Viggo Mortensen, known for his roles in iconic films like “The Lord of the Rings” series, recently starred in “The Dead Don’t Hurt,” a Western set in the 1860s. In the film, Mortensen plays Holger, a Danish rancher who goes off to fight in the American Civil War, leaving his lover Vivienne (played by Vicky Krieps) alone to face her own battles at home.
During the filming of a fantasy sequence in “The Dead Don’t Hurt,” Mortensen realized that they needed a sword for a knight character. As he searched for the right prop, he came across Andúril, the sword he wielded in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. After contemplating using his personal sword, Mortensen decided to seek permission from the necessary parties before incorporating it into the scene.
Mortensen reached out to Peter Jackson, the director of “The Lord of the Rings” films, to ask for his approval. Jackson inquired about the sword’s significance to the scene and the overall story, to which Mortensen admitted it was merely a passing detail. After Jackson gave his blessing, Mortensen sought permission from the movie company, who also granted approval with the understanding that the sword’s inclusion was subtle and would not detract from the film’s narrative.
The Right Decision
Ultimately, Mortensen’s decision to use Andúril in “The Dead Don’t Hurt” proved to be a seamless integration of his personal connection to the iconic prop and a tribute to his earlier work. By obtaining the necessary permissions and ensuring that the sword’s appearance did not overshadow the film’s storyline, Mortensen successfully incorporated a familiar element into a new and unrelated project.
Viggo Mortensen’s careful consideration of utilizing his personal sword in “The Dead Don’t Hurt” showcases his dedication to his craft and respect for the filmmaking process. The seamless integration of a beloved prop from his past work serves as a testament to Mortensen’s ability to pay homage to his previous roles while embarking on new creative endeavors.
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