Swordmaster C.C. Smiff, known for his work on 2000’s “Gladiator” and HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” has also trained “Star Wars: The Forces Awakens” cast members in the art of lightsaber fight-sequences.
Fully equipped with lightsabers during an interview with The Associated Press on Thursday, Smiff gave us a glimpse at some of the techniques used.
Demonstrating how to use the weapon, Smiff revealed some of the challenges he faced whilst sharing his mastery.
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“Sometimes it’s a battle but the guys we had, we were very very lucky,” explained Smiff.
“They almost walked straight into it. Sometimes it’s good to have someone who’s done nothing. They’re like a bit of playdough then and you can shape them how you want. ‘No, no, this is the stance I want you in,’ but we also go to fit styles. So for you it might suit you to be a little bit more raised and bit more defensive or you might be aggressive coming forward with it all the time.”
Handling the lightsaber isn’t easy and Smiff warned the general public about the dangers, while also sharing a few tips and techniques.
“The main thing is, and this is for people at home, I know you’re bored of hearing it, please be safe,” pleaded Smiff.
“Because even with blunted edges and stuff you still hurt each other or you can back off and trip over. With all our fights we go really, really slowly. Like you’re in syrup because otherwise you just look messy and it looks ugly. Work it out, make it simple but strong anf good. And then speed it up. The opponent knows what you’re doing and you don’t get hurt then.”
Under the watchful eye of Smiff none of the cast were hurt during shooting.
“Daisy (Ridley) couldn’t be too good. She’s had a staff, she’s a street urchin. Maybe that’s the wrong word to say. So she’s had a staff and then to suddenly come out there and do all this, so we went for more aggressive and power with this one. Maybe in the future we can then start to flow it up with a bit more work. I liked a lot of two hands like the original as well so there’s a lot more scope. Whereas Adam (Driver) he’s there already. He’s powerful and strong.”
“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” began its worldwide release schedule Wednesday.
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