Chad Stahelski, co-director of 'John Wick', raised concerns about the collaborative nature of stunt work and how the award will be allocated, highlighting the need for proper recognition of all contributors.

The recent film 'The Fall Guy', starring Ryan Gosling, has also highlighted the challenges faced by stunt performers, reinforcing calls for recognition of their work.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the introduction of a new Oscar category for stunt design, set to launch in 2028, aimed at recognizing the vital contributions of stunt professionals in filmmaking.

This initiative has been significantly championed by David Leitch, a former stuntman turned director, alongside stunt coordinator Chris O'Hara.

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed pride in honoring stunt artists, emphasizing the importance of stunt design in enhancing cinematic experiences.

Fans and industry insiders are advocating for Tom Cruise to receive an honorary Oscar for his extensive stunt work, particularly in the 'Mission: Impossible' franchise, with some informally dubbing the new award the 'Tom Cruise Award'.

The upcoming film 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning', featuring Cruise, is set to debut in May 2025, but will not be eligible for the new category.

This new category will impact future action films, including the next James Bond movie, which must be released by 2027 to compete for the award.

The new Oscar aims to underscore the collaborative nature of action design, which is essential to storytelling in blockbuster films, as noted by industry veterans.

Social media reactions have been mixed, with some expressing excitement about the new award while others feel it undermines Cruise's contributions, especially since it will be introduced after his final 'Mission: Impossible' film.

The historical significance of stunts in cinema has been emphasized by filmmakers, referencing pioneers like Buster Keaton and modern contributions, showcasing the evolution of stunt design.

The 2025 Oscars featured notable moments, including emotional reunions and performances, reflecting the camaraderie and excitement of the event.