“When it comes to stunts and precision driving, one only has to look at the number of first-class television commercial credits he has accumulated. Harry is regarded as the go-to stunts and precision driver for many high-end brands sold in this region.”
Not every person is capable of being successful in the stunt business and truth be known, not many people in the industry can claim such an extensive pedigree in stunt performing as Harry Dakanalis.
At the age of 13, he was apprenticed to become a Stunt Coordinator, and from the outset, he discovered it takes a tremendous amount of training, courage and ambition to be successful in this field. With unwavering enthusiasm and ongoing discipline, Harry has become one of Australia's premier Stunt Coordinators.
During his apprenticeship years, he was encouraged to pursue activities which would enhance his knowledge and understanding of the physicality of stunts. The critical disciplines of professional fighting and precision driving inform much of his work today. His fighting gave him an understanding of the dynamics of human movement, and this, together with his comprehensive knowledge of the camera, makes Harry a highly sought after Fight Choreographer. When it comes to precision driving, one only has to look at the number of first-class television commercial credits he has accumulated. Harry is regarded as the go-to precision driver for many high-end brands sold in this region.
Part of the second generation of stunt coordinators in this country, Harry trained to be not only a professional in the execution of his work but also the coordination and management of stunt performance. A firm believer in getting things right at the front-end to minimise the need for post-production, Harry prides himself on an impeccable record of being able to fit the live-action seamlessly to any post effects required.
When it comes to features, Harry has developed an impressive portfolio of award-winning independent films. He thoroughly enjoys collaborating on these exciting and worthwhile projects which give him greater scope to flex his creative desires.
“No Stunt Coordinator is an island. Harry Dakanalis is backed up by a team of first-class stunt performers and riggers. His core team have been working with him for more than 20 years and have developed an intuitive work relationship which enables them to conquer many difficult situations”
However, the best of the best in any field are always looking for ways to enhance their performance and professionalism. Harry works long hours for the sake of 'improving the shot'. As a successful businessman with an understanding of making it happen within budget constraints, he has a good sense of responsibility in creating a safe working environment, and ultimately achieving a favourable outcome by getting the most spectacular effect possible.