In his latest film, The Dead Don’t Hurt, Viggo Mortensen plays the role of Holger, a Danish rancher who falls in love with free-spirited Vivienne, played by Vicky Krieps. The story is set in the 1860s during the American Civil War, where Holger goes off to fight, leaving Vivienne to face her own battles at home.
The Perfect Sword
During the filming of a fantasy sequence in the movie, Mortensen realized that he needed just the right sword to complete the scene. To his surprise, he had the perfect sword, Andúril, from his time in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Despite the sword not being essential to the scene or the movie, Mortensen felt that it would be a subtle yet meaningful addition to the sequence.
Mortensen’s attention to detail shines through in his decision-making process. He understood that even the smallest details can make a significant impact on the overall look and feel of a film. By choosing to use his personal sword from a previous role, Mortensen added a layer of authenticity and connection to his character in The Dead Don’t Hurt.
Before using the sword in the film, Mortensen took the necessary steps to seek permission from the appropriate parties. He reached out to Peter Jackson, the director of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, to ask for his approval. Jackson, understanding the significance of the sword to Mortensen, granted permission for its use in the film.
In the end, Mortensen’s decision to incorporate Andúril into The Dead Don’t Hurt exemplifies the importance of attention to detail in the film industry. It showcases how even the smallest props can hold personal significance and add depth to a character’s story. By recognizing the value of authenticity and connection, Mortensen has set a standard for actors and filmmakers alike to pay close attention to every detail, no matter how insignificant it may seem.
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