The long-awaited season 4 of “Game of Thrones” is finally arriving in the United States, and 24 hours later in France!
A true frenzy that led Mademoiselle Bon Plan’s star film/series editor to the exclusive premiere event at the Grand Rex, in the presence of three actors from the series. So, is season 4 any good?
A temple of the silver screen filled with fans shouting the names of Daenerys, Tyrion, or even the motto “Valar Morghulis”—a feat that only a series like “Game of Thrones” could trigger in a state of total euphoria.
Hundreds of fans scoured the stage where a replica of the throne—the object of everyone’s envy—sat, totally impatient to hear the first notes of an opening theme that is now iconic, and which was on everyone’s lips that evening. Never has a series been so captivating with its sublime darkness, its tantalizing cruelty, and its traumatic plot twists.
Peter Jackson had achieved the feat of adapting Tolkien’s masterpiece, the novel that, according to many purists, was impossible to adapt: “The Lord of the Rings.”
Today, the geniuses at HBO have pulled off the same trick with this saga straight from the novels by George R.R. Martin, creating surprise and recognition throughout an entire community of fans who didn’t believe it possible. And yet, the magic worked, bringing more and more addicts to the lands of Westeros, giving the vast world of TV series a new dimension, and confirming that the silver screen now has a real rival: masterpieces of writing and directing for which cinema no longer holds the monopoly.
Let’s head back into our movie theater, comfortably settled in our seats, with a surprise gift: a t-shirt featuring the show, with a statement in big white letters meant to make us proud: “I was there.” And yes, we were there, as were three characters from the series, creating a wave of emotions in the room, ranging from laughter to tears, and from singing to almost neurotic shouting!
And it was after walking the black carpet (yes, a “Game of Thrones” premiere has to be unique and not do things like everyone else) that the three actors finally arrived, met with thunderous applause, displaying somewhat embarrassed smiles on their faces.
And there they were, Maisie Williams (Arya Stark), Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark), and Liam Cunningham (Ser Davos Seaworth), with an enigmatic look that seemed to tell us, “If only you knew what was waiting for you.”
The Stark survivors stirred up nostalgia for a family treated so cruelly that it shocked millions of fans during the now-infamous “Red Wedding.” But there they were, fresh and smiling, enthusiastic, loving the capital and its inhabitants, intimidated, but thrilled to be part of the “Game of Thrones” adventure.
Liam Cunningham, the sole male representative, brought his generosity and Irish charisma, and revealed the key info of the evening: “I can just tell you that you won’t have to wait until episode 9 to be surprised! Horrible things will happen very early in this season.” Great news that made us fidget with impatience.
After admiring the heroes of the day, it was time for the serious stuff: the exclusive first look at the first episode of season 4. That is where the real pride lies.
—- Careful, small spoiler after this line —-
Entitled “Two Swords,” this first episode surprises with the strength of its opening scene, masterfully portrayed by Tywin Lannister. Then finally comes the opening sequence, which received a little refresh for our greatest pleasure.
It is time to lift the veil on what is brewing under the sun of Westeros: the new challenges, the new changes, new destinies, and new knots in the stomachs of fans. So much excitement is palpable, like kids on the first day of school meeting up with their friends: Tyrion, Sansa, Cersei, Jon Snow, Jaime, the dreadful Joffrey, little Arya, and the Hound.
But it is also the opportunity to meet new faces—strong characters—who seem to want to put their two cents into this whole gigantic mess. This first episode proves the strength of the series, which has grown richer; thanks to its success, it is gaining fluidity and mastery.
The actors are like fish in water. You can feel the fragility; everything could collapse, and the staging leaves much to mystery, taking its time to set the right mood.
Joffrey’s wedding is being prepared, and we can already sense the disaster. The grief is palpable, and the desire for vengeance is present. Arya is growing up and establishing herself as a Stark survivor, putting an end to her sweet innocence. For her part, Daenerys sees her dragons growing and displays a serenity and confidence worthy of a future queen. As for Jon Snow, he returns to Castle Black, not without danger to his own survival.
Each character is finding their footing again; we are moving gently, but as they say, “It’s the calm before the storm.” To be continued…
Watch season 4 of Game of Thrones every Monday night on OCS City.
