Jumping from high-rise buildings, plunging off steep cliffs,
and braving raging waters—these are just some of the challenges stunt
performers face. They execute complex stunts yet often remain behind the
scenes. Despite the risks, more women are entering the profession. One of them
is Kazakh stuntwoman Aliya Iskakova, a member of the international professional
stunt team «Nomad Stunts». Her journey into the industry happened by
chance—after attending a stunt training session, she became part of the team.
Her first and most challenging stunt was in the film «Seven Days in May.» Since
then, she has taken part in hundreds of productions, both in Kazakhstan and
abroad. Iskakova is an internationally recognized Master of Sport in climbing,
a Candidate for Master of Sport in taekwondo, and a recipient of a prestigious
film award for her work in the series «Kung Fu.»
«I’ve done many stunts in my life, mostly various fight
scenes, but also heavy falls, crashing through walls and doors, and jumping
from helicopters. But the scariest was probably a high-altitude fall. With
nothing but boxes below—no safety harness, no backup—just taking that step into
the abyss,» Iskakova said.
«Aliya is one of the best. She once participated in Namys
Doda Games in France, where I was invited as a coach. I was selecting the best
of the best for the team, and I'm glad I noticed Aliya. I have a sense for
people, and she stood out—there was a certain strength about her, a boldness,
courage, and unwavering stability,» said Zhaidarbek Kunguzhinov, Director of
the Nomad Stunts International Action Company.
Nomad Stunts has 73 stunt performers, including eight women—more
than any other team in the world. The group has taken part in major
international projects, including the film «Napoleon» and the series «The Gray
House». They have also worked on around nine projects in Kazakhstan and two in
India. Currently, the team is working on «The Golden Empire» series and will
soon be heading to India.
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