"The Swordsman Inside."


I've been witness to a lot of swordplay recently, and I've enjoyed every minute of it!

.... First there was the wonderfully exciting swashbuckling in "Pirates of the Caribbean", which I saw in the movie theater this past weekend. And then, this evening, there was "The Count of Monte Cristo", which I checked out earlier on DVD from the library. Through it all, there was an edge-of-my-seat excitement that, honestly, might be fun to try sometime.

I took the opportunity to watch one of the special features on the Monte Cristo DVD that documented the efforts to stage the sword fight scenes. As the fight choreographer noted, "The goal was to create fight scenes that looked real and dangerous, but with the complete safety of the actors in mind."

That goal was very cleverly achieved. The actors looked desperate in the fight, apparently were having great fun, and, save one slight wound to Guy Pearce in the final fight, were as safe as could be. What 18th century swordsman would have been able to predict that such a weapon used with deadly finesse in his time, would, 150 years later, become a prop for entertainment, containing a severely blunted tip, a dulled blade, and the utmost in caution. My how the times have changed! :)

I got to thinking though as that feature came to an end, I really should take the time to learn a little fencing. It's crossed my mind many times before, I've just never really jumped at the chance. Granted it would just be for fun, and the experience of it all, but beyond that, who cares.... It just looks like both a good workout, and an excellent lesson in history. (Good thing Zorro didn't hear that! .... [grin]).

.... And, the truth is, the historian in me is always excited to take a walk into the past, no matter what the perspective.

Ahhh..... good movie -- no, make that TWO great movies --, ....and some excellent swordfighting. Yeah, I think I'll definitely sleep well tonight! :)

Have a blessed Wednesday. I'm off to sail the high seas and swish my sword in the direction of unsavory fellows. Until later,

Your always musing actor friend,

-Jon
posted by Jon at 4:29 AM  I   I  0 comments