HBO Boss on ‘Game of Thrones’ Movie and George R.R. Martin’s ‘House of the Dragon’ Criticism: ‘I Want Him to Be Happy’ but ‘It Can Be Fraught’

As a film enthusiast with over three decades of immersion in the world of fantasy and medieval epics, I find myself both intrigued and slightly amused by this latest turn of events involving George R.R. Martin and HBO’s “House of the Dragon.


At a press gathering held on Tuesday, HBO and Max’s CEO Casey Bloys responded to criticisms leveled by “Game of Thrones” author George R.R. Martin regarding Season 2 of “House of the Dragon.” In September, approximately a month after the second season had ended, Martin penned an extensive essay expressing his thoughts on the issues he saw with the season, primarily focusing on changes made by co-creator and showrunner Ryan Condal from the book for the series. Martin argued that these alterations would have a substantial impact on Seasons 3 and 4.

When Ryan Condal initially shared his plans with me (which was around 2022), I disagreed with them for several reasons,” Martin wrote. “However, if HOUSE OF THE DRAGON proceeds with some of the changes being considered for seasons 3 and 4, there could be larger and more detrimental consequences that might arise.

Later the same day, Martin deleted the post. 

Regarding concerns about Martin’s dissatisfaction with the press presentation, Bloys dismissed any significant challenges. “We greatly admire George,” he stated. “Certainly, I must say that George and ‘Game of Thrones’ have significantly impacted HBO. Therefore, we want him to be content. He holds great significance for me, for us. However, when we assemble shows, you understand that it’s like arranging a marriage, and marriages can be complex, particularly when Ryan is making creative decisions, adapting work. It can be tense, and much like any relationship, sometimes it encounters rough patches.

Bloys added, ‘I’d certainly like everyone to get along smoothly.’ However, I must stress that creativity often involves hurdles. It’s only natural for things not to run perfectly smooth.

Additionally, Bloys also disclosed that Warner Bros., which shares corporate ties with HBO and is headed by Michael DeLuca and Pamela Abdy, is working on a potential “Game of Thrones” movie concept. Martin is participating in this development process, according to Bloys. In essence, they are brainstorming ideas for the project. We’ll evaluate the quality once scripts are written. If it proves engaging and intriguing, it could be an exciting venture. Essentially, the goal of this development phase is to determine if there’s a story worthy of being presented on the big screen as a grand spectacle. I believe it could be quite entertaining.

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2024-11-12 22:46