On the latest episode of Fandom Portals, host Aaron sat down with veteran stunt performer and martial artist Stephen Koepfer to explore the artistry, adrenaline, and discipline that fuels the world of cinematic stunts. From his start in martial arts to helping shape scenes in the John Wick franchise, Koepfer’s career is a blend of creative storytelling and high-stakes physicality.
From Martial Artist to Stunt Consultant
Koepfer’s journey began not on a movie set, but in martial arts dojos. Trained in disciplines like Taekwondo and Sambo, he eventually opened his own school and began sharing his expertise through early YouTube videos. That digital footprint caught the attention of John Wick director Chad Stahelski, who brought him in as a Sambo consultant on John Wick 2 and later John Wick 3.
Though his initial work wasn’t in front of the camera, Koepfer made his mark behind the scenes. He helped cast authentic Sambo athletes for scenes, consulted on wardrobe, and even stepped up as a “special ability coordinator” during a crucial theater training scene in John Wick 3.
“He just put me in charge in front of everybody,” Koepfer said, recalling how Stahelski handed him a walkie and trusted him to choreograph the background action. “It helped me level up.”
Film Fights and Nerd Culture
Outside of stunt work, Koepfer co-hosts the Film Fights With Friends podcast, a show that merges technical breakdowns of fight scenes with geeky table decor and lively conversation. It’s less about promoting stunt work and more about celebrating filmmaking across the board—whether with actors, directors, or makeup artists.
Their unique format starts each episode by unpacking a fight scene connected to the guest, tracing it from script to final cut. The show captures both Koepfer’s stunt know-how and his love for collectibles, with themed displays tailored to each guest.
Safety, Storytelling, and Staying Ready
Koepfer emphasizes that storytelling always takes priority—even over spectacle. He walks through how risk is assessed on set, balancing creativity with caution. From planning a stair fall for Blue Bloods to handling a surprise wire gag on the indie sci-fi Save Yourselves!, Koepfer insists every stunt needs its own step-by-step risk analysis.
“Most injuries happen when people are rushing,” he explained. “It’s about telling the story, not doing the craziest thing possible.”
He also spoke candidly about pain management and the wear-and-tear of the job. Years of martial arts prepared him mentally, but Koepfer still practices self-care and admits acting lines can be more nerve-wracking than falling down a flight of stairs.
A Stunt Career Built on Versatility
Whether doubling for Eddie Marsan in Ray Donovan or driving in Darren Aronofsky’s upcoming Caught Stealing, Koepfer’s range keeps him in demand. He’s taken on roles from performer to stunt coordinator and even driver, highlighting that adaptability is essential in the stunt world.
He’s currently wrapping his first feature film as lead stunt coordinator, Eugene the Machine, starring Scott Glenn and Jim Gaffigan. It’s a grounded film with fight sequences and small falls—“the bread and butter stuff,” as Koepfer put it—but a valuable step forward in his evolving career.
Stephen Koepfer’s story is one of persistence, passion, and pivoting when opportunity knocks—sometimes literally. For those curious about the reality behind your favorite action scenes, this episode of Fandom Portals is a must-listen.
Listen to the full interview on the Fandom Portals podcast to hear more stories, including Koepfer’s Star Wars toy collection, his early days in super 8 filmmaking, and what it’s really like to almost hit Bad Bunny with a car.
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