Game of Thrones is just what the doctor ordered for fantasy fans. It’s a big, gory epic with great acting and excellent production values. The “game” is really a play for power between different factions and Game of Thrones isn’t just a series for fantasy fans, it’s a series for fans of great drama as well. The blu-ray set is simply gorgeous. The picture and audio are damn close to flawless while there are copious extras for fans to watch and enjoy. All ten episodes of the first season are included in this handsome, boxed set.
Describing Game of Thrones can be difficult as the plotting can be complex and at times overwhelming, but the series usually remains coherent and clear. Each faction in the series plots and schemes for power and the series is as timeless as Shakespeare in its themes and bloody violence. Acting kudos all around for the series but a special mention must go out to Peter Dinklage, stealing every scene as a whip-smart “imp” who never stops scheming but is also hugely likable. Sean Bean is also solid as the brooding soldier and faithful “hand” of the king Ned Stark. Even the opening is amazing. Gorgeous music plays as the camera sweeps over a CG map detailing all the different lands made famous by fantasy author George RR Martin. The one complaint is the lack of epic battles (no doubt due to budget concerns), but even that seems like a minor complaint as season 2 touts that “war is coming.
Game of Thrones is bloody, thrilling, and definitely not for everyone. Overflowing with incest, graphic nudity, and gory violence, this is an adults-only treat, and one of the best new series in years. HBO struck gold with this fantasy epic. Fans (and newcomers alike) need to grab this boxed set and savor the fun because season 2 is set to begin on HBO on April 1st. I can’t wait to see where “Game” goes next.
Grade: A
Loading ...