The Society of American Fight Directors and Their Impact

While Stage Combat seems like it’d be a “fun thing” to do, it is also particularly dangerous for the unskilled performer. It is not uncommon to hear of an actor getting their eye gauged out by a small sword, or even having a performer hit in the head by a quarterstaff. Such accidents are the result of untrained individuals not paying attention and not knowing how to perform a fight safely.

Whips and Anthony DeLongis

Ordinarily, this would be the time I would post about how epic a fight is and why. As I said in my very first post, looking at the work of the people who came before you is an excellent way to stand on their metaphorical shoulders. However, I also think it is equally as important to look at the people who inspire you and why that is.

Zorro vs. Elena

When you say "Zorro", I think sexy, Spanish Robin Hood.  When you say "Mask of", I think mystery and intrigue.  So, it should be no surprise that my next pick of fight scenes involves combining the two. Yes, we are looking at The Mask of Zorro.

Inigo Montoya vs.The Man in Black

The most epic quote in all of history comes from a love story.  But not just any love story, an epic one! For those of you who don't already know, I am an avid fangirl of The Princess Bride. I am a firm believer that if you have grown up without uttering the words: “Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die!!!!” (The Princess Bride), you have seriously missed out.  Not only are there moments of adventure and romance, but mystery and politics. There is a plot device to satisfy almost every pallet.

The story itself is exceedingly complicated but I will try to summarize. In brief, it’s a about a man and a woman who fall in love and how they conquer every obstacle that comes their way, including several dramatic death scenes. (You read that right; the main male dies about 2 times through out the story!)

An Introduction and Critique: Whip vs. Whip Fight

What makes for a good theatrical fight? Is it how fast the individuals are fighting? Maybe. But if there is no intention or motivation behind the movements then they are simply that. Movements. What then, I ask you, makes for a good fake fight?

Hi. My name is Amy. I have been studying Stage Combat for about 2 years. I have learned from many different people and organizations, including the Society of American Fight Directors  and Anthony DeLongis.