Fans of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power can learn a lot more about actor Ismael Cruz Córdova once they finish the eight episodes in the first season. In The Making of The Rings of Power, a collection of bonus footage that can be found on Amazon Prime via X-Ray, audiences get the opportunity to go behind the scenes to witness the magic it took to create the epic series.
For example, in The Making of The Rings of Power – Episode 3, Córdova’s interest in stunt work is featured in the scenes where his character Arondir must spend time in the trenches that were dug up by the orcs.
“My relationship with the stunt department has been so close,” Córdova said. “I’ve developed my character there. It’s a whole dance. They need to feel my weight. I need to feel their weight. It’s an entire relationship based on trust.”
Trust is something the stunt department had to have in Córdova, too, especially since he wanted to meet the physical challenges of his role on his own. “He’s very interested in getting it right,” said Simon Raby, second unit director. “He didn’t want anyone to do his stunts at all.”
In one scene during production, Córdova shows how he can do some of Arondir’s most acrobatic moves with the help of a wire harness. “I’m not a fan of heights,” he said. “There’s a moment of free falling. Even though I do get a bit scared, it’s a lot of fun.”
Córdova is also featured in episodes 4 and 6 of The Making of The Rings of Power. In episode 4, Arondir is seen running through the woods with hundreds of orcs chasing him and Theo (Tyroe Muhafidin). In episode 6, Arondir is seen fighting orcs alongside Bronwyn (Nazanin Boniadi).
Season 2 of the series started production last month, but it’s likely it’ll be a while before it wraps. Until then, take advantage of the bonus footage and cheer on Ismael Cruz Córdova and Arondir until the next chapter of the saga begins.
