Behind the Glamour: Mastering Equestrian Skills for the Screen
When actors step into the shoes—or in this case, stirrups—of their characters, the transformation can be quite profound. This is particularly true for Alex Hassell, who had to learn showjumping to convincingly portray the retired Olympic showjumper Rupert Campbell-Black in Disney+'s adaptation of Jilly Cooper's "Rivals." Let's trot through the behind-the-scenes journey that encapsulates the blend of skill, dedication, and an occasional neigh or two required to bring such a character to life.
The Rigorous Regimen: From Novice to Noble
Alex Hassell's transformation into a seemingly seasoned rider wasn't a walk in the park; rather, it was a gallop around the paddock. The actor, previously unacquainted with horses, undertook intensive training under equestrian expert Mark Atkinson. With over 25 years of experience coaching actors for TV and film, Atkinson shaped Hassell's fundamental riding skills through a stringent regimen designed to replicate a lifetime’s worth of knowledge in an espresso shot of time.
Selecting the Mighty Steeds
In any show where horses take the spotlight, casting the right equine counterparts is just as crucial as selecting the leading man. Enter Lockie, a 17.1hh Irish Draught chosen for his sterling temperament and suitability to play Rocky, Rupert's equestrian partner in the series. The selection process, led by Atkinson Action Horses, focused on the horses' comfort and safety during filming—one might say it was a casting coup 'neigh' (pun heavily intended) impossible to resist.
The Art of Authenticity
Depicting authenticity goes beyond merely sitting astride these majestic creatures. As Atkinson noted, it encompasses a myriad of subconscious habits that seasoned riders naturally exhibit, from the confident sway of the saddle to the unspoken bond with the horse. Perhaps the most crucial aspect of Hassell's training was achieving this level of authenticity, allowing viewers to believe in Rupert Campbell-Black's storied equestrian past.
Safety First: No Horsing Around
Of course, while authenticity is critical, ensuring safety on set is paramount. Atkinson Action Horses, renowned for their role in facilitating equestrian scenes in entertainment, implemented strict protocols to safeguard both humans and horses. It’s a delicate dance between actor and animal, choreographed to keep everyone’s toes, or hooves, intact.
Riding Through the Pages of Cultural History
Jilly Cooper's novels aren't just romantic dallies set in the fictional land of Rutshire; they’re cultural explorations of societal dynamics and passions, often revolving around the thrilling circuit of showjumping. "Rivals" weaves this motif into its tapestry, capturing the sport's elegant thrills and spills on screen. Since its debut in the 1980s, audiences have been transfixed by the narratives that straddle both art and sport.
The Long Reins of Showjumping in Media
From page to screen, the depiction of showjumping in Cooper's adaptations presents a journey of its own. The 1993 adaptation of "Riders" first brought these vivid stories to life, and since then, the sport has served as both backdrop and catalyst for drama, skillfully portrayed in the latest Disney+ rendition.
Conclusion: More Than Just Horseplay
Ultimately, Alex Hassell's odyssey into the world of equestrian arts spotlights a broader theme prevalent in film: the immersive transformation required to authentically portray a character. His collaboration with Mark Atkinson and the team at Atkinson Action Horses testifies to the synergy between artistic expression and equine expertise, underpinning the authentic depiction of Rupert Campbell-Black in "Rivals." On-screen, audiences relish the compelling narrative; behind the scenes, the meticulous craftsmanship tells an equally engrossing story.
For further reading on related topics, explore the role of equestrian training in film at Horse & Hound.
