Viggo Mortensen's Passion for Aragorn: More Than Just a Character
Viggo Mortensen, an acclaimed actor known for his versatility and depth, left a lasting impression on fans when he played the role of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings. However, fans often wonder if Mortensen genuinely enjoyed the character or if he was simply acting for the role. This article explores his fondness for Aragorn and delves into the dedication he brought to the role.
Behind the Scenes: Viggo Mortensen and the Role of Aragorn
Many believe that Mortensen's interest in the role of Aragorn was initially sparked by his son, who advised him to 'do it'
(true story!). According to the legend, Mortensen's agent informed him about the
lotr role, and since he had never heard of Lord of the Rings, he asked his son for an opinion. Astonishingly, Mortensen's son's response was unequivocal: 'Do it.' This story, while widely-known, paints a picture of Mortensen's decision-making and his dedication to the role.
Tolkien's Influence and Aragorn's Depth
But what motivated Mortensen's portrayal of Aragorn beyond following his son's advice? J.R.R. Tolkien's characters were known for their complexity and depth. The poem Mortensen recited during a Lord of the Rings marathon at the cinema is a testament to the rich world Tolkien created.
From the ashes a fire shall be woken
A light from the shadows shall spring
Renewed shall be blade that was broken
The crownless again shall be king.
These lines capture the essence of Aragorn's character. As a king-to-be who initially appears as a simple man named Strider, Aragorn's journey is one of reinvention and rebirth. Mortensen's portrayal brought this journey to life, infusing Aragorn with a sense of nobility and duty that resonates with viewers to this day.
A Commitment to the Role
Mortensen's dedication to the role of Aragorn was evident in various ways. On set, the actor was known to carry his prosthetic sword with him at all times, even into restaurants. Some even claim he slept with the sword. While these stories may be exaggerations, they highlight the intensity of Mortensen's commitment.
One particular incident stood out. During the filming of the burning burial mound where Pippin and Merry were captured, Mortensen, playing Aragorn, kicked a helmet with such force that he broke his toe. Rather than stopping, he insisted on continuing the scene. Director Peter Jackson could not have asked for a more authentic portrayal of Aragorn's grief and pain.
Public Appearances and Recent Developments
In recent years, Mortensen has made headlines for his affection towards the Lord of the Rings universe. In a moving moment at a Lord of the Rings marathon, he sang a song in Quenya or Sindarin, a language created by Tolkien for his works. At an awards ceremony, he playfully joked about the two of them having smaller roles in the upcoming Rings of Power, suggesting a deep connection to the world he once brought to life.
Despite the fact that no episodes of Rings of Power have been released yet, it's clear that Mortensen has a significant opinion regarding the adaptation. His continued involvement and affection for the series speak volumes about his fondness for the characters and world he helped bring to audiences.
Conclusion
Viggo Mortensen's portrayal of Aragorn was much more than a role – it was a character brought to life with passion and dedication. From the initial fascination with his son's advice to the physical and emotional commitment on set, Mortensen's enduring love for the character and the world of Lord of the Rings is evident. As the Rings of Power series unfolds, fans can expect to see a continuation of the legacy he helped create.