Game of Thrones season 3

[Androidpk]

Dragons are coming!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=RzI9v_B4sxw

[Paradii]

Man, I need to get a TV, high speed internet, HBO, or a friend with these things.

[TheEschaton]

Brann looked pretty old in that trailer.

[Jace Solo]

Friends in general wouldn't be bad. Though if they don't watch GoT they aren't really worth being friends with anyway. It's gonna be sick!

[kutter]

I messed up bad and went and read the first 4 books after I started watching this. They leave so much out it is disappointing, not saying I will not watch it, but still disappointing. Especially since I have a feeling they will either butcher or just leave out one of the most interesting story lines, that of Arya Stark.

[TheEschaton]

I have read those same 4 books, and I think they'll work it in. After all, at the end of book 2, she was roughly where she is now.

The problem is that they've totally written Roose Bolton and Beric Dondarrian out of the TV series. I can see why they did, but I don't know how they're going to do the whole thing with Lemoncloak and Thyros of Myr and Beric. And, eventually, Stoneheart (DUN DUN DUN).

[Kastrel]

Am I the only person who considered Season 2's rendition of Arya's storyline an improvement over the book?

As much as I love Arya, her book storyline all throughout 2 and 3 is an exercise in accomplishing as little as possible. (not her fault, its just the writing)

[TheEschaton]

I do like moving Arya's storyline to being in the service of the Tywin Lannister, instead of Bolton. But I think it's going to be hard to address what comes after her escape, which we saw at the end of season 2. Plus, Bolton has a larger part to play in book 3, which will have to be shifted to someone else.

[Androidpk]

Really looking forward to the new season. Not looking forward to the whiny fanboys/girls gripe about the changes made to accommodate a different media format.

[SHAFT]

Red wedding.

[Kastrel]

They are splitting book three into 2 seasons, right? I had heard that, but I don't know if they were still doing it.

I'm worried that the show is going to slow to a very dull trudge by "season 5" at this rate. Not that book 3 is lacking in action, but it was in book 3 that I started to get this feeling like "so when is stuff going to happen?", and dividing that into TWO seasons is going to make that even worse. And then when season 5 rolls around, they would be covering book 4 . . . that will not be rewarding at all, unless they de-split book 4 and 5 and cover them simultaneously. And honestly, they have to. I can't see the television fans sitting through an entire season with no Jon, Dany, or Tyrion, and 50% less Arya content.

[Drew]

Yeah, season 3 of the tv show will end right after Joffrey's party.

[TheEschaton]

I think they probably have to do book 4 and 5 simultaneously, over 2-3 seasons (seasons 5-6/7).

Plus, book 3 both had Joffrey's party and the Red Wedding. Book 3 blew my mind. Book 4, imo, was the slower one, because it had all these minor characters in it like the Greyjoys (I just don't like that line of the story) and Brienne.

[SHAFT]

Victarion and Euron certainly have potential though.

[kutter]

I have been holding off reading 5, playing too much Gem I guess. I agree with Eschaton, I just do not care for the Greyjoy storyline, but that may just be because I hate the characters, although I find Damphair to be interesting and want to see what happens there.

I have not read 5 but since the timeline is concurrent with 4 I think they will have to show them simultaneously in order for it to make sense, I did find the fact that he wrote it that way odd, although I sort of understand why.

[Kastrel]

I think they probably have to do book 4 and 5 simultaneously, over 2-3 seasons (seasons 5-6/7).

Plus, book 3 both had Joffrey's party and the Red Wedding. Book 3 blew my mind. Book 4, imo, was the slower one, because it had all these minor characters in it like the Greyjoys (I just don't like that line of the story) and Brienne.

As I said, its not quite that Book 3 was slow . . . but that it started spending more time focusing on a lot of the less interesting characters (in my opinion, of course). It dropped its bomb-shells, and Dany's storyline actually picked UP in pace. For instance, I find Ser Davos an interesting and likable, but not particularly engaging character, and more importantly, I do not find the Stannis storyline to be very appealing.

And I have the same view on the Greyjoy storyline. Brienne is like Davos; I like her, I don't like reading about her. Jaime too . . . I like him, I even like reading about him, but I DON'T like reading about Cersei, and that is what half of his chapters are.



I did find the fact that he wrote it that way odd, although I sort of understand why.

I don't mind that he split it, I just wish he had split the characters better. He divided it by their region, and the other region just HAPPENED to include all of his most popular characters. He should have seen that and said "yeah, it would work nicely, but it wouldn't be good for the readers".

[Taernath]

I have read those same 4 books, and I think they'll work it in. After all, at the end of book 2, she was roughly where she is now.

The producers/directors or whoever have come out and said they won't have Arya shanking people.

[TheEschaton]

Well, I can see that, even in her escape in the books, she killed the guards as opposed to the Bravoosi guy. But I think her journey will stay the same.

[TheEschaton]

Unless you're suggesting the place she ends up in book 4 is something they just might not do, based on its associations with the Stranger etc.

[SHAFT]

I have been holding off reading 5, playing too much Gem I guess.

It's been better than book 4 so far. I'm about 20% into it.

[Kastrel]

It's been better than book 4 so far. I'm about 20% into it.

Good to hear. I'm glad that I haven't waited all this time for a paperback only for it to suck.

[Liagala]

Unless you're suggesting the place she ends up in book 4 is something they just might not do, based on its associations with the Stranger etc.
Well they've already had the Braavosi guy say he worships the Red God, the same as Stannis' priestess there. I doubt they'll get into the God of Many Faces at all. They'll likely have Arya learning the same things she learns in roughly the same way, but with the intent of it being simply self defense, part of ordinary temple teachings for those not suited to the quiet, contemplative priest-ish life.

[TheEschaton]

Well they've already had the Braavosi guy say he worships the Red God, the same as Stannis' priestess there. I doubt they'll get into the God of Many Faces at all. They'll likely have Arya learning the same things she learns in roughly the same way, but with the intent of it being simply self defense, part of ordinary temple teachings for those not suited to the quiet, contemplative priest-ish life.

That would kind of neuter her character, even in light of how she is on the TV series, where she still whispers the names of the people she wants to die nightly. I'd be kinda pissed if they turned her into that.

I can't wait to see Stoneheart in action, though I will be interested to see how they address her arrival, since Thyros/Beric haven't been much fo a thing yet.

[subzero]

I think they probably have to do book 4 and 5 simultaneously, over 2-3 seasons (seasons 5-6/7).

Plus, book 3 both had Joffrey's party and the Red Wedding. Book 3 blew my mind. Book 4, imo, was the slower one, because it had all these minor characters in it like the Greyjoys (I just don't like that line of the story) and Brienne.

The fourth one was definitely slower with the lesser characters. The stuff with Brienne I wasn't initially too fond of, but towards the end it got better.


The producers/directors or whoever have come out and said they won't have Arya shanking people.

Except for the stable boy? I seem to remember her killing that sucka. Plus, well, I imagine a lot of 'shanking' in her future and dunno how they'd manage to leave it out.


That would kind of neuter her character, even in light of how she is on the TV series, where she still whispers the names of the people she wants to die nightly. I'd be kinda pissed if they turned her into that.


Yeah, they pretty much need to make sure that all goes down. Obviously they'd have to leave a lot of the daily routine sort of things out, but I don't see why they wouldn't be able to get it done.

[Kastrel]

Well they've already had the Braavosi guy say he worships the Red God, the same as Stannis' priestess there. I doubt they'll get into the God of Many Faces at all. They'll likely have Arya learning the same things she learns in roughly the same way, but with the intent of it being simply self defense, part of ordinary temple teachings for those not suited to the quiet, contemplative priest-ish life.

I don't see why they would turn Arya from a vengeance seeker to just trying to defend herself. I could see the shift to the Red God (to simplify things) but not the motivation. Why would they do that? It would seriously hurt her character.

[Androidpk]

Extended trailer.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=wBtkdje5OfY#!

[Sile]

Here's a question, how many seasons will this last? right now book 3 will take us to season 4... at that rate they'll need to do 9-10 seasons at least or more.

Think they could keep the momentum for that long?

[Vorpodu]

I don't really care. I love that damn show! I wouldn't mind 10 seasons at all.

[Sile]

I wouldn't either, the show is hot right now, but its hard for any show to keep interest past 6/7 seasons.

[Kastrel]

Here's a question, how many seasons will this last? right now book 3 will take us to season 4... at that rate they'll need to do 9-10 seasons at least or more.

Think they could keep the momentum for that long?

Well . . . if Martin keeps his limit of 7 books, which he has totally said he might violate . . .

Season 1 = Book 1
Season 2 = Book 2
Season 3 = Book 3 part 1
Season 4 = Book 3 part 2
Season 5 = Book 4/5 part 1?
Season 6 = Book 4/5 part 2?
Season 7 = Book 6
Season 8 = Book 7? Assuming they don't combine 6 and 7 into one.

I'd say we are looking at a minimum of 8 seasons, unless the shows starts to flop or Martin dies. And based on my personal opinion, and at least the opinion of several others, anything from Book 4 is going to be like Lost season 3, i.e., boring as hell and no progress made. So it runs the risk of getting a little dry during seasons 5 and 6, unless they spruce/sum things up a lot (which they aren't afraid to do, judging from Arya's season 2 storyline).


I wouldn't either, the show is hot right now, but its hard for any show to keep interest past 6/7 seasons.

Usually, thats due to corporate meddling or series decay, but since this is based on a book series (and assuming Martin's writing quality stays at or above book 5's quality) it shouldn't have quite that problem. If they deviate too far from the original work, they run that risk. And both Martin and the producers of the show need to make sure they do NOT drag things out . . . turning Book 3 into 2 seasons is a mistake that they can probably get away with once, maybe twice if they do it again at the very end. But if it becomes an "every book" sort of thing, it is going to turn into Lost.

[SHAFT]

I think they'll have to combine books 4 and 5 into one season or two. People will be confused and probably lose interest if they treat it like the books. Jon snow and daenarys are hardly in book 4 if at all, can't recall.

[Tenlaar]

Am I the only person who considered Season 2's rendition of Arya's storyline an improvement over the book?

I'd hope you're in the minority, honestly. Her storyline in book 2 was so important to her character and they've softened it dramatically. I was afraid that it would happen before the show ever started, that they would decide her story was too "grown up" for a kid and make it lame.

"Here's the thing guys, instead of Harrenhal being a wretched place filled with depraved and unpredictable people with ever-murderous intent it's going to be a nice castle along the road where you can stop in for a meal and be treated with respect! That still works, right?"

[Androidpk]

I considered her part in season 2 an improvement as well. I thought her interactions with Tywin were awesome.

[Tenlaar]

How is it an improvement as far as character development? In the books that time hardened her, started preparing her for the path she would end up walking.

In the show, that time...nothing?

[Androidpk]

How is it an improvement as far as character development? In the books that time hardened her, started preparing her for the path she would end up walking.

In the show, that time...nothing?

I disagree. From the time she was first separated from everyone in King's Landing up until Season 2 ended you can see a huge change in her character. What she went through, for a girl her age, was no simple walk in the park.

[Kastrel]

How is it an improvement as far as character development? In the books that time hardened her, started preparing her for the path she would end up walking.

In the show, that time...nothing?

Its not that I disagree that the stuff that happened in the books isn't important to her character development. The problem is (in my opinion), that Martin dragged it out far too long. It was literally two books of walking through the woods or being in someone's captivity. I think the show managed to make it far more concise without completely doing away with the fact that she is being hardened by reality.

The inclusion of Tywin served the double-purpose of giving Tywin way more character development, which was very well done in my opinion. The two are very good foils to each other, for the limited interaction they had.

I won't disagree that they softened the harshness of her storyline, but we still have season 3 to go through (which is more of the same) and I think it managed to get the point across with less . . . drudgery.

[Drew]

GRRM reading children's books:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLMydhMqWDQ

[Kastrel]

GRRM reading children's books:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLMydhMqWDQ

Oddly, I thought the food part was more reminescent of Brian Jacques of Redwall fame.

But I loled hard at "shot her through the bowels with a crossbow"

[Butternut]

Hi,
I know a news that is The third season of the epic fantasy drama television series Game of Thrones is scheduled to premiere in the United States on March 31, 2013 on HBO.

[Androidpk]

School of Thrones.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=DY6dvlMfntw#!

[Ryvicke]

This is relevant to my interests:

Game of Thrones characters as cats

http://www.gq.com/entertainment/movies-and-tv/201303/game-of-thrones-cats-photos?slide=2#slide=1

Okay that cat one kind of sucks except for Sam.

Here it is as a Xena-esque 1995 fantasty television show

http://popwatch.ew.com/2013/03/13/game-of-thrones-1995-parody-video/

[Atlanteax]

This is relevant to my interests:

Game of Thrones characters as cats

http://www.gq.com/entertainment/movies-and-tv/201303/game-of-thrones-cats-photos?slide=2#slide=1


Winner =

http://www.gq.com/images/entertainment/2013/03/game-of-cats/game-of-cats-joffrey.jpg

[Androidpk]

Episode 2 is up.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvy2nrluRck

[Drew]

New trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfSXhMzWoA4

[Androidpk]

Ep 3. John Snow is totally rocking the Latrinsorm style hairdo.



http://youtu.be/jJo3la5RGFg

[crb]

Arya's storyline was totally robbed of the drama and screentime it deserved. The addition of Tywin was a good addition, but that doesn't make up for all the lost Yoren time, her nightly prayer, etc.

Also I don't think a normal "overstay your welcome" at 6/7 seasons is relevant for this show, simply because, largely, it stays fresh. Constantly new settings, and new lead characters. Shows that are able to recycle new lead characters (ER, Law and Orders, CSI) can last a long long time. Killing people off will keep it fresh.

You also have a problem with writing. Shows start with a premise like... "Electricity stops working in the world." and then go on with that premise, but they plumb it's depths pretty quick and leave themselves with nothing to write about. How often do you see a new show advertised and it has some gimmick or hook and you think "How are they going to keep that going multiple seasons?" Shows get bad and people lose interest because you can't do any big grand plotting because the writing has to stay open ended.

A show that you want to end one day, that you will end one day, even if the day you end it it has the highest ratings it ever had, has a different flavor of writing, that I think will keep it from being stale.

Sort of like Lost. Lost was good, then it got bad in the middle as they didn't know where they were going, then it got really good, then it ended badly. But up until that bad ending, it had gotten good again, because they were working towards something. The ending was just, in the end, a poor idea, shit happens.

[TheEschaton]

I didn't mind the ending of LOST, it reminded me of the Sopranos ending (which I thought was brilliant even among widespread dislike), because it evoked the idea of story in our lives. The Sopranos was a story about Tony, LOST about Jack, and when they ended, the story ended. (SPOILERS LOL). I think people dislike these endings because you never get the whole story (which is the point in the first place). What happens to Sawyer after he gets off the island? What about Hugo and Ben running the island? Do Kate and Claire raise Claire's kid together? It leaves lots of questions, I suppose, but good stories rarely say everything.

[Kastrel]

Arya's storyline was totally robbed of the drama and screentime it deserved. The addition of Tywin was a good addition, but that doesn't make up for all the lost Yoren time, her nightly prayer, etc.

I can appreciate that Arya's storyline was cut too much, but Arya's storyline needed to be cut. Arya is literally my favorite character in the series, and yet it was my impression that her book 2 and book 3 content was the most . . . I don't know, the must drudgery of nearly any of the storylines. As much as I love reading about her, she spent a phenomenal amount of time accomplishing nothing, and it was part of what contributed to my general impression that each book was less enjoyable than the last. Did they cut it too much? Probably. Would a screen rendition of her storyline be reasonable? I don't think so. It would get boring, because a lot of time nothing happened or things that did happen served only to slow any kind of plot development for her.

I GET that this very aspect is part of what makes Arya's storyline what it is, yet at the same time, it doesn't necessarily make for entertaining media. I felt very much like G.R.R. Martin knew where he wanted her to end up, but couldn't come up with anything for her to do for two books, so just stretched out this slow journey into an incredibly lengthy waste of time. I'm glad it was summarized, and that what they left was, for the most part, rejuvenated with the Tywin elements.

As for overstaying welcomes, I agree that this show is different. What I question is whether the writers will stretch it out longer than it needs to be to make it a cash cow, and then end up killing it off because they stretched it too thin. Or, that as certain elements deviate from the original source more and more, the changes they make don't end up becoming innane or drift meaninglessly, sort of like Lost. I think the worst thing that happened to Lost was that they knew where they were, they knew where they wanted to get, but they didn't know how to get form point A to point B, so they just rambled incoherently for a few seasons.


I didn't mind the ending of LOST, it reminded me of the Sopranos ending (which I thought was brilliant even among widespread dislike), because it evoked the idea of story in our lives. The Sopranos was a story about Tony, LOST about Jack, and when they ended, the story ended. (SPOILERS LOL). I think people dislike these endings because you never get the whole story (which is the point in the first place). What happens to Sawyer after he gets off the island? What about Hugo and Ben running the island? Do Kate and Claire raise Claire's kid together? It leaves lots of questions, I suppose, but good stories rarely say everything.

I think the problem with that is that the mysteries of the show appealed to people . . . a lot of people only watched the show because they were curious about what happened. Leaving things open and unresolved like that was inadvertantly a slap in the face of a large portion of the viewers. When you create something where the appeal is being mysterious with riddles begging to be solved, not solving them is a bit of a disservice.

[Sile]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfSXhMzWoA4

Another preview... one of the best yet imo.

[TheEschaton]

So, first episode this past weekend. Obviously starting a whole bunch of storylines all at once.

About the only thing that struck me was that Peter Dinklage is now getting top billing. I may go to hell for saying this, but I actually laughed and wondered if it was the first time a little person got the top billing on anything that involved bigger people.

Changing the Sorrowful Man assassin plotline kind of bugged me, especially if it plays into the further neutering of Arya's character.

Also, who was that guy who escorted Robb to in one of those opening scenes? Was that finally the introduction of Roose Bolton?

[TheEschaton]

Also, I feel like they're going to change the whole plot of Tyrion's whore-girlfriend and Baelish's whore-accountant (who doesn't even exist afaik in the books). I'd be really surprised if the former ends up how she does in the books.

[Drew]

Roose has already been on the show but yeah, that's him. With the Karstark.

[Androidpk]

He first appeared in season 2 for a few episodes.

[Sile]

I wonder if they casted someone new for Greatjon, the original cast actor won't be back apparently.

[SHAFT]

Roose Bolton has been shown a number of times, but they've done a terrible job introducing him and fleshing out his story. I don't believe they ever mentioned the leeches.

[TheEschaton]

Weird, I always pictured Roose a lot more effeminate than that guy. I mean, I remember him from season 2, but I had no idea it was Roose.

[SHAFT]

Forgive me but I don't remember any of that happening with theon. I remember theon being absent all of book 3 then popping up much, much later during reek's chapter.

Yes I've confirmed theon doesn't show until book 5. I suppose we won't be meeting reek either. A pity.

[Tenlaar]

I'm hoping that, because viewers will be able to visually see that it's Theon and because they just don't want a main character to dissapear for three years, they are just going to show the process of Theon being turned into Reek and make him have some role earlier than in the books. Otherwise they are just completely changing the future of the character and probably fucking up yet another thing.

[subzero]

I'm hoping that, because viewers will be able to visually see that it's Theon and because they just don't want a main character to dissapear for three years, they are just going to show the process of Theon being turned into Reek and make him have some role earlier than in the books. Otherwise they are just completely changing the future of the character and probably fucking up yet another thing.

I figured that was where they're heading as well. There really wouldn't be a lot of point in doing much with the original Reek.

[SHAFT]

I don't mind watching theon being tortured and mutilated for a couple of seasons.

[crb]

they've butchered Arya's story.

[Atlanteax]

they've butchered Arya's story.

Well, there is probably a bit of TV rationale to it. Minimizing the amount of air-time solely dedicated to just one character (out of the many that viewers are finding engaging).

[Sile]

I'm ok with some minor tweaks in the story, but it seems with every new season they start to get farther and farther away from cannon. I feel Arya's story has been tweaked for the worse.

[Leew]

Such a great show and book. I have to look at the two as totally separate, like same world different realities with the number of changes made. Will kingslayer lose a hand?

[Geijon Khyree]

They did that with the kingsguard commander also because the audience know him. The books have a lot of characters and people already have trouble/confusion with characters. They skipped alias and strong belwas service. I think you need belwas for some later story aspects, but maybe not.

Id say with jaime they probably mangle his hand so he cant fight with it but they dont cut it off.

[SHAFT]

I would be irritated with no belwas and no removal of Jamie's hand

[Leew]

We'll see! last season they butchered the plot with his cousin so badly though who knows. The book Jamie would never murder his cousin but the HBO one will, so same world different time line in my eyes.

[Sile]

I'm pretty sure belwas has been cast all ready. I seem to remember reading about it before.

[SHAFT]

I'm pretty sure belwas has been cast all ready. I seem to remember reading about it before.

You better not be lying to me sile. I take my belwas seriously!

[Sile]

Yeah. I can't find it on any lists now. 8( sad panda.

So wanted to see his fight with the champion.

[Chilango2]

I'm ok with some minor tweaks in the story, but it seems with every new season they start to get farther and farther away from cannon. I feel Arya's story has been tweaked for the worse.

That's alot of my quibbles with GoT too. Obviously, they had to tweak stuff for the medium, I pretty much knew right off that I needed to take a "alternate reality" sort of view of it. But the majority of the changes have made a hash of the story, made things confusing, made characters more shallow and/or less interesting, or some combination of all of the above.

I'm hoping that the fact that they are splitting Book 3 into two seasons solves some of this problem, I feel they should have done that from the start to give themselves more room to develop things. Ten episodes is kind of a brief time to cover something like this...

[Sile]

If no belwas I think it hurts grey worm's story. I look at them as stark opposites. Belwas with lust, greed and power (etc)and worm with duty, discipline and regimen.

Also when do you think bran and rickton are going to separate? If they ever do. Which is another important part of the story.

[Nieninque]

I would imagine Rickon and Bran part company sometime soon. Now that the Reed twins are in the picture, sets it up nicely.

Im really pleased that they are putting some time into Bran's story, although it went from nothing to thrown in at the deep end, which is a bit of a shame. they could have built that up through the last series.

I cant see how they can have Jamie's story without him losing his hand, it shapes so much of the rest of his story in the books and features as a key point in him becoming the character he ends up (well as close to the end as we have gotten). I agree with the fudge they have made of Theon so far, although this is probably a side effect of them having neglected the bastard somewhere...but let's see what occurs.

[TheEschaton]

I still have no idea what's going on with Theon, but I haven't read book 5. Certainly don't remember any of this.

Also, I have some sort of issue with Robb/Catelyn having the hope that Brann/Rickon might have escaped. Nevermind the fact that the news of their death in the books was part of the motivation of Catelyn for freeing Jaime, which has already happened in the series, but Catelyn's whole psychological character from here on out is based on the idea that Theon killed them.

Also, it seems like Thoros of Myr is going to be Beric and Lemoncloak all rolled into one. He certainly didn't strike me as very much like the Thoros of Myr in the book.

Also, I feel like I've seen the boy who plays Jojen before. He looks a lot like the kid who played Sam in Love Actually, Liam Neeson's stepson with the dead mother.

[Corlyne]

Also, I feel like I've seen the boy who plays Jojen before. He looks a lot like the kid who played Sam in Love Actually, Liam Neeson's stepson with the dead mother.

It's the same boy. He's also the voice of Ferb in the cartoon Phineas and Ferb...my random fact for the day.

[TheEschaton]

Yeah, I secretly knew it was him, but I didn't want to regale this thread with the story of how I yelled at my TV "OMG that's the kid from Love Actually!" the second I saw him in the dream sequence.

Whoops.

[Sile]

Yeah I'm a little worried about no Lemoncloak... I may be rusty, but isn't Lemoncloak the one who runs around with the hounds helmet in book 4?

[TheEschaton]

yep, he is, but there isn't even any helmet we saw on Sandor in that brief moment we saw him. My guess is the whole confusion about whether the Hound is dead or not will just not be in the series.

[subzero]

Such a great show and book. I have to look at the two as totally separate, like same world different realities with the number of changes made. Will kingslayer lose a hand?

Probably not. Tyrion still has his nose, afterall. I did like that they had Cersei mention she'd heard he lost it, though.

[Chilango2]

I still have no idea what's going on with Theon, but I haven't read book 5. Certainly don't remember any of this.

Also, I have some sort of issue with Robb/Catelyn having the hope that Brann/Rickon might have escaped. Nevermind the fact that the news of their death in the books was part of the motivation of Catelyn for freeing Jaime, which has already happened in the series, but Catelyn's whole psychological character from here on out is based on the idea that Theon killed them.

Also, it seems like Thoros of Myr is going to be Beric and Lemoncloak all rolled into one. He certainly didn't strike me as very much like the Thoros of Myr in the book.

Also, I feel like I've seen the boy who plays Jojen before. He looks a lot like the kid who played Sam in Love Actually, Liam Neeson's stepson with the dead mother.

In the books Theon vanishes after the re-capture of Winterfell and we next see him in Book 5 and he's um, different shall we say, because of the experiences he has had.
The series basically seems to have decided to keep him in the picture and show what happens to him to make him what he turns into by book 5.

[Sile]

So it looks final, no Strong Belwas.


http://grrm.livejournal.com/319296.html?thread=17539392#t17539392

[TheEschaton]

I have a feeling the whole process of Dany recruiting an army (outside what she's already done with the Unsullied) will be given fairly short shrift.

[Sile]

I think Dany's story is the weakest in the show, it's kind of weak in the books until later, and it's been cut/watered down a lot so far for the show.

At least Grey Worm is suppose to have a prominent role in the show, big enough they made a casting anoucment for him.

I'm looking foward to the Martells, but they could hold off untill Season 4 for them, since they are mostly at the later half of book 3. I think the Oberyn and Gregor fight could be one of the best fights in the whole show if it is done right.

[subzero]

Probably not. Tyrion still has his nose, afterall. I did like that they had Cersei mention she'd heard he lost it, though.

So much for that!

[SHAFT]

I haven't a clue what they're doing with theon. Is he that popular with viewers they need to alter his story to this degree?

Even though I knew it was coming, still hard to see Jamie have his hand removed. They certainly emphasized it.

[Atlanteax]

I haven't a clue what they're doing with theon. Is he that popular with viewers they need to alter his story to this degree?

Even though I knew it was coming, still hard to see Jamie have his hand removed. They certainly emphasized it.

Could say similar about Arya ... is the Brotherhood going to escort her to the Starks??

I'm looking forward to Dany's use of the Unsullied ... I wonder if the HBO version will reveal that she understands the slaver language.

[Lolleia]

Even though I knew it was coming, still hard to see Jamie have his hand removed. They certainly emphasized it.

Yeah, I knew it was coming and it still made me cringe. I'm also really confused about where they're going with the Theon thing, I don't really care for him and I'm not sure why. It isn't the acting, I just don't like his fayce!

[Leew]

Yeah, I knew it was coming and it still made me cringe. I'm also really confused about where they're going with the Theon thing, I don't really care for him and I'm not sure why. It isn't the acting, I just don't like his fayce!

yes, i was looking forward to Reek. Plus whats going on with the wildlings? Torman going over the wall, and no prince beyond the wall at all.

[Lolleia]

I really wanted to see Reek also.

It's been a while since I've read the books, I thought Danerys getting the Unsullied was book 4. Are we mixing it up or am I just confused? I'm really looking forward to seeing how they handle the red wedding with the Frays, is that book 3 or 4?

[Drew]

Are we sure this guy isn't Reek and he's just setting up Theon?

[Atlanteax]

Are we sure this guy isn't Reek and he's just setting up Theon?

Theon made no comments of being disgusted by foul smell ... so probably not Reek? Also I don't recall if Reek was an excellent archer?

[Drew]

Theon made no comments of being disgusted by foul smell ... so probably not Reek? Also I don't recall if Reek was an excellent archer?

Well, remember Reek wasn't Reek all the time, who is Reek changes.

[subzero]

Well, remember Reek wasn't Reek all the time, who is Reek changes.

Either way, hard to imagine anyone thus far qualifying cause I don't recall anyone being mutilated or stank enough.

[RSR]

I'm positive it's Ramsay Bolton. The one guy saying 'bastard' as he was shot sealed the deal for me.

Really disappointed that Vargo Hoat and the bloody mummers were cut, I think it affects the story in a big way down the road.

[Drew]

I'm positive it's Ramsay Bolton. The one guy saying 'bastard' as he was shot sealed the deal for me.

Really disappointed that Vargo Hoat and the bloody mummers were cut, I think it affects the story in a big way down the road.

Yeah the kid from Misfits is Ramsay Bolton for sure.

[SHAFT]

Google search Ramsay Bolton casting and it's the kid who saved theon. Interesting.

[SHAFT]

So this kid that has given theon the impression he's helping him has actually been pulling the strings in torturing him...

Suddenly theon's story is much more interesting to me.

[Atlanteax]

I'm positive it's Ramsay Bolton. The one guy saying 'bastard' as he was shot sealed the deal for me.

Oh, this *does* make sense. Particularly when considering that the henchmen are supposedly predominantly loyal to Roose. This fits in with Ramsay's style of 'making a game out of it' as well.

[Sile]

I have to say I loved the scene just before Tyrion was made counter of coin. I had to rewatch it just for that scene. So much done with no words said.

[crb]

I loved the Meereenese knot scene, nice hat tip to GRRM. Plus Boobs.

With Theon, I think they simply cannot have an actor sit dormant so they're making up things for him to do, such as being toyed with by Ramsay.

Imagine all the busy work they'll invent for the show darling Tyrion as he goes off? More sacrifices from Arya's story I think.

I don't know what is going on with the wildlings, but Val was cast we're all pretty sure, so they are still likely going to do that prince thing. I'm just hoping we get Ygritte in some cave action still.

Sansa is being robbed a little bit this season too with them not making Littlefinger's machinations a surprise, they had Dontos exist, why not use him? Maybe they still will, but it won't be a surprise when it is Littlefinger.

[subzero]

I have to say I loved the scene just before Tyrion was made counter of coin. I had to rewatch it just for that scene. So much done with no words said.

That was actually probably the best part of the episode. I thought the rest was fairly slow, but that opening may have set my expectations a little higher.

[TheEschaton]

Isn't Sansa's uncertainty of Littlefinger's intentions the driving force behind her story? What's the point of warning her in the series? It takes most of the tension away. It seems to me they're not going to make her story about the men who lust after her.

I actually loved the scene with Pod after he came back from the whorehouse. LOL.

It's certainly interesting to find out that the guy helping Theon is supposed to be Ramsay. That's a bit surprising, and is better than before, when I thought they were just fuxx0ring up Theon's story.

I don't like Jaime - either in the books or the series. Was anyone else happy to see him brought low with his hand cut off? It made him a much deeper character anyways. He does become sort of a tragic hero later, but I don't think we're at the point in the series yet.

I still love that Peter Dinklage has top billing, so I find it also concerning about his absence in book 4 and how the show will address it. He's put in like, serious Emmy quality performances so far.

And yes, both Dany and the Red Wedding were in book 3. Dany is absent from book 4.

[subzero]

Initially I hated the whole Jamie/Brienne thing, but that started to change towards the end (of the books, so far). It seems like his time away from Cersei has changed him for the better. He seems less naive with regard to certain people and situations outside of House Lannister and I expect his character will make a 'turn' at some point that surprises people.

[SHAFT]

The Red Wedding will be episode 9, mark my words. That episode will be nothing but The Red Wedding.

I'm dying to see how they show Ramsay fucking with Theon.

[Overlord]

Brilliant! (http://www.happyplace.com/23181/game-of-thrones-facebook-recap-season-3-episode-3) Game of Thrones S3 E3...composed on facebook lol

[Czeska]

I thought the table/meeting scene with all the chair moving was excellent, too. Pretty much anything Peter Dinklage does on this show is excellent.

[Czeska]

Also, overlord's link is freaking hilarious.

[Overlord]

Also, overlord's link is freaking hilarious.
Maybe i should've quick linked the whole line of text instead of "Brilliant" lol

[Leelan]

Brilliant! (http://www.happyplace.com/23181/game-of-thrones-facebook-recap-season-3-episode-3) Game of Thrones S3 E3...composed on facebook lol

Money

[BigWorm]

Brilliant! (http://www.happyplace.com/23181/game-of-thrones-facebook-recap-season-3-episode-3) Game of Thrones S3 E3...composed on facebook lol

That was better than I expected. As a former constituent of Todd Akin's district, I particularly enjoyed the link Jamie shared with Brienne.

[Drew]

I think all the book readers were looking forward to that scene, but it turned out to be even more badass than I could have imagined. Emilia Clarke nailed it!

[Suppressed Poet]

I think all the book readers were looking forward to that scene, but it turned out to be even more badass than I could have imagined. Emilia Clarke nailed it!

Don't forget the illiterate who just read the Wikipedia summary, and agreed.

[Drew]

How long must a GoT summary be?

[SHAFT]

I think all the book readers were looking forward to that scene, but it turned out to be even more badass than I could have imagined. Emilia Clarke nailed it!

My fiance watched it 4-5 times over and over. Was definitely a killer scene.

I enjoyed Dondarion too. Can't wait to see him fight the Hound.

[Rallorick]

I sort of thought this was a weaker episode... were it not for the end, there was very little movement. at least it felt that way.

[subzero]

I thought it did more than the prior episode. Certainly more key plot elements came up.

They gave some more insight into Varys' background (which seems to be something new for TV unless my memory just sucks, which is possible), furthered the Jamie/Brienne thing with the Sapphire Isle deal, some of the Night's Watch killed Craster, turned on and killed Mormont, and Tubby, Gilly, and the kid took off, further implied that Margery and the Tyrells are out to ruin the Lannisters, the plot to thwart Baelish's design on the north and join the Tyrells with the Starks was kicked off, they finally got around to telling us who the Brotherhood without Banners is while introducing Beric, and then of course Daenerys got her Unsullied army and burned Astapor.

Outside of the musical chairs and goofy Pod scenes, I can't even recall most of the prior show.

[Sile]

If it wasn't for the ending i felt it was more of a building up type of episode. The final scene rocked. Though I still feel 3 was the best episode yet. Don't forget Jamie's hand was cut off at the end of it.

[Atlanteax]

I sort of thought this was a weaker episode... were it not for the end, there was very little movement. at least it felt that way.

I thought it was a significantly more lively episode than some of the prior ones this season, felt more active from start to end.

[RSR]

I've enjoyed the new guy they introduced that cut Jaime's hand off, but I really hate that the Bloody Mummers and Vargo Hoat were axed from the series. I think it kills some of Roose's storyline and motivations.

[Suppressed Poet]

I thought it was a significantly more lively episode than some of the prior ones this season, felt more active from start to end.

My girlfriend was complaining about how slow it has been this season, until this episode.

Beyond just the ending, which was amazing, the coupe north of the wall and death of the lord comander was both significant and entertaining. Before the end of the last episode with Jamie losing his hand, I can't remember a single act of violence or death this season. Things are starting to heat up for sure, and they have to go through that buildup period.

[Atlanteax]

I loved the facial reaction of the (former) slave girl, when Daenyrs began speaking Valyrian at the end.

[TheEschaton]

BTW, 2 episodes out of 4 without boobies.

They might finally be moving away from the whole "Let's discuss everything while naked" made-for-tv tropism.

BTW, they discussed Pod's sexual proclivities AGAIN this episode. Is this actually a thing in the books? I don't remember.

[Drew]

BTW, they discussed Pod's sexual proclivities AGAIN this episode. Is this actually a thing in the books? I don't remember.

It is not.

[DoctorUnne]

My girlfriend also liked this episode the best so far and hasn't read any of the books. My friends and I (who have read the books) agreed although I am always eager to get the perspective of people who haven't read them.

Does anyone know what % of viewers have a) read all of the books, b) read some of them but not past where the show is, and c) not read any of them? I'd be interested in knowing the answer to that because it probably influences how far they plan to stray from the books.

[Lolleia]

This episode was probably my favorite of this season so far.

Team Daenerys 4lyfe.
http://www.buzzfeed.com/erinlarosa/lesson-of-the-day-do-not-mess-with-daenerys-targaryen

[Sile]

Hopefully she can keep knocking performances like that out. I always felt she was one of the weaker actors/actresses before this episode. I don't feel that any more.

[Me]

Loved this episode yes it had a lot of build up scenes but the final was just how i imagined it from book.

[Androidpk]

"You know nothing, John Snow.."

NNNNNGHH

[SHAFT]

"You know nothing, John Snow.."

NNNNNGHH

He knew colonel angus didn't he?

[Atlanteax]

"You know nothing, John Snow.."

NNNNNGHH

She didn't finish "Sno...." as she was interrupted.

I loved Cersei's self-reference to being a broodmother. Does she imagine herself to be a zerg queen? Last I knew, their last name was not Frey.

[Sile]

Overall I feel this was one of the best episodes yet. So many great scenes well acted. I think Jamie stole the show though this episode, the scene in the bathhouse was better then I'd imagined.

[SHAFT]

Overall I feel this was one of the best episodes yet. So many great scenes well acted. I think Jamie stole the show though this episode, the scene in the bathhouse was better then I'd imagined.

Agreed on Jamie. Was a killer scene.

[TheEschaton]

Holy hell, Ygritte. Holy hell. From a lore perspective I'm always a bit peeved when plain or ungainly women are hot in their television adaptations, but then I forget about it when they get naked on tv.

Also, did Beric's sword flame in the books? Isn't the "Sword of Fire" kind of a thing? Is any old follower of Rhaellor's sword supposed to flame?

Jaime in the bathhouse was pretty awesome.

A bit annoyed they just passed over the whole Loras in the Kingsguard, Doran (?) being the one Sansa was betrothed to, etc. I guess it makes sense not to just introduced another Martell just for Sansa to not marry him, but yeah.

[Drew]

Beric's sword did flame in the book. The real sword is supposed have like an "internal flame" not just be a sword on fire. I don't remember exactly but I do remember that Stannis' sword glows but isn't actually burning. Thoros was fighting in tourney's with flaming swords that he just lit on fire with oil for a long time before this so I don't think a flaming sword is of any significance.

[TheEschaton]

But Beric lit his sword from the blood from his cut hand.....did he do that in the book?

I know Thoros regularly fought with a flaming sword, and I remember the ritual of the flaming sword with Stannis...but I don't remember Beric being able to light swords on fire with his flammable blood.

[Drew]

But Beric lit his sword from the blood from his cut hand.....did he do that in the book?

I know Thoros regularly fought with a flaming sword, and I remember the ritual of the flaming sword with Stannis...but I don't remember Beric being able to light swords on fire with his flammable blood.

His sword was on fire in the book, I remember the hound being afraid of it. I don't remember how it was lit like that but I'm pretty sure that it was magical in nature.

[Back]

This season has been quality. All the characters are strong, the story is rich, the visuals are stunning. So many good moments. Really brilliant.

[subzero]

Curious to see how they show Snow learning to control animals. Seems like they're kinda fast forwarding a bit through that part, unless my mind is failing me again.

[Rallorick]

did anything happen on this episode at all? Honestly... I watched, and it seemed like it was another hour of build up.

This is the problem I had with his books - lengthy build up of something that feels big, then someone gets killed. He's a talented writer and all, but it just felt like a cheap way to paint yourself out of a corner constantly while filling a bunch of pages.

[Kastrel]

did anything happen on this episode at all? Honestly... I watched, and it seemed like it was another hour of build up.

This is the problem I had with his books - lengthy build up of something that feels big, then someone gets killed. He's a talented writer and all, but it just felt like a cheap way to paint yourself out of a corner constantly while filling a bunch of pages.

I guess I would agree that the general premise of the series IS that it is primarily build up, interspersed with bouts of action, sometimes followed by a death. However, I think more happened in this episode than the second, which lacked the first episode's "back to action" energy with all of the various storylines, and didn't have any of the dramatic plot-points of the third and fourth, such as Daenerys' Unsullied gambit, or the upheaval at Craster's keep.

I can't help but enjoy a significant number of the changes they make to the show. Barring content-cuts due to lack of screen-time, I feel like a lot of the changes either distill unnecessary drudgery into something more palatable, or apply creative twists on the original content that I very much enjoy seeing (and can honestly call an improvement in many cases). In this episode, for instance, the Thoros/Mellisandra interplay was entirely unprecedented but very enjoyable. There are some character cuts I don't appreciate, like taking Edric Storm entirely out of the picture, then having the gall to use his name for one of the babies in the creepy fetus-jar scene, but a lot of the characters they cut don't bother me so much, like the Bloody Mummers.

I guess we will have to see if the changes result in a poor outcome for the series, or an improvement. I'm pretty optimistic still. As for Arya's storyline, I'm really not seeing it as much of a downgrade as some seem to, aside from being used as a vehicle for plot exposition, like my poor butt-monkey Jon Snow.

EDIT: Also, I was kind of gratified to see the way the episode ended. I've been saying for a while now that this season, Ros was going to be leaving Littlefinger's services one way or another . . . I simply saw no way they could or would adapt the entire book 4 Sansa/Littlefinger plotline to include a third member. Though her performance the last few episodes was above average for the fairly despised addition to the story, and I genuinely didn't see it happening the way it did.

[Atlanteax]

did anything happen on this episode at all? Honestly... I watched, and it seemed like it was another hour of build up.

This is the problem I had with his books - lengthy build up of something that feels big, then someone gets killed. He's a talented writer and all, but it just felt like a cheap way to paint yourself out of a corner constantly while filling a bunch of pages.

Well, this would be why next episode previews seem to have a lot of "ZOMG LOTS OF SHIT HAPPENS" to them.

[crb]

I'm so glad Ros is dead. She was nice to look at, Esme Bianco is one hot tamale, but I'll disagree with Kastrel, her acting lately has sucked, and she was a distraction. I still dislike how they didn't make Littlefinger's helping of Sansa a surprise, and I dislike sympathic they're making batshit crazy Cersei, and Sam better get his slayer on soon. I thought for sure it was going to happen last episode when he is like "Hey Gilly, look at my dagger, wink wink"

[Sile]

Is Gendry being taking by Melisandra a new thing for the tv show. I don't recall it happening in the books, granted Im still on the 4th book.

[crb]

totally invented storyline for the tv show.

[Androidpk]

I have yet to be disappointed by an episode this season. I hope the trend continues.

[TheEschaton]

I was a bit surprised by Melisandre showing up in the Riverlands considering where she and Stannis are headed, but I feel like I'm missing something of her character having not read book 5. She's the fervent believer in R'hallor, and Thoros not, yet Thoros is blessed by the god, and she was only blessed by demon shadow things. Does she change her mindset in the books? Does she actually meet Thoros ever in the books?

And it seems like the struggle over Edric Storm is going to be played by Gendry for some reason. Has his story been explored further in book 5? I'm pretty sure he's who Dany dreamed of at the end of book 1, but yeah.

Good episode, I especially like the scene with Littlefinger and Varys and the idea that chaos is a ladder. Littlefinger gets all the best metaphors.

[Androidpk]

The scene between Littlefinger and Varys was indeed superb. It was probably my favorite moment of the episode.

[Drew]

The scene between Littlefinger and Varys was indeed superb. It was probably my favorite moment of the episode.

Just the two of them in the throne room could be its own series.

[Kitsun]

It kinda blew my mind that all the scenes of the whore of Winterfell came down to just being a plot device to show what a devious, shithead Littlefinger is but that scene made the payoff so worthwhile. Gets my stamp of approval.

I think it is probably out of character for them both to directly confront each other but it made for a really awesome TV so fuck it.

[Kastrel]

I'm so glad Ros is dead. She was nice to look at, Esme Bianco is one hot tamale, but I'll disagree with Kastrel, her acting lately has sucked, and she was a distraction. I still dislike how they didn't make Littlefinger's helping of Sansa a surprise, and I dislike sympathic they're making batshit crazy Cersei, and Sam better get his slayer on soon. I thought for sure it was going to happen last episode when he is like "Hey Gilly, look at my dagger, wink wink"

Reading your post, I agree and would rephrase my statement: its not her acting that improved, but the writing of her character. Two seaons of nothing more than being Ms. Sexposition was poor quality in general. But I genuinely thought they were trying to turn her around with the recent "I'm on my way to being the next Littlefinger" type of characterization. I didn't see them pulling a Nicki/Paulo on her though, but I'm sure the viewer sentiment warranted it.

As viewers, we definitely won't be too shocked by Littlefinger, but I suspect Dontos is going to have a reappearance in the next few episodes and they will still be able to pull off the Littlefinger saves the day by surprise effect, even if it will be toned down a bit.


Just the two of them in the throne room could be its own series.

Agreed. And I'm very sad that this was likely the very last of those scenes. I always felt like Littlefinger and Varys, two of the smartest people in Westeros, would go to that throne room and verbally fence while observing the events of the kingdom from "on high". I love both of these two characters for their genuis and unique motivations, and I'm sad that this little side-arc with them will likely come to a close.


She's the fervent believer in R'hallor, and Thoros not, yet Thoros is blessed by the god, and she was only blessed by demon shadow things. Does she change her mindset in the books? Does she actually meet Thoros ever in the books?

No, she never met him "in Westeros" in the books, though its logical that they might know each other from their clergy connections. I loved that scene because Mellisandre is an arrogant bitch and it was nice seeing HER squirm for once when her precious (apparently legitimate) faith couldn't win her way out of any argument. But that said, I think its more a general revival of magic overall. R'hallor blessed Thoros with revival and some simple other stuff (actual fire sword, etc), and yet he gave her PLENTY of stuff, clairvoyance, prophecy, possible mind-reading, more fire sword stuff, and death assassins. She hardly got the short-end of the stick, but I'm not surprised she thought she did. Mellisandre was gifted with delivering death, Thoros was gifted with preserving life. Very elegant setup there, I think.

Is anyone else pissed off that they delayed the paperback AGAIN? Its like . . . Fall now.

[Atlanteax]

Is anyone else pissed off that they delayed the paperback AGAIN? Its like . . . Fall now.

I hope that it is not due to the HBO series ... not like they need to 'delay' for the 'success' of the TV version.

[Back]

I hope that it is not due to the HBO series ... not like they need to 'delay' for the 'success' of the TV version.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=IJ_R-G_i4Xk

[Kastrel]

I hope that it is not due to the HBO series ... not like they need to 'delay' for the 'success' of the TV version.

The LAST time it got delayed (from November 2012ish to March 2013), I read that it was to coincide the release of the book with the release of season 3. Of course, that doesn't account for the August 2012->November 2012 delay, and this one doesn't seem to have any justification other than "every copy we sell in hardcover brings in 3x the cash, so lets delay as long as we can".

[TheEschaton]

is this book 5 you're talking about? I really need to pick that up but by the time I get home from work I don't ever want to leave my apartment. I should do it during the day. Hmmm.

[Kastrel]

Yep. Just doublechecked and the release date is (currently) October 29ish. I was hoping to match up my copies in size on the shelf, but I may just get impatient.

[SHAFT]

Robb's wife is incredibly hot

[Androidpk]

The scene with Tywin and Joffrey was pretty awesome, especially with Tywin marches up the throne steps and confronts him.

[Rallorick]

I thought that was a good scene, too. I was wondering how those two would end up working around each other.

[TheEschaton]

Is it a far-out theory to think Gendry is the trueborn son of Robert Baratheon? This is something I've thought since I read book 1, and with his bastardy coming up this episode, I thought I'd bring it up. I thought it was pretty much fairly apparent. Don't know if anything in book 5 furthered that along.

[Glitch]

Robb's wife is incredibly hot

dat ass...

[TheEschaton]

BTW, I heard elsewhere that they're shifting the traitorous intentions to Robb's wife in the TV series, and not to Robb's mother-in-law. Apparently her name is Talisa on the show, something I never picked up, as I've been just calling her Jeyne (her name in the book), which could indicate a different story arc for her.

[Tenlaar]

Talisa is not a new name and altered story arc for Jeyne, Talisa is a completely new character that replaced Jeyne entirely.

[crb]

Talisa also has a very nice ass.

[RSR]

Is it a far-out theory to think Gendry is the trueborn son of Robert Baratheon? This is something I've thought since I read book 1, and with his bastardy coming up this episode, I thought I'd bring it up. I thought it was pretty much fairly apparent. Don't know if anything in book 5 furthered that along.


That is quite possibly one of the stupidest theories I've seen yet. Robert was married once, to Cersei. Gendry is not her child so there is zero chance he's anything but a bastard.

[TheEschaton]

Except in book 1 (and in the tv series) Cersei talks about how Robert actually got her pregnant once, before Joffrey, and how when the baby was born, Jaime took it away to (presumably, in Cersei's mind) kill it, so she could suggest to Robert it was stillborn. Seeing Jaime's character evolve throughout the books/tv series, it seems highly unlikely he would kill a baby.

Pure speculation, of course, but it's what I instantly connected Gendry's storyline to when he was introduced (he came after the story by Cersei, who told that account to Nedd, I believe).

[RSR]

Ned asks Cersei how it is possible that she never had a child by the king and she tells him that she almost did, but that she had the child aborted.

Jaime didn't kill the baby, Cersei had it aborted.

[Androidpk]

Cersei also said she had a baby that died of the fever.

[TheEschaton]

The fever thing was in the show, not sure if it was in the books.

I distinctly remember a conversation Cersei had with SOMEONE which went along the lines of "Soandso took the baby to the next room and later told me it died."

And then we have a masked figure paying the BS in King's Landing *double* to apprentice Gendry, some years later.

I'm telling you, I'm not making this up. I need to re-read the books.

[msconstrew]

I distinctly remember a conversation Cersei had with SOMEONE which went along the lines of "Soandso took the baby to the next room and later told me it died."



This was in Season One, when Cersei empathizes/commisserates with Lady Catelyn about what everyone thought would be the death of her child.

[Overlord]

Found this in the paper yesterday HA!
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/945349_10151416171726625_1996504247_n.jpg

[Atlanteax]

The fever thing was in the show, not sure if it was in the books.

I distinctly remember a conversation Cersei had with SOMEONE which went along the lines of "Soandso took the baby to the next room and later told me it died."

And then we have a masked figure paying the BS in King's Landing *double* to apprentice Gendry, some years later.

I'm telling you, I'm not making this up. I need to re-read the books.

I've taken to reading the books recently, so I'll comment on this when I get to your references.

In the meantime, with all the GoT wikipedias, I was left with the impression that Ceresei refuses to have anything Robert Barathon -related, ever since their wedding night, and has gone out of her way to *not* have a child by him.

Further, all indications is that Gendry's mother is a worker at an alehouse. I think the 'catch' with him remembering his mother to have blonde hair, it is that he ended up with black hair instead ('seed is strong').

If he was trueborn to both RB & Ceresei, but somehow smuggled out as an infant, I think we would have seen that 'truth' revealed by now, perhaps as early as when it became clear to Varys/etc that Joffrey would be a monster of a king.

[SHAFT]

What I don't get is, and maybe they mentioned this in the books and I forgot, in the books stannis had edric and in the show he's recently obtained gendry. How can stannis be "the one true king" if edric and/or gendry exist? Not so honorable of stannis.

[Androidpk]

Gendry could be from Stannis or Renly.

[Some Rogue]

Bastards don't count.

Same reason Jon Snow is never considered as Lord of Winterfell.

[Androidpk]

Sure it does. If he is a Baratheon, even if a bastard, he still has the blood of a king.

[Some Rogue]

For Melisandre's purpose sure. But not for line of succession.

[Androidpk]

Yes, for succession too. Joffrey certainly is proof of that.

[Roblar]

Yes, for succession too. Joffrey certainly is proof of that.

Joffrey is not proof that bastards are officially in the line of succession. His true parentage is a secret from the kingdoms & people. Only speculation exists.

[Androidpk]

Joffrey is proof that it is all smoke and mirrors and anything can go.

[Atlanteax]

Joffrey is proof that it is all smoke and mirrors and anything can go.

Yes, but it's a bit 'late' to suddenly claim that Gendy is RB's true heir. The story has developed too far past that point.

[Androidpk]

No it hasn't, we're only in season 3 and there are 3 more episodes left.

[Some Rogue]

The only way a bastard would be considered in line of succession would be legitimizing them by royal decree. This is how Ramsay Bolton became the heir of House Bolton.

Gendry was never even recognized as a bastard of Robert let alone legitimized.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Bastard

[senorgordoburro]

Yes, but it's a bit 'late' to suddenly claim that Gendy is RB's true heir. The story has developed too far past that point.

Not really, in book 5 there is another baby that was smuggled out and everyone thinks is actually dead...

He will be a rather important charter in book 6 I imagine.

[Androidpk]

Irrelevant.

1. TV show
2. Joffrey
3. Joffrey

[Some Rogue]

Hey, it could happen.

But this whole discussion started because Shaft asked why the bastard's of Robert weren't considered for king. Answer: because bastard's usually aren't.

For example, Jon Snow.

[SHAFT]

Good point. Forgot about that.

[TheEschaton]

I'm re-reading the books now to find this reference. I'm not crazy.

It'd either be in a Sansa, Cersei, (possibly Eddard if it happened in book 1), Jaime, or Varys chapter. She never talked to Catelyn much in the books at all.

[Androidpk]

Are you sure you didn't see that in the TV show and not the books?

[TheEschaton]

I am almost positive. I read these books less than 6 months ago, they were a Christmas present from my sister.

[Androidpk]

I haven't read any of the books since the 3rd one came out but I recall hearing something very similar to what you are saying.

[Some Rogue]

I am almost positive. I read these books less than 6 months ago, they were a Christmas present from my sister.

The only reference I found on the wiki I linked earlier is the aborted child she told Ned about.

[TheEschaton]

Yeah, I know that one.

In book 1, she talks about how Robert got her pregnant, and she had it taken care of. There was no mention of the black hair though, that was in the TV. The scene with Ned suggested an abortion.

The more I think about it, the more it seems like it was in a throwaway chapter somewhere, with just a hint of something going on. Grr, this is going to bother me.

[Some Rogue]

Is it possible you're confusing the death of "Aegon" with this?

[TheEschaton]

I haven't read book 5. And I assume that's from book 5.

Edit: (Unless that was Dany's baby).

[Some Rogue]

Yeah, it is book 5. Aegon would have been her nephew.

[Sile]

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/5766ea13c1/gay-of-thrones-game-of-thrones-ep-7-recap?rel=featured

One of the best recaps I've seen.

[Androidpk]

One wedding down. Two left to go.

[subzero]

Ol' Slayer sure is dumb. First the obsidian, then the girl.

[Androidpk]

Ol' Slayer sure is dumb. First the obsidian, then the girl.

What the hell is the matter with that girl's mouth? It irks me that she never closes it, it's like permanently stuck open.

[subzero]

What the hell is the matter with that girl's mouth? It irks me that she never closes it, it's like permanently stuck open.

Heh, yeah, kinda gets me too. I'm assuming it's some sort of inbred wildling slack-jaw thing. If not... oof... she's not very pretty without that funkiness.

[Sile]

I once had a girlfriend that had one of those permanent full toothed smiles... she kind of reminds me of that.

It's not a pleasant memory.

[SHAFT]

What the hell is the matter with that girl's mouth? It irks me that she never closes it, it's like permanently stuck open.

She's a mouth breather! Beware the mouth breathers

[Atlanteax]

Heh, yeah, kinda gets me too. I'm assuming it's some sort of inbred wildling slack-jaw thing. If not... oof... she's not very pretty without that funkiness.

I'd say it is intended as an inbred thing ... as per her feeling slighted by Sam using 'big words'.

Btw, I did not see Sam pick back up the (obsidan?) dagger that he used on the Other. You'd think if you used a weapon and it works, that you'd try to keep it on you...

[Roblar]

Yea, I thought the same. But then again he is an idiot and annoying character.

[subzero]

Btw, I did not see Sam pick back up the (obsidan?) dagger that he used on the Other. You'd think if you used a weapon and it works, that you'd try to keep it on you...

Exactly. I don't recall him leaving it behind in the books, but my memory is bad. With that baby around to draw attention, the last thing my ass would have done is left the dagger behind.


Yea, I thought the same. But then again he is an idiot and annoying character.

You're gonna be sad when the fatboy and the cripple end up riding the dragons with Daenerys!

[SHAFT]

Yea, I thought the same. But then again he is an idiot and annoying character.

Sam gets better. His chapters in book 4 weren't that bad.

[Androidpk]

He gets a lap band and turns into the next Drogo.

[Sile]

Overall I felt it was the weakest episode yet. It had its good points, and seeing a couple hot girls naked don't hurt. Even if it's fleeting.

I was underwhelmed by the slaying of the white walker. I don't normally complain about special effects but I felt the sword shattering was laughable. I like the concept just I felt it could of been done much better.

[Androidpk]

The calm before the storm? I think I know what is coming next episode. It's not going to be pretty.

[Drew]

Overall I felt it was the weakest episode yet. It had its good points, and seeing a couple hot girls naked don't hurt. Even if it's fleeting.

I was underwhelmed by the slaying of the white walker. I don't normally complain about special effects but I felt the sword shattering was laughable. I like the concept just I felt it could of been done much better.

I loved the white walker scene. Funny how my opinion is the exact opposite of yours.

[Sile]

I loved the white walker scene. Funny how my opinion is the exact opposite of yours.

Im sure we can't agree on everything. I just felt the special effects were cheap.

Weirdest thing about this episode. I can't pick out one scene I loved. Most every other episode I have no problem doing that.

[Androidpk]

Im sure we can't agree on everything. I just felt the special effects were cheap.

Weirdest thing about this episode. I can't pick out one scene I loved. Most every other episode I have no problem doing that.


You must have hated the scene when Khaleesi is in the tub. I think my favorite was either when Cersei and Margaery were talking or when Tyrion threatened Joffrey.

[Sile]

Nah I thought that was a good scene. I generally won't disapprove of any scene involving naked women. Unless it was geriatric naked women.

[Nieninque]

I loved the white walker scene. Funny how my opinion is the exact opposite of yours.

Im with the ungay Drew on that one.

I loved it. The white walkers in the books shattered non-blessed swords and in gemstone when you kill something it turns into dust and disappears into the wind. Completely realistic imo.

(I did genuinely love this episode. Tyrian kicked ass, please tell me Joffrey's wedding is before the red wedding...long time since I read the books).

[Androidpk]

Joffrey's wedding is afterwards. If I were to guess I'd say the red wedding is next episode followed by Joffrey's in the season finale episode.

[SHAFT]

The calm before the storm? I think I know what is coming next episode. It's not going to be pretty.

Waiting 2 weeks make shaft angry

[RSR]

I'm going to guess that Joffrey's wedding won't happen until next season. For one thing, the Red Viper of Dorne hasn't been introduced yet and he's at the wedding (nor has he been cast afaik).

[Androidpk]

Waiting 2 weeks make shaft angry

Bah, I didn't know there was going to be a two week wait. Arrgh!

[TheEschaton]

I like how they didn't announce the title of the episode til it aired ("Second Sons") and then the main focus is all these Second Sons - the mercenaries (were they named Second Sons in the book? I don't remember), Tyrion, Stannis, Sandor. Not a peep from the first sons - Jaime, Robb. I was actually shocked we didn't see Brann in this episode, especially when Sam is the first son of the Tarly's. I thought a throwaway scene with Tommen would have been beyond fucking epic as well, just as a nod to what's to come.

P.S. I still don't like Stannis, in book or in the series. He asks a pertinent question, "You've seen what her god can do, how can you not believe in him?", to which the correct answer would have been "It is not a matter of belief, but whether this is the right god to believe in." Too bad Davos is an illiterate redneck.

[Androidpk]

The episode name was revealed last week. They've already said the name of the next episode too.

[subzero]

He asks a pertinent question, "You've seen what her god can do, how can you not believe in him?", to which the correct answer would have been "It is not a matter of belief, but whether this is the right god to believe in." Too bad Davos is an illiterate redneck.

I'd have pointed out that some believe magic used to be fairly common in the world, though most no longer believe it. Who says magic has to come from a god? Of course, down the road I'd like to see someone ask her what god the White Walkers pray to or worship if her magic is proof that her god is the 'one true god'.

[TheEschaton]

Last week, yes, but I've known the name of the other episodes since before the season aired. Next episode is "The Rains of Castamere," and the season finale is "Mhysa."

I'm guessing "Mhysa" is going to replace "Alanna" or whatever Littlefinger's bastard daughter's name was. ;)

[Androidpk]

http://i40.tinypic.com/ea2h4l.gif

[TheEschaton]

lol awesome. This is perhaps the most spoilery thing to happen in the series and the internet anticipation is tremendous.

[SHAFT]

What if they alter the red wedding? Can you imagine the nerd rage if they alter this?

[Atlanteax]

What if they alter the red wedding? Can you imagine the nerd rage if they alter this?

Let's not go there...

[Androidpk]

What if they alter the red wedding? Can you imagine the nerd rage if they alter this?

I have heard that while there have been minor alterations between the book and the show there are HUGE ones coming in the next two episodes.

[Nieninque]

were they named Second Sons in the book?

Yes


P.S. I still don't like Stannis, in book or in the series. He asks a pertinent question, "You've seen what her god can do, how can you not believe in him?", to which the correct answer would have been "It is not a matter of belief, but whether this is the right god to believe in." Too bad Davos is an illiterate redneck.

He's a geordie, not a redneck.


I'd have pointed out that some believe magic used to be fairly common in the world, though most no longer believe it. Who says magic has to come from a god? Of course, down the road I'd like to see someone ask her what god the White Walkers pray to or worship if her magic is proof that her god is the 'one true god'.

The same as any zealot when offered a similar question, that they are evil and her one true god will counter them.


Last week, yes, but I've known the name of the other episodes since before the season aired. Next episode is "The Rains of Castamere," and the season finale is "Mhysa."

I'm guessing "Mhysa" is going to replace "Alanna" or whatever Littlefinger's bastard daughter's name was. ;)

Well there's a big change then, in the books Sansa escapes Kings Landing when Joffrey is killed, which IIRC is at his wedding...so if his wedding is after the red wedding, how they going to pull that shit off?


Let's not go there...

What bad tie said.

[TheEschaton]

I've been starting to think Joff's wedding might be episode 10. Storytelling-wise, it'll make for nice symmetry. Three episodes to end the season, three weddings. With the three leeches going in the fire, I think it's conceivable to have all 3 die this season. Balon will be off screen, like it was in the books. I didn't think they'd show Joff's wedding this season until the whole leeches in the fire thing. It'd be kind of a mess as a story if you had to wait a year for the third, as surely the first two are going to be this year.

Also, this year they've been alluding to the wedding of Joff and Margery so much that it might make sense to do it now, as long as it comes after the Red Wedding in episode 9.

[SHAFT]

I assure you, next is the red wedding and then Jeffrey's wedding.

[Drew]

I think they might lose a lot of viewers if the red wedding happens and Joffrey's doesn't. There's a reason they made the American office more hopeful, people can only take so much negative without any payoff.

[SHAFT]

People who haven't read the books will freak out over the red wedding and then be very happy to see Joffrey's wedding. I already know my fiancé is going to freak out next episode.

She cried when they beheaded Ned and when William Wallace was castrated. I can only imagine her reaction to the red wedding. She did guess the culprit behind the events of Joffrey's wedding rather easily. That one threw me off guard. I lied and told her her guess was wrong.

[TheEschaton]

I didn't know the culprit was known for certain.

[SHAFT]

I've already said too much.

[TheEschaton]

I really need to pick up that 5th book.

I always feel like a super dork when I buy fantasy books in a book store. Especially since the book store I frequent regularly knows my usual taste runs to 19th century Russians.

[SHAFT]

Amazon kindle ftw

[Sile]

I got a Kobo glow myself. Would of bought a kindle but they are a little harder to find up in Canada, and I didn't want to wait for it.

Not disappointed with the glow, its battery life is amazing. I get 60-70 hours off a single charge, with mixed use of the light.

[TheEschaton]

I morally object to the idea of a book not being paper bound in a cover. I sit in front of a computer enough in a day.

[Sile]

I morally object to the idea of a book not being paper bound in a cover. I sit in front of a computer enough in a day.

I felt this way for a long time. This is my first ereader, and I find a difference between eink and a normal computer screen, big difference.

Main selling point to me was portability. My job means I can be away from home for up to a year at a time. I usually have limited storage during that time as well. I can carry my whole library in a small package. Right now I have about 90 books on my ereader, and I could probably put more then I would ever read in my life on there.

I do still enjoy having a physical book in hand, just sometimes its not as practical.

[SHAFT]

If you have an iPad you have a kindle. Doubt ill ever read an other paperbook unless I have to.

[AnticorRifling]

I still can't stand ereaders. My wife loves her kindle fire HD mega super combo or whatever it is...me I like books. But then again I'm a young cranky old man that hates a lot of things.

[Androidpk]

I've read a shit ton of books on my kindle fire and going back to paperbacks can be hard sometimes as I like to read in the dark. Why can't paperbacks be back-lit!?

[TheEschaton]

Isn't part of the romance of reading a book in the dark struggling with the flashlight clenched between your neck and the shoulder? I think my head permanently tilts to this day from how many books I read at night under the covers when I was supposed to be asleep.

[Androidpk]

Too much of a pain in the ass. I love the all in one nature of the KF, especially with an Amazon prime membership.

[SHAFT]

Isn't part of the romance of reading a book in the dark struggling with the flashlight clenched between your neck and the shoulder? I think my head permanently tilts to this day from how many books I read at night under the covers when I was supposed to be asleep.

Technology man. Those days are over. Save trees?

[TheEschaton]

Fuck trees!

If there's one liberal cause celebre I could give two shits about, it's tree hugging. Environmentalism, sure, but not buying books to save trees, lol.

[Androidpk]

If you want to get technical you aren't just saving trees. Out of all the industries in the US, pulp and paper mills contribute to some of the worst levels of air, land, and water pollution. I'm pretty sure that sort of stuff falls under environmentalism.

[TheEschaton]

Yeah, but when I say I care about environmentalism, I honestly don't but it sounds like I should. I'll be dead before it's too bad anyways.

[subzero]

Too bad they can't make hemp paper cause marijuana is teh devilz.

[Overlord]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksO35s3Bffc