If you love sword fights, toss a coin to your witcher and sit tight! Here is an overview of the most beautiful fight scene of the TV series The Witcher season 1.
Whatever you like of The Witcher: the books from Andrzej Sapkowski, the video games of the team CD Projekt RED or the TV series of Lauren Schmidt Hissrich, it does not matter. The Saga of Geralt of Rivia is just amazing.
The Blaviken fight
What I would like to deepen in this post is the Blaviken fight scene of the first episode of the series, released on Netflix. We have the rare chance to avail of the fight break down direct from Henri Cavill, the actor who plays Geralt of Rivia. So have a look below!
In the first half of the scene, Henri Cavill talks about the problems to shoot in one motion. Nowadays, many stunt choreographers opt for this high pace and high catching solution, like discussed in previous posts.
In the second half we can enjoy more of the stunt work of Henri Cavill. But this time, the “man of steel” is sharing the stage with the beautiful Emma Appleton, who plays Renfri. The two actors are not professional martial artists, but their love for the project and their talent come out of the camera!
Looking at the sword
The steel sword of Geralt is a short version of the medieval longsword. The blade is clearly double-edged with the characteristic cross-guard. The fencing style instead, is more similar to the Greco-Roman style: fast and technical. The using of one handed sword comes from the pre-medieval tradition also. Although, the reverse grip has oriental roots, giving the appeal that the show is looking for.
To conclude, the style of combat of the TV series of the Witcher is a smart mix of the greatest swordsman ages. It is quite different from the game, in which Geralt of Rivia fights like the magical union of a ninja and a medieval knight… The result of the adaptation is high and convincing, I personally hope to see more swords duel in the next seasons. In the meanwhile, let’s toss a coin to our Swordsman!