In a vibrant North London sports hall, the air crackles with energy as a remarkable transformation is underway. Here, the collective known as Babes With Blades is rewriting the rules of action cinema, one perfectly executed fight sequence at a time.
Forging New Pathways in a Male-Dominated Industry
Founded by the visionary Aisha Duran, this groundbreaking initiative has become a sanctuary and training ground for women of colour seeking to break into the notoriously exclusive world of stunt performance and action roles. What began as informal training sessions has evolved into a powerful movement challenging industry norms.
'The industry told us we didn't fit the conventional action hero mould,' explains Duran, her voice firm with conviction. 'So we created our own mould. We're not waiting for permission anymore.'
Beyond Tokenism: The Quest for Authentic Representation
The collective's mission addresses a critical gap in contemporary cinema. While action films generate billions globally, meaningful roles for women of colour remain scarce, often reduced to stereotypical side characters or exoticised figures.
Babes With Blades members train in diverse combat disciplines including:
- Traditional sword fighting techniques
- Modern hand-to-hand combat
- Acrobatics and precision movement
- Weapons handling and choreography
This technical excellence, combined with their authentic cultural perspectives, has made them indispensable to forward-thinking production companies.
Changing the Industry From the Inside
The collective's impact extends far beyond training. They've become a trusted resource for directors and producers seeking authentic representation, consulting on projects to ensure cultural accuracy and nuanced character development.
Recent successes include members landing significant roles in major streaming productions and advising on high-profile action films. Their work demonstrates that diversity isn't just about inclusion—it's about enriching storytelling through previously untapped perspectives.
'They bring authenticity we couldn't find elsewhere,' notes a production director who worked with the collective. 'Their understanding of movement, character motivation, and cultural context elevates every project they touch.'
The Future of Action Cinema
As Babes With Blades continues to grow, their vision expands accordingly. They're developing original content that centres women of colour as complex action heroes, refusing to settle for the limited roles traditionally offered.
The message from North London is clear: the future of action cinema is diverse, it's skilled, and it's no longer waiting for an invitation. The revolution will be choreographed—and these women are writing the steps.
