Characters of Infernal World in Western Film Industry and Features of their Embodiment by Means of Stunt Art

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to identify the features of stunt art in the creation of characters of the infernal world in modern film production. Research methodology. The method of theoretical analysis, the method of analysis and synthesis, the method of historical and cultural analysis, the method of comparative analysis, the typological method, the system method were applied. Scientific novelty. The problem of addressing characters of the infernal world in the Western film industry was studied. The features of stunt art in stunt scenes with infernal characters on the example of vampires and mummies in horror and action-horror films were analysed. Based on comparative analysis, the transformation of approaches to staging stunt scenes in low-budget B-rated horror films and legendary action franchises was revealed, as well as the main trends in stunt art in films with infernal characters in historical retrospective and at the present stage. Conclusions. The study revealed that among the main stunt techniques used in horror and action-horror films with characters from the infernal world, the following are used: tightrope walking, which is usually combined with practical acrobatics; martial arts, in particular, a combination of firearms and Chinese martial arts wushu (known as gong fu), a complex synthesis of acrobatics and combat choreography; classical wrestling and fencing (this technique makes it possible to emphasise the age of the infernal character, which usually exceeds several centuries); replacement of computer graphics with tricks performed by professional contortionists; the use of montage and practical effects to create the effect of super speed; pyrotechnic tricks using fragile decorations, which makes it possible to demonstrate the force of the blow of the infernal character. The main trends in the development of stunt art of the studied genres tend to: maximum physical authenticity and extreme realism, the use of animatronics, which enhances the communication of actors with digital models; increasing the empathic impact on the viewer by means of acting skills (through physical tension); the use of innovative insurance systems (provides the necessary conditions for staging stunning stunts and performing stunts by an actor without a double).