Hiring the right stunt coordinator is one of the highest-leverage decisions a production makes. A skilled coordinator translates your script's action into executable beats, builds a team that matches the scale of the gag, and keeps safety and schedule aligned when the pressure is on.

When to bring a stunt coordinator on board

The answer is almost always pre-production, not the week before your first action day. If your script includes fights, falls, driving, fire, wire work, or any sequence where talent could be injured without planning, you need a coordinator in the conversation early.

Early involvement means:

  • Accurate budgeting for performers, rigging, and safety gear
  • Location scouts that account for rigging anchors and landing zones
  • Realistic scheduling — action days cost more time than dialogue
  • Previz and storyboard alignment before camera tests

What to look for in a film stunt coordinator

Experience on productions similar to yours matters. A coordinator who excels on episodic television may be perfect for your series; a feature coordinator used to large teams may be essential for a tentpole day. Look for:

  • Proven credits in your format (feature, TV, commercial, live)
  • Clear communication with directors, 1st ADs, and department heads
  • Strong safety culture — documented meetings and risk assessments
  • Ability to cast and lead performers appropriate to each gag

Questions to ask before you hire

  1. How would you break down our largest sequence?
  2. What rehearsals do you require before camera rolls?
  3. Who is on your core stunt team for this scale?
  4. How do you run safety meetings and document risk?
  5. What changes when weather or locations shift mid-shoot?

Coordinator vs. performer: know the difference

Some professionals do both — perform and coordinate — but on larger shoots the coordinator should be focused on running the sequence, not doubling talent in the same beat. Hiring a dedicated stunt performer team under a single coordinator keeps accountability clear.

Protect your schedule and your people

Great coordination feels invisible on the day: shots land, the set stays calm, and nobody improvises rigging. Skipping coordination to save money usually costs more in overtime, reshoots, or injury. Build the line item early and treat it as production insurance.

Read more on stunt safety protocols and why indie films need coordinators early.