Although summer break is quickly approaching, winter is coming to our TV sets.
The thrilling HBO drama “Game of Thrones” returns April 6 at 9 p.m. with its fourth season. If you haven’t caught the “Game of Thrones” bug yet, prepare to binge-watch from the edge of your seat.
“Game of Thrones,” based on George R. R. Martin’s “Songs of Fire and Ice” book series, is a one-of-a-kind adventure. The exhilarating TV show takes place in a fantasy, medieval world and follows the power struggles between members of different houses as they all seek a common goal: to be crowned the rightful heir of the Iron Throne as the King of Westoros, protector of the realm and leader of all seven kingdoms.
Yes, it sounds a little nerdy, but the storyline is so intricate and engrossing that it is impossible for anyone to avoid getting sucked in and zealously cheer on his or her favorite house.
From the intricate costume design to the dragons to the British accents and the epic instrumental theme song, there are too many reasons to watch “Game of Thrones.” Most important of them all is the plot. To say that “Game of Thrones” is completely unpredictable is a major understatement, like saying, “Antarctica is a little chilly” or “Puppies are kind of cute.” Unless someone has already read the book series cover to cover, the viewer’s standard reaction to the end of every episode is, “Did that really just happen?” Although this does contribute to a considerable amount of suspense, every episode is consistently exciting, no dull moments included.
The show’s cast is truly spectacular. If there were an Emmy for “Best Acting Across-the-Board,” “Game of Thrones” would win every year.
Peter Dinklage’s timing and effective delivery as Tyrion Lannister makes him the series’, and probably all of TV’s, most sharp-witted, likeable, and clever character. Emilia Clarke, representing House Targaryen as Daenerys Targaryen, exhibits so much poise and strength as the fierce mother of dragons everyone roots for. Lena Headey and Jack Gleeson successfully make fans passionately hate the villainous Cersei and Joffrey Lannister because their wicked delivery and mannerisms are way too believable. Just be careful not to get too attached to any character. The commonly used motto, “Valar Marghulis,” Valyrian for “All men must die,” holds true to the show’s plot.
“Game of Thrones” is so engaging that fans are fully involved in each episode’s rollercoaster of emotions. Viewers will laugh. Viewers will cry. Viewers will cringe with disgust — but in a way that isn’t completely off-putting.
Just a warning: “Game of Thrones” is filled with mature content. Fortunately, if blood, guts, and gore aren’t your thing, you can easily fast forward or even look away through the graphic depictions of beheading without missing any significant plot points. Just don’t watch it with incredibly conservative parents or young children, unless your hand is ready to fast-forward through the frequent uncomfortable sex scenes.
Finish the first episode of “Game of Thrones” and you will be addicted, searching for answers to the eternal question, “What will happen next?” Guaranteed.
