As reported by Variety, Joe Watts, an experienced stuntman who previously worked on films such as Solo: A Star Wars Story and Pokemon Detective Pikachu, was rehearsing a fight scene for Fast & Furious 9 at Leavesden Studios in England in 2019, opposite Winnie. Diesel Reptile when he was thrown over the balcony to the concrete floor, 20 feet (about 6 meters) high.
It is believed that a safety wire designed to stop her fall malfunctioned and she missed the landing mat because the stunt was performed differently from the original rehearsal. Joe Watts, who suffered a fractured skull, head trauma, psychiatric damage and a shoulder injury, was in a coma for five days after the crash. According to his lawyers, he is left with “a range of cognitive and physical problems” that require specialist help and therapy. They describe his injuries as “life-changing”.
Last year, the stuntman filed a lawsuit for more than $1.2 million against FF9 Pictures Limited, a subsidiary of Universal Pictures in the United Kingdom. His legal case said he would not be able to return to the job he had before the accident and that even if he could, he would face “permanent disability in the labor market. Work.”
Taking responsibility
In their defense case, which was recently filed in the UK High Court, FF9 Pictures Limited admitted that they were responsible for the accident which was solely due to their negligence.
“Accordingly, liability is admitted in full and, therefore, it is assumed that he is entitled to such damages as may be assessed by the court or agreed upon by the parties.“, the defense case continues.
However, FF9 Limited said they are making “no assumptions” at this stage about the nature and extent of Joe Watts’ injuries, their prognosis or outcome. They also declined to comment on compensation, saying they would rely on “expert evidence” to advise the court on what would be appropriate.
For his part, a relieved Joe Watts told Variety:It has been almost four years since the accident and during that time I have worked incredibly hard to recover. I know I’ll never get back on stage, which always worries me, but I’m determined to get my life back as best as I can. I am therefore grateful to FF9 Limited for accepting its responsibility and now calling on the film industry to make its cert safer for those who work there. I wouldn’t wish what I went through on anyone.“
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
