The Original Aragorn Would Have Completely Changed The Lord Of The Rings

The Lord of the Rings is by far one of the biggest achievements in film history. Peter Jackson's adaptation of the three books written by J.R.R. Tolkien have won a ton of awards and was highly regarded by critics. Though the Lord of the Rings trilogy was in trouble from the beginning. Viggo Mortensen was not the original actor cast to play the once and future king of Gondor. But luckily when he was eventually brought in, it was proven that the Lord of the Rings would not have been the same movie without him.
#TheLordOfTheRings #Aragorn #Nerdstalgic
Written by Dave Baker
Edited by Dan Smiley

[@Jonathan-gl3tf]

Quick fact: Vigo was not willing to accept the role due to the time he would be away from his family, but his son who was a teen fan of LOTR said something like "will you deny me the opportunity for my father to be Aragorn?" and the rest is history

[@rad6554]

fake

[@bastienhouse5202]

​@@rad6554 Nope, that's true, his son convinced him to play the role. Google could've helped you... Although... Yeah not even sure... nevermind 😗

[@aspecttnd]

Thank Henry for saving us all 😂

[@IceCubE4425]

​​@@rad6554 Google would've saved you looking like an a$$

[@maximumgas9448]

His son said "what say you?"

[@shidanslair]

Viggo's Aragorn is so good that every time I watch the movie, I don't see Viggo at all, I see Aragorn.

[@maxdamagus]

I wish he was so good in Captain Fantastic that I didn't see his penis.

[@lalaj5831]

Agreed!

[@jennie2921]

Same with me.

[@carnivore_kate]

True

[@silencedmaxim5889]

Who's this Viggo guy I keep hearing about?

[@fuaddanial2029]

I think Viggo brought a humility in Aragorn that you rarely see most actors pull off. Russell Crowe or Nicolas Cage would've been too big of a name to give Aragorn that same humbleness Viggo did. And it allowed Aragorn to be less of a main character and gives other characters more weight when they interact with him, and it is when these character interacts that you truly see how heroic Aragorn is. His kindness given to a dying Boromir who just betrayed the Fellowship and gentleness in putting off Eowyn advances towards him is what sets him apart as a character in the film.

[@a.m.pietroschek1972]

Yeah, he also gave an edge to the Devil in `The Prophecy aka God's Army´ part one.

[@ecemonel405]

you articulated it so well like EXACTLYYY

[@InDirectDiana]

And that is what makes all us ladies swoon. Humility/kindness... and knowing the appropriate time to show strength.

[@lilacfairy.]

That humility is what shines the character. That's why it's the best film that's ever made! The middles earth has that Peace and Heavenly fairy folk tapes feeling and that's what I love about it!

[@viper2148]

Mortensen played a similarly humble character in 'Hidalgo', but a redeemable arrogant jerk in 'GI Jane'. A true pro that one.

[@coolcat8b]

Some castings are iconic. Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn is one of them. I cannot imagine anyone else in that role. Even better: Viggo is a leader in real life as well. Everybody loved him on set, he's professionnal and well liked by the directors and all crew, he's funny, he's great with horses, his son is super smart (thanks Henry!). It's like Illuvatar himself willed for Viggo to be Aragorn.

[@hanniacorena7657]

Viggo unwillingly said yes to being Aragorn as Aragorn unwillingly steps in as king❤

[@GITMachine]

Watching the stuntmen honor him when filming was complete tells you all that you need to know about Viggo Mortensen.

[@paulembleton1733]

The other guy looks more suited to playing an elf. Mortensen much closer to the person I imagined.

[@realityjunky]

@@GITMachine Dude sacrificed his broken foot. Respect.

[@solomonheppner]

Not only that but there was few (if any) amoung the cast and crew who where not fans of Tolkien or at the very least highly respectful of the man. Also Chistopher Lee who had actually knew him.....probably would have reverted to some older skills had anyone tried anything to disturb the magic of Middle Earth.

[@iammaxhailme]

Viggo as Aragorn is one of the best casting in book-to-film adaptation history, possibly only matched by Christopher Lee as Saruman or Robbie Coltrane as Hagrid.

[@misterf2923]

true, tho I think Christopher Lee shoud've played Gandalf (even if I have huge respect for Mc Kellen)

[@mongolianqwerty123]

@@misterf2923 Lee doesn't have the kindness of demeanour for Gandalf. He is to aloof and and his decades of work in horror films would've brought baggage for the audience

[@ifrit1937]

Would probably throw in Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man/Tony Stark as he nailed the rich, playboy, egotistical, philanthropist character Tony Stark is generally portrayed as (can't see another actor int he role now lol) and while not a book to movie move even Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow is an example of an actor more or less being perfect choice when they start acting for the character they portray.

[@emmak.1313]

Some additions to a good list. Maggie Smith was just phenomenal as Minerva McGonagal, eventhough the dialogue writers didn't develop the character that much. It's in how she carries herself, the looks, the tone...

[@Apollo1989V]

Whenever I read Saruman’s dialogue, it plays in my mind like Chris Lee is saying. Although Tolkien did give his blessing for Lee to play Gandalf, his experience as a villain in acting shines through as Saruman.

[@OhShunz]

The last chapter of Return Of The King, Aragorn, “My friends, you bow to no one”…. Could have never come from anyone but Viggo Mortensen. Greatest movies ever

[@robbob5302]

Best line in the trilogy!

[@KeldorDAntrell]

Ha ha!

[@ghoppr71]

And that scene always cuts the onions for me... 😭

[@ghoppr71]

@@robbob5302 Right up there with "For Frodo"

[@OhShunz]

@@ghoppr71 oh hells yes that scene is everything!

[@daniho6223]

Mortensen was the absolute perfect actor. He truly made the audience feel like he doesn't play Aragorn, but he IS Aragorn. The depth with which he portrayed this (without doubt) very hard role to play near-impromptu is awe-inspiring.

[@joshduthie3401]

Yes. Not too many can pull of regal, threatening and humble.

[@FZMello]

"No-ego Viggo" was the absolute hammer-smash of success. Relatively unknown enough to aid in the suspension of disbelief, yet professional enough to throw himself into the character so totally, it's impossible to imagine another actor as Aragorn. He, Christopher Lee, Sir Ian McKellan, and Brad Dourif (Wormtongue) gave performances that gave me chills the first time I drug my family to the theater for Fellowship. I had long given up on ever seeing my favorite story on screen. My kids wondered why I was so emotional. Now, they understand.

[@ejsampana426]

Russel Crowe as Aragorn would vacuum all the attention to his character, making the other events mere side-quests. Viggo Mortensen's portrayal blended perfectly to the whole story.

[@Kermit_T_Frog]

It is NOT that Mortensen lacks charisma. I'm not sure how I feel about Crowe. I would have LOVED Sean Connery as Gandalf. It would have been such a fine way to top off his career.

[@YurimoHikashi]

@@Kermit_T_Frog Disagree Sean Connery is nice but I don't think he fits Gandalf

[@Bubajumba]

@@Kermit_T_Frog He definitively don't lack charisma but considering Russell Crowe where fresh out of Gladiator which was probably the biggest hit in a long time. Man was on top of the world at that moment. I dono about Sean Connary as Gandalf, I just see double o 7

[@robinly]

@@Kermit_T_Frog Sean Connery would have slapped the Balrog.

[@Kermit_T_Frog]

@@YurimoHikashi All these people who look at Connery and STILL see James Bond! Only proves my point. If he had taken the part, they'd be seeing Gandalf.

[@hawkshot867]

Ironically I think the fact Viggo wasn't in the character yet in the inn made the scene better... Like you can feel the uncertainty and hesitance in the character almost immediately.

[@LegendStormcrow]

Agreed. Also, kudos on using ironically correctly.

[@LibertyPanacea]

This makes so much sense, that scene always felt off to me with his character, but now that I know the real backstory it's much more authentic and makes me appreciate the masterful job Viggo did in the rest of the movie(s).

[@brandonday2494]

Yep, Aragorn is still uncertain how much of himself to reveal and too used to hiding his true self. Worked out perfectly in that scene as Viggo was trying to figure it out as well.

[@Jaromeo1287]

Yes, I agree. The situation in the movie was dire with Gandalf MIA and black riders closing in. Aragorn being tasked with taking care of the Hobbits in such a spur of the moment situation mirrored Viggo's situation being thrown in the deep end with no prep time. Both character and actor were more than capable though. Can't imagine anyone else playing Aragorn.

[@tonyweaver2353]

He had an Irish accent in that. "Yew have a st-out hart little hawbbit"

[@VernardMercader]

Viggo Mortensen is the Chad of Chads. He did his own stunts, he bought the horse who was cast as "Brego" (Aragorn's horse) because he liked the horse so much (and I bet the horse liked Arago---I mean Viggo, too), and when he got his tooth chipped after getting hit by a stuntman's steel sword, he just said, "don't worry about me, let's keep filming" (but Pete didn't want his main man on film with a chipped tooth and called in a Orthodonthist right away). Speaking of chipped teeth, majority of his wounds and scars in the Movie? They're not make up... They're actual wounds from working his own fighting stunts and acts.

[@voiceover2191]

And of course the famous helmet kicking scene where he broke a toe and just kept on acting.

[@basset6559]

WoW

[@caroldelosangeles3621]

And he's political point of view is super people closed..he's q trully heore..would love to.see him as president . Such smart wise and healthy masculinity all in 1 men

[@w.lester255]

@@vceisdead I just watched the trilogy and called him a Chad out loud when they were at the gates of Mordor 😂 specifically when Sauron started talking to him and he just ignored it 😆

[@TheLadyJessica77]

I mean everything except the Chad part. Chads are dbags. Viggo is not.

[@TheHobbyExpert]

Viggo absolutely nailed the role of Aragorn and his acting is one of the many reasons the trilogy is as big as it is, but for some reason I think Sean Bean could've also acted the part if need be. That being said, he ALSO nailed Boromir so... yeah lol

[@CPKraglund]

I think Sean Bean could have been good as well, but I will give Viggo the edge because he is better looking. He also moves more convincingly. Both Bean and Crowe (who was considered) are great actors but look like mortal men on screen which is part of their appeal and makes them suitable for their iconic roles. I feel with Viggo there is a sense of nobility in his demeanor that leads one to believe they are in the presence of a man with Numenorean lineage and raised by elves.

[@FuerstMykisch]

Sean Bean played a great Ned Stark. He‘s got Aragorn in him. But Mortensen‘s Aragorn is hardly beatable

[@alexwtf80]

does Sean even consider roles where he isn't supposed to die? XD jokes apart, I'm sure he would have done great.

[@morwickchesterham3875]

@@CPKraglund Sean Bean would have done the Aragorn role well... and Viggo probably would have done the Boromir role well... but ya, Viggo did bring a certain charisma to the role with his experienced warrior-king look and vibe, which Sean Bean (and even Russell Crowe) might not have done as well... which begs the question, why wasn't Viggo playing some important role in the original Game of Thrones series. I feel he would have fit several roles well...

[@erictayet]

Yes, now that I think about it, Sean would be 10/10 as Aragorn. But, Viggo has that extra X-factor, which made him 11/10 so yah. I'm sure the producers of New Line would have considered Sean as Aragorn but they made the right call as Sean always seem to do better as the tragic character in movies & games.

[@davidian3412]

Viggo has a natural grace and poise. He is full of valour and charisma. That other guy looked a bit snide and lacking substance. So glad Viggo got the part.

[@stevep2380]

Brandon Lee would have been interesting in that role. Tragic that he died filming the crow.

[@te9591]

Townsend would have made a great pompous elf.

[@millieo7155]

I read Viggo would sleep outside when Aragorn did to look more authentic.

[@mat5473]

Totally. Russell Crowe lacks that poise and grace imo. He's much more brutish seeming.

[@te9591]

@@mat5473 oh yeah, i agree. You're picking up on the brute side of him, and you can see that in the film Romper Stomper.

[@rickysanchez42084]

Viggo Mortensen as Aragon is possibly the most seamless fit ever in cinema history. The circumstances, the background for the character and the actor. Everything came together

[@MrChickennugget360]

i agree. even though the movie version is very different than the book version he is capable of preforming both roles. While Vigo is directed and written to show Aragorn as being reluctant to becoming "more than a ranger" he clearly shows strong leadership qualities during the entirety of the film. The only major difference in characterization between the book and the movie are that Strider does not "turn away" from his heritage but embraces it as a duty he carries. But he is still not "entitled" and puts the mission first during the books. The main difference between the books and movies is that Gandalf and Aragorn confer a lot more early on before Moria with each being a leader but Strider deferring to Gandalf's wishes.

[@michaelscott-joynt3215]

I heard Viggo would go out and sleep in forests. Hilarious to imagine him out there snoozing, a desperation bid by the studio, while the hobbit boys blast music in their trailer, and an angry wizard pounds on the wall from the other side. Viggo belonged there as much as Christopher Lee, who had the right to be anything he liked in Tolkien's world.

[@mr.voidroy6869]

​​@@michaelscott-joynt3215he didnt even read the books until he got casted. He spent most of the flight reading the books and by the timr the day of shooting was discovered the books were fresh in memory. Its imo why he did such a great job. It wasnt like christofer lee who was a tolkien scholar that had rigid ideas of the book. Not saying he did a poor job. But aragon did a great job making it feel real. He was a fan that happened to be a great actor and really wanted to fit that role. New playets in dnd are usually the most inspirational due to them not knowing their limits. They do thints techinally not possible but you cant really deny them because it makes a damn good story.

[@tr1bes]

He looks more mature and fitting as a person with responsibility.

[@korsekil]

@@michaelscott-joynt3215 Yeah he already embodied a ranger BEFORE becoming Aragorn. His role was perfect casting.

[@astaridjatmiko8187]

Before watching LOTR, i never knew about Viggo Mortensen. After watching the movie, i loved him ever since. Aragorn's character matches his own character. i guess that's why it worked

[@natyreyes1580]

I love him as captain Alatriste too!

[@hgwiechie]

@@natyreyes1580 I love him as Captain Fantastic

[@royw-g3120]

He was very good in Crimson Tide.

[@MrAwesomePoopz]

It's also important to note that Vigo had great chemistry with the cast. He really knows how to portray Aragorn like he is the brother at arms with Gandalf and Legolas.

[@Traitorman.14.3]

Viggo told us in an interview that he hadn’t even read the books, and it was his son who exitedly told him to accept the role.

[@AP-eq6fv]

John Rhys-Davies said that too lol

[@Traitorman.14.3]

@@AP-eq6fv I’m happy that John agrees with me.

[@melondude5597]

good son..

[@max1h240]

maybe he was a fan of the films

[@Lengsel7]

Great story

[@trex3003]

Viggo is a man of substance. The movie would have been severely lacking without him.

[@csd3384]

Amen!

[@silentkitty318]

Substance. I wanna just say that word....like moist.

[@dawsie]

Your right I have watched the other actor in the movies quoted to be honest I did not really like him.

[@movingwithmusic]

@@dawsie Substance is the perfect word.

[@alisonmansfield9052]

I adore him, it was made for Viggo

[@jenparis1830]

Virgo is the best choice for me for the role of Aragon can't imagine other actor.He really nailed it.

[@Mustang-wt1se]

In hindsight it worked out of course but it’s funny to think if Viggo nailed the part so well because he was actually discovering what it meant to be Aragorn as he became part of the crew

[@Plainjane1398]

And it was a big part of aragorn character in the books.

[@davidreavis4511]

Viggo is a king. Everyone on set said it. He was their head. He embodied all that was Aragorn. Noone else could have pulled it off with such grace and power.

[@michaelwills1926]

With a Hakka in his honor 💪🏼

[@TomorrowWeLive]

Amazon be like: I think Whoopie Goldberg would make the perfect Aragorn! And the """fans""" on Tumblr, Twitter and Reddit would lap it up. And call anyone who objected a racist transphobic bigot. That's literally what they did to The Green Knight, Dune, The Wheel of Time, Macbeth, 1917 and every other major Western sci-fi/fantasy/period property in the last decade.

[@jamesmaybrick2001]

@@TomorrowWeLive lol. Indeed, dont forget "subverting expectations", and "its a fantasy world, innit, we can do whatever...you racist".

[@MrSmokincodz]

@@TomorrowWeLive relax man you sound fuckin looney

[@TheCasualAbsurder]

@@TomorrowWeLive How long did you chew on this nugget of wisdom before you found the slightest excuse to post it?

[@Thorrnn]

Viggo is such an underrated actor. Incant picture anyone else as Aragorn, but he has been absolutely magnificent in everything I’ve seen him in

[@kevinroche3334]

why underrated?

[@Avtomatik]

I think the reason why Viggo isn't bigger in the industry is cause he doesn't film a lot, picks his roles very carefully and doesn't play in purely commercial movies. But I wouldn't say he's underrated

[@pipleehk]

No he’s never underrated. He’s in so many good movies and collaborating with great directors and actors in the industry. He’s just not a “film star”.

[@royw-g3120]

A bit like Daniel day lewis. If it does not interest him he won't do it. Also has to trust his director too.

[@VeryEvilGM]

Viggo broke his bones for this role, while the other didn't wanna fight, ride, let alone rehearse!

[@damedeviant1388]

Viggo was literally perfect for Aragorn. The whole cast was amazing ✨

[@bottombarrelbudgetfilms1854]

agreed

[@charliericker274]

It's funny. I agree but when I first watched the movie, having been a huge LOTR nerd for years, I had very specific images for a lot of the characters and Aragorn, Frodo, and Samwise were some that did not mesh with my internal image to the point where I thought they were bad choices. I was wrong of course, but at the time I did think, these are not the characters I know.

[@damedeviant1388]

@@charliericker274 I watched the first film when I was 11 without knowing a THING, so this LOTR nerd was born with the films unfortunately!! But having read a tonne since and seen film adaptions after reading their books - it’s true that nothing quite lives up to imagination.

[@sakabakaba8956]

Ngl his voice kinda bothered me

[@Cryo837]

Stuart is a pretty boy and seems weak. Viggo is a man and has great presence with an inner strength. Nuf said.....

[@NickSibz]

I honestly have to thank Stuart. His blunder allowed for the true heir to the throne of Gondor to come forth. Viggo was born for the role.

[@BYERE]

I would have found it ironic and hilarious if Stuart had been re-cast to be Boromir or Faromir... Those who were set to rule Gondor before the true king arrived :P

[@tadghsmith1457]

@@BYERE Stuart might have been a pretty good Boromir. A young man with flaws who struggles to overcome them. There would have been a certain tragedy to his death. But Sean Bean was excellent as well and by the sounds of it easier to work with.

[@jefffinkbonner9551]

Stuart the Steward.

[@nicoletrudell2065]

Honestly it sounds less like a blunder and more like he was overwhelmed by the whole experience and wanted out.

[@Bubba_Fett_]

Vigo was amazing; i cannot imagine anyone else in that role. He nailed humility, Kingliness, and honor! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@keitholiver6152]

I think Viggo's Aragorn is my favourite lead actor in recent cinema history. I'd put Bernard Hills Theoden as the greatest supporting role. Truly magnificent performances

[@DartCiarrai]

The older I get, the more impressed I am by Theoden King. He was the main man in the end, as Aragorn left the main army. Theoden rallied the troops to attack the siege of Minas Tirith, sacrificing his own life.

[@squirrelsyrup1921]

@@DartCiarrai Theoden knew he would die if he came to Gondor. You can tell he realised it almost immediately, and accepted it fully... right before he said, "-and Rohan will answer." What a beast of a King.

[@Broccoli_Highkicks]

There isn't a bad performance in those movies. The LOTR trilogy is lightning in a bottle. For many in the cast and crew it was a labour of love, and it shows. Everybody that worked on them in any capacity, truly went above and beyond.

[@robertnitsche8410]

Like many others, I just can't picture anyone but Viggo as Aragorn. The Boromir death scene with Viggo and Sean Bean makes me cry. Every. Damn. Time.

[@Ashtarot77]

I know right? I watch the trilogy at least once a year, with the extended edition of Two Towers on New Year's Eve, because I like hearing Theoden say, So it begins when the clock strikes midnight (start watching at 21.10). And every damn time it gets me in the feels when Boromir dies.

[@shreysharma726]

sean bean ...NOOOO ...he dies everytime in everything ...

[@jesusbeloved3953]

Me too!

[@MrBennyrick77]

me too!

[@user-nz6dx2fj6h]

Many others who have no discernment or taste. I could have accepted him but for the changes in his character and storyline of him. He bore no resemblance to the real Aragorn of the books. None of them did.

[@cecilyerker]

Viggo brought a humility and modesty to Aragorn, he’s a king in exile but he doesn’t want people to know it, he’s a reluctant leader but when it’s time to lead he knows exactly what he must do. He puts others before himself.

[@Elias-iq2mn]

So true

[@EnglishEvolution]

I never knew any of this. He was my favorite character and this makes his performance even more amazing.

[@angman1966]

You have said it perfectly!

[@furanduron4926]

"Imagine a king who fights his own battles."

[@lellepad]

The films are seriously the best casting I’ve ever seen. They did a truly great job casting and fostering the friendships while filming.

[@junkdnareviews2515]

What an actor. It was fate. You really feel his care for Frodo. He made you feel safe.

[@rhusradicans2122]

He was kind as a person, too. For example, he bought Jane Abbott, the stunt-rider for Liv Tyler (who was afraid of horses and had to ride on a barrel in close-up shots) the horse Florian that she (Jane) had ridden in the movies.

[@alexjamesmusic6190]

Even as Viggo was fully discovering his character during filming, Aragorn as a character seemed to be re-discovering himself in the timeline as well. In a way it's kind of perfect...

[@DevinParker]

Honestly, Viggo's first filmed scene being when he confronts the Hobbits at the Prancing Pony is actually kind of perfect, since prior to this moment Aragorn had been traveling Middle-earth alone for the most part for years. Finding himself in the company of others again - especially company so accustomed to comfortable, sedentary, provincial village life - would have required Aragorn to take some time to adjust as well!

[@babyfry4775]

Viggo was perfect as Aragorn. I can’t imagine the films without him. He’s also a good horseman. He bought a couple of the horses from this film. And those beautiful blue eyes! Viggo was great. What is hard to believe is Stuart Townsend refusing to rehearse or do sword work. You’re getting such a great opportunity and you don’t put in the work. Apparently, even Mr. Jackson realized this. We’re lucky they made the change.

[@GastNdorf]

Oh Viggo brought a lot of other things in the backstage in terms of knowledge of combat and also had a very good sense of improv. Also yeah so weird for Townsend to refuse swordfight or riding, like did the guy realize what kind of movie he was in? What would you do.then? Let a stuntman do 90% of the scenes?

[@raidermaxx2324]

he was a bad ass in that russian gangster movie. the naked steam bath knife fight in the nude.. too much viggo peen tho

[@jaginaiaelectrizs6341]

Viggo also bought the horse from Hidalgo, too.

[@babyfry4775]

@@jaginaiaelectrizs6341 Did he? That ‘s so cool. Thanks for that info.

[@jaginaiaelectrizs6341]

@@babyfry4775 Yep, he did! I think it's super cool as well. You're welcome. And thank you, too-for some reason, I didn't actually know he'd also bought the horses from LotR until reading your comment.

[@sexypancake1]

Let me just say this. I was so in love with Viggo Mortinson's Aragorn, that I actually watched his film "Hildalgo" in theaters.

[@coolcat8b]

Hidalgo is a great movie. If you want to see Viggo shine in another movie, try Eastern Promises.

[@icewaterchrist]

And History of Violence.@@coolcat8b

[@gordonlove5121]

Imagine being Townsend. A guy who the director and everyone else wanted for a key role. But he didn't want to basic actions for his role. Then he saw the insane success of the LOTR trilogy. I hope he learned something, doubtful he did.

[@R_Caine]

It could be argued that Stuart might've agreed with New Line Cinema, that he wasn't really fit for the role.

[@neville3059]

@@R_Caine Similar to Will Smith turning down the Matrix saying that the didn't understand it. When Will saw the movie he said "oh yea, I would have screwed that up".

[@wittysass3812]

He wound up marrying Charlize so life can’t be too bad for him

[@xec467]

Peter Jackson, on Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn ~ «Looking back on it now, Viggo's last-minute addition to the Lord of the Rings team was a turning point. It feels like fate steered us there, since he has come to embody the heart, soul and spirit of the production»

[@veramae4098]

"Cinema Therapy" did a great episode on Aragorn that I've watched twice. "Aragorn vs. Toxic Masculinity"

[@xec467]

@@veramae4098 Hi, Thanks. Yes, I had already seen it. Lately there has been a proliferation of analyzes on Film Aragorn's masculinity qualities. «Aragorn: Healthy Masculinity on Screen» from The Vanishing Point channel «Why We Need Aragorn’s Example of Masculinity» from Master Samwise channel «Why Aragorn is the Epitome of Masculinity» from Pilgrims Pass channel «Aragorn = Masculinity» from Anti.Prophet channel So on...

[@Plainjane1398]

​@@veramae4098I love that episode

[@ScottJB]

Viggo M is one of the most well-cast actors in the franchise. I don't think the franchise could have been quite what it was without him and Ian McKellen. Those two were indispensable.

[@serendipityshopnyc]

Also Elijah Wood. Any of the others might possibly have been successfully cast differently, but those three were critical.

[@tadghsmith1457]

@@serendipityshopnyc And Liv Tyler as Arwen. You could hang the rest of the cast on fence posts, but those four were essential.

[@serendipityshopnyc]

@@tadghsmith1457 Respectfully disagree. I loved Liv Tyler and Hugo Weaving and Cate Blanchett as the elves in this series, and am not sure who could have done as good a job, but none of them were *essential* in the same way as Wood, Mortensen, and McKellen.

[@derek353739]

SIR Ian Mckellen

[@johncronin9540]

@@serendipityshopnyc Elves, not fairies, and not elfs. That point, even down to the spelling was important to Tolkien. Likewise, it was dwarves, not dwarfs.

[@daniellew.292]

I was really surprised to know that Stuart Townsend was considered for Aragorn. I actually knew him from Queen of The Damned (it was a mediocre adaptation of Rice's novel, imo), and he has that dark and fragile vibe, which doesn't quite fit the image of Aragorn in my imagination

[@ArielManxx]

Didn't really like him as Lestat either, especially after Tom Cruise😅

[@suzybearheart530]

Plus he sounds like a pain to work with - refusing to learn to ride a horse, stage combat, etc.

[@anacarolmsc]

I think he's awful in every sense, I'm very glad he showed his true colors right from the start

[@suzybearheart530]

@@anacarolmsc I had never seen Viggo before LOTR, and until recently I thought he was British. Damn, that man can act. Did you see him play the cave diver in 13 Lives? SO GOOD.

[@Keezfocer]

Viggo Mortensen was incredible. Thank goodness this change happened!

[@luxintenebris1776]

Two things: The "people" of Middle Earth don't age more slowly than we do - The Númenorians did. Every other human is the same as us. Also Viggo wasn't familiar with The Lord of The Rings prior to the film - his son was. His son convinced him to accept the last minute role.

[@joemclean90]

They said he was ‘familiar with the folklore which the lord of the rings was pulled from’ -rather than lotr itself, which I think I remember from the appendices with the films. I think he had some familiarity with some European folklore.

[@Customerbuilder]

Thank you. Saved me from having to say it.

[@YasuTaniina]

I was searching the comments hoping to find someone pointing this out

[@swanofnutella4734]

I knew a fine LOTR nerd would point this out. Good show Lux! An Ent draght for you on me.

[@Alexs.2599]

Yes the Dunedain, and the Gondorians to a lesser extent, are descended from the Numenorians. Because of that they have a much longer life span than other Mortal men, especially Aragorn's line. In fact Aragorn being a descendant of Elros the first King of Numenor, who was the brother of Elrond, lived to be 210 years old.

[@ajtaylor8750]

Bruh, Viggo Mortensen is one of the rare few Hollywood actors that I actually like as a person. Immensely talented yet so genuinely humble and kind, and isn't on social media giving his opinions on things nobody asked for which is a double win in my books. Can't see anyone else in the role of Aragorn than him.

[@alpacapines8553]

Thank goodness because all the snowflakes would be upset at another talented celebrity that doesn't agree with their alt-right beliefs.

[@datsmeyall]

He's anti semitic and u hate that cause otherwise he's great

[@alpacapines8553]

@@datsmeyall he isn't. That's a weird thing to say

[@inyrui]

Yeah I only share my opinions online when someone asks me to 😒

[@lilliebobson3146]

The irony of your statement. To heck with a person and their opinion but you can have one.

[@MrMarkOlson]

Nearly all of the LOTR cast was stellar and committed. Jackson went the right direction in the end. I love the extended versions.

[@shanechaffey9050]

The moment I saw Aragorn I knew that they had nailed the movie

[@HighFalutinTootin]

Viggo Mortensen nailed it, fun fact he bought one of the horses that he worked with in the films because of the bond they made with each other in a behind the scenes clip the horse can be seen rubbing his head on Viggo's shoulder

[@merkox7857]

he bought two horses..

[@Sunny-wu7po]

Wow tht is so awesome 🤗

[@ximec.r.2643]

@@merkox7857 yeah, the other horse he gifted to the stunt actress who couldn't afford it at the time because she too had formed a bond with her assigned horse

[@OmegaWolf747]

Is that the horse that kissed Aragorn after he fell off the cliff?

[@pzakp311]

@@OmegaWolf747 Yes, that is the horse.

[@Tompie913]

It's amazing that Peter Jackson had such (imo) poor first choices for Aragorn and Sean Connery as Gandalf, and seemingly lucked into far superior options with McKellen and Mortensen. Each of them did such incredible work in bringing their characters and the entire story to life, and I can't imagine the series working nearly as well without them.

[@williamjordan5554]

Connery brings screen presence and star power.

[@kriskater]

Truly …

[@kriskater]

@@williamjordan5554 ehhh more like mysoginistic, woman slapping power lmao

[@richardjones2006]

That is easy to explain, Peter jackson has zero empathy with anything on Earth (middle or not) apart from Peter Jackson

[@kriskater]

@@richardjones2006 is he really an a hole like that ? Lmao haven’t heard anything about this

[@TEJR69]

The whole cast fit in every role SO god damn perfectly it's crazy to imagine, what the odds are to even consider how many actors there are and how different each of them is. There's been tons of movies, where a different actor would do a "better" job at some role. Most people are just not able to imagine someone else once the movie is out, but just try to imagine Frodo played by Sean Astin instead of Elijah Wood. It's REALLY hard to imagine that once you've seen the movies, but that's what I love about the Trilogy, the perfect actor for every role. Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Orlando Bloom, Viggo Mortensen, Ian McKellen, Christopher Lee, legendary performance of Andy Serkis ... just ALL of them did their best and it's so awesome to see they all enjoyed their roles so much. I must do a big bow towards Fran Walsh and her incredible talent to transform the books into a screenplay so good and faithful to the books. Peter Jackson for respecting the Tolkien's vision, yet adapting it into a movie that came out decades after the books. Just all REALLY talented people came together, all the stuntmen and women, all the people from effects and light departments... ALL who put their hands on making this movie did such a great job I don't think it's gonna be beaten EVER. At least not when I'll be alive and I'm willing to put my head on the train tracks for that.

[@rhusradicans2122]

There should be an Academy or BAFTA award for Best Ensemble Cast!

[@wandamundy1759]

The whole world owes Henry Mortensen a HUGE "Thank you !!" - for having convinced his dad to take on the role of Aragorn with such short notice - on a chance - as it were. That role was made for him - and he for it. He was brilliant as Strider/Aragorn/King Elessar . . . I had been reading those books since I was 19 - 56 yrs ago -. . . in fact, I still have the original set of three books in their sleeve with the map of Middle Earth on it, The Hobbit, The Silmarillion, Leaf by Niggle and Farmer Giles of Ham - all bought that same year. They've traveled across the country with me twice (to Toronto and back) - and for two years up North, as well. Viggo was only 10 yrs old when I bought those books (during my 2nd year at University). Did he even know he was going to be an actor, then ?!? And how could he ever have known that he would forever be identified with one of THE most beloved characters in story-telling, movie history ?!? He was equally brilliant in all his other movies since . . . but LOTR was absolutely magical - and so much of the magic came to life because of him.

[@lukemaskarinec9970]

Damn, this just solidifies my respect for Viggo. By all accounts he's a consummate professional and a great actor to work with, but realizing that he just jumped into Fellowship with literally no prior warning or preparation, then went on to play one of the most important roles in the trilogy not just well, but perfectly-that's another level of talent and craft altogether.

[@attila2246]

He broke two toes kicking a helmet and still stayed in character. Ultimate professional.

[@parleyclemons6876]

It was perfect. How many actors ride and sword fight AND know the Lord of the rings.

[@smirbelbirbel]

Little nitpick: The people of Middle Earth do not age more slowly. Remember Eowyn was flabbergasted at hearing about Aragorn's age. Only the Númenorians, of whom Aragorn is a direct descendant, reached much older ages and age more slowly along the way. Númenorian blood still runs in Gondor and even Rohan to some extent, but only in the line of kings is it still dominant enough to result in super slow aging.

[@a_wild_Kirillian]

Sadly, the scene where Aragorn tells Eowyn his age was cut in the theatrical release. So some people are not aware of its existence and the lore it brings.

[@logikure7306]

Its not being nitpicky! KZbin now days a full of wrong facts. Keep pointing it out. I the future luke skywalker took the tardis from harry potter to destroy it in a black hole while being chased by Thanos.

[@yothiga]

Isn’t Aragon once ridding along with her grandfather or something? He is older than the king of Rohan 😂

[@bobbarclay316]

Bilbo was 144. (One gross as mentioned as impolite by Tolkien)

[@korymartin42]

@@bobbarclay316 Bilbo wasn't even the oldest hobbit, either!

[@runmarkrunheinrich]

Years later - could we imagine anyone but Vigo in the role?

[@QUARTERMASTEREMI6]

As someone who also rode horses growing up, I love the fact Mortenson adopted two horses he worked with while filming and kindly bought another horse named Florian for riding double Jane Abbott.

[@callumbarrington898]

Viggo was so committed to Aragorn he broke his toe kicking the Uruk-Hai helmet (the shot is used in the second film), chipped a tooth and refused treatment until Peter Jackson stepped in and nearly drowned filming the Fellowship's journey down the River Anduin. He also greeted the stunt team with headbutts, got addressed as 'Aragorn' during conversations and carried his sword with him everywhere he went (this got him into trouble with the New Zealand authorities, who had to verify it was a prop) He's one of the most consistent and dedicated actors working today.

[@ipassingthrough]

That's a man dedicated to his craft.

[@joshualittle877]

I think Jason Patrick could have made a good Aragon as well.

[@MurderNotMukduk]

He also almost died in the role. That Uruk-Hai that threw the sword at him in that fight when the Fellowship broke up was supposed to throw a near-miss but accidentally threw a perfect shot at his head. That desperate parry is 100% real, and was badass enough (and convincing enough, for obvious reasons) that the had to put it in the movie.

[@johnyguitar258]

@@MurderNotMukduk holy shit that parry was real

[@shipwreck9146]

He also insisted on hiking to film locations in the mountains, so that his costume would look realistically worn. The rest of the actors flew there in helicopters.

[@cahayapramesti]

Thank God, this was happened. Viggo is perfect to portray Aragorn, He doesn't looks old, neither looks young. Not looking soft, but also not harsh. He looks like a gentleman. He looks like a person who has been through a lot, and sparks nobility just like who Aroagorn is. She looked like a gentleman who is wise but also has a burden in mind. He is Aragorn. I can't imagine other actor will be as good as Viggo to portray Aragorn. 🌿

[@ryancruz1876]

Aragorn doesn’t have facial hair.

[@albinbuster7770]

Viggo in fact didnt know swordfighting prior to the movies, but he was a quick learner and had a great teacher/coreographer

[@rajdeepchakraborty1397]

When he is leaving Rivendell, I am crying for Arwen. When they are saying their farewells, I am crying for Boromir. When he is taking a tumble, I am crying for Eowyn. When he is leading to the black gate, I am crying for Frodo and Sam. When he is bowing to the Hobbits after being crowned king, I am crying for the the increble Hobbits. Among all these, I never realised how successful he is to portray the true king, who is in his core but a royal and loyal servant to anyone and everyone, from all races of the middle earth. That makes him the real enemy of Sauron, and an equal to a White Istari like Gandalf himself. Even Galadriel admits, once he accepts Arwen's love and his own fate, there is nothing more she can help him with. Viggo did justice to all that! It is sheer miracle!

[@dallaspoll]

Very interesting (and mostly accurate) account, well done. Coincidentally this exact series of events had a big impact on my life also….I was cast as a body double for Sean Bean as Boromir and went in for my first wardrobe and makeup test the day after they cast Viggo. Wardrobe dept got the schedule mixed up and dressed me as Strider (costume, wig, makeup, beard etc..) and just as they were finishing the casting director walked in to check on them and said “no!…..this is supposed to be our Boromir double!” Then when I stood up she got me walk around the room and suddenly said “ok wait, you’d be a better match to our new Aragorn (Viggo), “…..so I landed the role in three films instead of just the first! Great luck. Incidentally, as I’m a manufacturing jeweller by trade I went on to make Aragorn’s coronation crown and then lead the Jewellery team on Hobbit trilogy….but that’s another story. Keep up the good work and cheers from Middle Earth!

[@RawandCookedVegan]

So cool that you were a part of making this. Amazing films.

[@icelara5972]

You're an actual piece of cinema history. Edit: terrible spelling.

[@dallaspoll]

@@RawandCookedVegan Thanks, yes it was an amazing time - playing Aragorn for 18mths of principle photography was a privilege and a highlight for me at the start of a 15yr career in Film. I can honestly say the first trilogy was a labour of love for all involved, and I think it shows in indefinable ways on screen. Hobbit is brilliant but didn’t have quite the same feel for our crew as by then it was a massive industry.

[@RawandCookedVegan]

@@dallaspoll I agree, PJ dropped the ball with the Hobbit. It amazes me that he could so nail LOTR n so ruin the Hobbit. I guess it was interference fromm the companies. Missed opportunity.

[@elementsboo]

Is your real name Kirk?

[@ethanplacella]

Can you imagine working on such an incredible movie set with such incredible actors when Gandalf himself asks you, “do you even want to be here?”

[@pthomas923]

Id rethink my entire life's choices being pulled aside by him and asked that question!

[@Icetea-2000]

Well not without reason

[@ZugzugZugzugson]

Ian McKellen was right to call him out. dude wasn't aware of the sheer privilege given to him when he was cast for the role of Aragorn and just how great the trilogy would be. its hands down the best films in history and nothing else even comes close to being just as legendary, its basically perfect in every way. i imagine that arrogant brat Steward-whats-his-face regrets this for the rest of his life. thank goodness for the rest of us though, since we got one of the greatest character portrayals of all time as a result.

[@henriklarsson5221]

@@ZugzugZugzugson Perfect is a reach. Great, sure. But not perfect. Many things thrown in the directors cut, that was cut in the theatrical version... which i´m glad for. Peters wild imagination and sometimes childish tendencies made it into the films, like the skull-scene, which made no sense except him showing of his effects. Or the scateboarding done by legolas down the stairs on a shield. Cool in Peters eyes, and sure for a kid it is, but for others(not all tough) just silly. So... great acting, great movies, but not perfect.

[@Duothimir]

@@henriklarsson5221 No film is perfect, to be fair. They all have flaws. Those flaws give them a character of their own, for better or worse.

[@fullmetalchampion]

He was a great fit and really went all in on his role, a good number of actors put so much spirit into the films and it will remain a fantastic beloved movie series.

[@backseatboysgaming6911]

4. It took 4 lore videos on KZbin to convince me it's time to watch the trilogy again. Part of what makes this cast one of the top 3 or 5 ever assembled is their devotion and love for the project, the books, and Tolkien himself. 3:20 that bit means a lot knowing everyone there knew somehow they were on one of the greatest productions of all time and acted like it. Townsend's career deservedly nosedived in the 2000's. Dude's highest profile project is League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Viggo was a gift to everyone from the production to audience to film as a whole. I'm very thankful Viggo is Aragorn, one of the greatest castings in film, like everyone attached to LoTR.

[@Catmoore60]

Viggo Mortensen is a generous actor and a thoughtful man. He embodied the self-doubt of a man hiding from his heritage, while figuring out how to show the future king’s true heart and commitment to the overall war while constantly supporting individual people fighting by his side. He was ferocious, calm, explosive and sorrowful, sometimes within fleeting moments of the same scene. It’s impossible for me now, to see anyone else as Aragorn. He was born to it.

[@peterrevens8454]

I completely agree. I was not familiar with him (or most of the actors) before the trilogy, but nearly all of them were just perfect for their roles. The only ones that I believe should have been replaced are Elrond and Arven. They don't look elvish to me.

[@TheNitrohurrikane4]

@@peterrevens8454 that's because they're technically half elves, as they have elven and human ancestry.

[@gailfinke8318]

Maybe, but that's not who Aragorn was supposed to be.

[@laurielacomb4969]

AND he knew how to play a love scene.

[@partyboi8773]

@@gailfinke8318 This is true, but even as much as the script messed with Aragorn's character, I still think Viggo managed to capture his essence.

[@paganspiritwolf]

Viggo Mortensen is to Aragorn what Johnny Depp is to Captain Jack Sparrow, Patrick Stewart to Piccard - neither character could exist without these specific men playing them! I was honestly surprised to hear that there were others in contention for the part - I had always believed that the screen adaptation of Aragorn was written with Mortensen in mind.

[@98cents]

I agree. I think a lot of actors exist for one perfect part, and Aragorn is Viggo.

[@angelopueyygarcia43]

I agree on this so much. When I think of Aragorn, I picture Viggo Mortensen. Same with Jack Sparrow and Piccard.

[@jayquoproductions]

Bryan Cranston to Walter White

[@jontraz5993]

@@jayquoproductions that is also a fabulous choice

[@markrace4707]

Ummm Hugh Jackman wolverine

[@jacksmith4460]

I think Crowe could have done it justice, but Aragorn would have been less regal from Crowe. Vigo was easily the guy to do it. He also looks like Aragorn should look IMO, and his whole build and "gate" fits very well for me. Aragorn should not look like a obvious hero IMO, more understated. I actually think the way he came into the project mirrors Aragorn's story and that in a way has to help. I honestly cant think of anyone better to play Aragorn than Vigo

[@masontrent5543]

Wrote a long bit. In the middle of edits, realized needed a cut and re-do. So starting over. I love Tolkien because of family members, who also loved Tolkien. And poems from the book were often quoted in my childhood. Good memories. And I love the books. I cry and wouldn't have minded more poetry being kept in the film trilogy. I did enjoy the trilogy and it led me back to the books and my appreciation only grows deeper. I love Tolkien's characters as he wrote them. I was quite aware of many changes made in the movies yet for me, I still felt glimmers of middle earth. Also know not everyone felt the same way about the movies and that's fine. No one is required to have the same feeling as me. My family was aware of some obvious changes there were no elves at helms deep! Laugh. But they still enjoyed the films. My guess on the change with Aragorn is that Jackson and team didn't feel that audiences unfamiliar with Tolkien would be able to pick-up the nuance of the proud, stern and confident king with a kind heart, who is also much more than a regular man. So instead they chose to let him be reluctant and a little uncertain first before gaining that confidence. It was an artistic license decision and it's a sad thought that audiences might not understand the nuance but I could see why the writers made that choice And it's true they were leaning into more of a human nature bit when people familiar with Tolkien know Aragorn is not just human!! He is Dunedain blessed with long life with heritage that goes back to the house of Beor and before that Numenor and also Beren and Luthien. I did read the lays of Beleriand and started silmarillion and have read a few summaries. But I'm still learning so I'm bound to get a few things mixed up. Fool of a took! Chuckle. Tolkien has so many back writings and histories it's fascinating! I think it is true that the tallness inherited of the Numenorians is not as emphasized as much in the movies. Wasn't Aragorn supposed to seem like 7 feet like kings of old? But new series aren't doing that much either with Tall Numenorians. I really did not like what I wrote last night because I love Strider and Aragorn of the books. And for me felt that the movie scene with Strider in the Prancing Pony felt in harmony with the books. But that's just me. Shrug. And I never felt the change in Aragorn diminished my enjoyment of the movie. Maybe because I carried the story as it was in the books in my heart so strongly that it could not be diminished either. Except I do seem to remember carrying on about how Aragorn already had Anduril at Rohan. Sheepish grin. A little niggle. And he wasn't going to let that go. He had to be commanding. It was necessary for all of them. But as said before I am thankful the movie drew me back to the books. When it comes to that description of Aragorn with the curved nose, it's interesting to me that John Howe used to paint himself into Middle Earth hidden in various characters, prior to the Trilogy. So between him and other artists there were the tall, pale dark-haired and dark-eyed Aragorn's with slightly curved noses. I think it's time to go back and read the books again. I thought Aragorn's eyes were dark gray? But maybe they were simply dark? With the elven blood still strong in him I would wonder would his eyes be more black or gray? On a separate note about Viggo, seem to recall he also used to sleep out on the ground as a Ranger might do. And find it endearing that his son wanted him to take the role. And it's wonderful that Henry had read the books. I'm just thankful to know that so many people love Tolkien. As a disclaimer I know opinions will vary from mind on books and movies. But what do I know? Small took in wide world and I know nothing Jon Sno! 😂 Peace to All.

[@lauriefarmer7724]

I cannot imagine a better choice for Aragorn. He was intense, charismatic, haunted and confident all at once. Exactly how Aragorn was written.

[@user-ci4qq1om4o]

he sounds like kermit tho

[@cement_eater]

@@user-ci4qq1om4o I see no issue there

[@marchingham]

I'm glad that Viggo ended up in the part. He was completely perfect. And he seems like a good guy too.

[@themonkeyhand]

I recall he went on Charlie Rose with a t-shirt that said "No blood for oil" written in sharpee. Viggo is pretty awesome.

[@tankerkotyza6755]

He was born to become Aragorn.

[@jas8840]

Nerdstalgic stole Legend Loop's video, he even stole the thumbnail.

[@marchingham]

@@jas8840 holy crap!!! This video is nearly word for word what he did. This is terrible!!!

[@davidmkohl1984]

I actually live in his home town and my friend has met him on several occasions, very down to earth guy every time.

[@antoinettefrance4953]

In my humble opinion, Vigo was the exact tight fit for Aragon, he was in every way Aragon/Strider. In fact, the LOTR is one of the few films where every cast member was perfect for their role. I heard or read somewhere that Gandalf was offered to Sean Connery, and as much as I love Sean I could never see him as Gandalf, just as well by all accounts he turned it down as he didn't understand the story as he obviously never had read the books. I think everyone who has read a book that has been turned into a film, has often had a problem accepting the producers choice of their beloved character, Lady Hawk is a case in point, ide never read the book and I loved the film but a friend of mine had read the book and found the actor in the lead not to her liking, one reason in the book his character had dark long hair, where as in the film Rutger Hauer was very blond and his hair was very short, for my friend that was all it took to not like the film. With LOTR a book i've read many times, I found all the actors chosen to be right for their roles.

[@mariaarcecolmo6881]

I never knew Virgo Mostesen before. but after watching LOTR i believe he is one of the most hardworking and underrated actors we have around. I hope he would be given more film work where he can explore his capability and deptness as an actor. Youve got a fan here ...Mr. Virgo,,actually aside from Frodo LOTR gravitates around him and what he is going through being the number 1 supporter of Frodo and he played the part very well..apllause and standing ovation to You Mr. virgo.

[@aliciasorenson3807]

If you haven't seen his more recent film Thirteen Lives, it's fantastic. And a true story!

[@alexwhittemore21]

You see… Peter Jackson said that he couldn’t see Viggo as Aragorn in the first scenes at the prancing pony, but honestly I think that perfectly encompasses the character. At that point, Strider really isn’t Aragorn, he is in this limbo state of his character, and he’s confused with who he is and should be. It’s not until he saves the hobbits at weathertop that he’s really a hero and heir to a kingdom like Aragorn. Great analysis, I think it all worked out quite well :)

[@blechtic]

I think that is more of the movie interpretation than the book interpretation of the character, so it's no wonder it fits the movies.

[@thegamersguild9953]

@@blechtic It is more of the movie interpretation. In the book, Aragorn in the Prancing Pony declares PROUDLY that he is Isildur's heir, and is already ready to accept his role as King of Gondor.

[@kevinreynolds2749]

@@thegamersguild9953 exactly, Aragorn of the books never would have played footsie with Eowyn. He was made of vastly sterner stuff than the movies made him out to be. One of the reasons I never bonded to the movies.

[@jari2018]

they could still use townsend as some veasly character since he just looks like that to me

[@binnad7091]

After all, it's Strider (humble ranger) that we meet in the Prancing Pony, not Aragorn (rightful heir to the throne of Gondor).

[@anastasiabarbotko111]

Viggo is so convincing in this role. He has the nobility and yet you can feel he had had such a challenging life before he actually became the king. Can't imagine anyone else as Aragorn

[@joetheman74]

I didn't know any of this. I also didn't know who Vigo was before the trilogy. All I remember is after seeing these films he is my favorite character of the entire trilogy. I remember thinking "Wow, they couldn't have done a better job in casting than they did with this character."

[@madi32]

Viggo was lucky to get the part but the whole LOTR production and franchise was even luckier to get Viggo on board.

[@fiddleandfart]

Mortensen was outstanding in this role. He just seemed so right, in every way, and sufficiently charismatic to command every scene he was in. Cannot imagine any actor matching him in the part - and so glad he was cast! He's been a noticeably strong actor in all his films since. And, one gathers, a thoroughly nice, likeable, and all-round interesting guy!

[@LemmingGoBoom]

If you want to see an earlier film with Viggo in it that's quite good, watch "G.I. Jane"

[@carlbenz9807]

Mortensen was most likely the perfect fit but I think Russel Crowe could have been an excellent choice as well, since he was outstanding in all his high intensity movies, especially Master and Commander. He also would have looked sufficiently... weathered. Yet, I doubt he would have been able to demonstrate the same... dreamy eyes like Mortensen. Eyes that were so perfect for the ranger Aragorn.

[@KatieLHall-fy1hw]

Sometimes you have to pick a dud before you get the true winner. Viggo was absolutely perfect for Aragorn, he brought everything to the table in his performance. Another example was Daeneries , who was also recast in Game of Thrones

[@beatesetzer2441]

100percent true!

[@mikef2811]

Agreed. He was AMAZING. Sorry, not a fan of Townsend, I thought he was a crappy actor, he ruined Queen of the Damned. Some actors are not good no matter what Hollywood tries to shove it down my throat like Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart....They both sucks no matter what movies they do..

[@scolioreset]

A reminder that Viggo stopped a knife with his sword because the actor who played the Uruk-Hai Lurtz didn’t miss it. Viggo also was behind the idea that he would wear Boromir’s bracers so he could keep his promise to a brother, son of Gondor. He also broke his toe after kicking a Uruk-Hai helmet: that’s why he did scream. Viggo Mortensen became the one true king. They gave Aragorn a story arc beyond the simple concept of a leader and protector. He earned the name Elessar.

[@DanakarEndeel]

Well, I believe he was supposed to scream during that scene but actually breaking his toe on that helmet made the scream all the more convincing. 🙂

[@matthewrawls1184]

He also broke one of his front teeth but wanted to keep filming. They sent him to a dentist quickly to repair the damage but there's a photograph of him with a huge broad smile showing the missing chunk of tooth. Viggo is a real professional and, from what I can tell, a really great person and those qualities show through into his character and add authenticity to the role that few actors could. He *is* Aragorn as far as I am concerned and I just don't see myself getting teary-eyed over the scene between Aragorn and Boromir while Boromir is dying if Stuart had been playing the role. Same thing with the other tear-jerker scene at the end of the trilogy when the (now king) Aragorn says to the hobbits about nobody kneeling to them.

[@awakeandwatching953]

@@matthewrawls1184 i watched a period Spanish film starring him the other day about a musketeer.. didnt realise it was all in spanish but really enjoyed it any way

[@paulnicholson5997]

@@awakeandwatching953 Wait! What? You can't just Splash it out there in the comments like that. Details 🙏 plz.

[@angelito2144]

@@paulnicholson5997 That film is Alatriste (2006), and Mortensen's knowledge of Spanish let him play the whole script in that language. As an Spaniard myself, I can say he did a great job.

[@battlefrontantics5248]

With all due respect to Russel Crowe and some of his great roles, the idea of him as Aragorn appalls me. Whew!

[@nikiTricoteuse]

OMG. The Hobbit was one of the (very few) highlights of my childhood and cemented my love of books AND of Tolkien's writing. On Friday afternoons my teacher would read to my class as a treat for good behaviour. 50+ years later, I can still see the dust motes floating in rays of sunlight from the windows and hear his glorious, gentle Scottish lilt cutting through the absolute silence of an entire classroom of 10yos held spellbound by the story. I feel sick with the mere thought of anyone but Viggo Mortensen being Strider. He was perfect. PS. Pretty much anyone in Aotearoa/ New Zealand with access to a horse was in the crowd fight scenes in The Lord of the Rings and a heap of people auditioned as extras. As a kiwi, it's easy to spot some actors who are pretty well known here, in the films. Our ex PM Jacinda Ardern even told Stephen Colbert on The Late Show that she auditioned for 'Lord of the Rings' but didn't get the part.  BYJOSE MARTINEZ s😂aid she'd auditioned.

[@lbds9555]

Personally, I think Viggo's initial portrayal of Aragorn is spot on. At that point in the film, he's been living rough as a ranger in the wild for a long time, so it works that he's rough around the edges to begin with. This disappears once he's back around the elves in a more royal and peaceful setting. In fact, if I remember correctly, Aragorn has a much more "graceful" manner once they reach Rivendell in the books too, so this is actually quite accurate to the book.

[@aldeayeah]

I mean that's pretty much direct from the book. The Strider/Aragorn duality. And Bilbo's poem about him: All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost. 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.

[@bendover2649]

I agree. When I read Fellowship for the first time Aragorn, specifically during the period where he's exclusively referred to as 'Strider' came across as a surprisingly weird guy.

[@aldeayeah]

@@bendover2649 The way I read him, as a survivalist and someone who'd spent his whole life fighting the forces of evil, he was exasperated by the carelessness of the hobbits, and that made him brusque.

[@TheBad63]

Exactly , perfection for me ..from prancing pony to Rivendell looked right and planned to me He was only truly safe amd home, therefore himself , at Rivendell

[@cherylhulting1301]

Thank you, I agree with you. To all the other excellent points I want to point out that Aragorn knew the Hobbits were carrying something pretty precious and I'm sure he was worried and exasperated by what happened in the inn. He's also a Ranger living rough so it's not hard to imagine he was a little brusque at first. I read this as part of his character arc I like that the films at times make some of the most noble and helpful characters seem at first as though they are antagonists rather than allies. This contrasts perfectly with Gollum, who is the exact opposite.

[@kimhaas7586]

Viggo was the perfect Aragorn. It’s in his eyes. He’s supposed to be tall and lanky. Check. He’s supposed to be a bit threatening at first. Check. And yet he has amazing Grace. Just look at the way he places the shards of narsil back on the plinth or how he gently closes Frodo’s hand around the ring. Or how he cools faramir’s brow with Athelas. He’s the whole package. It’s hard to believe Jackson wanted anyone else.

[@wren7195]

EDIT: I made a mistake, Viggo's son Henry is in the scene in background, Phillippa Boyen's son Calum Gittins plays Haleth. Henry is in the big helmet in the background of the shot, carrying a pole arm. Sorry! Beautiful. But I'd also like to point out, the extended edition behind the scenes DVDs show that Viggo would've NEVER taken the role if it wasn't for his son being such a huge fan. "THEY ASKED YOU TO BE *ARAGORN!?*" He got his son a role in the Two Towers, the young lad who expressed his fear and lack of a good sword. Pleasure to meet you Kim, best wishes

[@RevDrCCoonansr]

@@wren7195 That was his son? Something son of Hamlin?

[@wren7195]

@@RevDrCCoonansr Hi Christopher! I made a mistake I'm so sorry, Henry Mortensen is in the background in a huge helmet in that scene. Calum Gittins is Haleth, screenwriter Philippa Boyens' son. It's still true that Henry convinced Viggo to take the role though. I'm sorry for my mistake. Best wishes to you!

[@rbrtck]

Well, at 5'11" he is about 7 inches shorter than the original Aragorn in the books. At least the other actors weren't real tall, either, and he gives a good subjective impression of being a mighty warrior, regardless of height. Hanging around with Hobbits certainly doesn't hurt, either. By the way, Gandalf is supposed to be fairly short--about a foot shorter than Aragorn. No complaints, though--getting the right actors is more important than their heights.

[@wren7195]

@@rbrtck Holy $h!t I must've missed that enormously, I know there was an exTREMELY vague concept that "sons of Numenor" and other men held a very long removed essence of the Valar, but I didn't know Aragorn was supposed to be that tall. I poured through RotK's appendices but I never did read the silmarillion. Thank you so much. Strider indeed!

[@AlyraMoondancer]

It's been a very long time since I read the books, but I had always pictured Aragorn as a much taller person than he appears to be in the films, and that bothered me at first. But Viggo's performance is so excellent, it more than makes up for his lack of physical stature.

[@marymacdonald2379]

Indeed, not all heroes are the tallest people.

[@ray-sattler]

I am so glad that Aragorn is the way he is, it's my absolute favorite character in the LOTR movies.

[@santiagobauza4257]

The fact that Jackson fought the executives and won to get Townsend cast makes his behaviour on set even more damning.

[@matthewweflen]

It's amazing that Jackson was able to recognize his own error. Most egos aren't capable of that.

[@hellfish2309]

considering the avalanche of other things Peter had to get to fall into place, totally understandable

[@wally8518]

What?

[@alpacapines8553]

@@matthewweflen too bad he couldn't do that with that abortion of the hobbit adaptation.

[@jasonwinslow6463]

@@alpacapines8553 i have watched the LOTR trilogy 12-15 times atleast. The Hobbit maybe 2 times all the way through. I just do not have the same remorse, sadness, Happiness for the characters.

[@amandah2935]

I recently rewatched this trilogy, hadn’t watched it in probably 10 years. Viggo Mortenson is so perfect in the role. He gives Aragorn so many great layers. He’s grizzled and brooding but also soft and kind. You can see the weight of the world on his shoulders with the humility of one who has seen friends die in battle. Love him in these movies. So glad he ended up in the role.

[@End-Result]

Same, I couldn't agree more. He's a one off, that's for sure.

[@lethalassassin1754]

By chance did you watch the full extended trilogy? The added scenes for The Return of the King make it so much better.

[@Tipsythomas]

I normally watch the 3 extended films straight on newyears Day at work but I didn't work that day this year. That's why I watched this vid my lord of the rings itch needs scratching.

[@Broken_dish]

couldnt be happier viggo got the part as he was my first fav actor and has always stayed in that spot since the first movie i saw with him witch was hidalgo and that is what made me check out other movies by him and how i found the trilogy

[@masontrent5543]

Now I am also curious what might have happened if they let Viggo play the part of Aragorn with out that doubt moment? Let him play book Aragorn in full? That would be interesting. There was a little of that energy at helms deep I think. Maybe the audiences could have been given a chance? And yes I understand that Aragorn's confidence is a certainy of soul. He is good and honorable and true. I think that Jackson and team were not just using doubt but playing on the idea of "A reluctant king" and thought that would appeal to the audience (unfamiliar with Tolkien) maybe because it's worked in other stories. And people like reluctant kings and heroes. But it was going to be a fine line with that divergence from the book. So for hardcore fans yes why on earth would an 87 year old Dunedain be having those doubts now? And Aragorn being who and what he is is more aware and feels called to his role. He is not acquisitive he is soul drawn. And this is no ordinary story, it's Tolkien. Well time to end before I ramble right into the dead marshes. 😂

[@gizellaszabo9192]

I personally think this role was meant for him. And no one else could have done it justice. I loved Lord of the Rings and all who were in it. 💜

[@animalgenie]

I have to say that in the casting process there was one man other than Viggo Mortensen who could've done it; Daniel Day-Lewis.

[@pruodea3137]

He’s never looked better…hubba hubba

[@melinaanibarro7324]

same :)

[@MeanDark2]

@Let Your L⚡️GHT Forever Shine ❤️ what? you really are a stupid. if LoTR is violence so are 90% of works of fiction that were ever created.

[@domobran7]

@Let Your L⚡️GHT Forever Shine ❤️ Please, violence is literally the smallest part of the Lord of the Rings.

[@MyCarllee]

Viggo has this romantic vibe and free spirit that resonate with Aarogorn's story arch so well that creates drama and conflict like no any other acter can deliver.

[@perusing350]

romantic vibe and free spirit - you're so right! I think that worked especially well with how Aragorn is a ranger.

[@helenmortensen8310]

Viggo Mortensen is a hero on and off-stage. No one else could have played Aragorn as well as he did. I always pictured Aragorn just like that, and I have been a Tolkien fan for many many years.

[@margaretgarside5617]

When I first read that Townsend had been cast, my heart sank. He was a good fifteen years too young.

[@geniecarpenter2046]

No one could have played Aragorn as well as Viggo Mortensen, no one. He brought the character alive, and every woman in the audience fell in love with him. In these dark days I watch Lord of the Ring movies often, they remind me of what honor, courage, and true grit can accomplish when all seems to be lost.

[@yoursoulknows6444]

Love your statement "they remind me of what honor, courage, and true grit can accomplish when all seems to be lost." Truer words were never spoken... dark times indeed... I saw Jordan Peterson's video from yesterday - "wicked globalists..." His courage and honesty give me hope in these dark days...

[@Hasbulla761]

@@yoursoulknows6444 you’re an idiot lol

[@yoursoulknows6444]

@@Hasbulla761 seriously LOL - maybe re-read the comment I replied to... if these aren't currently very dark days on Earth you must be the idiot.

[@HereForTheCatContent]

@@yoursoulknows6444 Courage and honesty, really? Have you seen the video where he talks about how he and some past coworkers used to make fun of a man who worked with them and throw rocks at his head? And basically acted like he "deserved" it?

[@yoursoulknows6444]

@@HereForTheCatContent 'He' and past coworkers? WHO is 'he'? Jordan Peterson or Viggo Mortensen? Couldn't find anything on either one. Post me a link if it's true.

[@martharunstheworld]

The reason why Aragorn aged slower is that he came from the Numenoreans, who were given longer life, but eventually abused it. Viggo is perfect as Aragorn.

[@astingilbert582]

Not really abused, but their slower aging diminished with generations.

[@jonasrmb01]

@@astingilbert582 after the fall of númenor

[@planescaped]

The Numenoreans were basically middle-earth Atlantians.

[@MrCattlehunter]

@@astingilbert582 well, they got obsessed with immortality and ultimately made god blow up a good part of the world

[@Shifty51991]

@@planescaped Or Sayians (DBZ) for us Anime fans ;p Seriously.....dude fell off a fucking cliff and i swear he got a power boost from it......

[@avrandlane2735]

im glad viggo got the part he fit that PART extremely well! both looks and acting.

[@valeriegiunca6018]

Excellent coverage! Thank you!

[@karens8633]

Viggo wasn’t versed in Lord of the Rings at first, his son Henry was and we have him to thank for convincing his father to take the role! 💕 Viggo became Aragorn very quickly, he melts into his characters!

[@Thund3rstorm]

Similar to John Rhys-Davies then, who wouldn't even have gone to the auditions if it weren't for his son, if I'm not mistaken.

[@disneymaniac001]

i was just gonna write that, but wanted to see if anyone else noticed this mistake.

[@lukemcniven4131]

@@Thund3rstorm I adore JRD so much, in indiana jones and sliders he was such a great actor. Although Gimli got kinda given the Jar Jar treatment in the movies, He did great as a Dwarf, the look and swagger i totally bought him in that role. On the other hand Thorin looks and behaves pretty much like a hobbit sized man and i thought was pretty bad.

[@sgwh2002]

Viggo wasn’t a trained swordsman. In the weathertop section of the appendices on the extended edition of Fellowship, Peter Jackson says Viggo had never used a sword before landing in New Zealand, Viggo says that Bob Anderson was his first guide to sword fighting and Jackson says that Bob had to give Viggo a crash course in sword fighting as he had not had the 6 weeks of training prior to filming that the other cast members had received. By the end of filming Anderson would say that Viggo was the greatest student he had ever had but this is down to effort Viggo put in including taking his sword with him everywhere he went including when he would go out for dinner.

[@djkymaera]

when you do that you always get a good table.

[@monmothma3358]

@@djkymaera LMAO

[@reymohammed7040]

I used to do that.

[@kmshallaed8989]

Thank you. You saved me having to say it. You only have to watch the 'Making of' on the DVDs to know that. I heartily agree with most of the comments on this video that Viggo was perfect for Aragorn. I'm sure there a lot of actors who would have given it their very best, but they couldn't have equalled him.

[@sgwh2002]

@@djkymaera until someone calls the cops.

[@charlotteralff769]

I'm SO GLAD things worked out the way they did. This was the VERY BEST Aragon of all the 4 choices. Thank you Mr Mortenson!

[@vickyplaya3760]

Vigo was perfect for this role

[@TheZebbsonchannel]

good video, many things wrong here tho. Viggo didn't want the role due to the long ass shooting and him not wanting to be away from his family. He only had 1 day to reply and it was his son who loved the books that talked him into it. Also, Viggo did NOT have lot of sword training before hand. The fight at weathertop was actually his first one ever on screen, with only 1 training done before the shoot. The sword trainer has afterwards said Viggo was the best student he has taught.

[@Infinite_Jester]

Yeah, I was surprised by how many things were wrong, especially relating to the source material. LotR was not intended to be one book, but six, for one (albeit published at the same time). The portrayal of Aragorn in the books was completely different from how the content creator here put it. In the books there are several scenes remarking on how Aragorn had, at the start, looked and behaved like a woodsman, turning into a regal figure, standing tall in a different way, as the story came to a close. I don't think anyone who has touched the books would get things like these wrong.

[@vylon1075]

Damn, he was more awesome than the video suggests him to be.

[@akechijubeimitsuhide]

Not the first actor who learned swordplay quickly and was great at it. Nakadai Tatsuya also didn't have any swordfights before shooting Harakiri, and it has one of the best sword duels of all time.

[@russellnathan250]

An alternate universe, good for views

[@robcampion9917]

I think all you said is on the DVDs commentary/documentaries, so not hard to find out.

[@Meggimagine]

Just a detail: Viggo said he didn't really know anything about the Lord of the Rings when he was cast for the role, but his son was the one to encourage him when he learned about the role of Aragorn, being an avid reader of the books himself

[@stormflyer1042]

To be fair, he said he knows the folklore SURROUNDING lotr, not lotr itself.

[@skat1140]

Can you imagine being that son?? "Oh my God. DAD, you HAVE to take this role!!" Don't know how old the son was, but: imagine the on-set visits, if you are LoTR fan as a youngster.... :Homer Simpson-level drool/revery:

[@GNXXRAY]

@@stormflyer1042 I’ve talked to Viggo during his filming of The Road at my Fathers amusement park. He did not know much at all about the books and it was indeed his son Henry who gave the thumbs up and he agreed to do the job. It was a real pleasure to meet him and he answered my questions in my fathers office for probably 30 mins. That was 15 years ago already. The scenes filmed at my fathers park made the final cut and it was good to see that. I’ve also talked to Sean Astin too. Another great person who was happy to talk about his experience on the films.

[@rocketrabble6737]

@@skat1140 Henry, his son, was born in 1988

[@nct948]

@@GNXXRAY don't you just love these great actors who stay simple and humble! truly great people.

[@kenwilson6160]

The casting for LOTR was genius. Viggo Mortensen stood out. I can't imagine the movies with any other actors.

[@eminkilicaslan8945]

Since Sir Ian McKellen wasn't the first cast for Gandalf either, everything seems so weirdly convenient that gave us this masterpiece.

[@billmadison2032]

Viggo is an extrordinary actor, they were lucky to have him.

[@KbIPbIL0]

also i cannot understand how they found this perfect of a man 1. outdoorsman 2. knows how to ride horses 3. looks and performs as Aragorn in a very natural way 4. knows swordfighting what?! how is this possible

[@billmadison2032]

@@KbIPbIL0 luck

[@LolaLaRue-sq6jm]

So is Stuart Townsend, a wonderful actor whose presence in movies I miss. But Viggo is almost 15 years older than he is. In the book, Aragon is effectively a middle-aged man. So I can understand why Jackson went with Viggo and the results couldn't have been better.

[@thesplashofcolours4383]

At first, I red “extremely normal” actor and I was so confused 😅

[@billmadison2032]

@@thesplashofcolours4383 lol