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Viggo Mortensen: The reluctant franchise star
A deep dive into the actor’s choices and the allure of Middle-Earth
Viggo Mortensen, the enigmatic actor who brought Aragorn to life in Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, has always been a figure of intrigue. Recently, in an interview with Vanity Fair, Mortensen shed light on why he hasn’t returned to the world of Hollywood franchises since his iconic role. His reflections offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind of an actor who prioritizes story over spectacle.
The allure of storytelling
Mortensen’s approach to choosing roles is refreshingly simple yet profoundly discerning. ”I don’t really look for or avoid any kind of genre or any size budget. I just look for interesting stories,” he shared. This philosophy underscores his career choices, which span a diverse array of genres and budgets. From the intense drama of “A History of Violence” to the poetic beauty of “Captain Fantastic,” Mortensen’s filmography is a testament to his commitment to compelling narratives.
The franchise conundrum
When it comes to franchises, Mortensen’s stance is clear: quality over quantity. ”If somebody came to me with X movie, the third part or the ninth part, and I thought it was a great character and I wanted to play that character and I thought I had something to contribute, I’d do it,” he explained. However, he also noted that franchise films often fall short in terms of writing. “They’re kind of predictable,” he remarked, highlighting a common criticism of blockbuster sequels.
The shadow of Aragorn
Mortensen’s portrayal of Aragorn in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy remains a career-defining role. The films, directed by Peter Jackson, are beloved by fans and critics alike. With Jackson now producing a new Middle-Earth movie, ”The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum,” directed by Andy Serkis, speculation about Mortensen’s return has been rife.
In an interview with GQ UK, Mortensen expressed openness to reprising his role, but with reservations. “I don’t know exactly what the story is, I haven’t heard,” he said. “I would only do it if I was right for it in terms of, you know, the age I am now and so forth. It would be silly to do it otherwise.”
The future of Middle-Earth
As fans eagerly await ”The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum,” set for a 2026 release, the question of Mortensen’s involvement remains unanswered. The film promises to delve deeper into the lore of Middle-Earth, with Serkis, who famously portrayed Gollum, at the helm. For those interested in a sneak peek, the trailer can be found here.
Reflections on a storied career
Mortensen’s career is a testament to his dedication to the craft of acting. His choices reflect a deep respect for storytelling and a desire to bring meaningful characters to life. Whether or not he returns to Middle-Earth, his legacy as Aragorn is secure, and his future roles will undoubtedly continue to captivate audiences.
For those who wish to delve deeper into Mortensen’s thoughts and career, the full Vanity Fair profile offers an in-depth look at this remarkable actor’s journey.
Mortensen’s reflections remind us of the power of storytelling and the importance of choosing roles that resonate on a deeper level. As we await his next project, we can only hope that it will be as compelling and memorable as the ones that have come before.
