Viggo Mortensen's career in 5 brilliant roles
What's the story
Viggo Mortensen, a versatile actor with an unparalleled commitment to his roles, has played a plethora of characters over the years. His knack for slipping into the shoes of varied roles has made him a critical darling and a fan favorite. From epic fantasy adventures to gripping dramas, Mortensen's performances have struck a chord with audiences everywhere. Here are five iconic roles that prove just that!
Epic fantasy
'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy
In The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Mortensen played Aragorn, a role that defined heroism and leadership. His portrayal of the reluctant king was deep and authentic, capturing the essence of J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved character. The success of the trilogy catapulted Mortensen to international stardom and is still one of his most recognizable performances.
Intense drama
'A History of Violence'
In A History of Violence, Mortensen portrayed the character of Tom Stall, a small-town diner owner with a concealed past. The film highlighted his talent to express complex emotions through understated expressions and nuanced performances. It was critically acclaimed for its storytelling and Mortensen's compelling performance as he dealt with themes of identity and morality.
Crime thriller
'Eastern Promises'
Mortensen's performance in Eastern Promises was unforgettable, where he starred as Nikolai Luzhin, a Russian mobster in London. His dedication to authenticity was evident as he took Russian lessons for the role and went through intense physical preparation. The film was appreciated for its gritty realism, and Mortensen received praise for his intense portrayal.
Family drama
'Captain Fantastic'
In Captain Fantastic, Mortensen played the role of Ben Cash, an unusual father raising his kids off the grid in the Pacific Northwest wilderness. The film touched upon themes of family dynamics and societal norms, and Mortensen's ability to mix humor with heart-wrenching emotion. His performance got him multiple award nominations, further establishing him as an ace actor.
Historical drama
'Green Book'
In Green Book, Mortensen portrayed Tony Lip, an Italian-American bouncer who becomes the driver of African-American pianist Dr. Don Shirley during a concert tour in 1960s America. The film addressed race relations and more, while also highlighting Mortensen's talent to play different characters convincingly. His performance did a lot for the movie's win at several award ceremonies.