Chad Stahelski on Joe Rogan: From Stuntman to Director

Ever wondered how a stuntman becomes a blockbuster action director? Joe Rogan dives deep with Chad Stahelski, the man behind the John Wick franchise, in this action-packed episode. They discuss everything from the evolution of stunt work to the creative process behind directing some of the most visually stunning fight scenes in modern cinema. Get ready for a fascinating peek behind the curtain of Hollywood action!

TL;DR

Chad Stahelski shares his journey from stuntman to becoming a successful director.
The conversation explores the intricacies of fight choreography and the evolution of action filmmaking.
They delve into the challenges and rewards of directing a franchise like John Wick.
Stahelski discusses the importance of practical effects and minimizing CGI in action movies.
The episode touches upon the philosophy of storytelling and creating immersive cinematic experiences.

Key Topics Covered

The Evolution of Stunt Work and Fight Choreography

Chad Stahelski recounts his early days as a stuntman and how the industry has transformed over the years. He emphasizes the increasing emphasis on safety and the growing recognition of stunt performers’ contributions to filmmaking. The discussion highlights the creative process behind designing fight sequences, blending different martial arts styles, and creating unique visual aesthetics for each project.

They also touched on the importance of collaboration between the stunt team, actors, and directors in bringing these action sequences to life. Stahelski notes that the best fight choreography tells a story and reveals character, rather than just being a display of physical prowess.

“Stunt guys, we’re storytellers. We’re physical storytellers.” – Chad Stahelski

Directing the John Wick Franchise

The conversation shifts to Stahelski’s experience directing the John Wick movies. He describes the challenges of maintaining a consistent tone and visual style across multiple films, while also pushing the boundaries of action filmmaking. He emphasizes the importance of world-building and creating a believable and immersive universe for the characters to inhabit. He also spoke about how doing the stunts for Keanu Reeves brought them closer.

Stahelski discusses his approach to working with Keanu Reeves, praising his dedication and commitment to the role. He reveals the extensive training and preparation that goes into each fight scene, ensuring that Reeves can perform the action sequences convincingly. He also speaks on the story telling and how to make sure it’s entertaining.

“I treat everything as a chance to learn something new and the chance to improve.” – Chad Stahelski

Practical Effects vs. CGI: A Director’s Philosophy

Stahelski is a strong advocate for practical effects and minimizing the use of CGI in action movies. He believes that practical effects create a more visceral and realistic experience for the audience. The podcast explores the benefits and limitations of both approaches, and how to strike a balance between them.

He argues that CGI can often look artificial and detract from the realism of the action. He shares his techniques for achieving spectacular effects using practical stunts, pyrotechnics, and set design. He uses CGI to enhance things that can’t be done in real life.

Intriguing Anecdotes & Stories

Stahelski shares a story about his early days as a stunt double for Brandon Lee on The Crow, highlighting the close-knit community of stunt performers and the challenges they face. He recounts the tragic accident on set and how it impacted his perspective on safety and responsibility.

He also shares the experience of how he became the director for John Wick. How Keanu Reeves asked if he wanted to direct and Stahelski said yes. He then talks about how he had to put together a presentation to get approval to direct the film.

Actionable Insights & Takeaways

Embrace practical effects whenever possible to create a more realistic and engaging cinematic experience.
Focus on storytelling through action, making fight scenes integral to character development and plot progression.
Prioritize safety and collaboration in stunt work, fostering a culture of respect and responsibility.

Conclusion

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience with Chad Stahelski offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of action filmmaking. Stahelski’s journey from stuntman to director is inspiring, and his insights into fight choreography, visual effects, and storytelling are invaluable. This episode would be particularly interesting for aspiring filmmakers, action movie enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the creative process behind Hollywood blockbusters. It’s a must listen.