Image: HBO/Helen Sloan
The “Game of Thrones” fight scene between Arya Stark (Maisie Williams) and Brienne of Tarth (Gwendoline Christie) was one that fans watched with bated breath.
The two women stand out as powerful warriors in the series that reflects medieval patriarchal culture. For the first time, they went head to head—in a friendly sparring match.
“We trusted each other,” said Christie, who towers at 6 feet, 3 inches (or 1.9 meters), of their rehearsals.
Williams is of a petite 5 feet, 1 inch frame (1.55 meters), which meant stunt coordinator Rowley Irlam had to negotiate their height difference in developing the choreography.
“To be fighting Gwen who is far over a foot taller than me and for someone like her to be fighting someone far, far shorter than her—it’s been a massive challenge,” related Williams.
While the two actresses mastered their swordsmanship, stunt doubles (yes, that’s a man standing in for Christie) were also employed to add flourish to the scene—and to “stay out of harm’s way,” said Irlam.
Still impressive is seeing Williams effortlessly flick a dagger as part of her finishing move.
HBO’s “Game Revealed” shows behind-the-scenes footage and commentary from the cast and crew—and also helps fans keep their sanity while waiting for the final season. JB
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