Sword Master Rates 10 Sword Fights From Movies And TV | How Real Is It? | Insider

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David Rawlings critiques sword fighting clips for improper grip and unrealistic movements, while appreciating specific actions in "The Witcher" for historical martial arts techniques and clean finishes. He emphasizes the importance of beating blades down and immediate stabbing in fights, praising the Brienne of Tarth and Arya scene for constant engagement, but criticizing the Hound fights for being too quick and lacking depth.

Insights

  • Historical European martial arts discourage carrying swords on shoulders for practicality and safety reasons, promoting readiness without risking injury or hindrance.
  • The evaluation of fight scenes in "The Witcher" and other shows emphasizes the importance of proper sword grip, movement, and technique, showcasing the significance of historical martial arts techniques for realistic and engaging combat sequences.

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Recent questions

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Summary

00:00

Swordsmanship Critiques and Techniques in Film

  • David Rawlings, a swordsmanship instructor, critiques sword fighting clips.
  • Longswords are held in two hands and consist of a pommel, cross guard, grip, and blade.
  • Historical European martial arts discourage carrying swords on shoulders.
  • Holding a sword on the shoulder without a scabbard is common for readiness.
  • Critique of a fight scene involving improper sword grip and movements.
  • Positive aspects of sword movements in "The Witcher" fight scenes.
  • Evaluation of specific actions in a fight scene based on historical martial arts techniques.
  • Appreciation for distancing and clean finishes in a fight scene.
  • Explanation of sword-making techniques in Japanese and European traditions.
  • Critique of fight scenes for unrealistic movements and lack of proper technique.

11:45

"Blade techniques in fight scenes analyzed"

  • Sword fighting technique discussed, emphasizing the idea of beating someone's blade down and hitting back up with the false edge, focusing on immediate stabbing rather than parrying.
  • Appreciation for the fight scene between Brienne of Tarth and Arya for its cohesive movement and constant engagement without sacrificing.
  • Critique of the Hound fights for being too quick and lacking depth, highlighting the importance of a blade's purpose to either stab or hit.
  • Mention of the historical practice of mirror polishing pattern-welded blades and the tactical decisions involved in maintaining control during a fight, with a rating of two for realistic technique.
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