World War I and World War II documentaries and films rely heavily on practical stunt techniques to convey the violence, chaos, and physical reality of combat. While visual effects enhance scale, it’s the controlled physical reactions that make explosions, gunfire, and battlefield movement feel authentic.From historical reenactments to large-scale feature films, specialized stunt methods have been essential in portraying war convincingly and safely.<h3 id="688ea922-78ff-4d77-b023-43bb22ecd90a" data-toc-id="688ea922-78ff-4d77-b023-43bb22ecd90a" style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.2;">Practical Stunts Used in War Productions</h3>To simulate the forces experienced in combat, productions developed and refined several key stunt techniques:<ul><li>Air Rams Air rams are pneumatic devices used to safely lift or throw performers into the air, replicating the blast force of artillery, mortars, or grenades. In war films and documentaries, they create the illusion of explosive impact without exposing performers to real danger.</li><li>Jerk Backs Jerk backs use controlled wire systems to pull a performer sharply backward, simulating the effect of bullet hits or concussive force. This technique allows for precise timing and repeatable action, making it ideal for coordinated battle scenes.</li><li>Reaction Falls &amp; Ground Hits Simple but essential, these techniques sell realism when combined with sound design and camera placement. Proper body mechanics are critical to avoid injury while maintaining visual authenticity.</li></ul>These methods became especially refined in later productions, influencing modern war films such as Saving Private Ryan and 1917, where physical performance remains central despite advances in CGI.<h3 id="462da337-d18c-4ed9-a192-822bdbd8eb55" data-toc-id="462da337-d18c-4ed9-a192-822bdbd8eb55" style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.2;">Why Practical Techniques Still Matter</h3>Audiences instinctively recognize real movement. Practical stunts provide weight, timing, and unpredictability that digital effects alone can’t replicate. For war-based storytelling—whether documentary reenactments or narrative films—these techniques remain industry standards.<h2 id="09f4c9d4-7b94-4670-b7af-3ab28998ac7c" data-toc-id="09f4c9d4-7b94-4670-b7af-3ab28998ac7c" style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.2;">Learn the Foundations of War-Style Stunt Work</h2>Our <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nzstuntschool.com/en/event/war-scenario-jan-2026/4019/">upcoming stunt training</a> introduces the fundamentals behind these techniques in a controlled, beginner-friendly environment, including:<ul><li>Safe reaction falls and battlefield movement</li><li>Introduction to air ram principles and explosive timing</li><li>Jerk back mechanics, body positioning, and safety awareness</li></ul>This training is ideal for anyone looking to understand how high-impact action is created for screen—safely and professionally.Build the fundamentals. Train with purpose.

Discover how practical stunt techniques like air rams, jerk backs, and reaction falls are used in WWI and WWII films and documentaries and learn how these skills are taught in modern stunt training.

WWI & WWII War Films: Practical Stunts, Air Rams & Jerk Backs Explained

Recreating the Impact of War on Screen

Learn the Foundations of War-Style Stunt Work

Discover acting and stunt training insights from NZSS. Blog articles and practical tips to help you start and grow a career in film and television.

Action Acting & Stunt Training Resources | NZSS Blog

Articles and insights on stunt training, acting, and performance from NZSS. Learn, prepare, and progress toward screen work.

Recreating the Impact of War on Screen

Recreating the Impact of War on Screen

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