Cinematographer
Stunt-Kostüme müssen aus Kamera-Perspektive identisch zum Hero-Kostüm aussehen. Ich plane meine Einstellungen so, dass Übergänge zwischen Darsteller und Double unsichtbar sind.
Specially modified clothing designed for stunt performers featuring hidden padding, breakaway construction, fire-resistant materials, and reinforced areas—created to match hero costumes while providing protection and functionality.
What is a Stunt Costume?
A Stunt Costume is specially modified clothing for stunt performers that visually replicates the hero costume but is equipped with safety features, hidden padding, and specialized materials for dangerous action sequences.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Safety + Match |
| Wearer | Stunt Double |
| Design | Identical to Hero |
| Features | Hidden Protective Function |
Difference from Hero Costume
| Aspect | Hero | Stunt |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Visually best | Functional |
| Construction | Standard | Reinforced |
| Padding | Rare | Integrated |
| Multiples | Few | Many |
Safety Features
| Feature | Function |
|---|---|
| Padding | Impact Absorption |
| Kevlar | Abrasion Resistance |
| Fire Retardant | Fire Protection |
| Breakaway | Controlled Tearing |
Hidden Padding
| Area | Protection |
|---|---|
| Back | Spine Protector |
| Knees/Elbows | Impact Pads |
| Hips | Fall Protection |
| Shoulders | Impact Protection |
Breakaway Construction
| Type | Application |
|---|---|
| Velcro | Quick Opening |
| Snap-away | Tearing Off |
| Pre-Cut | Controlled Tearing |
| Theatrical | Dramatic Effect |
Fire-Resistant Materials
| Material | Property |
|---|---|
| Nomex | High Temperature |
| Treated Cotton | Flame Retardant |
| Gel Layers | Heat Protection |
| Carbon-X | Extreme Heat |
Special Requirements
| Stunt Type | Costume Adaptation |
|---|---|
| Fight | Freedom of Movement |
| Fall | Impact Padding |
| Fire | Nomex Lining |
| Water | Quick-Dry |
Harness Integration
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Hidden Points | For Wire-Work |
| Reinforcement | At Attachment Points |
| Quick-Release | Safety |
| Comfort | For Long Takes |
Multiple Production
| Reason | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hero | 2-3 |
| Stunt | 5-10+ |
| Distressed | Multiple Stages |
| Backup | Reserve |
Costume Coordination
| Team | Role |
|---|---|
| Costume Designer | Design Approval |
| Costume Supervisor | Manufacturing |
| Stunt Coordinator | Safety Requirements |
| Wardrobe | On-Set Management |
Matching Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Fitting | On Stunt Double |
| Color Match | Identical to Hero |
| Distressing | Same Aging |
| Camera Test | Visual Check |
Budget Factors
| Element | Cost |
|---|---|
| Material | Special Fabrics |
| Construction | Complex |
| Multiples | Many Copies |
| Replacement | Damaged Pieces |
On-Set Handling
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Quick Changes | Fast Swaps |
| Repairs | Between Takes |
| Continuity | Matching |
| Safety Check | Before Stunt |
Communication
| Between | Topic |
|---|---|
| Stunt/Costume | Requirements |
| AD/Wardrobe | Timing |
| SFX/Costume | Integration |
| Double/Fitting | Comfort |
Common Mistakes
| Problem | Avoidance |
|---|---|
| Visible Pads | Better Design |
| Not Matching | Careful Control |
| Restricted Movement | Adjustment |
| Not Enough Multiples | Planning |
Technology
| Innovation | Application |
|---|---|
| D3O | Impact-absorbing |
| Coolmax | Cooling |
| Stretch Materials | Mobility |
| Hidden Zippers | Quick Access |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Early Collab | With Stunt Dept. |
| Test Fittings | With Movement |
| Multiples Plan | Budget |
| Documentation | For Continuity |
Today
Stunt costumes are a critical part of modern action production. The balance between visual consistency with the hero costume and the safety requirements for dangerous stunts requires specialized expertise. Modern materials allow for ever-improving protection while maintaining a more natural appearance.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
Stunt-Kostüme ermöglichen gefährliche Action mit meinen Charakteren. Die nahtlose Übereinstimmung mit dem Hero-Kostüm ist entscheidend für die Illusion der Kontinuität.
Producer
Stunt-Kostüme sind teurer als Standard-Kostüme wegen Sondermaterialien und mehrfacher Anfertigung. Pro Take kann ein Kostüm zerstört werden – das Budget muss Multiple einplanen.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Stunt-Kostüm / Stunt-Kleidung / Action-Kostüm"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?