HBO - Song of Ice&Fire Series -Varsity Thread - no TV only whiners (1 Viewer)

[jdoggydogg]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

It's now Mrs. Dogg's favorite show. Ever.

How did you make that happen? My wife won't watch it. She calls it my nerd show.

The wife is a fan of almost all the good HBO shows, and she liked The Tudors a lot. So it was pretty easy.

 

[culdeus]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

It's now Mrs. Dogg's favorite show. Ever.

How did you make that happen? My wife won't watch it. She calls it my nerd show.

Mine loves it. She eats up stuff like this.

 

[encaitar]

finally caught up to real time here. So if Stannis is dead and Renly is dead, who is next in line officially?

I imagine it's Robert Bartheon's ******* son, the blacksmith who is on the run with Arya.

Officially it's Daenerys Targaryen

Obviously this is academic but I'd guess the civil war extinguished the targaryen's legal claim to the throne.

Not really. Robert's War started when the Mad King had Lyanna Stark kidnapped and then killed Ned Stark's brother and father. Baratheon was one of the leaders in that war, but he was chosen as such because his grandmother was a Targaryen and therefore he could make a loose claim to the Iron Throne once they won the rebellion.

Maybe that's why Robert was chosen in the first place but it would seem more logical that, once chosen, the baratheon's became the ruling family from which heirs are chosen. Certainly there is some baratheon with a closer connection to Robert than daenerys. In any event, I'd imagine there is some procedure for appointing kings in the absence of heirs that doesn't rely on giving the title back to a deposed king's daughter.

I'm assuming it would just get sorted out through war and would be resolved once someone claims the throne through battle.

That's the problem though. War and battle. That's why the Targaryens are held in such high regard in Westeros. Before them, Westeros was always at war with itself. With them, it experienced 300 years of peace. The commoners will almost certainly support someone with Targaryen blood over someone without just because of that.

 

[Moe.]

Spoiler

Think they're going to hold introducing Arstan Whitebeard & Strong Belwas over to next season? I don't think they have time to jam that in to the next episode given they're probably doing the House of the Undying and touching on all the other plots for the end of the season.

Spoiler

I think you are correct. IIRC he was introduced in her very last chapter in ACOK so I doubt we'll see him this Sunday. It will be interesting to see how they handle that. It was kind of obvious he wasn't who he said he was in the books but we've already "seen" him in the TV series so it should be even more apparent in the show. Who knows how they'll handle that though, they seem to be comfortable diverting from the books with Dany. Maybe they'll go in another direction.

 

[shuke]

Im just starting book 2 so it might be addressed in there but I was expecting something during the battle from Stannis Red Lady, Melisandre. Figured she would have had something up her sleeve to rival the wildfire.

Not sure why folks thought this - it was pretty clear an episode or 2 ago that Stannis was not bringing the witch to Kings Landing - to avoid the appearance that she won the battle. Now, in retrospect, maybe he should have brought her - but it was a pretty clear point made in the conversation between Stannis and Davos prior to setting sail towards Kings Landing.

Pretty sure she dies in this battle in the book. A rather abrupt ending to both Stannis and the priestess. I haven't read Book 3 yet, so it's possible they make another appearance somehow, but I'm pretty sure that it's declared that they were both killed in this battle in Book 2.

Why would you say any of this without a spoiler?

 

[shuke]

When Joffrey made Sansa kiss his sword, he said he would make her do it again upon his return and she would taste his uncle's blood on it. Wonder if they worded it that way to suggest Tyrion's?

Stannis is also his uncle.

Actually he's not.

True but he doesn't know that.

I am not sure how the book handles that but he has definitely heard the rumors and discussed them with Cersei right before he had all of Robert Baratheon's suspected ******* children killed.

How do you know that was Joffrey's order and not Cersei's?

 

[culdeus]

Here's how I imagine the rest of the plot runs.

-This war keeps dragging on, and on.

-White Walkers break through the wall which is weakened by lack of support and this whole wildling thing

-Dony(I guess it's Dony not Deny) rides over with her dragons and beats back the WW and Lannisters with them

-Stannis and his gas babies vs. Dony with the Starks as wildcards down the stretch

Is there some reason Dony would not align with the Starks if given the chance?

 

[Chaka]

When Joffrey made Sansa kiss his sword, he said he would make her do it again upon his return and she would taste his uncle's blood on it. Wonder if they worded it that way to suggest Tyrion's?

Stannis is also his uncle.

Actually he's not.

True but he doesn't know that.

I am not sure how the book handles that but he has definitely heard the rumors and discussed them with Cersei right before he had all of Robert Baratheon's suspected ******* children killed.

How do you know that was Joffrey's order and not Cersei's?

They said as much in season 2.

 

[Rick James]

Here's how I imagine the rest of the plot runs.

-This war keeps dragging on, and on.

-White Walkers break through the wall which is weakened by lack of support and this whole wildling thing

-Dony(I guess it's Dony not Deny) rides over with her dragons and beats back the WW and Lannisters with them

-Stannis and his gas babies vs. Dony with the Starks as wildcards down the stretch

Is there some reason Dony would not align with the Starks if given the chance?

Only the small instance where Ned Stark helped Robert Baratheon destroy her father.

 

[Chaka]

Here's how I imagine the rest of the plot runs. -This war keeps dragging on, and on. -White Walkers break through the wall which is weakened by lack of support and this whole wildling thing-Dony(I guess it's Dony not Deny) rides over with her dragons and beats back the WW and Lannisters with them-Stannis and his gas babies vs. Dony with the Starks as wildcards down the stretchIs there some reason Dony would not align with the Starks if given the chance?

The Starks were instrumental in overthrowing the Targaryens.The mad king Targaryen killed Ned's sister, father and brother.

 

[Foosball God]

Here's how I imagine the rest of the plot runs. -This war keeps dragging on, and on. -White Walkers break through the wall which is weakened by lack of support and this whole wildling thing-Dony(I guess it's Dony not Deny) rides over with her dragons and beats back the WW and Lannisters with them-Stannis and his gas babies vs. Dony with the Starks as wildcards down the stretchIs there some reason Dony would not align with the Starks if given the chance?

Dony?

 

[gump]

-On the other hand...I hope they don't bring in Natalie Dormer into this series any more than is absolutely necessary. She damn near ruined The Tudors by herself.

Gigantic

 

[PrinceofDarkness]

Spoiler

Think they're going to hold introducing Arstan Whitebeard & Strong Belwas over to next season? I don't think they have time to jam that in to the next episode given they're probably doing the House of the Undying and touching on all the other plots for the end of the season.

Spoiler

I think you are correct. IIRC he was introduced in her very last chapter in ACOK so I doubt we'll see him this Sunday. It will be interesting to see how they handle that. It was kind of obvious he wasn't who he said he was in the books but we've already "seen" him in the TV series so it should be even more apparent in the show. Who knows how they'll handle that though, they seem to be comfortable diverting from the books with Dany. Maybe they'll go in another direction.

Spoiler

Different clothes and a mustache would probably do it in the show. Most viewers will probably be scrambling to look up who he was because his dismissal from the Kingsguard seemed to be a ploy to illustrate The New Order under Joffery, not a scene that would reverberate into the future in a distant land.Edit to add: Many viewers will have a similar moment with Beric Dondarrian, I'm guessing.

Too lazy to look up, book readers help me out:

Spoiler

In what book were the plans to marry Joffery to Margery made? It seems to me that there should already have been scenes between The Fool and Sansa planning the escape, but I'm not sure if my timeline is just miscalibrated.

 

[Gr00vus]

Spoiler

Think they're going to hold introducing Arstan Whitebeard & Strong Belwas over to next season? I don't think they have time to jam that in to the next episode given they're probably doing the House of the Undying and touching on all the other plots for the end of the season.

Spoiler

I think you are correct. IIRC he was introduced in her very last chapter in ACOK so I doubt we'll see him this Sunday. It will be interesting to see how they handle that. It was kind of obvious he wasn't who he said he was in the books but we've already "seen" him in the TV series so it should be even more apparent in the show. Who knows how they'll handle that though, they seem to be comfortable diverting from the books with Dany. Maybe they'll go in another direction.

Warning: Really stay away from these posts if you haven't made it through the 1st 4 books.

Spoiler

I was thinking the same thing. Maybe a ton of makeup will pull it off. Maybe they don't even bother with the subterfuge? I hope they don't omit the character entirely - he was one of my favorites from the book, representing the "old school" honorable knights in a world full of flawed people.

 

[Barry]

Dony loved dragons

 

[Chaka]

-On the other hand...I hope they don't bring in Natalie Dormer into this series any more than is absolutely necessary. She damn near ruined The Tudors by herself.

Gigantic

Agreed. Not sure if she can act but I like to look at her.

 

[Maik Jeaunz]

Dog no likey fire.

it seems there are a lot of child and teen actors on this show. I wonder how the producers/writers will deal with the "Walt effect" as the show continues to drag on for several years. eventually, Bran will be too big to be Hodor'd around.

 

[gump]

On the topic of the Red Priestess, where's the backlash for killing Renly with her smoke baby? Cause I have yet to see any. Cat and the King's Guard chick were there...why isn't there a posse after them?

I'm not sure who you mean by "them" but I think you mean Stannis. Nobody really believes that Stannis and his witch were responsible. They think that maybe Brienne did it.

No, "them" equals Cat and the Kings Guard chick. Thought that was pretty clear. They were in the tent when Renly died and were the last ones present when he was alive. So why isn't there a posse after Cat and Kings Guard chick?

IIRC there is. Catelyn said something like, "let's get out of here before they hang you." But ultimately, people have bigger fish to fry. Most of Renly's army went over to Stannis and he was pre-occupied with winning Kings Landing, not seeking out the suspects for the murder which his witch did.

That's how I see it. And I doubt Stannis would have sent a posse considering he is responsible for Renly's death. The only one, who doesn't know the truth, who I see with a vested interest in vengeance for Renly is his lover boy.

I thought Loras knew that it was NOT Cat and Brienne...which is why he joined Tywin to fight Stannis?

The HBO site doesn't clarify this, but Wiki has this quote about that episode (Ghost of Harenhall):

Meanwhile, Renly's death causes confusion amongst his men. Ser Loras holds Stannis responsible for Renly's death and wants revenge, but Petyr Baelish and Renly's widow Margaery Tyrell convince him that they must escape before Stannis' fleet arrives.

I can't recall if this was real clear...but it makes the ending last week make more sense....any book readers want to chime in?

 

[hotdogcollars]

Dog no likey fire.it seems there are a lot of child and teen actors on this show. I wonder how the producers/writers will deal with the "Walt effect" as the show continues to drag on for several years. eventually, Bran will be too big to be Hodor'd around.

hodor

 

[shadyridr]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

It's now Mrs. Dogg's favorite show. Ever.

How did you make that happen? My wife won't watch it. She calls it my nerd show.

Not only does my wife love it but a ton of her friends at work watch it too.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

It's now Mrs. Dogg's favorite show. Ever.

How did you make that happen? My wife won't watch it. She calls it my nerd show.

Not only does my wife love it but a ton of her friends at work watch it too.

When I was working at Borders, I was surprised how many women were reading the series and the content didnt bother them at all. they loved it and were jonesing for aDwD to come out. however my wife hates gratuitious nudity and wont watch it with me. oh well.

 

[Sabertooth]

Interesting conversation between Bronn and the Imp regarding money and friendship. Tyrion seemed a bit hurt that Bronn doesn't see him as a friend, only a paycheck.

 

[shadyridr]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

It's now Mrs. Dogg's favorite show. Ever.

How did you make that happen? My wife won't watch it. She calls it my nerd show.

Not only does my wife love it but a ton of her friends at work watch it too.

When I was working at Borders, I was surprised how many women were reading the series and the content didnt bother them at all. they loved it and were jonesing for aDwD to come out. however my wife hates gratuitious nudity and wont watch it with me. oh well.

My wife loves gratuitious nudity. She also watches Spartacus & True Blood

 

[Tremendous Upside]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

This is what was amazing to me. Both women there were huge fans and the most vocal of the debaters. One read all 5 books after watching Season 1, the other was in the middle of Book 3.

 

[belljr]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

This is what was amazing to me. Both women there were huge fans and the most vocal of the debaters. One read all 5 books after watching Season 1, the other was in the middle of Book 3.

We had 3 people order HBO just for this show after catching up on Season 1 through dvds, netflix or whatever...No of use read the books though

 

[EYLive]

Spoiler

Think they're going to hold introducing Arstan Whitebeard & Strong Belwas over to next season? I don't think they have time to jam that in to the next episode given they're probably doing the House of the Undying and touching on all the other plots for the end of the season.

Spoiler

I think you are correct. IIRC he was introduced in her very last chapter in ACOK so I doubt we'll see him this Sunday. It will be interesting to see how they handle that. It was kind of obvious he wasn't who he said he was in the books but we've already "seen" him in the TV series so it should be even more apparent in the show. Who knows how they'll handle that though, they seem to be comfortable diverting from the books with Dany. Maybe they'll go in another direction.

Warning: Really stay away from these posts if you haven't made it through the 1st 4 books.

Spoiler

I was thinking the same thing. Maybe a ton of makeup will pull it off. Maybe they don't even bother with the subterfuge? I hope they don't omit the character entirely - he was one of my favorites from the book, representing the "old school" honorable knights in a world full of flawed people.

Spoiler

I think an old musty cloak, a staff, and full white beard would do the trick.

 

[JerseyToughGuys]

I don't remember Stannis being such a badass in the books. I guess I was surprised to seem him leading the attack over the walls. Also, why is no one in here talking about who sliced Tyrion's face apart?

I thought it was one of the king's guard, not surprising IMO as Geoffrey considers Tyrion to be a threat. What should we be talking about?

This was a pretty big "holy ####" moment for me in the books. Sorry to bother you. Carry on.

good post

 

[Gr00vus]

I've been looking forward to the House of the Undying scene more than I was the Battle of the Blackwater. I hope they nail it, it's got the potential to be a fantastic visualization.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

On the topic of the Red Priestess, where's the backlash for killing Renly with her smoke baby? Cause I have yet to see any. Cat and the King's Guard chick were there...why isn't there a posse after them?

I'm not sure who you mean by "them" but I think you mean Stannis. Nobody really believes that Stannis and his witch were responsible. They think that maybe Brienne did it.

No, "them" equals Cat and the Kings Guard chick. Thought that was pretty clear. They were in the tent when Renly died and were the last ones present when he was alive. So why isn't there a posse after Cat and Kings Guard chick?

IIRC there is. Catelyn said something like, "let's get out of here before they hang you." But ultimately, people have bigger fish to fry. Most of Renly's army went over to Stannis and he was pre-occupied with winning Kings Landing, not seeking out the suspects for the murder which his witch did.

That's how I see it. And I doubt Stannis would have sent a posse considering he is responsible for Renly's death. The only one, who doesn't know the truth, who I see with a vested interest in vengeance for Renly is his lover boy.

I thought Loras knew that it was NOT Cat and Brienne...which is why he joined Tywin to fight Stannis?

The HBO site doesn't clarify this, but Wiki has this quote about that episode (Ghost of Harenhall):

Meanwhile, Renly's death causes confusion amongst his men. Ser Loras holds Stannis responsible for Renly's death and wants revenge, but Petyr Baelish and Renly's widow Margaery Tyrell convince him that they must escape before Stannis' fleet arrives.

I can't recall if this was real clear...but it makes the ending last week make more sense....any book readers want to chime in?

My recollection from the books is that Loras, Margarey and the Tyrells are more motivated by politics and power than anything else. I think he still suspects Brienne as to Renley. One thing that is perhaps not clear from the tv show is how hugely important and powerful House Tyrell is and how crucial this allegiance was to the Lannisters, tenuous as it is.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Here's how I imagine the rest of the plot runs. -This war keeps dragging on, and on. -White Walkers break through the wall which is weakened by lack of support and this whole wildling thing-Dony(I guess it's Dony not Deny) rides over with her dragons and beats back the WW and Lannisters with them-Stannis and his gas babies vs. Dony with the Starks as wildcards down the stretchIs there some reason Dony would not align with the Starks if given the chance?

I love reading this kind of speculation from non book readers ~ very interesting. I can now see how having read the books does take something away from the tv experience. One thing to keep in mind in predicting the plot direction is that we are now just finishing the second of a planned 7 books. If book 3 is covered over 2 seasons as reported, we are now only in second of at least 8 seasons.

 

[Mile High]

It has been interesting starting with s1e1 roughly two months back and catching up to the actual viewers. A downtime of a year will be tough to take. I planned to stop at end of s1 and catchup with s2 sometime later this year once complete, but couldn't stop myself. Some random comments which are nearly certainly covered somewhere-I still laugh every time they do the "everybody out!!!" bit. Seems to be at least 2x a show. I guess they do it to cut down on shooting time, but it is still funny and should be part of any GOT drinking game. -I haven't read the books, but they are not doing much to hide Deneryus + Warlocks + Dragons = win. I don't know if it is poor direction, or poor acting, but I hope they replace the Deneryus actress between seasons. I can't think whatever they are going for there is working, and it's clear she'll be a super key factor in the future. I'd be willing to lay down to +250 that she's on the throne before 2014. -I do like the mix of actors they are using. Most of them are BBC-UK mainstays. It's pretty obvious when they break one in that is well known in the UK that they will stick around a bit. That sort of spoiled the Snow/Wildling being a short run, but whatever. There are several other times this has come up. -On the other hand...I hope they don't bring in Natalie Dormer into this series any more than is absolutely necessary. She damn near ruined The Tudors by herself. So from reading other internet forums about this series it seems most likely they shoot all of S3 and S4 at the same time and then take a considerable break to let the books play out a bit. I have no idea how reliable this information is. Would think early 2013 for next airing?

replace Dany? no way. remember she is playing a 14 year old girl who has a great sense of entitlement.

Emily Clarke was nominated and won acting awards for season 1 so don't think they will replace her. This season hasn't been about her story.

 

[Nick Vermeil]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

This is what was amazing to me. Both women there were huge fans and the most vocal of the debaters. One read all 5 books after watching Season 1, the other was in the middle of Book 3.

My wife really liked season 1. Then we had a baby and the first episode of this season sent her packing. So now I wait until she goes to bed to watch it. This season has been solid. I have few complaints as a book reader but I understand that they have done a great job for the limited time they have in the TV show. Complaints in spoilers:

Spoiler

1) Tyrion - Dinklage is great but I think they have not delivered on how great he was as a hand like the book did. The chain is not important as a plot device but it says a lot about the character as a strategist. He didn't just make a chain, he forced all blacksmiths to stop making weapons and armor during a war in order to make the chain that would turn the battle. AND he used wildfire, not just stealing his sister's idea. This is a two minute scene that could have added a lot to the character. He also cleared out the commoners and demolished their homes to clear firewood from the battle. And where are the catapults?2) Danerys. She is even more of a snooze fest in the show then she is in the books. 3) The C level characters have been poorly handled. I read the books and still didn't grasp from the show who slashed Tyrion in battle. And will anyone remember Dondarian or Dontos when the time is right? I think not. And anyone who says they recognized Renly's armor is crazy. 4) No Reeds? Really?

Now the stuff that is good: Davos, Theon, Arya and Jon. Great stuff from these 4.

 

[Sabertooth]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

This is what was amazing to me. Both women there were huge fans and the most vocal of the debaters. One read all 5 books after watching Season 1, the other was in the middle of Book 3.

My wife really liked season 1. Then we had a baby and the first episode of this season sent her packing. So now I wait until she goes to bed to watch it. This season has been solid. I have few complaints as a book reader but I understand that they have done a great job for the limited time they have in the TV show. Complaints in spoilers:

Spoiler

1) Tyrion - Dinklage is great but I think they have not delivered on how great he was as a hand like the book did. The chain is not important as a plot device but it says a lot about the character as a strategist. He didn't just make a chain, he forced all blacksmiths to stop making weapons and armor during a war in order to make the chain that would turn the battle. AND he used wildfire, not just stealing his sister's idea. This is a two minute scene that could have added a lot to the character. He also cleared out the commoners and demolished their homes to clear firewood from the battle. And where are the catapults?2) Danerys. She is even more of a snooze fest in the show then she is in the books. 3) The C level characters have been poorly handled. I read the books and still didn't grasp from the show who slashed Tyrion in battle. And will anyone remember Dondarian or Dontos when the time is right? I think not. And anyone who says they recognized Renly's armor is crazy. 4) No Reeds? Really?

Now the stuff that is good: Davos, Theon, Arya and Jon. Great stuff from these 4.

I pretty much agree on all points.

 

[Steed]

On the topic of the Red Priestess, where's the backlash for killing Renly with her smoke baby? Cause I have yet to see any. Cat and the King's Guard chick were there...why isn't there a posse after them?

I'm not sure who you mean by "them" but I think you mean Stannis. Nobody really believes that Stannis and his witch were responsible. They think that maybe Brienne did it.

No, "them" equals Cat and the Kings Guard chick. Thought that was pretty clear. They were in the tent when Renly died and were the last ones present when he was alive. So why isn't there a posse after Cat and Kings Guard chick?

IIRC there is. Catelyn said something like, "let's get out of here before they hang you." But ultimately, people have bigger fish to fry. Most of Renly's army went over to Stannis and he was pre-occupied with winning Kings Landing, not seeking out the suspects for the murder which his witch did.

That's how I see it. And I doubt Stannis would have sent a posse considering he is responsible for Renly's death. The only one, who doesn't know the truth, who I see with a vested interest in vengeance for Renly is his lover boy.

I thought Loras knew that it was NOT Cat and Brienne...which is why he joined Tywin to fight Stannis?

The HBO site doesn't clarify this, but Wiki has this quote about that episode (Ghost of Harenhall):

Meanwhile, Renly's death causes confusion amongst his men. Ser Loras holds Stannis responsible for Renly's death and wants revenge, but Petyr Baelish and Renly's widow Margaery Tyrell convince him that they must escape before Stannis' fleet arrives.

I can't recall if this was real clear...but it makes the ending last week make more sense....any book readers want to chime in?

My recollection from the books is that Loras, Margarey and the Tyrells are more motivated by politics and power than anything else. I think he still suspects Brienne as to Renley. One thing that is perhaps not clear from the tv show is how hugely important and powerful House Tyrell is and how crucial this allegiance was to the Lannisters, tenuous as it is.

Agreed. They made it clear in season 1 that only the Lannisters had more resources than the Tyrells. They're the two superpowers of Westeros, financially that is.

 

[Chaka]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

This is what was amazing to me. Both women there were huge fans and the most vocal of the debaters. One read all 5 books after watching Season 1, the other was in the middle of Book 3.

My wife really liked season 1. Then we had a baby and the first episode of this season sent her packing. So now I wait until she goes to bed to watch it. This season has been solid. I have few complaints as a book reader but I understand that they have done a great job for the limited time they have in the TV show. Complaints in spoilers:

Spoiler

1) Tyrion - Dinklage is great but I think they have not delivered on how great he was as a hand like the book did. The chain is not important as a plot device but it says a lot about the character as a strategist. He didn't just make a chain, he forced all blacksmiths to stop making weapons and armor during a war in order to make the chain that would turn the battle. AND he used wildfire, not just stealing his sister's idea. This is a two minute scene that could have added a lot to the character. He also cleared out the commoners and demolished their homes to clear firewood from the battle. And where are the catapults?2) Danerys. She is even more of a snooze fest in the show then she is in the books. 3) The C level characters have been poorly handled. I read the books and still didn't grasp from the show who slashed Tyrion in battle. And will anyone remember Dondarian or Dontos when the time is right? I think not. And anyone who says they recognized Renly's armor is crazy. 4) No Reeds? Really?

Spoiler

Now the stuff that is good: Davos, Theon, Arya and Jon. Great stuff from these 4.

I pretty much agree on all points.Every time he's on screen I want to punch Theon in the face. I sincerely hope his uppance will come in the season finale.

 

[Sinn Fein]

Character List for Season 3

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

Character List for Season 3

Spoiler

hmmm no ramsay snow or reek listed

wasnt barric already shown in season1??

 

[Foosball God]

On the topic of the Red Priestess, where's the backlash for killing Renly with her smoke baby? Cause I have yet to see any. Cat and the King's Guard chick were there...why isn't there a posse after them?

I'm not sure who you mean by "them" but I think you mean Stannis. Nobody really believes that Stannis and his witch were responsible. They think that maybe Brienne did it.

No, "them" equals Cat and the Kings Guard chick. Thought that was pretty clear. They were in the tent when Renly died and were the last ones present when he was alive. So why isn't there a posse after Cat and Kings Guard chick?

IIRC there is. Catelyn said something like, "let's get out of here before they hang you." But ultimately, people have bigger fish to fry. Most of Renly's army went over to Stannis and he was pre-occupied with winning Kings Landing, not seeking out the suspects for the murder which his witch did.

That's how I see it. And I doubt Stannis would have sent a posse considering he is responsible for Renly's death. The only one, who doesn't know the truth, who I see with a vested interest in vengeance for Renly is his lover boy.

I thought Loras knew that it was NOT Cat and Brienne...which is why he joined Tywin to fight Stannis?

The HBO site doesn't clarify this, but Wiki has this quote about that episode (Ghost of Harenhall):

Meanwhile, Renly's death causes confusion amongst his men. Ser Loras holds Stannis responsible for Renly's death and wants revenge, but Petyr Baelish and Renly's widow Margaery Tyrell convince him that they must escape before Stannis' fleet arrives.

I can't recall if this was real clear...but it makes the ending last week make more sense....any book readers want to chime in?

My recollection from the books is that Loras, Margarey and the Tyrells are more motivated by politics and power than anything else. I think he still suspects Brienne as to Renley. One thing that is perhaps not clear from the tv show is how hugely important and powerful House Tyrell is and how crucial this allegiance was to the Lannisters, tenuous as it is.

House Tyrell is viewed as upstarts by the other great houses since their titles were granted by Aegon the Conqueror. They are definitely trying to position themselves as major players.

 

[EYLive]

Character List for Season 3

Spoiler

hmmm no ramsay snow or reek listed

wasnt barric already shown in season1??

Spoiler

I can see how they may delay Ramsay and Reek to later seasons since they were mostly Book 5 characters. Dondarrion got 15 seconds of screen time in the throne room so I guess he's kinda new.

I love Thormund. Dude is hilarious.

 

[The Gator]

Character List for Season 3

Spoiler

hmmm no ramsay snow or reek listed

wasnt barric already shown in season1??

Spoiler

I can see how they may delay Ramsay and Reek to later seasons since they were mostly Book 5 characters. Dondarrion got 15 seconds of screen time in the throne room so I guess he's kinda new.

I love Thormund. Dude is hilarious.

Spoiler

HAR!

 

[Sabertooth]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

This is what was amazing to me. Both women there were huge fans and the most vocal of the debaters. One read all 5 books after watching Season 1, the other was in the middle of Book 3.

My wife really liked season 1. Then we had a baby and the first episode of this season sent her packing. So now I wait until she goes to bed to watch it. This season has been solid. I have few complaints as a book reader but I understand that they have done a great job for the limited time they have in the TV show. Complaints in spoilers:

Spoiler

1) Tyrion - Dinklage is great but I think they have not delivered on how great he was as a hand like the book did. The chain is not important as a plot device but it says a lot about the character as a strategist. He didn't just make a chain, he forced all blacksmiths to stop making weapons and armor during a war in order to make the chain that would turn the battle. AND he used wildfire, not just stealing his sister's idea. This is a two minute scene that could have added a lot to the character. He also cleared out the commoners and demolished their homes to clear firewood from the battle. And where are the catapults?2) Danerys. She is even more of a snooze fest in the show then she is in the books. 3) The C level characters have been poorly handled. I read the books and still didn't grasp from the show who slashed Tyrion in battle. And will anyone remember Dondarian or Dontos when the time is right? I think not. And anyone who says they recognized Renly's armor is crazy. 4) No Reeds? Really?

Spoiler

Now the stuff that is good: Davos, Theon, Arya and Jon. Great stuff from these 4.

Spoiler

I pretty much agree on all points.

Every time he's on screen I want to punch Theon in the face. I sincerely hope his uppance will come in the season finale.He's another actor doing a fantastic job though, you have to admit.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

Character List for Season 3

Spoiler

hmmm no ramsay snow or reek listed

wasnt barric already shown in season1??

Spoiler

I can see how they may delay Ramsay and Reek to later seasons since they were mostly Book 5 characters. Dondarrion got 15 seconds of screen time in the throne room so I guess he's kinda new.

I love Thormund. Dude is hilarious.

Spoiler

well Roose has already been talking about sending his ******* boy to re-take winterfell. and Robb ok'd the order.

 

[Chaka]

Saturday night I was at a BBQ. As it died down there were about 8 people left, a couple of chicks and very multi racial. There was a 30 minute long debate/discussion about GoT. I sat back and thought that when I read book over a decade ago there was no way I could have imagined that scene. This is a phenomena. And it's awesome.

Chicks watch this show?

This is what was amazing to me. Both women there were huge fans and the most vocal of the debaters. One read all 5 books after watching Season 1, the other was in the middle of Book 3.

My wife really liked season 1. Then we had a baby and the first episode of this season sent her packing. So now I wait until she goes to bed to watch it. This season has been solid. I have few complaints as a book reader but I understand that they have done a great job for the limited time they have in the TV show. Complaints in spoilers:

Spoiler

1) Tyrion - Dinklage is great but I think they have not delivered on how great he was as a hand like the book did. The chain is not important as a plot device but it says a lot about the character as a strategist. He didn't just make a chain, he forced all blacksmiths to stop making weapons and armor during a war in order to make the chain that would turn the battle. AND he used wildfire, not just stealing his sister's idea. This is a two minute scene that could have added a lot to the character. He also cleared out the commoners and demolished their homes to clear firewood from the battle. And where are the catapults?2) Danerys. She is even more of a snooze fest in the show then she is in the books. 3) The C level characters have been poorly handled. I read the books and still didn't grasp from the show who slashed Tyrion in battle. And will anyone remember Dondarian or Dontos when the time is right? I think not. And anyone who says they recognized Renly's armor is crazy. 4) No Reeds? Really?

Spoiler

Now the stuff that is good: Davos, Theon, Arya and Jon. Great stuff from these 4.

Spoiler

I pretty much agree on all points.

Spoiler

Every time he's on screen I want to punch Theon in the face. I sincerely hope his uppance will come in the season finale.

He's another actor doing a fantastic job though, you have to admit.Absolutely. He is doing an fantastic job of making me want to punch him in the face.

 

[shuke]

Interesting conversation between Bronn and the Imp regarding money and friendship. Tyrion seemed a bit hurt that Bronn doesn't see him as a friend, only a paycheck.

Agreed. I can't believe people in here are saying the dialogue was bad this episode. It was one of the better-written episodes.

 

[culdeus]

It has been interesting starting with s1e1 roughly two months back and catching up to the actual viewers. A downtime of a year will be tough to take. I planned to stop at end of s1 and catchup with s2 sometime later this year once complete, but couldn't stop myself. Some random comments which are nearly certainly covered somewhere-I still laugh every time they do the "everybody out!!!" bit. Seems to be at least 2x a show. I guess they do it to cut down on shooting time, but it is still funny and should be part of any GOT drinking game. -I haven't read the books, but they are not doing much to hide Deneryus + Warlocks + Dragons = win. I don't know if it is poor direction, or poor acting, but I hope they replace the Deneryus actress between seasons. I can't think whatever they are going for there is working, and it's clear she'll be a super key factor in the future. I'd be willing to lay down to +250 that she's on the throne before 2014. -I do like the mix of actors they are using. Most of them are BBC-UK mainstays. It's pretty obvious when they break one in that is well known in the UK that they will stick around a bit. That sort of spoiled the Snow/Wildling being a short run, but whatever. There are several other times this has come up. -On the other hand...I hope they don't bring in Natalie Dormer into this series any more than is absolutely necessary. She damn near ruined The Tudors by herself. So from reading other internet forums about this series it seems most likely they shoot all of S3 and S4 at the same time and then take a considerable break to let the books play out a bit. I have no idea how reliable this information is. Would think early 2013 for next airing?

replace Dany? no way. remember she is playing a 14 year old girl who has a great sense of entitlement.

Emily Clarke was nominated and won acting awards for season 1 so don't think they will replace her. This season hasn't been about her story.

EWwy Awards for Best Supporting ActressScream Award for Breakout Performance - FemaleThese awards? Is that it?She was better playing the battered woman than one with survivor's guilt.

 

[Chaka]

It has been interesting starting with s1e1 roughly two months back and catching up to the actual viewers. A downtime of a year will be tough to take. I planned to stop at end of s1 and catchup with s2 sometime later this year once complete, but couldn't stop myself. Some random comments which are nearly certainly covered somewhere-I still laugh every time they do the "everybody out!!!" bit. Seems to be at least 2x a show. I guess they do it to cut down on shooting time, but it is still funny and should be part of any GOT drinking game. -I haven't read the books, but they are not doing much to hide Deneryus + Warlocks + Dragons = win. I don't know if it is poor direction, or poor acting, but I hope they replace the Deneryus actress between seasons. I can't think whatever they are going for there is working, and it's clear she'll be a super key factor in the future. I'd be willing to lay down to +250 that she's on the throne before 2014. -I do like the mix of actors they are using. Most of them are BBC-UK mainstays. It's pretty obvious when they break one in that is well known in the UK that they will stick around a bit. That sort of spoiled the Snow/Wildling being a short run, but whatever. There are several other times this has come up. -On the other hand...I hope they don't bring in Natalie Dormer into this series any more than is absolutely necessary. She damn near ruined The Tudors by herself. So from reading other internet forums about this series it seems most likely they shoot all of S3 and S4 at the same time and then take a considerable break to let the books play out a bit. I have no idea how reliable this information is. Would think early 2013 for next airing?

replace Dany? no way. remember she is playing a 14 year old girl who has a great sense of entitlement.

Emily Clarke was nominated and won acting awards for season 1 so don't think they will replace her. This season hasn't been about her story.

EWwy Awards for Best Supporting ActressScream Award for Breakout Performance - FemaleThese awards? Is that it?She was better playing the battered woman than one with survivor's guilt.

I'm not seeing survivor's guilt.

 

[Charlie Frown]

Spoiler

Looks like they show up next season.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Storm of Swords Question

Spoiler

I can't recall but did Davos' son (Stanis' squire) die during the battle in the book? I pretty much just finished the chapter where Davos was "arrested" in SoS and couldnt recall

 

[Gr00vus]

She was better playing the battered woman than one with survivor's guilt.

I'm not seeing survivor's guilt.

Of the major characters she's suffered the most this season from the screen adaptation approach. She didn't have a ton of action in the 2nd book, a lot of her chapters consisted of heavy internal dialog and 3rd party observation/discussion. This season has flat out failed at compensating for/presenting that content. I can't blame the actress for the material they've handed her. The inner conflicts and decisions she had to deal with were more interesting in the book, and even there it wasn't riveting stuff, mostly character development/exposition.

 

[Gr00vus]

Storm of Swords Question

Spoiler

I can't recall but did Davos' son (Stanis' squire) die during the battle in the book? I pretty much just finished the chapter where Davos was "arrested" in SoS and couldnt recall

Spoiler

IIRC he lost a couple of sons in the battle, including the one they had on the show. ETA: Double checking the book wiki it says he lost 4 sons in the battle (again, including the one depicted in the show).