How Stunt Rigging Works on a Film Set

Some of the most jaw-dropping moments in film a superhero flying through the air, a character falling from a skyscraper, a performer being launched across a room are made possible by stunt rigging. It's one of the most technical disciplines in the stunt world, and one of the most critical to get right.

What Is Stunt Rigging?

Stunt rigging refers to the systems of wires, cables, harnesses, and mechanical devices used to safely perform aerial and high-impact stunts. This includes wire work for flying and suspension sequences, ratchets for explosive knockback effects, descenders for controlled falls, and winch systems for high-speed pulls. Every element of a rigging system is engineered to specific load tolerances and tested thoroughly before any performer is attached.

The Pre-Production Process

Rigging sequences require significant planning before the shoot day. The rigging coordinator often the stunt coordinator or a specialist they bring in assesses the location, determines anchor points, calculates load requirements, and designs the system. For complex sequences involving truss grids, ceiling-mounted eye beams, or large-scale aerial work, this process involves collaboration with structural engineers to ensure the building or set can support the required loads.

Equipment is selected based on the specific requirements of the stunt. Wire gauges, rigging hardware, harness types, and control systems are all specified in advance and inspected before use.

On Set: Testing and Execution

Before any performer is attached to a rigging system, it goes through a thorough testing process. Load tests verify that every component can handle the required forces. The system is run through its full range of motion without a performer to identify any issues. Only when the rigging coordinator is fully satisfied does a performer enter the system and even then, all rehearsals begin at slow speed before progressing to full execution.

Safety Standards

Stunt rigging is governed by strict safety standards developed over decades of industry experience. SAG-AFTRA has specific guidelines for rigging work, and any coordinator working on a union production is expected to adhere to them. Beyond union requirements, experienced riggers apply additional layers of redundancy backup systems, secondary attachment points, and multiple crew members assigned to monitor different aspects of the system during execution.

Real McCoy Stunts and Rigging

Bryan McCoy has extensive experience in stunt rigging, including large-scale work on major studio productions. His rigging credits span feature films and television series, and include complex sequences requiring engineering consultation and precision execution. If your production requires rigging work from simple wire assists to full aerial sequences Real McCoy Stunts has the experience to plan and execute it safely.

Ready to Work With a Proven Stunt Professional?

Real McCoy Stunts is available for film, TV, and commercial productions nationwide. Bryan McCoy brings major studio experience including credits on Captain America: Brave New World, The Matrix Resurrections, and Renfield to every project.

Visit realmccoystunts.com/hire-a-stunt-coordinator or contact Bryan directly at bryan@realmccoystunts.com to discuss your production.