GORAN STJEPANOVIC

author, actor, stunt coordinator, action designer

CRO      ENG

BIOGRAPHY

His story is not just about success, but about the continuous pursuit of perfection, about building character, and living by the values that shaped his path. Goran Stjepanovic was born into a modest environment, in a family full of harmony and joy. He grew up in a city of love that had an unusual way of holding people in it. This city was destined for eternity until the day its people “broke” its soul.

From a very young age, he showed not only a love for film but also immense dedication to developing himself as a person, an athlete, and an artist. Throughout his childhood, he often found himself in the company of books, films, and works of art, developing an early passion for stories that shape people and their lives. However, the true strength of his character was not in his creative pursuits, but in the fundamental virtues he acquired over the years: persistence, discipline, and focus. He knew he would have to work hard to enter the world of film, despite the many obstacles that stood in his way. Every step on his journey was the result of long-term work, sacrifice, and, above all, constant striving to reach what many considered unattainable.

Although he had a carefree and wonderful childhood, he realized he needed to stand out in knowledge and skill to fulfill his dream. He noticed that as his motor skills developed, he was also quickly learning various sports. In each of them, he stood out with exceptional performance. Even though he grew up in a time when watching movies was limited, they sparked a huge passion in him and developed ideas that proved to be the right path to success. His complete personal development began through the practice of traditional martial arts, which he has been practicing for over 40 years. This approach allowed him to understand the depth of life, which doesn’t just mean recognizing daily experiences but also connecting with his inner world, with others, and with the natural laws. This experience gave him a better understanding of his thoughts, feelings, and behavior, which helped him grasp the deeper layers of life.

He knew he had to surround himself with smart people in order to distance himself from the masses who approached life superficially. They gave him depth and new perspectives in valuing life. They guided him, and he began to realize that art, music, literature, and nature all point to deeper aspects of life. Through experiencing these forms, he was able to connect with something greater than himself and understand life in a broader sense.

In North America, he became an actor and stuntman, later working as a stunt coordinator. He understood that film is not just a form, but a detailed analysis and approach to understanding the story, characters, and the emotions they evoke. Every film he worked on represented an opportunity to learn, deepen his skills, and express his inner philosophy. Film wasn’t just his passion; it was a way of life! Every scene he created, every shot he set, was a reflection of his philosophy: attention to detail, seeking beauty in every moment, encouraging thought, and creating something that would last forever. His career was not just the result of luck, but of continuous self-work, learning, and perfectionism.

For him, film became first a journey and then a destination. He realized that true success is not found in moments, but in everyday dedication. His focus was always on the future, how to improve his skills, and how to use his success as a platform for further artistic projects. Aside from his professional path, he demonstrated an incredible ability to endure the pressures and challenges of the industry, which often tests the limits of endurance and character. The film industry is one in which you frequently face criticism, jealousy, competition, and uncertainty, but through all of it, he remained consistent with his inner philosophy and true to his values.

Although film was his passion, his path to the top tested each of the qualities he possessed: persistence, discipline, courage, consistency, focus, and passion. He believed in his ideas and, above all, stayed true to his mission. He is an example of how art, dedication, and human virtues can be grounded in every aspect of life. His philosophy is clear and simple: there are no limits for those who are willing to work, learn, and fight for their dreams. Reflecting on the life stories of the people he spent time with, he is content with his success not just for his professional achievements, but also for the deep values he has built throughout his life.

INFLUENCE OF LITERATURE CLASSICS

In his self-development, Goran Stjepanovic recognized that reading the classics of literature and philosophy provided him with a better understanding of life situations. The mentors in his life guided him toward the right choice of classics, which became an integral part of his life. He recognized their value, and they inspired him with various ideas that he highlights in his writings.

The classics of literature are works that have been recognized as the highest expressions of human experience, often reflecting universal themes, deep emotional layers, and philosophical thoughts that transcend temporal and cultural boundaries. These works have been read and studied for centuries, not only because they offer insight into past eras, but also because they provide enduring values that can still serve as inspiration today.

Reading the classics of literature is important because it connects us with the foundations of human experience and past times, enabling us to better understand both ourselves and the world we live in. The classics often confront us with our own values, challenge our views on society and the world, and invite us to think more deeply about moral, ethical, and philosophical questions. Through their rich language, deep characters, and complex narratives, the classics not only expand our imagination but also shape us into critical and reflective individuals.

The classics of philosophy, literature, and history are works that have survived the test of time and continue to shape human thought and culture. They offer deep insights into human nature, moral dilemmas, political ideas, and ethical principles that are still relevant today, as they address universal questions that do not change with time. They encourage critical thinking, self-examination, and the re-evaluation of our beliefs, which is essential for personal growth and education. Through them, we learn important life values such as honesty, responsibility, justice, and inner freedom, making the classics not only an intellectual challenge but also guides for leading a meaningful and ethical life.

WRITING BOOKS

For Goran Stjepanovic, alongside film, his greatest passion is writing books about the philosophy of life. He believes that well-written books allow for a deeper understanding of the world, creating space for introspection, self-understanding, and philosophical reflection. His writing on the philosophy of life offers practical tools for wisdom and inner stability. For him, writing is a means to better understand his own thoughts, feelings, and values. He believes that the true path to truth is through understanding one’s own values and limitations. He aims to help readers develop wisdom in confronting the uncertainties and dissatisfaction that life brings. On a societal level, good books have a lasting impact because they convey ideas that can spark thought and lead to the discovery of truth.

He emphasizes that a good philosophical text doesn’t just remain in abstract thinking; it requires reflection on how to apply the theories in real life. His approach teaches how to live in accordance with nature, how to develop inner strength, and how to build mental resilience. He wants to provide readers with a better understanding of the critical importance of improving their own lives. In his book, he offers answers to these challenges by focusing on virtues, inner freedom, and controlling one’s reactions to the world.

His approach to writing encourages thought processes that will:

Illuminate life’s truths – By doing so, he opens new perspectives for readers and provides them with wisdom that helps them recognize their inner strength.

Provide inspiration and motivation – The topics he writes about often serve as a source of inspiration for people searching for meaning or answers to key life questions.

Enrich human perspectives – He explores the deep human nature and enriches the reader's ability to see different perspectives, developing empathy and understanding for others.

Writing about the philosophy of life can help readers free their minds from excessive desires and expectations, which is the foundation for achieving spiritual peace. For this reason, it remains invaluable as it encourages people to live consciously, in accordance with their own values, and to develop resilience and inner balance. Through his ideas and thoughts, he offers readers various approaches that can help them face life’s challenges with greater wisdom and inner strength.

FILM CHOREOGRAPHY, ACTION DESIGN AND ACTING

The execution of action scenes requires serious and thorough preparation. Although everyone sometimes faces a lack of time or unforeseen changes on set, adaptation must be quick and flexible. In such moments, the unpreparedness of individuals becomes apparent, leading to poor performances. In large films, professionals are often hired to prepare actors for the required scenes. Those who have never practiced specific elements needed in action scenes will have a deficit of knowledge and insufficient skills. Such a performance will be an improvisation or inadequate. The same applies to stunt performers who have never practiced acting techniques. In situations where they must perform a role, they will lack the necessary knowledge.

Goran Stjepanovic founded the STUNT ACTION TEAM, based in Poreč, Croatia. It consists of the best stunt performers from our region. They prepare actors for the required projects, while also offering education for stunt performers and actors.

Creating action scenes in a film is a process that requires a deep understanding of the story, characters, and emotions, as well as credible choreography. Actors must be physically and mentally prepared for these scenes, but also capable of conveying the inner emotions their characters experience during the action. Understanding the role of each element in a film, from the story to the technical realization, enables the creation of action scenes that are not only exciting but also emotionally relevant to the development of characters and the story. The audience must believe in those emotions, because if they don’t, the performance becomes unconvincing, and the film experience loses depth. A good actor uses verbal and non-verbal techniques. Without a real emotional connection to the character, the scene loses credibility. Action scenes in a film are not just there to provide spectacle; they are deeply connected to the story and character development. Before creating such scenes, it’s important for the director, screenwriter, and actors to fully understand how action scenes contribute to the broader narrative.

For a film to be successful, it must offer a credible portrayal of characters, emotions, and events, all of which depend on the actors' and action scene coordinators’ ability to contribute to a conscious and authentic creative vision. When it comes to acting, this means the actor’s ability to bring a unique interpretation of the character, using deep emotional connection with the scenes, dialogue, and context of the film. Each role requires a special creativity in approach. Action scenes may seem like a purely physical challenge, but creativity is also present in the way actors portray dynamic, intense moments. The use of various stunt techniques, complex fight choreography, and synchronization with special effects requires great creativity and a readiness for physical engagement.

Our team is trained for detailed analysis of scripts and action performance, and we work with actors on:

Character development

Interactions with other characters

How to perform for the camera

Connecting with the character

Convincing performance in complex situations

Creativity in action

Character motivation in action

Proper execution of action scenes

Safety procedures

Creating action scenes with actors is a demanding and complex process that requires precise coordination, a deep understanding of the story, and the ability to convey the emotion and message of the story to the screen in a way that is both exciting and credible. Action scenes, whether involving fights, chases, explosions, or other dramatic events, must not only be dynamic and thrilling but also have an emotional weight that contributes to the development of the story and characters.

SPORT AS A WAY OF LIFE

Goran Stjepanovic started practicing sports at the age of seven. He played all school sports and actively trained in clubs in tennis (1 year), basketball (5 years), water polo (11 years), chess (7 years), Olympic weightlifting (5 years), fencing – stage and film combat (2 years), archery (1 year), judo, jiu jitsu, Shaolin kung fu, Wing Chun, Filipino Kali, Iaido – the art of samurai sword, Russian systema, traditional taekwondo, kickboxing, and MMA (martial arts for 40 years).

In traditional taekwondo, he holds a black belt (4th Dan), which he earned under Grand Master Jong Soo Park (9th Dan). He is a certified CISM taekwondo instructor (for military and police).

In 1993, he opened his martial arts academy. He became the head coach and trainer of the Croatian kickboxing national team for two disciplines. He is a member of the board of the Croatian Kickboxing Federation (HKBS). He is an international judge in kickboxing and a national judge in traditional taekwondo. He has participated in over ten World and European Championships in WAKO as a competitor, coach, and judge. He has organized four major martial arts events.

When he moved abroad, to Toronto, Los Angeles, and Miami, he became a coach at the Jong Park Taekwondo School, Rising Sun Taekwondo Academy, and US Team Taekwondo School. He was also the head coach of the USA taekwondo national team. Additionally, he was a coach and judge in chess.

After returning to Croatia, he was a conditioning coach for the Poreč Volleyball Club, the conditioning coach for the Croatian volleyball youth national team, and the conditioning coach for the Galetea Rhythmic Gymnastics Club. He was a functional training coach at F.I.T.

In the film industry, he is a choreographer for fights and creates action scenes. He has prepared many actors and stunt performers for shooting action scenes. With his STUNT ACTION TEAM, he has a special program for training actors and stunt performers. He was a guest lecturer with his program at the Academy of Arts in Osijek – Acting Department. At the prestigious Stunt Festival, he is a member of the jury for selecting the best stunt scene.

He launched the program DEVELOPMENT OF INTELLIGENCE THROUGH MOVEMENT FOR CHILDREN and DEVELOPMENT OF MOTOR AND COGNITIVE ABILITIES IN CHILDREN. He gained his knowledge through years of experience working with children and extensive education abroad. He was educated in the NTC learning system, at the academy for learning motor skills, and is a certified fitness trainer and nutritionist.

THE INFLUENCE OF MARTIAL ARTS

The true purpose of martial arts lies in the development of self-defense and deeper life values, which are key principles in shaping a person’s character. In the country where Goran Stjepanovic grew up, there were few martial arts schools where the complete development of personality through training in traditional skills was applied. It was a time when strong and resilient individuals were being shaped to learn how to stand up for themselves and help others.

Serious martial arts schools have good programs and a deeper approach. Such training is demanding, and full commitment allows anyone to focus on excellence. One learns that the fight is not only with opponents but also with one’s own weaknesses and limitations. Along with fighting techniques, a set of moral principles and values is learned, which shape approaches and life.

JUSTICE – This is moral correctness and fairness. A fighter must act honestly, be fair, and uphold high moral standards, even when facing challenges or injustice.

COURAGE – Courage is not only in the physical sense of fighting but also in facing fears, obstacles, and unknown situations in life. A fighter must have the courage to confront their own flaws and weaknesses.

HUMANITY – This virtue signifies compassion, kindness, and care for others. A fighter should be inclined to help those in need and show empathy towards people, not only those close to them but towards all people.

RESPECT – Respect for others, teachers, students, and the entire martial arts tradition. Respect for oneself is also crucial for inner peace and discipline.

HONESTY – Honesty is the foundation of every fighter. In martial arts, honesty with oneself means acknowledging one’s weaknesses and working hard to correct them.

HONOR – A fighter must strive to build their honor through their behavior.

LOYALTY – Loyalty is a virtue that implies faithfulness to teachers, friends, and principles. A fighter must be loyal to their path and always follow the moral code, regardless of external circumstances.

EDUCATION FROM EXCELLENT INSTRUCTORS

Goran Stjepanovic has always invested in his skills by training with the best instructors in the world. He understood that it was only by doing so that he could gain comprehensive knowledge and a deeper understanding of the secrets of martial arts. He dedicated time to exploring various sports to better understand the mechanics of movement, exercises for developing motor skills, speed, explosive strength, jumping ability, and power, among others.

Grand Master Giovani Rosario (9 DAN) – Traditional Taekwondo – Pioneer of Taekwondo in Puerto Rico

Grand Master Jong Soo Park (9 DAN) – Traditional Taekwondo – Pioneer of Taekwondo worldwide

Grand Master Richard Parris (9 DAN) – Traditional Taekwondo

Bas Rutten – MMA Champion

Vladimir Vasiliev – Russian Systema

Master Shi Guo Song – 34th generation Shaolin Martial Arts Warrior Monk – Shaolin Kung Fu and Qigong

Goyo Ohmi, Kyoshi 7th Dan – Iaido – Art of Samurai Sword

Daniel Levinson – Fencing – Stage and Film Combat

THE IMPORTANCE OF CHESS IN PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT

Goran Stjepanovic trained chess for many years in the best chess clubs in Osijek and competed in various tournaments. He was the champion of the city of Osijek. In chess, he recognized important developmental processes that shaped him as a person. He believes it should be an essential part of everyone’s life and mandatory in the school system. In North America, he worked as a chess coach and referee.

Chess is much more than a game; it is a path of self-discovery and personal development. Players, through each game, face challenges that require deep thinking, strategic planning, and emotional control. Through chess, people learn the importance of patience, as victory often comes only after long consideration and reflection. It teaches us how to deal with uncertainties and obstacles, as every decision we make has its consequences, and mistakes are not only inevitable but also opportunities for growth and learning.

Recognizing our own limits and abilities in the game gives us a deeper understanding of our personal strengths and weaknesses. Through analyzing each game, a player realizes how they make decisions. This easily translates to real life, where similar principles bring wisdom in dealing with life’s challenges.

Chess also teaches the value of discipline. The continuous moments of concentration on the game develop the ability to stay focused even in stressful situations. Through this, a player learns how to be consistent, how to deal with defeats, and how to maintain calm in difficult times. Ultimately, chess calls us to recognize the beauty in the process, not just in the result, because every move, every strategy, and every decision shapes our inner strength and develops our character.

Through chess, a player not only grows as a strategist but also as a person, realizing that life, just like a chess game, is a series of thoughtful decisions that shape our destiny.