Game of Thrones
This high-budget adaptation of George R. R. Martin’s Game of Thrones fantasy novels sports magnificent scenery, superb production values, a fine cast and the full support of HBO, which ordered a second season only hours after the pilot episode aired. As usual, reviews air first on SFScope.com.
Winter is Coming – In the pilot episode, we meet the major Houses that make up the players in the land of the Seven Kingdoms. Ned Stark, lord of Winterfell, has guarded the Wall and helped King Robert achieve the throne. Now he is being drafted into the King’s service, in mysterious circumstances. Airdate 17 April 2011.
The Kingsroad – Ned leaves Winterfell to become the King’s Hand, but his son is gravely injured. Jon Snow joins the Night’s Guard, and Viserys nags Khal Drogo to get his throne back. Airdate 24 April 2011.
Lord Snow – Jon Snow tries to fit into life on the Wall; Catelyn takes a warning to Ned Stark in King’s Landing. Airdate 1 May 2011
Cripples, Bastards and Broken Things – Ned investigates Jon Aryn’s death, and Cat’s suspicions of Tyrion lead her to take dramatic action. Airdate 8 May 2011
The Wolf and the Lion – Backstabbing and scheming continue as Ned continues his ill-advised investigation into Jon Arryn’s death, and Catelyn takes Tyrion Lannister to the lair of her mad sister for trial. Airdate 15 May 2011
A Golden Crown – While Ned recovers from his injuries, King Robert insists that he take up his post as Hand again. Tyrion demands trial by combat from Lysa Arryn, and Ned finally clues in to the mystery of King Robert’s heirs. Prince Viserys gets his golden crown. Airdate 22 May 2011
You Win or You Die – Ned Stark reveals the result of his investigation to Queen Cersei. King Robert dies, and battle lines for the succession are drawn. Airdate 29 May 2011
The Pointy End – Syrio and Arya face off against the palace guards while Cersei manipulates Sansa. Robb rallies his father’s bannermen and heads for war. Daenerys discovers the Dothraki price for a throne. Airdate 5 June 2011
Baelor – Jon Snow discovers a dark secret about a fellow Ranger. Catelyn Stark tries a deal with a devil, and Tyrion finds himself in the front lines of a war. Airdate 12 June 2011
Fire and Blood – The entire Stark clan’s lives are changed by tragedy. Arya goes undercover, Catelyn corners Jaime Lannister, and Sansa learns Joffrey’s real nature. Season One finale. Airdate 26 June 2011