In the vast world of television series, spinoffs have become a popular way to expand on beloved fictional universes. However, not all spinoffs see the light of day, and one such project that fell victim to this fate was the Game of Thrones prequel series known as 'Bloodmoon.' Directed by S.J. Clarkson, the pilot episode of 'Bloodmoon' garnered praise from the director herself, highlighting the exceptional script by Jane Goldman and the incredible talent of actor Naomi Watts.
The premise of 'Bloodmoon' revolved around exploring the history of the enigmatic White Walkers, thousands of years before the events of Game of Thrones. This would have meant delving into a time period that predates the Iron Throne and even the arrival of the Targaryens and their powerful dragons in the land of Westeros. While it certainly offered a unique opportunity to explore the White Walker lore and the first Long Night, it also presented a challenge in terms of connecting with the familiar elements of the original show.
Former WarnerMedia chairman, Robert Greenblatt, acknowledged that the cancelled series was not 'horrible' but lacked the depth and richness that was present in the pilot episode of the original Game of Thrones. The absence of elements such as the infighting for the Iron Throne and Targaryens riding dragons may have made 'Bloodmoon' feel disconnected from the saga that enthralled millions of viewers.
In contrast, the new Game of Thrones spinoff series, 'House of the Dragon,' seems to have a more promising future. Set less than two hundred years before the birth of Daenerys Targaryen, 'House of the Dragon' maintains a closer proximity to the original storyline, allowing for a more direct connection between the Targaryen ancestors and the events we have come to know. Furthermore, 'House of the Dragon' benefits from having source material in the form of George R.R. Martin's book, Fire & Blood, providing a solid foundation for the series.
While 'Bloodmoon' could have satisfied the curiosity of those seeking a deeper understanding of White Walker lore, 'House of the Dragon' still incorporates the looming threat of the White Walkers. King Viserys I believes that only a Targaryen can unite the realm to face the impending great Winter, as foretold in Aegon the Conqueror's prophetic dream of a 'Song of Ice and Fire.' This belief drives him to name his daughter Rhaenyra as his heir, adding a layer of intrigue and anticipation to the series.
In the end, it appears that 'Bloodmoon' was simply too far removed from the familiar elements of Game of Thrones to capture the same level of interest and enthusiasm. With 'House of the Dragon,' fans can still expect political maneuvering, dragon-riding Targaryens, and the underlying presence of the White Walkers, albeit in a different era. As the intricately woven tapestry of Westeros continues to unfold, only time will tell whether 'House of the Dragon' can live up to its predecessor's legacy.
