**RotK - Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen)** - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Estelyn Telcontar · 12-16-2003, 01:10 PM

What's your opinion on Mortensen's acting and the role of Aragorn?

mark12_30 · 12-17-2003, 04:30 AM

Mortenson blew me away, and I have no complaints on the role either, although it was quite "adjusted". I thought the adjustments worked well. Mortenson was just awesome. I started out generally unimpressed with Mortenson two years ago. But this was magnificent.[ 6:24 AM December 17, 2003: Message edited by: mark12_30 ]

burrahobbit · 12-17-2003, 05:15 AM

He was pretty hot I think.

mark12_30 · 12-17-2003, 05:30 AM

So, if they'd put a little more eyeliner on him you'd have found him completely irresistable?

burrahobbit · 12-17-2003, 05:46 AM

Yeah, but as long as he's a top I don't think that matters so much.

Eomer of the Rohirrim · 12-17-2003, 01:39 PM

He was real good. Even if his entrance to the Pellenor fields was barely noticeable.And that kiss with Arwen, well....I wasn't prepared for that! Little too 'Hollywood' methinks.

Arwen Evenstar the Fair · 12-17-2003, 03:38 PM

He gave a totally awesome preformance, I loved it!!! He was just as I imagined Aragorn to be. I just wish they hadn't cut so much out so we could see more of that wonderful acting!! btw he is so hot!!!!

Oddwen · 12-17-2003, 04:27 PM

His character wasn't developed enough. I didn't quite get it in RotK. Viggo Mortensen isn't near handsome enough either, IMO.

Arwen1858 · 12-18-2003, 01:41 AM

I can't think of anyone who could have done a better job with the part. Viggo was wonderful!! He did so good as Aragorn! I loved his speech before the black gate, and the way he rode out into the orcs there. I loved it so much!! And I for one loved the part where he met Arwen again... the fact that I'm a hopeless romantic could have something to do with that...

Linteamarthwen · 12-18-2003, 07:51 AM

From the frist movie, I knew Viggo was someone special. I could have never dreamed such a great performance, but I knew he had it in him. I guess I fall for the more manly, swordweilding type, but I thought he was intirerly awesome and most everything he said made me wanna cry with excitment! Viggo, if you're out there, YOU Rock

Essex · 12-18-2003, 08:21 AM

Great acting, but he's hardly in Return of the King. Much like Gandalf in TT. Good use of the tounge though with Arwen! Can you blame him?

mark12_30 · 12-18-2003, 09:45 AM

Loved seeing Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli disembarking all alone off the Corsair and facing all those orcs, and charging them, all alone. And then the docks turn green...Loved his last comment at the Black Gates ("For Frodo.")(What do you mean, he was hardly in the movie? Did you sleep thru the muster of Rohan, the paths of the Dead, the Corsairs arrival, dismissal of the Dead, the post-Pelennor council, the Black Gate, AND the coronation?)

Essex · 12-18-2003, 10:46 AM

I mean what I said. He may have been in quite a few scenes but they were fleeting, and he DID have some of the best lines (ie "For Frodo"). A lot more time seems to have been spent with Gandalf and Pippin. (I'm not dissing them, they were great). Viggo was great in what he WAS in, but it wasn't enough. No Palantir, no houses of healing - two of the key passages of the book that show his strengths. No finding of the sapling of the White Tree. (No wedding, but that doesn't matter to me). He was just an action hero in this film. Still good, and hopefully the EE will add a lot more.[ 11:48 AM December 18, 2003: Message edited by: Essex ]

Arathiriel · 12-18-2003, 11:33 AM

Again, Viggo was wonderful as Aragorn and again he IS the perfect Aragorn!And while I have to say Aragorn cleaned up nicely - give me his rugged Ranger look any day!Still it was wonderful to see him finally as King and I loved the kiss he shared with Arwen at the end!

Failivrin · 12-18-2003, 03:09 PM

Viggo was wonderful but i agree with Essex- the movie is The Return of the King and it seemed to me he was hardly in it at all. or atleast compared to the other two.very excellent performance. quite handsome enough, methinks though i agree with whoever preferred the rugged ranger look.loved his speech outside the black gate: a crying moment

Enorëiel · 12-18-2003, 05:07 PM

Viggo was awesome! I liked him from the start and each movie only confirms my like/love for him! He's so great! I also agree that he didn't seem like he was in the movie a whole lot. I saw him a good number of times but not as much as I'd liked to. They seemed to switch very often and for long periods of time (I realize there was much to put in). I do agree he had some of the best lines (Hehe, that's one of my battle calls now "For Frodo!!!!!").All in all; he was great, there would have been no greater. Go Viggo!!!

Lily Bracegirdle · 12-18-2003, 08:53 PM

Viggo really brought the character to life, but I agree, his scenes seemed to lack weight. I really want to see him in the Houses of Healing.I really liked his kiss with Arwen. He did more acting in that thirty seconds than he did in the rest of the film. I really believed he had done it all because of his love for her.I also liked "you bow to no one," even though it was cheesy.-Lily

Gorwingel · 12-19-2003, 12:05 AM

Oh the kiss, I loved the kiss, it may have been Hollywood but it was great. It was just because of all the joy he had at the time... Middle Earth had been saved, He became King, he was still alive, and the love of his life had come back. I think anyone would do what he did at that time.Other than that I thought that he was great, continued excellence. Casting Viggo at the last minute was one of the most brilliant things that the filmmakers did. I could not imagine this series of stories without him.

Finwe · 12-19-2003, 12:30 PM

I agree. I loved that kiss, not because it was a kiss, but because it truly represented everything that Aragorn had been fighting for. He had been fighting for Middle-earth, for his kingdom, and for his lady love, and he had become victorious for all of them. Viggo was an absolutely perfect Aragorn. He was just so convincing, that when he yelled "For Frodo!" and charged at the Orcs (with Merry and Pippin right behind him), I desperately wanted to get up and join in the battle right behind him. Viggo has that natural charisma that is just perfect to play a leader like Aragorn. If there was one person in this world who I would follow until death, it would be Viggo. He is truly a King.

ArathorofBarahir · 12-19-2003, 10:16 PM

Viggo absolutely blew me away with his portrayal of Aragorn. He is by far one of the best actors of the 21st century.

Magician of Nathar · 12-19-2003, 11:05 PM

Viggo Mortensen is a very good actor. Okay, that is the biggest understatement of the year. But anyway, he was just glorious and splendid beyond words as Aragorn. His "I do not fear death" line at the gate of the path of the dead, with that sudden turn and that swish of cloak and fades into the shadows defines the word "heroism"His speech in front of the Black Gate had so much charisma that even I wished to brandish my sword and fight for him, and die for him. And I am like the biggest coward in the history of mankind. His kiss with Arwen was so passionate (okay maybe a little TOO passionate for Middle-earth), but it was a joy to watch.And his "My friends, you bow to no one" line and his bow to the hobbits defines his virtues.Sooooooo wonderful! However the movie Aragorn is slightly different than the book Aragorn. He is a lot more heroic (charge into the enemy line, alone, as the first one? really, taht's hardly a job for a king.), but less king like (all the book Aragorn's arrogance and confidence are completely gone!). But still, it was the most extraordinary performance.

King_Elessar · 12-21-2003, 01:27 PM

Aragorn was AWESOME!! So hot....!Oh, one thing: the kiss with Arwen at the end, rather freaky! The two of them just standing there looking at each other, then he suddenly lauches himself at her and kisses her! Not very LOTR, I have to say! ~King_Elessar~

Arwen Evenstar · 12-21-2003, 05:39 PM

I loved him! I thought they did a great job with the whole cast.

Guinevere · 12-21-2003, 07:14 PM

I agree with all of you, Viggo was great as Aragorn! (I liked his portrayal better here than in TTT, where he was so oddly renouncing Arwen and his kingship) I had been hoping to hear "Et Earello Endorenna utúlien" etc , and when I heard Aragorn sing it, I was blown away! the way Viggo sang it was beautiful and I love his voice. (If I'm not mistaken, he made up the melody himself)

Phervasaion · 12-22-2003, 07:47 AM

I think Viggo did an excellent job and i congragulate him. <BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR> I had been hoping to hear "Et Earello Endorenna utúlien" etc , and when I heard Aragorn sing it, I was blown away! the way Viggo sang it was beautiful and I love his voice. (If I'm not mistaken, he made up the melody himself) <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Im not sure if he made the melody himself but i agree that it was good. Pippins song i liked just as much aswell. There were a couple of important scenes that he could have been in though, like the houses of healing and maybe making the paths of the dead longer. Overall he played Aragorn very well in my opinion.

*Varda* · 12-22-2003, 04:57 PM

I thought through FotR and TTT that Viggo Mortensen was just perfect for the role of Aragorn, and this movie just proved it even more, in my opinion. His acting was great.And I liked the kiss as well. I thought it was really sweet, and really did just sum up everything he'd been fighting for.

doug*platypus · 12-22-2003, 05:13 PM

Although Viggo was not the Aragorn I knew from the books (shock! horror! fangirl attack! ), this comes mostly from the weakening of many characters by the writers. Viggo knew the movieAragorn better than the bookAragorn and played him accordingly.Now that we have all three movies as a complete whole of the one story (woohoo!!) it is easier to see the development of Aragorn throughout. The more I see the movies, the more I like movieAragorn and Viggo Mortensen. I hope that in the extended edition of ROTK we see more of him. I think it was unfortunate that the score was kind of shouting over top of his stirring speech at the Black Gate. It sounded much better when they were recording it on the stillness of the desert in front of Mt Ngauruhoe, even after a dozen takes.Viggo's song was just perfect. Personally, I thought that the final mix of Pippin's song was made too poppy, and I didn't really care for Gollum's Song or Into the West. But Viggo (and Enya) did an incredible job of holding the audience's attention, when it would have been quite easy to lose many viewers. His voice was perfect, and the song melded seamlessly into the world of Middle-Earth.

Eowyn_Wildfire · 12-22-2003, 07:01 PM

I LOVED EVERYTHING except I hated his spech at his corination something like "this day does not belong to just one man...." It just sounded corny comparing it to his "This day we fight" speach. the book line is ever so much better "by the labor and valor of many I have some to my inheritance. In token of this I would have Ring-bearer bring the crown to me, and let Mithrandir set it upon my head if he will for he has been the mover of all things that have been acomplished, and this is his victory" also The kiss bothered me,It probally doesn'e help I hate how Arwen was played and I had just been pointing out that she looked like a rabbit ....well she does.......yeah

12-22-2003, 08:11 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR> If I'm not mistaken, he made up the melody himself <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>You are correct. In the liner notes for the soundtrack, Viggo is credited for the melody.[ 9:12 PM December 22, 2003: Message edited by: Alucard ]

Arcuwen · 12-22-2003, 09:29 PM

Viggo is, in my world, the perfect Aragorn. If you have ever heard him talk about doing these movies, you can tell that he tried to become Aragorn inside and out. It really showed on screen. I agree that he isn't as big in ROTK as he should have been, but that's not Viggo's fault.

BoromirsBeard · 12-26-2003, 03:57 AM

What Eowyn Wildfire said about his coronation speech. Plus his voice is a little high-pitched to make grand speeches. Maybe that's why I think Viggo works better as Strider than Elessar. He doesn't quite make the transition. But of course that's an interpretation I can respect

Arwen Imladris · 12-26-2003, 09:32 PM

I loved Aragorn in this movie. We got to see a lot of the transition from ranger to king. I liked him with the dead men, he was a little afraid, but not to much. I liked his speech at the black gate, but I thought it was a little weird to have these flashbacks of Arwen, and then have him say 'for Frodo'. It didn't really seem to add up. What is his real motivation. I liked his song, it was well done. The words he spoke before and after that, just did not do him justice. I wish we got to see more of him rebuilding Gondor though.

Kidd2323 · 12-27-2003, 07:03 AM

When I first heard Viggo was going to play Aragorn, I thought it a good choice visually speaking; I could see him taking on the gruff, scraggly Strider character without much difficultly, but I wondered whether or not he could pull off reminding us of the tall and stately, grey-eyed sea-kings of old. IMHO I found the only time he gave a presence of royalty was when he was lying dead in TTT EE. I have to agree with Essex in saying he seemed not to be regarded with enough reverence--too much an action hero. I suppose had PJ added the Houses of Healing(Kingsfoil!)and Aragorn taking his birth-rite of the Palantir and the banner woven by Arwen, I might have enjoyed Aragorn more. Viggo did an admirable job with what he was given.

Finwe · 12-27-2003, 05:27 PM

Three words: Viggo Is Aragorn. I've never heard of an actor who put so much of himself into a character. From reading and watching all those interviews with him, I realized what a truly amazing person Viggo is. People like that are really rare. Even though the movie Aragorn wasn't identical to my perception of Aragorn from the books, Viggo seemed to do everything just right, and he brought the audience in along with him. We doubted with him, despaired with him, loved with him, hated with him, and were tempted with him. We felt his love for Arwen, his regret for Eowyn, and his hate for Sauron. We FELT it, and I think that is the mark of a wonderful actor. If anyone deserves an Oscar, it's him. Forget Elijah Wood and Sean Astin. Even though they are truly superb actors, I don't think that they can compare to Viggo at all.

symestreem · 12-27-2003, 05:59 PM

Yeah, the speech was like a UN- "let's all cooperate and be happy" one-world junk thing. I missed his reunion with the Rangers, and the part with the Evenstar was disjointed. (After reading the "visual guide" twice I still don't get it!) Last gripe: he was too reluctant to be king. But that's not the actor's fault. I think Mr. Mortenson (yeah I'm Victorian) played the part that was written wonderfully. I hope he'll be as good in Hidalgo.

Lathriel · 12-27-2003, 07:24 PM

I really like Viggo as Aragorn. The only thing that bothered me was his talk with Eowyn. He bluntly told her that he didn't love her. In the book he says the same words plus more to Eomer in the houses of healing. Too bad the houses of healing weren't in the movie because I think that is the best time for Aragorn to explain himself. Other than that I loved Aragorn in all the movies. The kiss is suprising hough. I wasn't expecting it that fast.

Everdawn · 12-28-2003, 09:25 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR>Three words: Viggo Is Aragorn. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>That is so true. After that movie i wanted to be Gondorian! and cheer with the masses Elessar! Elessar!My god, Viggo Mortensen is a phenominal actor, i liked him as strider and I liked him as Elessar. With the whole Aragorn/Arwen thing, he pushed her away becuase he wanted to save her. (makes me think of Moulin Rouge, "Make him believe you dont love him") becuase its true, Arwen did have a chance at a better life in Valinor, but she did love him and we got the best enging! I loved the kiss at the end!

Liriodendron · 12-28-2003, 09:44 PM

I was not satisfied with the attention given to Aragorn this time out. (Of course, this is just a theatrical release, which makes it fairly unimportant! ) The scene with Aragorn looking into the Palantir and wrestling it from Sauron is one of the most important and thrilling for me. I wanted more time and "heaviness" given to Aragorn, as he becomes "The King". The scene in the Paths of the Dead could have been more dramatic for my taste. I wanted more spine tingles, like I got in Bree when the embers glowed in Strider's pipe. Aragorn seemed more like an action figure than the pedigreed, long awaited and suffering Ranger/king. There seemed to be so much more of a sense of "Destiny" from the books....I like that! I wanted the bit where Aragorn sits in the Steward's chair and puts Frodo and Sam on the throne to be included. (isn't that how it went in the book?) I was annoyed that Merry and Pippen were put on equal status with Frodo and Sam![ 10:45 PM December 28, 2003: Message edited by: Liriodendron ]

Evisse the Blue · 01-09-2004, 10:53 AM

I agree with BoromirsBeard (lol, erm, nice name, that ) about Viggo's voice being too high pitched to make for grand speeches. Also, kill me if you will, but I didn't think much for his speech in front of the Black Gate, I mean, that sort of speech wouldn't have convinced me to give it all. It was faintly cheesy. (Braveheart's Wallace remains for me the ultimate charismatic spokesman). Despite that, I think Viggo was, well, Viggo, in all his talent and charm. I can't say he was Aragorn. He was too reluctant and too dependent on others to be BookAragorn, but he treated us with an exquisite performance throughout the movies (not just ROTK, where I feel he was given too little screen time, and I see I'm not the only one). I am looking forward to the Houses of Healing scene!

Oroaranion · 01-09-2004, 02:53 PM

Mortensen is a brilliant actor. He seems absolutely suited to the role of Aragorn.Besides, he does seem particularly good looking with long hair and a beard!

12-16-2003, 01:10 PM	#1
Estelyn Telcontar Princess of Skwerlz Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: where the Sea is eastwards (WtR: 6060 miles) Posts: 7,535	RotK - Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen) What's your opinion on Mortensen's acting and the role of Aragorn? __________________ 'Mercy!' cried Gandalf. 'If the giving of information is to be the cure of your inquisitiveness, I shall spend all the rest of my days in answering you. What more do you want to know?' 'The whole history of Middle-earth...'

12-17-2003, 04:30 AM	#2
mark12_30 Stormdancer of Doom Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Elvish singing is not a thing to miss, in June under the stars Posts: 4,367	Mortenson blew me away, and I have no complaints on the role either, although it was quite "adjusted". I thought the adjustments worked well. Mortenson was just awesome. I started out generally unimpressed with Mortenson two years ago. But this was magnificent.<p>[ 6:24 AM December 17, 2003: Message edited by: mark12_30 ] __________________ ...down to the water to see the elves dance and sing upon the midsummer's eve.

12-17-2003, 05:15 AM	#3
burrahobbit Hidden Spirit Join Date: May 2000 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 1,430	He was pretty hot I think. __________________ What's a burrahobbit got to do with my pocket, anyways?

12-17-2003, 05:30 AM	#4
mark12_30 Stormdancer of Doom Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Elvish singing is not a thing to miss, in June under the stars Posts: 4,367	So, if they'd put a little more eyeliner on him you'd have found him completely irresistable? __________________ ...down to the water to see the elves dance and sing upon the midsummer's eve.

12-17-2003, 05:46 AM	#5
burrahobbit Hidden Spirit Join Date: May 2000 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 1,430	Yeah, but as long as he's a top I don't think that matters so much. __________________ What's a burrahobbit got to do with my pocket, anyways?

12-17-2003, 01:39 PM	#6
Eomer of the Rohirrim Auspicious Wraith Join Date: May 2002 Location: The Netherlands Posts: 4,916	He was real good. Even if his entrance to the Pellenor fields was barely noticeable.<P>And that kiss with Arwen, well....I wasn't prepared for that! Little too 'Hollywood' methinks. __________________ Los Ingobernables de Harlond

12-17-2003, 03:38 PM	#7
Arwen Evenstar the Fair Wight Join Date: May 2002 Location: Gondor Posts: 235	He gave a totally awesome preformance, I loved it!!! He was just as I imagined Aragorn to be. I just wish they hadn't cut so much out so we could see more of that wonderful acting!! <BR>btw he is so hot!!!! __________________ ~Arwen~

12-17-2003, 04:27 PM	#8
Oddwen Drummer in the Deep Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Next Sunday A.D. Posts: 2,166	His character wasn't developed enough. I didn't quite get it in RotK. <BR>Viggo Mortensen isn't near handsome enough either, IMO. __________________ But all the while I sit and think of times there were before I listen for returning feet and voices at the door

12-18-2003, 01:41 AM	#9
Arwen1858 Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Gondor Posts: 516	I can't think of anyone who could have done a better job with the part. Viggo was wonderful!! He did so good as Aragorn! I loved his speech before the black gate, and the way he rode out into the orcs there. I loved it so much!! And I for one loved the part where he met Arwen again... the fact that I'm a hopeless romantic could have something to do with that... __________________ Will Turner: "This is either madness or brilliance." Jack Sparrow: "It's remarkable how often those two traits coincide." ~ Pirates of the Caribbean

12-18-2003, 07:51 AM	#10
Linteamarthwen Pile O'Bones Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Middle-Earth Posts: 25	From the frist movie, I knew Viggo was someone special. I could have never dreamed such a great performance, but I knew he had it in him. I guess I fall for the more manly, swordweilding type, but I thought he was intirerly awesome and most everything he said made me wanna cry with excitment! Viggo, if you're out there, YOU Rock

12-18-2003, 08:21 AM	#11
Essex Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Essex, England Posts: 887	Great acting, but he's hardly <I>in</I> Return of the King. Much like Gandalf in TT. Good use of the tounge though with Arwen! Can you blame him?

12-18-2003, 09:45 AM	#12
mark12_30 Stormdancer of Doom Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Elvish singing is not a thing to miss, in June under the stars Posts: 4,367	Loved seeing Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli disembarking all alone off the Corsair and facing all those orcs, and charging them, all alone. And then the docks turn green...<P>Loved his last comment at the Black Gates ("For Frodo.")<P>(What do you mean, he was hardly in the movie? Did you sleep thru the muster of Rohan, the paths of the Dead, the Corsairs arrival, dismissal of the Dead, the post-Pelennor council, the Black Gate, AND the coronation?) __________________ ...down to the water to see the elves dance and sing upon the midsummer's eve.

12-18-2003, 10:46 AM	#13
Essex Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Essex, England Posts: 887	I mean what I said. He may have been in quite a few scenes but they were fleeting, and he DID have some of the best lines (ie "For Frodo"). A lot more time seems to have been spent with Gandalf and Pippin. (I'm not dissing them, they were great). <P>Viggo was great in what he WAS in, but it wasn't enough. No Palantir, no houses of healing - two of the key passages of the book that show his strengths. No finding of the sapling of the White Tree. (No wedding, but that doesn't matter to me). <P>He was just an action hero in this film. Still good, and hopefully the EE will add a lot more.<p>[ 11:48 AM December 18, 2003: Message edited by: Essex ]

12-18-2003, 11:33 AM	#14
Arathiriel Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: The Blessed Realm Posts: 284	Again, Viggo was wonderful as Aragorn and again he <B>IS</B> the perfect Aragorn!<P>And while I have to say Aragorn cleaned up nicely - give me his rugged Ranger look any day!<P>Still it was wonderful to see him finally as King and I <B>loved</B> the kiss he shared with Arwen at the end! __________________ 'I love him. He's like that, and sometimes it shines through, somehow. But I love him, whether or no.' - Samwise Gamgee

12-18-2003, 03:09 PM	#15
Failivrin Wight Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: England Posts: 201	Viggo was wonderful but i agree with Essex- the movie is The Return of the King and it seemed to me he was hardly in it at all. or atleast compared to the other two.<P>very excellent performance. quite handsome enough, methinks though i agree with whoever preferred the rugged ranger look.<P>loved his speech outside the black gate: a crying moment __________________ no one in particular

12-18-2003, 05:07 PM	#16
Enorëiel Wight Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Hobbiton, U.S.A. Posts: 165	Viggo was awesome! I liked him from the start and each movie only confirms my like/love for him! He's so great! <P>I also agree that he didn't seem like he was in the movie a whole lot. I saw him a good number of times but not as much as I'd liked to. They seemed to switch very often and for long periods of time (I realize there was much to put in). I do agree he had some of the best lines (Hehe, that's one of my battle calls now "For Frodo!!!!!").<P>All in all; he was great, there would have been no greater. Go Viggo!!! __________________ You can take a hobbit out of the Shire but you can't take the Shire out of a hobbit. Whoever said "Nothing is impossible" never tried to slam a revolving door.

12-18-2003, 08:53 PM	#17
Lily Bracegirdle Wight Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Bree Posts: 210	Viggo really brought the character to life, but I agree, his scenes seemed to lack weight. I really want to see him in the Houses of Healing.<P>I really liked his kiss with Arwen. He did more acting in that thirty seconds than he did in the rest of the film. I really believed he had done it all because of his love for her.<P>I also liked "you bow to no one," even though it was cheesy.<P>-Lily __________________ "But nay: the praise of the praiseworthy is above all rewards." - Faramir

12-19-2003, 12:05 AM	#18
Gorwingel Beholder of the Mists Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Somewhere in the Northwest... for now Posts: 1,430	Oh the kiss, I loved the kiss, it may have been Hollywood but it was great. It was just because of all the joy he had at the time... Middle Earth had been saved, He became King, he was still alive, and the love of his life had come back. I think anyone would do what he did at that time.<P>Other than that I thought that he was great, continued excellence. Casting Viggo at the last minute was one of the most brilliant things that the filmmakers did. I could not imagine this series of stories without him. __________________ Wanted - Wonderfully witty quote that consists of pure brilliance

12-19-2003, 12:30 PM	#19
Finwe Deathless Sun Join Date: May 2003 Location: The Royal Suite in the Halls of Mandos Posts: 2,609	I agree. I loved that kiss, not because it was a kiss, but because it truly represented everything that Aragorn had been fighting for. He had been fighting for Middle-earth, for his kingdom, and for his lady love, and he had become victorious for all of them. Viggo was an absolutely perfect Aragorn. He was just so convincing, that when he yelled "For Frodo!" and charged at the Orcs (with Merry and Pippin right behind him), I desperately wanted to get up and join in the battle right behind him. Viggo has that natural charisma that is just perfect to play a leader like Aragorn. If there was one person in this world who I would follow until death, it would be Viggo. He is truly a King. __________________ But Melkor also was there, and he came to the house of Fëanor, and there he slew Finwë King of the Noldor before his doors, and spilled the first blood in the Blessed Realm; for Finwë alone had not fled from the horror of the Dark.

12-19-2003, 10:16 PM	#20
ArathorofBarahir Wight Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Crickhallow Posts: 247	Viggo absolutely blew me away with his portrayal of Aragorn. He is by far one of the best actors of the 21st century. __________________ King of the Dead: The dead do not suffer the living to pass. Aragorn: You will suffer me.

12-19-2003, 11:05 PM	#21
Magician of Nathar Animated Skeleton Join Date: Aug 2002 Posts: 46	Viggo Mortensen is a very good actor. Okay, that is the biggest understatement of the year. But anyway, he was just glorious and splendid beyond words as Aragorn. <P>His "I do not fear death" line at the gate of the path of the dead, with that sudden turn and that swish of cloak and fades into the shadows defines the word "heroism"<P>His speech in front of the Black Gate had so much charisma that even I wished to brandish my sword and fight for him, and die for him. And I am like the biggest coward in the history of mankind. <P>His kiss with Arwen was so passionate (okay maybe a little TOO passionate for Middle-earth), but it was a joy to watch.<P>And his "My friends, you bow to no one" line and his bow to the hobbits defines his virtues.<P>Sooooooo wonderful! However the movie Aragorn is slightly different than the book Aragorn. He is a lot more heroic (charge into the enemy line, alone, as the first one? really, taht's hardly a job for a king.), but less king like (all the book Aragorn's arrogance and confidence are completely gone!). But still, it was the most extraordinary performance.

12-21-2003, 01:27 PM	#22
King_Elessar Haunting Spirit Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Minas Tirith, City of the Kings. Posts: 57	Aragorn was AWESOME!! So hot....!<P>Oh, one thing: the kiss with Arwen at the end, rather freaky! The two of them just standing there looking at each other, then he suddenly lauches himself at her and kisses her! Not very LOTR, I have to say! <P>~King_Elessar~ __________________ I see in your eyes, the same fear, that would take the heart of me. A day may come, when the courage of men fails. When we forsake our friends, and break all bonds of fellowship. But it is not this day. This day...we fight!

12-21-2003, 05:39 PM	#23
Arwen Evenstar Registered User Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 131	I loved him! I thought they did a great job with the whole cast.

12-21-2003, 07:14 PM	#24
Guinevere Banshee of Camelot Join Date: May 2002 Location: Switzerland Posts: 5,831	I agree with all of you, Viggo was great as Aragorn! (I liked his portrayal better here than in TTT, where he was so oddly renouncing Arwen and his kingship) <BR>I had been hoping to hear "Et Earello Endorenna utúlien" etc , and when I heard Aragorn sing it, I was blown away! the way Viggo sang it was beautiful and I love his voice. (If I'm not mistaken, he made up the melody himself) __________________ Yes! "wish-fulfilment dreams" we spin to cheat our timid hearts, and ugly Fact defeat!

12-22-2003, 07:47 AM	#25
Phervasaion Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: The wilderness of Middle-Earth Posts: 306	I think Viggo did an excellent job and i congragulate him. <P> <BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR> I had been hoping to hear "Et Earello Endorenna utúlien" etc , and when I heard Aragorn sing it, I was blown away! the way Viggo sang it was beautiful and I love his voice. (If I'm not mistaken, he made up the melody himself) <HR></BLOCKQUOTE><P>Im not sure if he made the melody himself but i agree that it was good. Pippins song i liked just as much aswell. There were a couple of important scenes that he could have been in though, like the houses of healing and maybe making the paths of the dead longer. Overall he played Aragorn very well in my opinion. __________________ Phervasaion

12-22-2003, 04:57 PM	#26
Varda Maiden of Tears Join Date: May 2002 Location: Valinor. Posts: 572	I thought through FotR and TTT that Viggo Mortensen was just perfect for the role of Aragorn, and this movie just proved it even more, in my opinion. His acting was great.<P>And I liked the kiss as well. I thought it was really sweet, and really did just sum up everything he'd been fighting for. __________________ 'It must often be so, Sam, when things are in danger: someone has to give them up, lose them, so that others may keep them' ~Frodo "Life is hard. After all, it kills you." - Katharine Hepburn

12-22-2003, 05:13 PM	#27
doug*platypus Delver in the Deep Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Aotearoa Posts: 961	Although Viggo was <B>not</B> the Aragorn I knew from the books (shock! horror! fangirl attack! ), this comes mostly from the weakening of many characters by the writers. Viggo knew the movieAragorn better than the bookAragorn and played him accordingly.<P>Now that we have all three movies as a complete whole of the one story (woohoo!!) it is easier to see the development of Aragorn throughout. The more I see the movies, the more I like movieAragorn and Viggo Mortensen. I hope that in the extended edition of ROTK we see more of him. I think it was unfortunate that the score was kind of shouting over top of his stirring speech at the Black Gate. It sounded much better when they were recording it on the stillness of the desert in front of Mt Ngauruhoe, even after a dozen takes.<P>Viggo's song was just perfect. Personally, I thought that the final mix of Pippin's song was made too poppy, and I didn't really care for <I>Gollum's Song</I> or <I>Into the West</I>. But Viggo (and Enya) did an incredible job of holding the audience's attention, when it would have been quite easy to lose many viewers. His voice was perfect, and the song melded seamlessly into the world of Middle-Earth. __________________ But Gwindor answered: 'The doom lies in yourself, not in your name'.

12-22-2003, 07:01 PM	#28
Eowyn_Wildfire Animated Skeleton Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: on my horse (I wish) Posts: 47	I LOVED EVERYTHING except<BR>I hated his spech at his corination something like "this day does not belong to just one man...." It just sounded corny comparing it to his "This day we fight" speach. the book line is ever so much better "by the labor and valor of many I have some to my inheritance. In token of this I would have Ring-bearer bring the crown to me, and let Mithrandir set it upon my head if he will for he has been the mover of all things that have been acomplished, and this is his victory" <P><BR>also The kiss bothered me,It probally doesn'e help I hate how Arwen was played and I had just been pointing out that she looked like a rabbit ....well she does.......yeah __________________ I see in your eyes, the same fear that would take the heart of me. A day may come, when the courage of Men fails. And we forsake our friends, and break all bonds of fellowship but it is not this day. This day....we fight

12-22-2003, 08:11 PM	#29
Alucard Guest Posts: n/a	<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR> If I'm not mistaken, he made up the melody himself <HR></BLOCKQUOTE><P>You are correct. In the liner notes for the soundtrack, Viggo is credited for the melody.<p>[ 9:12 PM December 22, 2003: Message edited by: Alucard ]

12-22-2003, 09:29 PM	#30
Arcuwen Pile O'Bones Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: In your pocket Posts: 23	Viggo is, in my world, the perfect Aragorn. If you have ever heard him talk about doing these movies, you can tell that he tried to become Aragorn inside and out. It really showed on screen. I agree that he isn't as big in ROTK as he should have been, but that's not Viggo's fault. __________________ . . : Green-Eyed Monster : . . Melamin... Cormamin niuve tenna' ta elea lle au'

12-26-2003, 03:57 AM	#31
BoromirsBeard Pile O'Bones Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 20	What Eowyn Wildfire said about his coronation speech. Plus his voice is a little high-pitched to make grand speeches. Maybe that's why I think Viggo works better as Strider than Elessar. He doesn't quite make the transition. But of course that's an interpretation I can respect

12-26-2003, 09:32 PM	#32
Arwen Imladris Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: In a box with a fox Posts: 1,347	I loved Aragorn in this movie. We got to see a lot of the transition from ranger to king. I liked him with the dead men, he was a little afraid, but not to much. I liked his speech at the black gate, but I thought it was a little weird to have these flashbacks of Arwen, and then have him say 'for Frodo'. It didn't really seem to add up. What is his real motivation. I liked his song, it was well done. The words he spoke before and after that, just did not do him justice. I wish we got to see more of him rebuilding Gondor though. __________________ "Wake up! Wake up! Wake up, sleepies, we must go, yes, we must go at once."

12-27-2003, 07:03 AM	#33
Kidd2323 Animated Skeleton Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Chicago Posts: 44	When I first heard Viggo was going to play Aragorn, I thought it a good choice visually speaking; I could see him taking on the gruff, scraggly Strider character without much difficultly, but I wondered whether or not he could pull off reminding us of the tall and stately, grey-eyed sea-kings of old.<BR>IMHO I found the only time he gave a presence of royalty was when he was lying dead in TTT EE. I have to agree with Essex in saying he seemed not to be regarded with enough reverence--too much an action hero. I suppose had PJ added the Houses of Healing(Kingsfoil!)and Aragorn taking his birth-rite of the Palantir and the banner woven by Arwen, I might have enjoyed Aragorn more. Viggo did an admirable job with what he was given. __________________ "I wish I could go all the way with you to Rivendell, Mr. Frodo, and see Mr. Bilbo," said Sam. "And yet the only place I really want to be in is here. I am that torn in two." "Poor Sam! It will feel like that, I am afraid. " said Frodo. "But you will be healed. You were meant to be solid and whole, and you will be."

12-27-2003, 05:27 PM	#34
Finwe Deathless Sun Join Date: May 2003 Location: The Royal Suite in the Halls of Mandos Posts: 2,609	Three words: Viggo Is Aragorn.<P><BR>I've never heard of an actor who put so much of himself into a character. From reading and watching all those interviews with him, I realized what a truly amazing person Viggo is. People like that are really rare. Even though the movie Aragorn wasn't identical to my perception of Aragorn from the books, Viggo seemed to do everything just right, and he brought the audience in along with him. We doubted with him, despaired with him, loved with him, hated with him, and were tempted with him. We felt his love for Arwen, his regret for Eowyn, and his hate for Sauron. We FELT it, and I think that is the mark of a wonderful actor. If anyone deserves an Oscar, it's him. Forget Elijah Wood and Sean Astin. Even though they are truly superb actors, I don't think that they can compare to Viggo at all. __________________ But Melkor also was there, and he came to the house of Fëanor, and there he slew Finwë King of the Noldor before his doors, and spilled the first blood in the Blessed Realm; for Finwë alone had not fled from the horror of the Dark.

12-27-2003, 05:59 PM	#35
symestreem Face in the Water Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 729	Yeah, the speech was like a UN- "let's all cooperate and be happy" one-world junk thing. I missed his reunion with the Rangers, and the part with the Evenstar was disjointed. (After reading the "visual guide" twice I still don't get it!) Last gripe: he was too reluctant to be king. But that's not the actor's fault. I think Mr. Mortenson (yeah I'm Victorian) played the part that was written wonderfully. I hope he'll be as good in Hidalgo. __________________ A Gandalf-uncloaking-free zone.