Game of Thrones [The TV Show Only; Please No Spoilers Based Upon the Books]

Agreed, looks promising. I did think the requisite doggy style in each sex scene got a bit tiring though.

quote:

Originally posted by snipes:
Agreed, looks promising. I did think the requisite doggy style in each sex scene got a bit tiring though.

Agreed, it was done to show the male domination of the society, but it may have been overkill. Meanwhile, those girls are stunning.

quote:

Originally posted by snipes:
Agreed, looks promising. I did think the requisite doggy style in each sex scene got a bit tiring though.

Lol. Some time during the show last night, my wife turned to me and said, "Is that the only position they used back then?"

But yes, this show looks very promising indeed. We haven't watched last night's third episode of 'The Borgias' yet, but I can already tell that I'll enjoy Game of Thrones more. Though I guess I already expected that going in...HBO always seems to deliver for me more than Showtime. Don't get me wrong, Dexter and Californication are two of my favorites shows on TV, but HBO seems to deliver a more epic feel, and higher production value when it comes to these kinds of shows - not to say Showtime didn't deliver with 'The Tudors' though, which was stellar.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

quote:

Originally posted by snipes:
Agreed, looks promising. I did think the requisite doggy style in each sex scene got a bit tiring though.

Agreed, it was done to show the male domination of the society, but it may have been overkill. Meanwhile, those girls are stunning.

Former 15, just what exactly am I missing here?

quote:

Originally posted by wine+art:

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

quote:

Originally posted by snipes:
Agreed, looks promising. I did think the requisite doggy style in each sex scene got a bit tiring though.

Agreed, it was done to show the male domination of the society, but it may have been overkill. Meanwhile, those girls are stunning.

Former 15, just what exactly am I missing here?

Are you saying you don't find the girls attractive, or are you saying you don't know what we are talking about? This is a NSFW shot of one of the primary stars. We'll see how the plot goes, but it seems interesting.

This show is perfectly done. Fans of the book, except hardcore perfectionists, can only be thrilled. Outsiders should find no trouble quickly getting sucked into this fantasy world. And for those of us who think Peter Dinklage is great, a showcase vehicle for his talents.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
This show is perfectly done. Fans of the book, except hardcore perfectionists, can only be thrilled. Outsiders should find no trouble quickly getting sucked into this fantasy world. And for those of us who think Peter Dinklage is great, a showcase vehicle for his talents.

I didn't read the books but, as I said, it looks really good. Almost a cross between The Sopranos and Lord of the Rings. I agree about Dinklage.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
This show is perfectly done. Fans of the book, except hardcore perfectionists, can only be thrilled. Outsiders should find no trouble quickly getting sucked into this fantasy world. And for those of us who think Peter Dinklage is great, a showcase vehicle for his talents.

I think I prefer you when you are complaining or criticizing something. This is too out of character for you and outside of my comfort zone.

Watched the first episode on the DVR last night. I'll give it three episodes before I give it a thumbs up or down.

quote:

Originally posted by spo:

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
This show is perfectly done. Fans of the book, except hardcore perfectionists, can only be thrilled. Outsiders should find no trouble quickly getting sucked into this fantasy world. And for those of us who think Peter Dinklage is great, a showcase vehicle for his talents.

I think I prefer you when you are complaining or criticizing something. This is too out of character for you and outside of my comfort zone.

Anybody who doesn't like this show is an asshole. Better?

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
This show is perfectly done. Fans of the book, except hardcore perfectionists, can only be thrilled. Outsiders should find no trouble quickly getting sucked into this fantasy world. And for those of us who think Peter Dinklage is great, a showcase vehicle for his talents.

I didn't read the books but, as I said, it looks really good. Almost a cross between The Sopranos and Lord of the Rings. I agree about Dinklage.

Funny to mention The Sopranos. Did you note that the first show was directed by The Sopranos goto guy Timothy Van Patten? He of the mega-hotness The Wire.

quote:

Originally posted by AZwineRyan:

quote:

Originally posted by snipes:
Agreed, looks promising. I did think the requisite doggy style in each sex scene got a bit tiring though.

Lol. Some time during the show last night, my wife turned to me and said, "Is that the only position they used back then?"

The missionaries hadn't come along yet to spoil things...

Point of order. Technically, the Dothraki are having sex horsey style.

Finally saw the first episode on Saturday night. I am looking forward to this series and cannot to find out more information about these white walkers, should be exciting.

Last night was abit slow and seemed to drag. Maybe they are sitting us up for something, but the entire deal with the kid sword fight, other tha the treachory of the group, just didn't seem to fit!

Saw a short interview with the guy that plays the nomad leader with the hot white hair babe. There is a reason he has a non speaking role to date!

quote:

Originally posted by Sandy Fitzgerald:
Last night was abit slow and seemed to drag. Maybe they are sitting us up for something, but the entire deal with the kid sword fight, other tha the treachory of the group, just didn't seem to fit!

Saw a short interview with the guy that plays the nomad leader with the hot white hair babe. There is a reason he has a non speaking role to date!

The sword fight will have meaning for the Prince's relationship with Sansa. I say no more.

Finally watched the first episode last night and it does have promise.

While I understand they are trying to bring a sprawling epic to the small screen I do think if you've not read the books you are missing quite a bit of subplot and character insight.

quote:

Originally posted by Chilicat:
While I understand they are trying to bring a sprawling epic to the small screen I do think if you've not read the books you are missing quite a bit of subplot and character insight.

I always try to approach the medium on its own terms. I don't care about the book. Just look at this show (or movie or work of art or whatever.) Is it compelling, well produced well acted? With GoT the answer is a resounding YES.

The only way to truly translate a book to the screen is put all the text on the screen and perhaps have a narrator read all the words.

I've said before, and I'll say again, to say that a movie is not as good as the book is a meaningless statement.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
I've said before, and I'll say again, to say that a movie is not as good as the book is a meaningless statement.

You'll notice I refrained from judging any merit, i.e. it's as good/not good as the book, and merely made an observation. Based on the comments I'm reading here, I stand by that observation: much insight is lost if you haven't read the book(s). For instance, as I noted above, the Dothraki are not having sex "doggy style," they are having sex in a method that imitates the horses that are such a part of their culture. It's a pretty keen insight you're missing not knowing that and leads to the comments/conclusions I've read here.

Also, not reading the book(s) and watching the movie is neither good nor bad, it just leaves you in a state of imperfect information and insight that the author conveyed in the book. I really wasn't trying to get into any discursive analysis of various mediums and modes of expression...just kind of making a simple observation.

Anyone notice the character that is in both the Borgias and GOT? Confused me for a second.

I'm surprised no one's said anything about this show since its early episodes. It has quickly become one of my favorite shows on TV right now. The last 2 episodes have been killer.

i'm watching game of thrones/the borgais/camelot, and yes, i get confused here and there too...

thank GOD for "the killing"...

quote:

Originally posted by kingofcool:
Anyone notice the character that is in both the Borgias and GOT? Confused me for a second.

quote:

Originally posted by TBird:
i'm watching game of thrones/the borgais/camelot, and yes, i get confused here and there too...

thank GOD for "the killing"...

quote:

Originally posted by kingofcool:
Anyone notice the character that is in both the Borgias and GOT? Confused me for a second.

I am still confused about the character names in GOT, need a cheat sheet.

quote:

Originally posted by mareff:

quote:

Originally posted by TBird:
i'm watching game of thrones/the borgais/camelot, and yes, i get confused here and there too...

thank GOD for "the killing"...

quote:

Originally posted by kingofcool:
Anyone notice the character that is in both the Borgias and GOT? Confused me for a second.

I am still confused about the character names in GOT, need a cheat sheet.

don't worry, they all die sooner or later.

oops.

I've been enjoying this one as well.

quote:

Originally posted by mareff:
I am still confused about the character names in GOT, need a cheat sheet.

GoT cheat sheet

Just finished watching next weeks episode using the HBO iPad app and wow, it's really getting good.

quote:

Originally posted by AZwineRyan:
I'm surprised no one's said anything about this show since its early episodes. It has quickly become one of my favorite shows on TV right now. The last 2 episodes have been killer.

My favorite plot-based show airing new episodes on TV right now...

[obvious edit]

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

quote:

Originally posted by AZwineRyan:
I'm surprised no one's said anything about this show since its early episodes. It has quickly become one of my favorite shows on TV right now. The last 2 episodes have been killer.

My favorite scripted show airing new episodes on TV right now...

I'm assuming you're thinking of sports or talk shows as UNscripted, not reality shows which off course have unsung, though credited, writers.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

quote:

Originally posted by AZwineRyan:
I'm surprised no one's said anything about this show since its early episodes. It has quickly become one of my favorite shows on TV right now. The last 2 episodes have been killer.

My favorite scripted show airing new episodes on TV right now...

I'm assuming you're thinking of sports or talk shows as UNscripted, not reality shows which off course have unsung, though credited, writers.

You are correct. I was thinking of a way of defining it as a category that does not include shows like, specifically, The Daily Show and The Colbert Report -- not that I don't like it more than those shows, nor less, I just feel they are so different that it is unfair to compare them. Of course most of those shows are also scripted.

What I should have said is that it is my favorite plot-based show on TV airing new episodes right now.

I understood you perfectly winetarelli. No added explanation needed.

quote:

Originally posted by wineismylife:
I understood you perfectly winetarelli. No added explanation needed.

Thank you for me, I'm stoopid.

Unfortunately we live in a time when the lowest form of TV in its history has pretty much taken over. Low cost--high ratings, a programmer's dream.

You're welcome.

How did no one post on this thread after last week's episode? This week's is entitled The Pointy End. So excited. I haven't read the books so I can only imagine what is coming...

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
How did no one post on this thread after last week's episode? This week's is entitled The Pointy End. So excited. I haven't read the books so I can only imagine what is coming...

The same thing instantly came to my mind as soon as I noticed this thread bumped up..."how has no one posted about last week's episode yet?"

This series has continued to get stronger each episode of the season thus far, and last week's episode took it to a different level. I'm excited to see what happens tonight.

Clearly the best show on TV right now, and one of the best overall shows on TV in general for that matter.

A great episode and also shows how they've got so much talent that even a semi-major character like Sansa tears it up at the end.

Unfortunately there will really be nowhere for this to go. With the fifth book coming out after an almost 6 year wait, and with two more books due to end the series, I don't think you'll ever see a resolution on HBO.

Having never read these books, is the story on HBO coming close to the actual plots in the books?

quote:

Originally posted by mareff:
Having never read these books, is the story on HBO coming close to the actual plots in the books?

The show is an excellent adaptation of the first book A Game of Thrones. Many scenes in the book have been cut to keep it to 10 episodes, but if they didn't you'd need at least double that. Almost every major event and scene from the book is represented however.

The look and attention to detail must thrill all Martin fans except the diehards. And Martin has said it's faithful to the book. Also note he wrote last night's excellent episode. But the problem will be that even though each book ends with a real punch (and begins with one for that matter) there is no conclusion yet to the series. And even if there was could HBO continue with its excellent production values for seven seasons? Though HBO has, as noted, already announced the production of the second book I can't see where they can make a commitment to finish the series. It would need Roots-like ratings.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:

quote:

Originally posted by mareff:
Having never read these books, is the story on HBO coming close to the actual plots in the books?

The show is an excellent adaptation of the first book A Game of Thrones. Many scenes in the book have been cut to keep it to 10 episodes, but if they didn't you'd need at least double that. Almost every major event and scene from the book is represented however.

The look and attention to detail must thrill all Martin fans except the diehards. And Martin has said it's faithful to the book. Also note he wrote last night's excellent episode. But the problem will be that even though each book ends with a real punch (and begins with one for that matter) there is no conclusion yet to the series. And even if there was could HBO continue with its excellent production values for seven seasons? Though HBO has, as noted, already announced the production of the second book I can't see where they can make a commitment to finish the series. It would need Roots-like ratings.

I noted, myself, that Martin wrote the last episode, and I thought it was fantastic.

As to ratings... the ratings paradigm is somewhat different for pay cable than for regular cable and networks. The only number HBO is interested in is the number of people who will continue to subscribe partially or fully due to the fact that this is on the air. Consequently, their calculus is based upon uniqueness and quality, rather than broadness -- a very different operating scheme than networks, which is why virtually all the best shows are on pay cable (mostly HBO).

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
The only number HBO is interested in is the number of people who will continue to subscribe partially or fully due to the fact that this is on the air.

And I'm seriously considering signing up, largely because of this series. But I remain less excited about the following books because (to me) they seemed to wander aimlessly with no convergence toward a conclusion. Still, the first book is that good!

quote:

Originally posted by SD-Wineaux:

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
The only number HBO is interested in is the number of people who will continue to subscribe partially or fully due to the fact that this is on the air.

And I'm seriously considering signing up, largely because of this series. But I remain less excited about the following books because (to me) they seemed to wander aimlessly with
no convergence toward a conclusion. Still, the first book is that good!

I don't know, I'm 3/4 through Clash of Kings and really enjoying it. The first three books all get great reviews and the fourth is rated good, but not great. 3,000+ pages and he has a pretty good batting average.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
I don't know, I'm 3/4 through Clash of Kings and really enjoying it. The first three books all get great reviews and the fourth is rated good, but not great. 3,000+ pages and he has a pretty good batting average.

Well, I don't want to clog up this thread any further with this side topic. But's let's just agree that different people can reach different conclusions and still be right according to their preferences.

Is this show really that good? I was kind of chuffed all tv shows were finished and I could get fresh air...very tempted to check this one out now.

IMO it's the best series since "The Wire", which I also think out shone the Sopranos for consistency. (the highs might have been higher in the Sopranos, but boy it got bogged down in the middle)

quote:

Originally posted by SD-Wineaux:

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
I don't know, I'm 3/4 through Clash of Kings and really enjoying it. The first three books all get great reviews and the fourth is rated good, but not great. 3,000+ pages and he has a pretty good batting average.

Well, I don't want to clog up this thread any further with this side topic. But's let's just agree that different people can reach different conclusions and still be right according to their preferences.

Never, at least in this thread, suggested otherwise. It is nice there's almost universal agreement on the TV show. I agree with grossie's comment on both The Wire and The Sopranos. Due to The Sopranos' inconsistency I might put Battlestar Galactica above it. Helps to be a sci-fi fan, but not really required with this particular show.

Saw the pilot last night...bit confusing, loads of different characters, and I'm not sure who's who when they're talking about each other...but the ending was rather...intense.

quote:

Originally posted by Adam10:
Saw the pilot last night...bit confusing, loads of different characters, and I'm not sure who's who when they're talking about each other...but the ending was rather...intense.

Adam10, it sucks you in. By the third or fourth episode you begin to figure out who is who. You are supposed to be confused at the beginning.

Yeah...saw the second one last night...I'm just a bit confused as to what happened to the original King, and how Robert became King if the male twin killed his predecessor...

...that blonde bird is WAY fitter with brown hair if you google her. The minty who taught her how to shag was far more tasty, too.

Wonder what's going to happen with the Dragon eggs...and I think the performances from the child actors is strong in this series.

Oh and why doesn't Snow have his Dad's last name just cos he's a bastard?

quote:

Originally posted by Adam10:
Yeah...saw the second one last night...I'm just a bit confused as to what happened to the original King, and how Robert became King if the male twin killed his predecessor...

...that blonde bird is WAY fitter with brown hair if you google her. The minty who taught her how to shag was far more tasty, too.

Wonder what's going to happen with the Dragon eggs...and I think the performances from the child actors is strong in this series.

Oh and why doesn't Snow have his Dad's last name just cos he's a bastard?

These are all questions that get answered as the series goes along!

And I'll take Emilia Clarke with any color hair, thank you. I agree the girl who taught her is amazing, too.

OMFG what an episode. War is brewing and things are just getting interesting. Wow...I will say it again WOW!!!!!!

Well, it is great. But the problem is coming. Next week ends the first season which will match the end of the first book. The fifth of seven planned books is coming out next month. It took over five years for Martin to finish it. So even if he finished the final volume will HBO find it's worth the money to try and produce seven seasons of the show? Will the books be finished by the time they are ready to shoot the final series? Can they keep the cast together (minus of course the surprise deaths)? This has been a great effort, but can it be sustained to give us an ending?

I haven't read the books... and I don't want to. This is just too good. Last night's episode was amazing.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

I haven't read the books... and I don't want to. This is just too good. Last night's episode was amazing.

Agreed. This show has been brilliant since the beginning, but the last 3 episodes or so have taken it to a new level.

I'm at this point rather glad I haven't read the books because the shock value is still there for me...I was absolutely stunned at the death of Lord Stark going through.

I'm not telling anyone to read the books--though I think they're great. And I never compare books and movies. The problem is there is no ending, and I don't believe they will create one for the series. I don't think Martin would agree to that.

It's kind of as if they made the Lord Of The Rings trilogy, but the third book wasn't written yet, and there was no definite date for when it was going to come out.

On a side note winetarelli, if it's still possible to edit the thread title it should say, Game of Thrones with spoilers. We do this on another forum I'm in.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
On a side note winetarelli, if it's still possible to edit the thread title it should say, Game of Thrones with spoilers. We do this on another forum I'm in.

I was a little surprised by Ryan's spoiler there, myself!

Done. But may I suggest that discussion on this thread be kept to the show only in terms of spoilers. ie. It is fine to discuss a surprise twist that happened on the show, but not one that happens in the books after the most recent episode of the show has aired.

Sean Bean: Badass.

So apparently he is 52, was outside of a bar smoking with his 22 year old girlfriend who happens to be a Playboy playmate. Some guy past and made a comment to her about seeing her breasts and Sean told him where to shove it. Later, the guy came back to the bar, started an unprovoked physical altercation which Sean won but which wound up seeing Sean stabbed with glass (a bottle, I think). He accepted first aide from the bar tender but refused to go to the hospital and then ordered another drink and continued the evening out with his girlfriend.

I'm not so sure that it was a case of being of being a badass, rather it may be that he just lost his head.

I watched the first three episodes last night. I enjoyed it but found it a bit confusing since I havent read any of the books. Is more of the back story told along the way or should I read the books and then watch the rest of the show?

<slight overall plot spoiler Very high level>
the book is just about the same

the show has so far been very true to the book.

heck even the cut scenes over to the other storylines feels like it matches the book exactly.

The dialog too.

The first book is over 1000 pages, so you can imagine it takes time to build up a whole story.

But where's the overview to follow along.

There's 1 overall story line, 3 main story lines- with 2 that spawn off it, and 2 side stories that have been revealed in the show so far.

The overall is that everyone is fighting for the iron throne.

3 major story lines where everything spawns off are:
Starks involvement
Lannisters involvement
Targaryen involvement
with 2 side plots that spawn off it
-Littlefinger
-Baratheon family

There's also 3 side stories that sneak in there but really ins't part of hte major story line but will form significant side stories.
Jon snow and the night watch
and another 2 other fun little plots that I won't spoil as the show hasn't gotten there yet.

quote:

Originally posted by jburman82:
I watched the first three episodes last night. I enjoyed it but found it a bit confusing since I havent read any of the books. Is more of the back story told along the way or should I read the books and then watch the rest of the show?

Just watch the show. You don't need to read the book, though excellent as it is.

quote:

Originally posted by vinole:
I'm not so sure that it was a case of being of being a badass, rather it may be that he just lost his head.

A lot of great lines in this. "Surely there must be a way to kill me that is less detrimental to the war effort"

quote:

Originally posted by spo:
A lot of great lines in this. "Surely there must be a way to kill me that is less detrimental to the war effort"

The stampede scene that followed was funny as hell. And I wish they had shown a tad more fighting scenes instead of tiny glimpse of it every now and then.

quote:

Originally posted by spo:
A lot of great lines in this. "Surely there must be a way to kill me that is less detrimental to the war effort"

His character makes the film. He must have felt he hit the jackpot when he scored that part.

Im all caught up and really enjoying the series. I was very caught off guard by the beheading. Are they setting up the imp as an anti-hero?

Referencing a comment above about the books. Is there really no ending? I hate it when a show doesnt wrap stuff up . . . cough . . . Sopranos . . . cough. If there is no ending is the guy writing another book or is he just leaving it hanging?

quote:

Originally posted by jburman82:
Im all caught up and really enjoying the series. I was very caught off guard by the beheading. Are they setting up the imp as an anti-hero?

Referencing a comment above about the books. Is there really no ending? I hate it when a show doesnt wrap stuff up . . . cough . . . Sopranos . . . cough. If there is no ending is the guy writing another book or is he just leaving it hanging?

The Sopranos had an ending--it was just terrible. The difference here, as I've said in earlier posts, is that there currently is no ending. It's a planned seven book series with the fifth one coming out next month. Each book ends with a dramatic event, but it is not a wrap up. So the final episode on Sunday will end with dramatic events, but no conclusion. The same thing will happen when the second series comes out next year. And it will continue for as many books as they are willing to finance to adapt to the series. Going by Martin's current track record for releasing the books we may be looking to 2020 before the books are finished let alone the TV series.

Think I might just watch this last episode then and call it a day. Glad I never invested my time in the Sopranos if that's the case, as well. I tried the pilot but went off rather quickly. Now - True Blood starting in a month.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:

quote:

Originally posted by jburman82:
Im all caught up and really enjoying the series. I was very caught off guard by the beheading. Are they setting up the imp as an anti-hero?

Referencing a comment above about the books. Is there really no ending? I hate it when a show doesnt wrap stuff up . . . cough . . . Sopranos . . . cough. If there is no ending is the guy writing another book or is he just leaving it hanging?

The Sopranos had an ending--it was just terrible. The difference here, as I've said in earlier posts, is that there currently is no ending. It's a planned seven book series with the fifth one coming out next month. Each book ends with a dramatic event, but it is not a wrap up. So the final episode on Sunday will end with dramatic events, but no conclusion. The same thing will happen when the second series comes out next year. And it will continue for as many books as they are willing to finance to adapt to the series. Going by Martin's current track record for releasing the books we may be looking to 2020 before the books are finished let alone the TV series.

Im understanding a little bit better now. So each season is one book, with only 4 out and HBO's standard slow production time this will run out of steam before its finished so I should just go ahead and start reading the books which really wont be that much faster.

anyone want to start to guess what the possible ending should be?

I dont know what it should be but I am rooting for the horse dudes kid. I love he calls his unborn son "The Stallion that will mount the world"

I .... won't say anything =)

but to have a deus ex machina this early in the process is no fun =)

When I hear dues ex machina I think about something totally ridiculous. Like the old Gods bringing Ned back to life.

quote:

Originally posted by jburman82:
When I hear dues ex machina I think about something totally ridiculous. Like the old Gods bringing Ned back to life.

the fact that the story would end if the son was born because he's the prophecy of "The Stallion that will mount the world" is simply a cope out.

quote:

Originally posted by jburman82:
When I hear dues ex machina I think about something totally ridiculous. Like the old Gods bringing Ned back to life.

How did you know?

I am simply making a conjecture stating that the author would be pulling an out of nowhere ending to if the prophecy was fulfilled since the last three books have not stated the ending.

Actually even if you followed the book, we still don't know what would truly happen, but I for one would be really disappointed.

Anyone remember if there was ever a scene in which the king DID NOT drank... or rather gulped wine ?

quote:

Originally posted by Gundam:
Anyone remember if there was ever a scene in which the king DID NOT drank... or rather gulped wine ?

Drinking water, I would imagine, is less common.

I just got caught up with this series, and so far so good. It was a bit of adjustment with the references -- couldn't tell if the characters were referring to their kingdoms, enemies, or their friends.

quote:

Originally posted by g-man:
how so? your post is more of a spoiler then mine, how about editing it =)

I am simply making a conjecture stating that the author would be pulling an out of nowhere ending to if the prophecy was fulfilled since the last three books have not stated the ending.

Actually even if you followed the book, we still don't know what would truly happen, but I for one would be really disappointed.

At least I have a warning.

When I first read it in the book my first thought was perhaps we would follow the adventures that lead the Stallion to rule Westeros. I did not see his birth as being an end to the story. We will have to see.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:

When I first read it in the book my first thought was perhaps we would follow the adventures that lead the Stallion to rule Westeros. I did not see his birth as being an end to the story. We will have to see.

It just does't fit right to introduce the trials and tribulations that a 16 yr old girl goes through and is shown as a main character to have her son side step her story line wouldn't you agree?

that's why i think her baby is a minor character.

Please note the new title of this thread.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
Please note the new title of this thread.

so is the thread only for reviews or for discussion on possible future storylines?

since the book has't ended, no one really knows =)

quote:

Originally posted by g-man:

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
Please note the new title of this thread.

so is the thread only for reviews or for discussion on possible future storylines?

since the book has't ended, no one really knows =)

It just seemed like there were people who were discussing specific plot lines that won't be on TV for years. I just think a lot of the people contributing to this thread haven't read the books and might not want to read definitively of a plot point that won't be on television for a year or more...

I'm thinking I pretty much need to quit clicking on this thread.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

quote:

Originally posted by g-man:

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
Please note the new title of this thread.

so is the thread only for reviews or for discussion on possible future storylines?

since the book has't ended, no one really knows =)

It just seemed like there were people who were discussing specific plot lines that won't be on TV for years. I just think a lot of the people contributing to this thread haven't read the books and might not want to read definitively of a plot point that won't be on television for a year or more...

i did not at all,

all of my posts are literally what the show has been up to at that point.

I've made conjectures on points that because teh book hasn't ended, I myself don't know where it might go.

I certainly brought up no other future character names either.

Now if people go around replying with confirmation of my posts, I can't be held accountable for that =)

I'll be the first to say, how friggin long do we have to wait for the next season?! Knowing HBO, I'm sure it will be around a year, hopefully no longer. As someone who hasn't read the books, the finale left so much out there without any hint of resolution. As expected, the ending was amazing...the dragon lives!

I'm waiting for Season 2 of Boardwalk Empire.

quote:

Originally posted by AZwineRyan:
I'll be the first to say, how friggin long do we have to wait for the next season?! Knowing HBO, I'm sure it will be around a year, hopefully no longer. As someone who hasn't read the books, the finale left so much out there without any hint of resolution. As expected, the ending was amazing...the dragon lives!

My wife and I knew what was coming, and had faith that they could pull it off--and they did brillantly. The scene is now set for the second book--what's beyond the wall, what wars are brewing, what will Dany do with her new friends?

But still can HBO pull of 7 seasons when the 6th and 7th book aren't even out? Can you keep your excellent cast together, what about the child actors? With all those years of Harry Potter movies they were bringing in hundreds of millions of dollars in profit and cross-promotions. Will HBO be able to finish A Song of Fire and Ice, and will I live long enough to see it?

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:

quote:

Originally posted by AZwineRyan:
I'll be the first to say, how friggin long do we have to wait for the next season?! Knowing HBO, I'm sure it will be around a year, hopefully no longer. As someone who hasn't read the books, the finale left so much out there without any hint of resolution. As expected, the ending was amazing...the dragon lives!

My wife and I knew what was coming, and had faith that they could pull it off--and they did brillantly. The scene is now set for the second book--what's beyond the wall, what wars are brewing, what will Dany do with her new friends?

But still can HBO pull of 7 seasons when the 6th and 7th book aren't even out? Can you keep your excellent cast together, what about the child actors? With all those years of Harry Potter movies they were bringing in hundreds of millions of dollars in profit and cross-promotions. Will HBO be able to finish A Song of Fire and Ice, and will I live long enough to see it?

i agree, the child actors were brilliant.

one thing i loved about the books is how he portrays the kids and their emotions.

I thought Rob's sobbing scene was pretty bad.

Other than that, a great close to the season. I have lots of questions, but at least it didn't end like last week.

Spring of 2012, is when season two comes back, are they insane, making us wait that long.

quote:

Originally posted by mareff:
Spring of 2012, is when season two comes back, are they insane, making us wait that long.

Pretty common for HBO. A number of seasons for The Sopranos were more than a year apart.

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:

quote:

Originally posted by mareff:
Spring of 2012, is when season two comes back, are they insane, making us wait that long.

Pretty common for HBO. A number of seasons for The Sopranos were more than a year apart.

Entourage is even worse.

Im just going to go ahead and read the books.

She looked alright in that fire....

I may have to consider the books as well. Spring 2012. Ugh.

I saw the final scene coming a mile away -- ever since she did not get burned by the hot eggs -- yet it was still wonderful when it happened. The whole witch thing caught me a bit off guard.

Next week True Blood returns. Then Curb Your Enthusiasm, then Entourage, then Boardwalk Empire. And, of course, we have to wait a year, but, it will / better be worth it for the next season of this. I have to say, as a person who watches virtually zero network television, HBO is just about the most no-brainer $20/month I could possibly imagine spending.

...although it's free online....

quote:

Originally posted by Mr Cabernet:
But still can HBO pull of 7 seasons when the 6th and 7th book aren't even out? Can you keep your excellent cast together, what about the child actors? With all those years of Harry Potter movies they were bringing in hundreds of millions of dollars in profit and cross-promotions. Will HBO be able to finish A Song of Fire and Ice, and will I live long enough to see it?

Great show. I would love to see it play out for 7 seasons. Maybe the writer should contribute to the TV shows and then write the books at his typical pace. It wouldn't be the end of the world if season 6 aired before the 6th book was out. An unlikely solution but it sounds good to me.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

Next week True Blood returns. Then Curb Your Enthusiasm, then Entourage, then Boardwalk Empire. And, of course, we have to wait a year, but, it will / better be worth it for the next season of this. I have to say, as a person who watches virtually zero network television, HBO is just about the most no-brainer $20/month I could possibly imagine spending.

+1. You pretty much just named the 4 best shows on TV, and they're all on the same network. I do have a soft spot for Dexter and Californication on Showtime, but HBO is clearly the king of premium programming. I'm really enjoying the brand new Franklin & Bash show on TNT as well right now.

quote:

Originally posted by AZwineRyan:

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

Next week True Blood returns. Then Curb Your Enthusiasm, then Entourage, then Boardwalk Empire. And, of course, we have to wait a year, but, it will / better be worth it for the next season of this. I have to say, as a person who watches virtually zero network television, HBO is just about the most no-brainer $20/month I could possibly imagine spending.

+1. You pretty much just named the 4 best shows on TV, and they're all on the same network. I do have a soft spot for Dexter and Californication on Showtime, but HBO is clearly the king of premium programming. I'm really enjoying the brand new Franklin & Bash show on TNT as well right now.

I haven't seen Franklin & Bash, looks entertaining and we seem to have similar taste, I may check it out... I like the attractive naked girls on Californication, but I find the show, overall, a bit simplistic and strangely preachy in an odd sort of way. Dexter, on the other hand, imo, is outright excellence. Seasons 1 and 2 were very good. 3, 4 and 5 were off the charts brilliant, with 4 (Lithgow) maybe being the best season of plot driven drama I have ever seen.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

I haven't seen Franklin & Bash, looks entertaining and we seem to have similar taste, I may check it out... I like the attractive naked girls on Californication, but I find the show, overall, a bit simplistic and strangely preachy in an odd sort of way. Dexter, on the other hand, imo, is outright excellence. Seasons 1 and 2 were very good. 3, 4 and 5 were off the charts brilliant, with 4 (Lithgow) maybe being the best season of plot driven drama I have ever seen.

Very similar tastes indeed it appears. I believe the 4th season of Dexter is one of the all-time greatest seasons ever on TV. Lithgow in particular put on what I consider the best supporting performance ever on a TV series as well.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

quote:

Originally posted by AZwineRyan:

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:

Next week True Blood returns. Then Curb Your Enthusiasm, then Entourage, then Boardwalk Empire. And, of course, we have to wait a year, but, it will / better be worth it for the next season of this. I have to say, as a person who watches virtually zero network television, HBO is just about the most no-brainer $20/month I could possibly imagine spending.

+1. You pretty much just named the 4 best shows on TV, and they're all on the same network. I do have a soft spot for Dexter and Californication on Showtime, but HBO is clearly the king of premium programming. I'm really enjoying the brand new Franklin & Bash show on TNT as well right now.

I haven't seen Franklin & Bash, looks entertaining and we seem to have similar taste, I may check it out... I like the attractive naked girls on Californication, but I find the show, overall, a bit simplistic and strangely preachy in an odd sort of way. Dexter, on the other hand, imo, is outright excellence. Seasons 1 and 2 were very good. 3, 4 and 5 were off the charts brilliant, with 4 (Lithgow) maybe being the best season of plot driven drama I have ever seen.

I think Californication takes the cake out of all of them. Great characters and lines. Still fresh plot as well. Dex and Entourage are beginning to push the envelope a bit. Entourage is finally done this year I think.

WINTER IS COMING !!

I seriously LOLed reading this bit - Messing with the wrong queen

Like Mad Men, another show I love that is off to a slow start.

Having not read the GoT books, I have no idea what to expect the rest of this season. I'm just hoping that once it gets going, it will be as or more solid than the first season.

I was talking to my cousin who has read all the books and said I wanted to start reading them. He said I could skip book two because nothing happened. So far he is right.

quote:

Originally posted by jburman82:
I was talking to my cousin who has read all the books and said I wanted to start reading them. He said I could skip book two because nothing happened. So far he is right.

A lot of plot building in book 2. Book 3.... the shit hits the fan.

I haven't watched the series (I just got the first disk of Game of Thrones from Netflix and will be watching it soon), but I've read all of the books - some of them several times.

Books 1-3 are without equal, in my opinion. 4 and 5 slow down things considerably.

There is a Chapter in Book 3 (Anyone who has read the book probably knows what I am referring to) that just knocks your socks off. I literally had to put the book down, walk around outside, and then come back in and re-read the chapter to make sure I had read it correctly.

quote:

Originally posted by Rothko:
I haven't watched the series (I just got the first disk of Game of Thrones from Netflix and will be watching it soon), but I've read all of the books - some of them several times.

Books 1-3 are without equal, in my opinion. 4 and 5 slow down things considerably.

There is a Chapter in Book 3 (Anyone who has read the book probably knows what I am referring to) that just knocks your socks off. I literally had to put the book down, walk around outside, and then come back in and re-read the chapter to make sure I had read it correctly.

I did the same when reading that chapter. I actually had to read it a few times just to be sure I read what I thought I did. Book three while very long was by far the best of the bunch for me.

I'd like to say more, but don't want to spoil it for those who haven't read the book.

Game of Thrones in America

This season has been excellent.

quote:

Originally posted by spo:
This season has been excellent.

I really enjoyed the Aria + Tywin scenes, even more than Tyrion's witty comments. Every scene was so well done, never a dull moment.

My only complaint is that HBO's budget has been slim for a show of this grand scale. The dragons weren't shown very often due to the cost of CGI. Every episode has been talking about war but we never really see one. Let's hope HBO saved enough from the last season to make a big splash next week. If it turns out it's just 1 guard pointing in a direction yelling "Look, there is an army!" and then show us a dozen soldiers fighting, I am gonna flip a table .

quote:

Originally posted by Gundam:

quote:

Originally posted by spo:
This season has been excellent.

I really enjoyed the Aria + Tywin scenes, even more than Tyrion's witty comments. Every scene was so well done, never a dull moment.

My only complaint is that HBO's budget has been slim for a show of this grand scale. The dragons weren't shown very often due to the cost of CGI. Every episode has been talking about war but we never really see one. Let's hope HBO saved enough from the last season to make a big splash next week. If it turns out it's just 1 guard pointing in a direction yelling "Look, there is an army!" and then show us a dozen soldiers fighting, I am gonna flip a table .

This show, imo, is not about the action scenes or special effects; it is about an incredible cast that continually delivers in every scene.

I can't wait for the season finale.

Gigabit, I completely agree. It'd still be an utterly superb show without the grand effects. It's just that the whole season has been teasing about a battle at Kings Landing, so the anticipation and high expectation does builds in.

On a side note, tonight I watched a movie starring Sean Bean. Guess what happened near the end?
Tip: again

quote:

Originally posted by gigabit:
This show, imo, is not about the action scenes or special effects; it is about an incredible cast that continually delivers in every scene.

I can't wait for the season finale.

I agree but on the flip side I am getting annoyed. This show spends a entire season building and shaping a character that you grow to really like. They do a great job at it. Then he's dead.

Second season has not been as good as the first, but this week's was really great.

I hate Joffre and want him to be dethroned/beheaded, but I also hate Stannis' entitlement and wouldn't mind seeing him crushed.

Just as long as Tyrion remains a major character...

Interesting finale, from what people are saying next season will be explosive!!!!

I started watching the first season. Have gotten through episodes 1 and 2. Seems very faithful to the book so far.

Just finished the first season. Very well done, I think, and faithful to the book.

I wish Martin would get off his rear end and finish the series. To paraphrase Glen Allen Walken from the "West Wing", Martin looks like he's one prime rib dinner away from sudden cardiac arrest.

6 Days!!!

The trailers for the upcoming season look amazing...

Looking forward to this. This is my wife's favorite show so she is really amped to get it started again.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
6 Days!!!

The trailers for the upcoming season look amazing...

Indeed!

Everyone else have their Ommegang Iron Throne ready?

The season premiere of Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead season finale on the same night?

Tonight!!!

quote:

Originally posted by gigabit:
The season premiere of Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead season finale on the same night?

Thank you DVR!!!

3 hours...

Lots of exposition. I'm hoping for great things. (I hear they divided the book -- which apparently is often considered the best in the series) into seasons 3 and 4.

Also, on a completely shallow and aesthetic note, I hate that once actresses become famous they feel the need to become rail thin. I still love Emilia Clarke, but she was even better when she looked like a normal human female weight.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
Also, on a completely shallow and aesthetic note, I hate that once actresses become famous they feel the need to become rail thin. I still love Emilia Clarke, but she was even better when she looked like a normal human female weight.

Really? She was on Fallon last night and looked great. She looks so much better with dark hair.

We watched the season 2 recap show and then the season premier last night. Lots going on, but it’s great to have this show back.

quote:

Originally posted by GlennK:

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelli:
Also, on a completely shallow and aesthetic note, I hate that once actresses become famous they feel the need to become rail thin. I still love Emilia Clarke, but she was even better when she looked like a normal human female weight.

Really? She was on Fallon last night and looked great. She looks so much better with dark hair.

We watched the season 2 recap show and then the season premier last night. Lots going on, but it’s great to have this show back.

I thought she looked like she'd lost too much weight, but I also have a sinus infection so maybe my sight is askew

Are the books good?

quote:

Originally posted by Jcocktosten:
Are the books good?

I hear they are, particularly book 3, on which this season is based...

quote:

Originally posted by Jcocktosten:
Are the books good?

i actually like book 1 the best as it sets the major framework

book two clash of kings also is quite enjoyable as it adds a depth of complexity to the overall story

book 3 I feel like it's starts getting a bit messy but it tries to weave in a new story line to keep the guys in the north interesting.

book 4 is boring as it tries to build a new arc, the show i feel does this more justice and helps flesh out daenarys better

book 5 starts off slow, but starts building up. there's alot more symbolism in this book then all the other ones and he really starts bringing this series closer to fantasy but it's split because he cut it short and made the other half book 6.

the books are definitely an epic read. the first 5 books are like 5000 pages!

took me a year of commute reading to finish all 5.

The first three are as good as any fantasy or science fiction trilogy, or epic, out there. I liked the fourth book, but if you look on Amazon you'll see there's a lot of hate out there for it--especially after waiting 6+ years for it. The fifth I haven't read--waiting for the paperback to match my set. However, it is loathed by hundreds (thousands?) on Amazon.

quote:

Originally posted by The Old Man:
The first three are as good as any fantasy or science fiction trilogy, or epic, out there.

+1

Yes. The first three are phenomenal works. I especially enjoyed the third, once I was able to recover from my shock and realize that the author had something else in mind as to who the important characters are in the series.

The first 4 were great imo. The 5th was a big disappointment - on many levels. I read it when the hard cover first came out so details are foggy, but I think he just ran out of good story. It was painful at times to get through.

Knowing what I know now - I'd skip the 5th and retain the positive memory of the original set.

quote:

Originally posted by VinCentric:
The first 4 were great imo. The 5th was a big disappointment - on many levels. I read it when the hard cover first came out so details are foggy, but I think he just ran out of good story. It was painful at times to get through.

Knowing what I know now - I'd skip the 5th and retain the positive memory of the original set.

yea that's my gripe

he spends so much of teh book trying to build up the background that I can kinda see where he's going but he teases us saying "it's int he 6th book that the publisher forced me to cut into 2"

Rip-Offs are coming !

Check out this chinese liquor Ad blatantly rips the Game of Thrones opening Source: Kotaku dot com

Well,

I saw that coming, but...

I hear a few people complaining that they do not like this season as much. I still think it is consistently good, just not hitting those highs of the first two seasons.

I'm finding it just as good, though it may be a little less eventful. This is possibly due to the decision to divide book three into two parts. I know there's a lot to cover in these books, but I think the challenge of compressing it each book into about 9 hours may make for a better TV experience.

For some silliness check out the parody in the new issue of Mad magazine.

quote:

Originally posted by The Old Man:
This is possibly due to the decision to divide book three into two parts. I know there's a lot to cover in these books, but I think the challenge of compressing it each book into about 9 hours may make for a better TV experience.

.

That is good to know.

Remember, no spoilers for those of us who haven't read the books!...

2 episodes left this season!

I'm totally thinking a Lannister is going to kill another Lannister. Any of them but Cersei might kill Joffery. Any of them might kill Tywin. I think (hope) Tyrion is safe for now. I also think Cersei and especially Jamie are safe for now.

(As an aside, the whole stuff with Theon I'm really not digging this season. I hope there was a point...)

Ah, I envy your innocence.

quote:

Originally posted by winetarelliAs an aside, the whole stuff with Theon I'm really not digging this season. I hope there was a point...)

Readers and non have both not liked the weekly torture porn section. Fortunately not in the last episode.

Not saying anything

Only two episodes left....ack

Tonight's episode was exhausting...where can this show go now?

As someone who has not read the books, that was . . . unexpected. I know main characters can get killed or maimed any time in this series but I thought this story line had more to play out.

Wow.

Ok, so I'm assuming that was the surprise, right? Like, next week it doesn't turn out that Dany is actually a dude or something.

Wow. Agreed that I saw a lot more in that storyline, especially because so much time was spent to develop it. I mean, REALLY a lot of time... wow.

That said, I was always curious how two competing "good" interests with separate agendas were going to work things out...

Burn in hell, Freys.

I knew once the young daughter was looking out at the twins and they did that whole "so close but so far away" thing that it was not going to end well. Didn't think it was going to be that violent though!!

Another good episode.

No spoilers - IIRC the third book is being broken into 2 seasons? Assuming that is right, there are a number of big surprises coming up. Book 3 was awesome.

quote:

Originally posted by LBJ2012FinalsMVPisclutch:
As someone who has not read the books, that was . . . unexpected. I know main characters can get killed or maimed any time in this series but I thought this story line had more to play out.

like when Eddard Stark got killed off?

Just watched the episode. Bummer. I was starting to like the character.

Yes, their splitting book three into two parts and my theory is they'll merge books 4 and 5 into two seasons, but not in book order. Book readers know why, but my lips are sealed.

quote:

Originally posted by DoubleD:
Just watched the episode. Bummer. I was starting to like the character.

Which character? A few have died this season...

Best comment I read in a forum:

quote:

I really need a new family to root for. Team Stark just isn't working out. God damn.

quote:

Originally posted by NolanE:

quote:

Originally posted by DoubleD:
Just watched the episode. Bummer. I was starting to like the character.

Which character? A few have died this season...

I don't want to give it away, but the male character who was killed by an arrow in the last episode and whose wife was stabbed.

If you are bored, check out the Youtube compilation of the unsuspecting viewers reacting to the infamous scene. Great stuff.

I heard Ironman 4 will be about Tony Stark's revenge on the Frey and Lannister families. Not a guy you want to piss off.

quote:

Originally posted by Rothko:
If you are bored, check out the Youtube compilation of the unsuspecting viewers reacting to the infamous scene. Great stuff.

Indeed, but it's a bit of a spoiler (Based upon TV sounds)

Holy crap never saw that coming..Freaken amazing!!!!

Season finale tonight! Damn these short seasons!

I must say this season has been quite disappointing compared to the first two.

My wife and I watch the show with some good friends of ours and we were unable to watch with them last week. However, we all decided to wait until last night to watch the penultimate and final episodes.

Avoiding the spoilers for the entire week was INCREDIBLY difficult! It seemed like every possible media outlet had something to say about last week's episode.

I am about 550 pages into the second book, so I had no idea what was coming.

That was very disquieting - especially one death in particular.

Ramsay Snow is a very disturbed (Hobbit-looking) individual.

Poor, poor Theon.

I have vowed to finish book three long before next season.

Jesus, what's wrong with me? I finshied book 3 long ago and can't remember the story arcs being referenced!?!

I thought book 3 was scattered and didn't have a clear direction, but still...!

Is this episode when the aliens starting anally probing the main characters?

Re-watching Seasons 1-3 while waiting for S4. Mentioned this to my eldest who referred me to:

THIS......

Good for a chuckle or two.

PH

Saw that when it came out. Very funny. tyrion voice is hilarious

quote:

Originally posted by PurpleHaze:
Re-watching Seasons 1-3 while waiting for S4. Mentioned this to my eldest who referred me to:

THIS......

Good for a chuckle or two.

PH

That was great!

I like this chick... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzyS1sRvcyM

Soon!

Odd aside:

A few hours ago I wound up getting pizza essentially at the Divergent premiere after-party. (800 Degrees. The after party was literally in the middle of the street directly in front of the front door, which I was quite surprised by.) Jason Momoa (Khal Drogo) and his wife Lisa Bonet (who knew?!) were getting pizza, too. (As were a couple of other after-partiers I didn't recognize -- sadly Kate Winslet and Shailene Woodley apparently didn't need any pizza.) For the record, Jason Momoa is enormous. Online it says he is 6'4". Yeah, maybe if he is on his knees. I've stood next to LeBron James who is 6'8", and Momoa is significantly bigger / more imposing. Enormous.

Also, it starts up again in only a few weeks! Yay!