Stunt Reel Matters More Than Your CV

If you’re serious about working in the stunt industry, your stunt reel is your most important asset. More than any resume or list of past jobs, coordinators want to see what you can actually do. Your reel speaks louder than any words on paper—and it’s often the first (and sometimes only) thing a stunt coordinator will watch before deciding to call you.

Your Visual CV in Action

When you introduce yourself to a stunt coordinator, the first question isn’t usually "what productions have you done?"—it’s "do you have a stunt reel?"

That’s because stunt work is highly visual and skill based. A well-crafted reel immediately shows your range, strengths, safety awareness, and set-readiness. It’s your proof of professionalism.

What Makes a Good Reel?

• Short and focused: Keep it under 2 minutes

• Clear labels: Show your name, contact details or agency (NZAT for example)

• No fluff: Highlight your best work—not the whole scene

• Variety: Include different skills (falls, fights, fire, wires, horse work, etc.)

• Recent footage: Coordinators want to see what you look like now not a year ago

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using footage where you’re hard to identify

• Including group scenes without clarity on who you are

• Adding effects or music that distract from the action

• Showing unsafe or uncontrolled stunts

Start With What You Have

You don’t need a Hollywood credit to build a reel. Use training footage, projects, or self-filmed sequences that show your ability, control, and camera awareness. Quality always beats quantity.

Once you have enough training and have your fundamentals under control, it's time to begin compiling your best footage into a professional reel.

Learn How to Make One for Free

We’ve created a free online course on How to Create Your Stunt CV and Reel. It walks you through:

• What to include

• How to structure your footage

• Editing tips

• How to update your reel as you grow

You can access it now on our website and start creating a reel that gets you noticed.

Already have your reel? Get it professionally reviewed by a Stunt Coordinator to make sure it’s hitting the mark. Book it Now

Final Tip:

Don’t wait until someone asks for your reel—have it ready. Whether you’re a beginner or professional, your stunt reel is your calling card. Make it count.

Take the Free Stunt CV & Reel Course Here

Any questions or inquiries about NZ Stunt School, NZ Action Talent Agency or NZ Horse Team, contact us.

Feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions — respectful discussion is welcome!