The premiere episode of the new "Game of Thrones" prequel, released today on HBO, begins with an unexpected scene that surprised even George R. R. Martin. At the very beginning of the series, the main character, Dunk, first faces the loss of his mentor, and then an awkward physiological situation.
Deciding to go to a knightly tournament, Dunk feels an inner "call": the main theme of "Game of Thrones" literally starts playing in his head, emphasizing the moment of the birth of a heroic path. However, the scene abruptly cuts off — the hero is suddenly gripped, and he hastily hides behind a tree to relieve himself.
According to the showrunner of the series, Ira Parker, it was this moment that shocked Martin, but after discussion, the author of the original source approved the scene. According to Parker, it was conceived as a metaphor for the clash between dream and reality.
“The script said, 'Duncan hears a heroic theme in his head.' And it didn't necessarily have to be the 'Game of Thrones' theme. He had to hear the call to greatness that we feel when we decide to do something difficult that we've never done before. It's a little scary, but the thought is born inside: 'Okay, I can handle it. I'm worthy. I'll do it.' He picks up his sword, thinks about it. And at that moment, there is a collision with reality. He literally gets a stomach ache from it. Because he's not a hero yet, you know? We wanted to show that Dunk is not a hero yet. He's just a nervous guy with an upset stomach.”
After the episode was released, the scene caused heated discussions online. Some viewers found it witty, others inappropriate, and some even perceived it as a mockery of "Game of Thrones." Parker himself admits that he is amused by this reaction, and clarifies that there will be very few such jokes in the final version of the season — moreover, he cut out one even more ridiculous scene altogether.
The showrunner describes the series as "rough and down-to-earth," contrasting it with the mythological epicness of the original show. According to him, "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" is a story not about gods and legends, but about people whose hands tremble and whose knees buckle before their first feat.
"A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" is released on HBO. The first season is scheduled for six episodes, with new episodes airing on Mondays.