Special Action Manikins (S.A.M.) Ltd

Special Action Manikins (S.A.M.) designs and makes ‘action’ manikins for use in Film, TV action and advertising - replacing the traditionally used stunt dummy.

We have generic ‘off the shelf’ manikins which are ready to hire - or you can have a bespoke hero manikin made.

All of the manikins have fully articulated joints which allow for realistic free flowing movement or the joints can be locked into position.  The manikins have self supporting spines which enable them to sit upright unsupported. Realistic silicon heads and hands and hair punched hair adds to their realism and believability.

Weighing in at 13 to 30 Kg, the technology of the build enables the manikins to realistically link frame capture from live action to visual effects providing a connection for a sequence or giving a ‘performance’ in their own right.

Jason White, SFX Manikin and Prosthetics Designer at S.A.M. has 45 years’ experience in stunt action and arranging at the highest level in the industry and during this time he realised there were no credible ‘stunt dummies’ that could realistically replace stunt performers and artists. S.A.M. is passionate about enhancing safety in the industry and this has fuelled our passion for developing and making Special Action Manikins.

Jason White graduated from drama school and worked successfully in Theatre, Film and TV - working on productions such as ‘A Bridge Too Far’ and ‘International Velvet’. He joined the Equity Stunt register in 1982 and became a Stunt Co-ordinator in 1986. www.jasonwhitestunts.com

While working on the first series of Peaky Blinders as the Stunt Co-ordinator (and Horse Master), Jason introduced Special Action Manikins for the first time, with a manikin replacing an Artist for a hanging scene and Cillian Murphy with other Artists being involved in various fight scenes with manikins.