discuss CC’s love for Aliens’ Ripley and T2’s (Terminator 2) Sarah Connor, how being a dancer helps stunt performers work with fight partners to sell a story, married life as a stunt industry couple, the influence of CC’s incredibly daring wing-walker pilot family, and how being a magician’s assistant helped her master movie magic.
CC also helps us breakdown the final battle of WandaVision, Infinity War’s fight between Scarlet Witch and Proxima Midnight, and her latest work in the Black Widow solo film. She talks about the difference between making a Marvel series and a Marvel feature film, mastering and evolving the movements of Scarlet Witch, blending magic conjuring with hand-to-hand combat, and playing a dangerous game of memory while running along unstable Budapest roofs.
Join us as we chat with CC Ice: from magician’s assistant to movie magic to chaos magic superhero.
-
Edited by Luigi Hernandez
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at
Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking.
Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice.
Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram and Facebook at @actionfilmmakingpodcast
Until next time, thanks for listening.
Aug 27, 202157:00
AFD News: Brad Allan Passes Away, Captain America 4 Contracts, & Jackie Chan's Gorgeous Breakdown
Aug 21, 202130:25
Tim R McAdams Pt 2: Avengers Infinity War & Endgame, Black Panther, The Wire, & Atlanta

Tim R McAdams Pt 2: Avengers Infinity War & Endgame, Black Panther, The Wire, & Atlanta

Introducing: Tim R McAdams. Tim is a business consultant, enrichment speaker, and professional action stuntman. When he isn’t behind a podium, he’s on-set for productions such as Black Panther, Avengers Infinity War, Avengers Endgame, and Fast & Furious 7 as well as TV shows such as The Wire, The Walking Dead, Oz, Atlanta, and Black Lightning. In this episode, we go in depth on his experience losing 25 lbs in 3 weeks, getting beat up on The Wire, being a part of entertainment history with HBO’s Oz, and going pantsless in front of a busy street for Donald Glover’s Atlanta series. Then, Tim describes his experience working on Marvel film sets, specifically the incredible VFX magic and the legacy of Chadwick Boseman. Check out part 1 if you haven't already! There, we discuss how Tim grew from theater kid to sales associate to speaker - consultant - stuntman. Tim also spoke about his work as a director for the Stunt POC Directory, detailed how Atlanta became the “Hollywood of the South,” and explained exactly what a “ratchet” is. Join us as we chat with Tim R McAdams: Left-handed Leo, Wakandan warrior, and action filmmaker. Edited by Luigi Hernandez If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking. Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice. Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram at @actionfilmmakingpodcast Until next time, thanks for listening.
Aug 13, 202124:46
AFD News: John Wick 4 Cast, Shang Chi Trailer, & Kingsman Breakdown
Aug 07, 202139:24
Season 2 Announcement | New Release Schedule, AFD News, & Patreon!
Aug 06, 202100:56
Tim R McAdams Pt 1: Salesman to Stuntman, POC in Stunts, & Being Set On Fire

Tim R McAdams Pt 1: Salesman to Stuntman, POC in Stunts, & Being Set On Fire

Introducing: Tim R McAdams. Tim is a business consultant, enrichment speaker, and professional action stuntman. When he isn’t behind a podium, he’s on-set for productions such as Black Panther, Avengers Infinity War, Avengers Endgame, and Fast & Furious 7 as well as TV shows such as The Wire, The Walking Dead, Oz, Atlanta, and Black Lightning. In this episode, we discuss how Tim grew from theater kid to sales associate to speaker - consultant - stuntman. Tim also talks about his work as a director for the Stunt POC Directory, details how Atlanta became the “Hollywood of the South,” and explains exactly what a “ratchet” is. In part 2, we go in depth on his experience losing 25 lbs in 3 weeks, getting beat up on The Wire, being a part of entertainment history with HBO’s Oz, and going pantsless in front of a busy street for Donald Glover’s Atlanta series. Then, Tim describes his experience working on Marvel film sets, specifically the incredible VFX magic and the legacy of Chadwick Boseman. Join us as we chat with Tim R McAdams: Left-handed Leo, Wakandan warrior, and action filmmaker. Edited by Luigi Hernandez If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking. Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice. Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram at @actionfilmmakingpodcast Until next time, thanks for listening.
Jul 30, 202150:59
Sundance Film Festival’s First Action Comedy: “First Date” with Director Manuel Crosby

Sundance Film Festival’s First Action Comedy: “First Date” with Director Manuel Crosby

Enter: Manuel Crosby, co-director and co-writer behind the new action comedy ‘First Date’ that premiered at Sundance Film Festival this year. The film description reads: “Conned into buying a shady '65 Chrysler, shy teen Mike's eagerly anticipated first date with the girl next door, Kelsey, implodes as he finds himself targeted by criminals, cops and a crazy cat lady. A night fueled by desire, bullets and burning rubber makes any other first date seem like a walk in the park.”
Manuel’s work blends witty dialogue, colorful characters, and of course, compelling action. In this episode, we talk about his relationship with co-director / co-writer Darren Knapp, how he created large action set pieces on an indie budget, and where the inspiration for some of the film’s wackier elements came from. We also breakdown the film’s largest action scene!
The film is OUT NOW in select theaters and On Demand!
Join us as we chat with Manuel Crosby: hometown hero and master of the first date.
*Spoiler Warning*
Major plot points and sequences are discussed in depth for The Paper Tigers in the breakdown section of this episode!

Wanna see the film? Check out streaming services and select theaters here:
www.firstdatethemovie.com/
Edited by Luigi Hernandez
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking
Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice
Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram at @actionfilmmakingpodcast
Until next time, thanks for listening
Jul 02, 202101:01:55
The Paper Tigers: Bao Tran & Ken Quitugua | How to Direct a Kung Fu Action-Comedy Feature Film
May 21, 202101:23:32
Black History Month Special: Black Panther, Django Unchained, The Last Dragon

Black History Month Special: Black Panther, Django Unchained, The Last Dragon

Feb 12, 202148:46
Vlad Rimburg Pt 3: Jane Wick & Shaky Cam Secrets

Vlad Rimburg Pt 3: Jane Wick & Shaky Cam Secrets

Reintroducing: Vlad Rimburg, the bad boy from Belarus. Vlad is an action / 2nd unit director, fight coordinator, fight choreographer, editor, and performer. Notable works include Lucifer, Sultan, and Unlucky Stars. You can find much of his work, from professional pre-viz to action short passion projects, on his YouTube channel www.youtube.com/user/vjvlad?pbjreload=102.
In this episode, we go in-depth about Vlad’s work with indie action shorts, discussing how he riffed on John Wick’s fighting style for his female John Wick short “Ballerina” as well as recounting the gnarliest groin grabs and nut shots he’s ever choreographed.
Also, Vlad reveals the secret to perfect shaky cam, details why The Protector’s one-take fight was ineffective, and reveals which action fight scene made him cry. To top it all off, Vlad gives up-and-coming action filmmakers some good old financial and life advice.
Join us as we chat with Vlad Rimburg: action director
Edited by Luigi Hernandez
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking
Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice
Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram at @actionfilmmakingpodcast

Until next time, thanks for listening
Feb 05, 202144:51
Vlad Rimburg Pt 2: Lucifer, Brothers, Sultan, Unlucky Stars

Vlad Rimburg Pt 2: Lucifer, Brothers, Sultan, Unlucky Stars

Reintroducing: Vlad Rimburg, the bad boy from Belarus. Vlad is an action / 2nd unit director, fight coordinator, fight choreographer, editor, and performer. Notable works include Lucifer, Sultan, and Unlucky Stars. You can find much of his work, from professional pre-viz to action short passion projects, on his YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/user/vjvlad?pbjreload=102. In this episode, we discuss Vlad’s experience with Netflix’s hit show Lucifer, Indian action films Brothers and Sultan, and the show stopping indie action film Unlucky Stars (that featured AFD alumni Sam Hargrave & Emmanuel Manzanares). Vlad details the art of using stunt doubles in Lucifer and how he explored ‘size doesn’t matter’ in the fights of Unlucky Stars. Vlad also talks about how the weight of professional cameras affects the scene, the difficulty of trapping fighting styles on screen, the sometimes rocky relationship between action teams and editing teams, and taking the ‘Masala’ out of ‘Masala Action.’ Join us as we chat with Vlad Rimburg: action director Edited by Luigi Hernandez If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram at @actionfilmmakingpodcast Until next time, thanks for listening
Jan 29, 202145:06
Vlad Rimburg Pt 1: From Indie to Hollywood, Making Fighters Look Good

Vlad Rimburg Pt 1: From Indie to Hollywood, Making Fighters Look Good

Introducing: Vlad Rimburg, the bad boy from Belarus. Vlad is an action / 2nd unit director, fight coordinator, fight choreographer, editor, and performer. Notable works include Lucifer, Sultan, and Unlucky Stars. You can find much of his work, from professional pre-viz to action short passion projects, on his YouTube channel www.youtube.com/user/vjvlad?pbjreload=102.
In this episode, we discuss transitioning from the indie action world to hollywood, the state of female representation in action films, and how smoke can supplement the creative process. Vlad also talks about the different roles of fight choreographers and fight coordinators as well as emphasizes the importance of applying film theory and getting practical experience. He also recalls his experience with sparring, forms, and how each offers unique benefits for screen-fighting. If you need some practical financial advice as a stunt performer, Vlad has you covered as well.
Join us as we chat with Vlad Rimburg: action director.
Edited by Luigi Hernandez
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support us at Patreon.com/actionfilmmaking.
Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or the podcast app of your choice.
Find us at actiondecoded.com or on Instagram at @actionfilmmakingpodcast
Until next time, thanks for listening
Jan 22, 202101:06:13
Best of AFD - 2020
Jan 16, 202101:10:59
Garrett Warren Pt 2: Choreographing Logan, Avatar, & Alita: Battle Angel
Jan 08, 202144:05
Garrett Warren Pt 1: Street Fights & Leading Stunt Teams
Jan 01, 202143:21
Christmas Action Movie Breakdowns - Die Hard, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Iron Man 3, Home Alone

Christmas Action Movie Breakdowns - Die Hard, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Iron Man 3, Home Alone

Welcome to AFD’s Christmas Special! Join Darren and Mike as we explore some of the best holiday action and stunt films of all time: Die Hard, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Iron Man 3, and Home Alone. We discuss what makes John McClane the perfect action hero, the incredibly witty dialogue of Shane Black, the unique action of a powered-down Iron Man, how Joe Pesci’s head was lit on fire, and the true whereabouts of Mr. Elvis Presley. Today’s episode is laid back and a ton of fun- we hope you enjoy! Thank you so much for your support throughout 2020! We can’t wait to bring more content in 2021! Happy Holidays!
Dec 25, 202037:04
Emmanuel Manzanares on Logan, Gemini Man, and 87 Eleven Action with Chad Stahelski Part 2.

Emmanuel Manzanares on Logan, Gemini Man, and 87 Eleven Action with Chad Stahelski Part 2.

Introducing: Emmanuel Manzanares, prolific action choreographer and stunt performer. You can see his handiwork in Logan, Gemini Man, and Batman: Enemy Within, to name a few. We discuss what makes for great stunt camera work and “bending” martial arts for the screen. We also take an in-depth look at Logan, Gemini Man, and more. Join us as we chat with Emmanuel Manzanares, actor and orchestrator of on-screen combat.
Dec 18, 202001:06:53
Emmanuel Manzanares on the Fight Choreography Process, Cinematography, and Film Directing Part 1.

Emmanuel Manzanares on the Fight Choreography Process, Cinematography, and Film Directing Part 1.

Introducing: Emmanuel Manzanares, prolific action choreographer and stunt performer. You can see his handiwork in Logan, Gemini Man, and Batman: Enemy Within, to name a few. We discuss what makes for great stunt camera work and “bending” martial arts for the screen. We also take an in-depth look at Logan, Gemini Man, and more. Join us as we chat with Emmanuel Manzanares, actor and orchestrator of on-screen combat.
Dec 11, 202001:04:00
Mad Max: Fury Road - Keir Beck on Stunt Rigging for Film

Mad Max: Fury Road - Keir Beck on Stunt Rigging for Film

Introducing: Keir Beck, award-winning Stunt Coordinator, Director, and writer. Keir is well known for his remarkable work on Mad Max: Fury Road, The Matrix, and Pirates of the Caribbean, to name a few. We talk about Keir’s filmography, his program teaching up and coming stunt performers and riggers, and how being a tree surgeon set up Keir’s film career. As always, we also break down some of our guest’s exceptional stunt work. Join us for this conversation with the incredible Keir Beck.
Nov 19, 202001:04:00
The Dark Knight Trilogy and Inception - Tom Struthers Part 2

The Dark Knight Trilogy and Inception - Tom Struthers Part 2

Introducing Tom Struthers: international stunt extraordinaire. We had the pleasure of discussing his tales of Bollywood, tremendous impact working with Christoper Nolan in Inception and the Dark Knight Trilogy, and his innovative and revolutionary choreography techniques. Join us in our 2 part interview with Tom Struthers, revolutionist of the stunt coordination industry.
Aug 28, 202025:30
Tom Struthers on Salman Khan, Bollywood Action Filmmaking, and The Dark Knight Trilogy Part 1

Tom Struthers on Salman Khan, Bollywood Action Filmmaking, and The Dark Knight Trilogy Part 1

Introducing Tom Struthers: international stunt extraordinaire. We had the pleasure of discussing his tales of Bollywood, tremendous impact working with Christoper Nolan in Inception and the Dark Knight Trilogy, and his innovative and revolutionary choreography techniques. Join us in our 2 part interview with Tom Struthers, revolutionist of the stunt coordination industry.
Aug 19, 202033:51
Scott Adkins on Ip Man 4 & Boyka Undisputed III Fight Breakdowns and the Importance of Good Director Relationships

Scott Adkins on Ip Man 4 & Boyka Undisputed III Fight Breakdowns and the Importance of Good Director Relationships

Introducing Scott Adkins: actor, producer, and martial artist to the core. In this episode, we were graced with Mr. Adkins presence as we went down the line of his entire career in the film industry. In the realm of acting, we discussed his tutelage under Dee Cannon and Mykel Shannon Jones (Undisputed III) and his director and actor relationship with Isaac Florentine, Jesse V. Johnson (Accident Man, Debt Collector, Avengement), and Adrian Bol. These director partnerships have given Scott a great opportunity to take on more challenging character-driven films.
In the domain of production, we examined his role as a co-writer with his long time friend, Stu Small, in Accident Man and the maneuvers made in filming Avengement on such a tight time schedule. We also cover what makes a skilled fight cinematographer when it comes down to coordinating and filming fight sequences. As a passionate martial artist, we analyzed his fight scenes against Marko Zaror from Undisputed III: Redemption and Donnie Yen from Ip Man 4 (choreographed by Yuen Woo-ping) along with getting an inside look at his new film Legacy of Lies out now. Join us in this special, extensive interview with martial arts veteran and extraordinaire, Scott Adkins.
Aug 05, 202056:19
Mission Impossible Franchise- Wade Eastwood on his Creative Process in Stunt Coordinating

Mission Impossible Franchise- Wade Eastwood on his Creative Process in Stunt Coordinating

We had the privilege of interviewing Wade Eastwood: one of the biggest names in stunt coordination, most famously known for his work on 'Mission: Impossible Fallout' and 'Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation'. He has worked on stunts for over twenty-seven years including the James Bond Franchise, Jumanji: The Next Level, Jack Reacher, and Edge of Tomorrow. Here, we had the chance to talk to Eastwood about his exciting stunt coordinating & 2nd unit directing experiences with Tom Cruise and writer/director Christopher McQuarrie, his ingenious creative process, and his methodology in choreography. Join us in our interview with Wade Eastwood as we go in-depth into action sequences with this true titan in stunt coordination. 

Jul 29, 202042:46
Michael Lehr on Extracton Fight Scene Breakdowns and Rocket Jump Part 2

Michael Lehr on Extracton Fight Scene Breakdowns and Rocket Jump Part 2

Introducing part 2 with Michael Lehr: Professional stuntman who has worked on Rocket Jump shorts, video game mo-cap (Star Wars The Force Unleashed, Sleeping Dogs), the John Wick franchise, Logan, Extraction, Mulan, and now Fast and Furious 9 doubling as Han Lue. In this 2 part interview series he answers questions about his start in the industry, his martial arts background, Asian Americans in stunts, and breakdowns from his extensive stunt filmography. Join us in this interview with the one and only Michael Lehr, legendary stunt coordinator and stuntman.

Jul 16, 202054:40
Michael Lehr on John Wick 3, Mulan, Fast and Furious 9, Diversity in Stunts, and Video Game Motion Capture Part 1

Michael Lehr on John Wick 3, Mulan, Fast and Furious 9, Diversity in Stunts, and Video Game Motion Capture Part 1

Introducing Michael Lehr: Professional stuntman and actor who has worked on Rocket Jump shorts, video game mo-cap (Star Wars The Force Unleashed, Sleeping Dogs), the John Wick franchise (John Wick 2 & John Wick 3) with Keanu Reeves, Logan, Extraction (netflix) with Chris Hemsworth, Mulan, and now Fast and Furious 9 doubling as Han Lue. In this 2 part interview series he answers questions about his start in the industry, his martial arts background, Asian Americans in stunts, and breakdowns from his extensive stunt filmography. Join us in this interview with the one and only Michael Lehr, legendary stunt coordinator and stuntman.

Jul 09, 202001:08:10
Who is Mike Messina? - Action Filmmaking Decoded Update Episode

Who is Mike Messina? - Action Filmmaking Decoded Update Episode

Today we introduce our newest podcast co-host, Mike Messina. As Skylar Tun steps down from more traditional interviews to focus on fight breakdowns, Mike will be co-interviewing guests with Darren. Mike is the former president of Binghamton University's Asian Student Union and the podcast host of 'Inside Outlook' and 'AO Story Time', podcasts focused on telling the experiences of different Asian Americans. He’s a Tae Kwon Do black belt and certified instructor with additional training in Krav Maga and Jiu Jitsu. Join us every Wednesday at 5AM for new episodes!
Jul 01, 202014:40
Mike Moh on Bruce Lee in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Martial Arts Training, and Asian Representation in Film- Action Filmmaking Decoded

Mike Moh on Bruce Lee in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Martial Arts Training, and Asian Representation in Film- Action Filmmaking Decoded

Introducing Mike Moh: actor, martial arts master, and Bruce Lee aficionado. We had the absolute privilege of discussing his role in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, martial arts philosophy in Taekwondo & Jeet Kune Do, and contemporary Asian representation in film. Join us in our interview with the Wanaukee Wisconsin’s one and only Mike Moh.
Jun 30, 202040:29
Tyler Witte on Stunt Driving for Black Panther, Baby Driver, and Extraction.

Tyler Witte on Stunt Driving for Black Panther, Baby Driver, and Extraction.

Introducing Tyler Witte: stunt double and stunt driver. In this interview, we discussed his start in the stunt-driving industry, approach with performing dangerous scenes, and the mindset of this daredevil. Join us in our interview with the rising star Tyler Witte.
Jun 22, 202033:08
Sam Hargrave on Extraction, Captain America, and His Most Dangerous Stunts - Action Filmmaking Decoded

Sam Hargrave on Extraction, Captain America, and His Most Dangerous Stunts - Action Filmmaking Decoded

Introducing Sam Hargrave: Professional stunt coordinator, stunt double for Captain America, and now, director. We've had the pleasure of asking him some questions about his martial arts background and the action in his directorial debut, Extraction, out now on Netflix. Join us in this interview of the Sam Hargrave, legendary stuntman and choreographer.

May 08, 202046:03
John Wick - Part 2 - The Subway Fight - Action Filmmaking Decoded

John Wick - Part 2 - The Subway Fight - Action Filmmaking Decoded

Today, we're diving into the dark, neo-noir world of John Wick and the underworld rife with assassins and crime families. We will be examining some of our favorite fight scenes from over the course of John Wick 1 and 2. We hoped to cover John Wick 3 more extensively in a separate episode as it is the most action-packed and creatively choreographed of them all. Until then, join us in the exploration of the battles of John Wick, the Baba Yaga.
May 06, 202029:58
John Wick Part 1 - The Red Circle Fight Scene - Action Filmmaking Decoded

John Wick Part 1 - The Red Circle Fight Scene - Action Filmmaking Decoded

Today, we're diving into the dark, neo-noir world of John Wick and the underworld rife with assassins and crime families. We will be examining some of our favorite fight scenes from over the course of John Wick 1 and 2. We hoped to cover John Wick 3 more extensively in a separate episode as it is the most action-packed and creatively choreographed of them all. Until then, join us in the exploration of the battles of John Wick, the Baba Yaga.
May 06, 202018:51
The Ip Man Franchise - Action Filmmaking Decoded

The Ip Man Franchise - Action Filmmaking Decoded

Today, we're exploring the choreography of the Ip Man franchise, known for its legendary fight scenes with Donnie Yen and company. This is an overview of the entire Ip Man franchise and it should be noted that the depth and pure volume of the movie's action sequences make it nearly impossible to cover every fight scene in-depth in a normal-length episode. We will be covering notable individual fight scenes in future shows but for now, join us in our examination of the legendary Ip Man.

May 06, 202035:38
Action Filmmaking Decoded Introduction- Who are we?

Action Filmmaking Decoded Introduction- Who are we?

In our first episode, we give a little background on who we are and why we do what we do. Our passion is placed in the creation of action films and the intricacies of fight scenes. In the future, we'll be exploring the choreography of films fron the Ip Man, Marvel, and John Wick franchises, along with many standalone features. Join us on the beginning of our journey.

May 06, 202007:55