Mary Cybulski/Universal Studios
Andy Schwartz
! m o o var
Jeremy Renner and Rachel Weisz dodge danger in a high-speed chase in The Bourne Legacy. Renner is known for performing his own stunts, but he couldn’t do it without the guidance of stunt professionals.
There’s no such thing as an academic degree in stuntology. If you want to crash cars, fall off of cliffs and engage in fist fights onscreen with the big boys and girls, you’re going to have to attend the University of Hard Knocks. You’re going to have to learn from the best, and be persistent, dedicated and learn to exercise good judgment.
T
he SAG-AFTRA members who risk life and limb to make screen stars look good aren’t daredevils. They are professionals who know their business, work together with precision and always put safety first. For everyone who chooses this exciting career, the road is different, but usually it starts with a moment of inspiration, whether it is a chance encounter with an accomplished stunt performer or a desire to emulate the daring stunts they have seen on TV and the movies. Tim Gallin, co-chair of the SAG-AFTRA National Stunt & Safety Committee, got his introduction to the world of the 26
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professional stuntperson through his former high school football coach, Vic Magnotta. After graduating from college with a degree in criminal justice, Gallin moved out to California in the late 1970s and got his first taste of show biz when he sang Blue Suede Shoes on The Gong Show. He saw his old friend Magnotta playing a role as a Secret Service agent in the classic film Taxi Driver. After returning to New York, he rekindled his friendship with Magnotta, who attended New York University with Martin Scorsese and had subsequently become a successful stunt performer. In the fall of 1978, Magnotta brought in Gallin to help train actors for football
| Fall 2012 | SAGAFTRA.org
8/28/12 4:19 PM