The Dead Don’t Hurt is Viggo Mortensen’s latest film, a Western set in the 1860s that tells the story of Vivienne, a free-spirited woman who falls in love with Holger, a Danish rancher. As Holger goes off to fight in the American Civil War, Vivienne is left to battle her own personal war at home.
In one particular scene, Mortensen realized that they needed a sword for a fantasy sequence involving a knight. Despite having all the other necessary elements for the scene, Mortensen found himself lacking the perfect sword. It was at this moment that he remembered he had the ideal sword, Andúril, from his time in Lord of the Rings.
Mortensen took the time to consider the implications of using his sword from Lord of the Rings in this new film. While the sword wasn’t essential to the scene or the overall movie, he knew that keen-eyed viewers might notice its presence. This attention to detail is crucial in film production, as every prop and costume piece contributes to the overall authenticity and immersion of the story being told.
To ensure that using Andúril was acceptable, Mortensen contacted Peter Jackson, the director of Lord of the Rings, for permission. Jackson inquired about the sword’s importance in the scene and once he confirmed it was not crucial, he gave his approval. Mortensen also reached out to the movie company to gain their permission, demonstrating his commitment to following proper protocol and respecting intellectual property rights.
Ultimately, Mortensen’s attention to detail paid off, as he received permission from both Peter Jackson and the movie company to use Andúril in The Dead Don’t Hurt. This decision highlights the importance of maintaining consistency and authenticity in filmmaking, even down to the smallest details. It also showcases the collaborative nature of the industry, as Mortensen’s proactive approach ensured that the production team was aware of and comfortable with his decision.
Viggo Mortensen’s experience with using Andúril in The Dead Don’t Hurt serves as a valuable lesson in the significance of attention to detail in film production. By acknowledging the impact of even minor details on the overall storytelling experience and seeking permission to use existing props, Mortensen exemplified the dedication and professionalism required in the industry. This example emphasizes the importance of thorough planning, communication, and collaboration in creating a cohesive and immersive cinematic world for audiences to enjoy.
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