Stunt Coordinators Reveal Cardboard Boxes as Secret to Safer High Falls

On November 9, 2025, the Round Top Film Festival in Texas hosted a panel discussion featuring veteran stunt coordinators and second unit directors. The panel, titled "From the Jump: Film and TV Stunt Designers in Conversation," provided a behind-the-scenes look at the world of movie stunts.

One of the key takeaways from the discussion was the surprising effectiveness of cardboard boxes for high falls. Stunt coordinator Vic Armstrong explained that cardboard boxes can be a better option than airbags in certain situations, as they can be placed in tight spaces where airbags won't fit. Fellow panelist Chris O'Hara added that hitting the edge of an airbag can be dangerous, whereas cardboard boxes can still slow a fall if set up correctly.

O'Hara was also honored at the festival with the Maverick Stunt Award, presented by Variety. He was recognized for his work on the upcoming action-comedy "The Fall Guy," which included a Guinness World Record-breaking car roll stunt performed by stunt driver Logan Holladay. The stunt, a "cannon roll" that uses a pyrotechnic device to flip the vehicle, bested the previous record of seven rolls set in "Casino Royale."

In addition to O'Hara's award, the festival also presented Vic Armstrong with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Armstrong is a 60-year stunt veteran who has doubled for actors like Christopher Reeve and Harrison Ford, and has also worked as a second unit director on several James Bond films.

The panel discussion also touched on the evolving role of visual effects in the stunt industry, with both praise and caution from the panelists. While they acknowledged the benefits of CGI in certain situations, they also emphasized the importance of practical, on-set stunts and the need to find the right balance between the two.