A Game Of Thrones: Behind The Scenes

One of my New Year's resolutions is to read more non-fiction. That being said, I was still thrilled to find out that George R.R. Martin's fantasy A Game Of Thrones is in production by HBO as a mini-series. Martin has been referred to as the American Tolkein, and while I can see the obvious similarities, I have to say that Martin's characters are not black and white - they are very 'human' and multi-layered; each having numerous conflicting agendas. They will surprise you. I've only read the first two books of this series, and have been meaning to get the the next 2 (there are 7 in total planned, but only 4 published so far). In anticipation of the mini-series I'm now re-reading A Game Of Thrones. I find it fitting that Sean Bean, Boromir from Lord of The Rings, is also in this, as Boromir was in my opinion, probably one of the most authentic characters in The Rings. Take a look at the video posted below the article to see how amazing this will (fingers crossed) be.

A Game of Thrones

By Zach Yanowitz | Section: Jan 21st, 2011 Arcade, Issues, January 21st 2011 Print Edition,Reviews

Although only four of a planned seven books have been published in the best-selling “Song of Ice and Fire” series, author George R. R. Martin is already referred to as “the American Tolkein”. The series has won countless accolades and the first book is the basis for HBO’s new show, “A Game Of Thrones.” An epic fantasy tale, the story takes place within the land of Westeros, a world bereft of magic, elves, dwarves and most other “fantasy” staples. Rather, the work is one of political intrigue, with members of major noble houses vying against one another for the Iron Throne. Starring Sean Bean (“Lord of the Rings” and “Goldeneye”), Peter Dinklage (“The Station Agent”), Lena Headey (“300”) and others, the story is notable for both its reliance on moral relativism and Martin’s propensity for killing off major characters without any warning.

Years before the events of the show, a rebellion took place in Westeros, overthrowing the ancient Targaryen dynasty and plunging the kingdom into chaos. Ned Stark (Bean), Lord of Winterfell, is called to the capital to serve as the usurper king’s right-hand man and is immediately caught up in his own machinations for the crown. Up north, Ned’s bastard son Jon Snow is sent to investigate a dark, mysterious danger from the wild. Meanwhile, Daenerys Targaryen, the exiled daughter of the deposed king, seeks a return to Westeros with the help of three priceless dragon eggs. The show looks to be in the same vein as the books: dark, gritty and realistic. It airs April 17.