Many of us are crossing our fingers and toes that X-Men: Apocalypse will be a great summer blockbuster. As for me, I’m totally fine if the movie is just okay or even kind of crappy. You see the plot isn’t what is bringing to me to the theater when it comes out, it’s the chance to see Jennifer Lawrence in blue body paint and Olivia Munn in a tight leather outfit that will have my butt in a seat opening weekend…. read more
The last time I saw Carice van Houten have a baby, it was some kind of evil shadowbaby that went off and killed the enemy of Stannis Baratheon, and I have to say that was kind of a freaky moment. Now that Carice van Houten is pregnant in real life, I was curious if Stephen Dillane might be a little worried. … read more
Stephen Dillane, Carice van Houten and other actors make their ‘Thrones’ debut in a series of new stills from season two. By Josh Wigler Carice van Houten and Stephen Dillane in “Game of Thrones” Photo: Helen Sloan/ HBO Winter is fast approaching Westeros, and if you can see through the downpour of snow, you’ll notice a few new, not-so-friendly faces in the mix. Yes, several of your favorite characters will be back in action when “Game of Thrones” season two premieres April 1, but Jon, Tyrion, Dany and the rest will have their work cut out for them when new friends and foes join the battle for the Iron Throne. To get you acquainted with some of these newcomers, HBO has released a slew of photos from the upcoming second season of the epic fantasy series, based on the “Song of Ice and Fire” novels from visionary writer George R.R. Martin. From men who would be kings to their trusted and true servants, here are five new “Thrones” characters about to enter the game: Stephen Dillane as Stannis Baratheon “The Iron Throne is mine by rights.” Get ready to hear that refrain early and often in season two as Stannis Baratheon enters the scene. Currently lording over the remote island of Dragonstone, Stannis believes himself the one true ruler of Westeros following the death of his brother Robert and the revelation that his nephew Joffrey is the product of Cersei and Jaime Lannister’s incest. Stannis will stop at nothing to claim what he feels he’s rightfully owed, including resorting to the use of forbidden magic. Speaking of which … Carice van Houten as Melisandre The red priestess from the foreign lands of Asshai comes to serve Stannis in his time of need, believing him to be Azhor Azhai Reborn, an old hero of ancient prophecy destined for great and powerful things. Her beliefs are questioned by many, but her power can be denied by none. Melisandre’s magic is a deadly spectacle that must be seen to be believed, and season two will convince some skeptics just how serious her sorcery is — often at a lethal price. Liam Cunningham as Davos Seaworth The Onion Knight is another of Stannis’ most trusted advisers. Davos is a smuggler-turned-knight after proving his loyalty to the bold Baratheon warrior; the fingers of his left hand were long ago shortened by a joint on Stannis’ command, a final punishment for his smuggling past. The severed remains are held in a pouch around Davos’ neck he describes as his “luck,” though his luck may well be running out. Davos does not take kindly to Melisandre’s newfound influence over Stannis — but like many others, he’ll soon realize that the red priestess has more than enough bite to back up her bark. Patrick Malahide as Balon Greyjoy Stannis Baratheon is not the only one competing for the crown of Westeros: There’s also Balon Greyjoy, lord of the Iron Islands, to consider. The seafaring warrior is no stranger to fighting for the Iron Throne, having been put down in a rebellion many years earlier. But Balon sees new possibilities in another attempt to claim rule over Westeros — possibilities that may be helped or hindered by the return of his estranged son Theon, best friend and closest confidant to King in the North Robb Stark. Gwendoline Christie as Brienne of Tarth Serving a different king entirely is Brienne of Tarth, a fierce warrior woman often ridiculed by men for her masculine features and seemingly futile attempt to become a knight. But she’s respected by the man who matters most to her: Renly Baratheon, brother of Stannis and another of the men vying for supremacy in Westeros. As part of Renly’s elite guard, Brienne will stop at nothing to protect her king and further his agenda. But fate might have other plans in store for her … What do you think of the new “Thrones” characters? Tell us in the comments!
From the Lord of the Light to the Drowned God and beyond, here are five key scenes from the HBO series’ new sneak peek. By Josh Wigler Alfie Allen as Theon Greyjoy in “Game Of Thrones” Photo: HBO The night is dark and full of terrors in Westeros, the fantasy land at the heart of “Game of Thrones.” But if you thought the HBO fantasy series proved its capacity for brutality and betrayal in season one, just wait: The April-debuting second season — based on George R.R. Martin’s second novel in his “Song of Ice and Fire” odyssey, “A Clash of Kings” — promises more blood and dragons than ever before. A new trailer for “Game of Thrones” season two , which hit HBO last night (January 29) ahead of the network’s premiere of the Dustin Hoffman drama “Luck,” does more than its fair share to remind you that this isn’t your comparatively tame hobbit-filled fantasy story. Keep reading for five key scenes from the latest look at “Thrones.” He Told You Not to Trust Him “Game of Thrones” has largely remained faithful to Martin’s source material, but there have been deviations along the way. Season two looks no different, based on this new trailer that sees grieving widow Catelyn Stark (Michelle Fairley) holding Petyr “Littlefinger” Baelish (Aidan Gillen) at knifepoint. It’s a scene that absolutely does not occur in the books, even if it’s one that would satisfy a lot of fans’ bloodlust toward the loyalty-free Littlefinger. But is it an editing trick or a sizeable new addition? You be the judge! Lord of the Light There are several dangerous new players in the world of Westeros come season two, but perhaps no one worth watching quite as much as Stannis Baratheon (Stephen Dillane) and his accomplice, the red priestess Melisandre (Carice van Houten). As worshippers of R’hllor, the God of Flame and Shadow, both Stannis and Melisandre will force many enemies to meet their fiery ends before season two draws to a close. The blaze of glory is briefly teased in this trailer with a look at one of Melisandre’s many night rituals. The Imp and the Spider The new trailer is bookended by a riddle that spymaster Varys (Conleth Hill) puts forth to Tyrion Lannister ( Golden Globe winner Peter Dinklage ), now acting as King’s Hand on his father Tywin’s behalf. It’s just one of many memorable interactions between the Spider and the Imp, a crucial new dynamic that’s sure to dominate much of season two. And despite his award-winning streak and his pledge that he knows “how the game is played,” don’t put too much stake in Tyrion’s confidence — even the sharpest mind could bend before a king’s cruelty. Speaking of which … Madness Landing Westeros is at war, and every city is a battleground. The historic King’s Landing is no exception, as the cruel reign of King Joffrey Baratheon (Jack Gleeson) has turned commoner against royalty. It’s a cultural shift that Joffrey and his loved ones are deservedly feeling in every possible manner, a shift that Queen Regent Cersei (Lena Headey) faces directly during a pivotal riot teased in the new trailer. The Drowned God Rises A fairly unassuming character in season one, Theon Greyjoy (Alfie Allen) becomes one of the most prominent players in the “Thrones” saga this coming season. Here, you see his not-so-triumphant return to the Iron Islands, his homeland he’s been separated from for over a decade. Though his loyalties lie with King in the North Robb Stark (Richard Madden) by nurture, Theon believes himself Ironborn by nature — and he’ll have to test that very struggle in most desperate ways as “Thrones” embarks on its next string of episodes. What did you think of the “Game of Thrones” trailer? Let us know in the comments! For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com . Related Photos 5 Key Scenes From ‘Game Of Thrones’ Season Two Preview
From the Lord of the Light to the Drowned God and beyond, here are five key scenes from the HBO series’ new sneak peek. By Josh Wigler Alfie Allen as Theon Greyjoy in “Game Of Thrones” Photo: HBO The night is dark and full of terrors in Westeros, the fantasy land at the heart of “Game of Thrones.” But if you thought the HBO fantasy series proved its capacity for brutality and betrayal in season one, just wait: The April-debuting second season — based on George R.R. Martin’s second novel in his “Song of Ice and Fire” odyssey, “A Clash of Kings” — promises more blood and dragons than ever before. A new trailer for “Game of Thrones” season two , which hit HBO last night (January 29) ahead of the network’s premiere of the Dustin Hoffman drama “Luck,” does more than its fair share to remind you that this isn’t your comparatively tame hobbit-filled fantasy story. Keep reading for five key scenes from the latest look at “Thrones.” He Told You Not to Trust Him “Game of Thrones” has largely remained faithful to Martin’s source material, but there have been deviations along the way. Season two looks no different, based on this new trailer that sees grieving widow Catelyn Stark (Michelle Fairley) holding Petyr “Littlefinger” Baelish (Aidan Gillen) at knifepoint. It’s a scene that absolutely does not occur in the books, even if it’s one that would satisfy a lot of fans’ bloodlust toward the loyalty-free Littlefinger. But is it an editing trick or a sizeable new addition? You be the judge! Lord of the Light There are several dangerous new players in the world of Westeros come season two, but perhaps no one worth watching quite as much as Stannis Baratheon (Stephen Dillane) and his accomplice, the red priestess Melisandre (Carice van Houten). As worshippers of R’hllor, the God of Flame and Shadow, both Stannis and Melisandre will force many enemies to meet their fiery ends before season two draws to a close. The blaze of glory is briefly teased in this trailer with a look at one of Melisandre’s many night rituals. The Imp and the Spider The new trailer is bookended by a riddle that spymaster Varys (Conleth Hill) puts forth to Tyrion Lannister ( Golden Globe winner Peter Dinklage ), now acting as King’s Hand on his father Tywin’s behalf. It’s just one of many memorable interactions between the Spider and the Imp, a crucial new dynamic that’s sure to dominate much of season two. And despite his award-winning streak and his pledge that he knows “how the game is played,” don’t put too much stake in Tyrion’s confidence — even the sharpest mind could bend before a king’s cruelty. Speaking of which … Madness Landing Westeros is at war, and every city is a battleground. The historic King’s Landing is no exception, as the cruel reign of King Joffrey Baratheon (Jack Gleeson) has turned commoner against royalty. It’s a cultural shift that Joffrey and his loved ones are deservedly feeling in every possible manner, a shift that Queen Regent Cersei (Lena Headey) faces directly during a pivotal riot teased in the new trailer. The Drowned God Rises A fairly unassuming character in season one, Theon Greyjoy (Alfie Allen) becomes one of the most prominent players in the “Thrones” saga this coming season. Here, you see his not-so-triumphant return to the Iron Islands, his homeland he’s been separated from for over a decade. Though his loyalties lie with King in the North Robb Stark (Richard Madden) by nurture, Theon believes himself Ironborn by nature — and he’ll have to test that very struggle in most desperate ways as “Thrones” embarks on its next string of episodes. What did you think of the “Game of Thrones” trailer? Let us know in the comments! For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com . Related Photos 5 Key Scenes From ‘Game Of Thrones’ Season Two Preview