When the news broke out that the ‘House of the Dragon‘ is finally in production, the ‘Game Of Thrones’ fans freaked out. They had wanted a prequel to the series for so long and finally, their dreams were getting a reality. But the question is if ‘House of the Dragon‘ is based on George R.R. Martin’s books or not.
So, let’s see what you can expect from the show and what it is based on.
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Is ‘House Of The Dragon’ Inspired by Books?
‘House of the Dragon‘ is an adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s book ‘Fire and Blood’ which came out in 2018. The story starts 200 years before the ‘Game of Thrones‘ events take place.
It revolves around Aegon the Conqueror who created the Iron Throne. Then the generations of Targaryens fought to protect it. Unfortunately, it all falls apart when a civil war breaks out in their family.
Known as the famous ‘Dance of the Dragons’, this battle will remain the central attraction of the series due to its humungous nature that nearly tore the family apart.
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What Are George R.R. Martin’s Thoughts On The Series?
When adapting a novel into a series or film, it is important to have the writer’s consent over the changes. Especially, if that writer is George R.R. Martin who actively takes part in the production process. Even in ‘Game of Thrones‘, the entire series revolved around the novels or well a part of it because Martin had written only 5 books up till that point.
Martin thought that we would have time to catch up but unfortunately, the films caught up to him. That’s why the series took such a different turn. He does regret not staying ahead of the series but well we hope the books come out soon after his long sabbatical and teasing of the epic novel ‘The Winds of Winter‘.
However, coming to the ‘House of the Dragon‘, screenwriter Ryan Condol says that no one can come at him if he makes some changes because George already knows about it. Therefore, he goes on with that plot. Well, just so the audience knows, Martin has already seen a rough cut of the first episode and he loved it! In his words, “It’s dark, it’s powerful, it’s visceral… just the way I like my epic fantasy.” Moreover, he is eagerly waiting for the series to premiere.
Even though he has written the book, its visual dramatization with all the CGI and actors, and different locations, the feeling is always different. In addition to this, he further teased the audience that they would fall in love with the cast but eventually, they could have their heartbroken too. Are we anticipating another death like Ned Stark? Well, we sure hope not! But he definitely assured the audience that the Targaryens are in good hands and that we will not be disappointed. The series is still in production but we will see it in 2022.
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‘House Of The Dragon’ Cast
The series stars Emma D’Arcy as Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen – king’s firstborn child, a dragon rider, and has pure Valyrian blood; Steve Toussaint as The Sea Snake – a nautical adventurer who built a house even richer than the Lannisters; Paddy Considine as King Viserys Targaryen – chosen as the King of the Westeros; Matt Smith as Prince Daemon Targaryen – heir to the throne and the one who possesses the dragon blood; Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower – Daughter of Otto Hightower and most comely woman in the Seven Kingdoms; and Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower – Hand of the King.