Article Tag: Native Americans

Interview topics range from mate to the diversity of Viggo's interests, with focus on Hidalgo and the Native American history and culture that are touched on in the film. Viggo talks about the challenge of remaining his own person, finding space and time for art, and his love for Henry.

Viggo talks about Hidalgo as a story that appeals to his love of mythology and the hero's journey. "I like the big stories and the big landscapes. I guess I am interested in ordeals, whether you are in the Sahara desert or you're in New Zealand or wherever, but I also like small stories that can take place in a room, in a kitchen sink drama.... Any ordeal clears and purifies your vision of yourself and how you fit in or don't fit into the world. Those are the stories I am drawn to." Other topics include Frank Hopkins, mustangs, history, politics, and the Middle East. In other words, just a typical Viggo Mortensen interview.

Article and interview. After the release of Hidalgo, Viggo returned to South Dakota to participate in a trail ride and speak with Native Voice about the film, Miyelo, Native American culture, and the challenges facing people today. He also talks about the cost of stardom and his commitment to his fans: "You know, for me to look each person in the eye and listen to their question and answer them, and get their name right and be respectful—that takes a certain amount of energy for complete concentration.... At the end of the day you don’t have anything left, sometimes, for yourself. You have to find ways to hide out, that's all."