Action films have seldom spotlighted the true unsung heroes of cinema: the stuntmen. However, "The Fall Guy" is set to change this narrative dramatically. The film escorts viewers through a tumultuous day in the life of a down-and-out stuntman who ultimately becomes the story's hero.

Directed by renowned stunt performer and coordinator David Leitch, "The Fall Guy" stars Ryan Gosling as Colt Seavers, a stunt double who navigates a labyrinth of high-stakes challenges to rescue his ex-lover's faltering movie production by finding a missing renowned actor. Alongside him is Winston Duke, who plays his savvy stunt coordinator and lends a crucial helping hand. Released on Friday (May 3), the movie injects humor and poignancy into its portrayal of the intense and often overlooked sacrifices stunt performers make to ensure flawless film production.

In an exclusive interview with BET.com, actor Winston Duke tells us why being a part of this film was a no-brainer.

BET: What made you want to be a part of this film? 

Winston Duke: I’ve always wanted to work with Ryan Gosling. I’ve been a fan of his for my entire life. And there's David Leich, the best director there right now. It was just an entire project filled with great collaborators with whom I wanted to be in the same room. Recently, I said to myself that I want to make fun movies that contribute to the escapism that films offer. This came right on the heels of that decision, and I just jumped at it. 

BET: Would you say your role in the “Black Panther” series prepared you for challenging fight scenes in this film?

Winston Duke: One of the benefits of having “Black Panther” as my first film was that it was a trial by fire. I got to be surrounded by a really great stunt crew and learn how important the stunt community is to an actor's well-being. One of the stunt team members on “Black Panther” was one of the people I worked with on “The Fall Guy.” He helped put together many stunts for me because he understood my body. 

BET: In the movie, you are a ride-or-die friend to Gosling’s character. You risk your life for him. Does that trait resonate with you in real life as well?

I am a ride-or-die but also your friend who will be the angel on your shoulder often. I'm the voice of reason in everyone’s life. I want us to ride more than die. [laughs]  

BET: Would you say playing a stunt coordinator gave you a newfound respect for the stunt crew? 

Winston Duke: It's not often that you get to be amongst the people inspiring the story you are telling. I got to shadow my stunt coordinator. I found a newfound respect for the integrity baked into their DNA. They are amongst the most honest on any film set. They have to be because the consequences are life and death. 

“The Fall Guy” is in Theaters on May 3rd.