Game of Thrones - Top 10 Best & Worst Changes from the Books

Nerd Soup2 minutes read

Changes in "Game of Thrones" from the books are discussed, with some being significant. Showcased differences include character development, omitted speeches, and altered storylines that contribute to the series' overall impact and reception.

Insights

  • Cersei's portrayal as a protagonist in the show added depth and complexity to her character, showcasing a different side not seen in the books.
  • The exclusion of Young Griff's storyline weakened Varys' character in the show, removing a significant part of his motivations and connections, highlighting the challenges of adapting complex book plots to television.

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Recent questions

  • How did the show "Game of Thrones" differ from the books?

    The show made logical changes, added depth to characters.

  • Who was the most iconic villain in "Game of Thrones"?

    Ramsay Bolton was portrayed as cunning and ambitious.

  • What was the significance of Jon Snow's character in the show?

    Jon Snow's character had pivotal moments, like battling White Walkers.

  • How was the portrayal of the Night's King in "Game of Thrones" received?

    The Night's King was seen as the best villain with a mysterious presence.

  • What were the criticisms surrounding the portrayal of Dorne in the show?

    Dorne's storyline was criticized for missing opportunities and excluding key plots.

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Summary

00:00

"Game of Thrones" Show Changes Enhance Characters

  • Some changes in "Game of Thrones" from the books are widely discussed online, but not all are significant.
  • Renly's speech was a notable omission from the show, but logical changes were acceptable.
  • Arya's interactions with Tywin in the show were more engaging than in the books, adding depth to her character.
  • Cersei's portrayal in the show as a protagonist added complexity and depth to her character.
  • The High Sparrow's manipulation of Tommen in the show made him a more hateable character than Joffrey.
  • Margaery's character was more developed in the show, showcasing her manipulation skills and intelligence.
  • Bronn's expanded role in the show, especially with Jaime, added humor and depth to his character.
  • Jorah's character in the show was more charismatic and complex compared to the books.
  • The dynamic between Littlefinger and Varys in the show was brilliantly written, showcasing their intelligence and rivalry.
  • Ramsay Bolton's portrayal in the show as a more cunning and ambitious villain made him more iconic and hated than Joffrey.

12:33

Game of Thrones: Key Characters and Storylines

  • Ramsay is a character in Game of Thrones who is disliked for his cruel actions, unlike Joffrey who is seen as whiny.
  • Brienne in the show has a significant arc, especially in season four, where she confronts the Hound in a gritty and intense showdown.
  • The Night's King is portrayed as the best villain in the show, with a mysterious and evil presence that adds to the suspense and anticipation.
  • The episode "Hardhome" is highlighted as a favorite, showcasing Jon Snow's epic battle with a White Walker using Valyrian steel, a pivotal moment in the series.
  • The conflict between the Night's Watch, wildlings, and White Walkers is a key storyline, with Jon Snow's rallying speech adding to the tension and excitement.
  • The Night's King's chilling reveal and the stare-down with Jon Snow are noted as terrifying and impactful scenes in the show.
  • Dorne's storyline in the show is criticized for missing opportunities, especially in excluding key characters and plots from the books, like the Dornish master plan.
  • The character Doran Martell is discussed as having potential in the books but being underutilized in the show, along with the disappointing portrayal of the Sand Snakes.
  • The character Euron Greyjoy is seen as lacking depth in the show compared to the books, with missed opportunities in exploring his villainous potential and the sea stone chair conflict.
  • The House of the Undying's portrayal in the show is mentioned as lacking depth compared to the books, missing out on important visions and foreshadowing elements crucial to the story.

24:01

"Jon Snow's Fate and Stark Wargs"

  • The decision to kill Jon Snow was difficult for his brothers in the Night's Watch, but it was seen as necessary for the watch.
  • Jon Snow's potential return in the books involves his connection to his direwolf, Ghost, and the belief that he wargs into him.
  • The Starks being wargs in the books adds depth to their characters, with Jon's return being particularly cleverly devised.
  • Lady Stoneheart's presence in the books adds mystery and revenge elements, potentially working with others to place Jon on the throne.
  • Sansa's storyline in the show, especially her marriage to Ramsay Bolton, is seen as controversial and disturbing, deviating from her growth in the books.
  • Littlefinger's character is dumbed down in the show, missing the opportunity to build Sansa into a stronger player.
  • Barristan Selmy's death in the show is criticized for lacking dignity and not giving his character a fitting end, contrasting with his arc in the books.
  • The exclusion of Young Griff's storyline weakens Varys' character in the show, as it removes a significant part of his motivations and connections.
  • The complexity of the Blackfyre history and its potential ties to characters like Illyrio are intriguing but challenging to include in the show due to constraints.
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