George R.R. Martin reveals why the House of the Dragon spinoff about Corlys Velaryon is animated

As a dedicated fan with over a decade of immersion in the intricate world of Westeros, I must say, the news about the potential animated spinoffs for Game of Thrones is both exhilarating and perplexing. The idea of exploring the tales of Corlys Velaryon, or “The Sea Snake,” and Nymeria of the Rhoynar in animated form seems like a bold step forward, yet it’s hard not to miss the live-action charm that made the original series so captivating.

Back in early August, during a chat at Oxford Writers House, the mastermind behind ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’, George R.R. Martin, spilled some beans about the various ‘Game of Thrones’ spinoffs HBO was brewing up. As far as I gathered from our conversation, there are reportedly seven spinoffs in the works – three in live-action format, and four animated ones. Whether any of these will see the light of day remains to be seen, but that’s the scoop straight from the horse’s mouth.

As for the live-action shows, HBO is currently developing a series centered around Aegon the Conqueror. On the animated side, they’re producing two shows: one focusing on the Golden Empire of Yi Ti, and another following the escapades of a young Corlys Velaryon, portrayed by Steve Toussaint in his older years within the Game of Thrones spinoff House of the Dragon. However, there are still many aspects about these spinoffs that remain unknown to us.

In his younger days, Corlys Velaryon embarked on voyages spanning the globe, discovering new lands and adding wealth to his family’s house, which would undoubtedly make for captivating television. Since the Oxford Writers House talk has been uploaded onto YouTube, we now have a bit more insight into this project. George R.R. Martin reveals that the series, titled either “Nine Voyages” or “The Sea Snake,” was initially conceived as a live-action show, but it was later changed to animation for unknown reasons.

Martin mentioned some animated series he believes would be exceptional. One of the productions they’ve been refining for several years is a prequel centered around Corlys Velaryon, the Sea Snake, and his nine legendary voyages. He was comparable to Magellan in Westeros, and it’s titled either Nine Voyages or The Sea Snake. Originally, they worked on this as a live-action series for a couple of years, but soon realized the financial constraints involved in making it live action. With all the scenes taking place at sea and him visiting a new city each week, they would have to create numerous locations such as Qarth, Braavos, and Ib. However, they found that animation would be a more feasible option, so they’ve since developed it into an animated series if they can get it off the ground.

The part where Martin mentions “if we can pull it off” is crucial. He acknowledges that the fate of a TV show isn’t certain until it receives the final approval. In other words, he explained that just because spinoffs are being developed, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll be produced. The process of television production involves creating a show, writing scripts, receiving feedback, and eventually, getting the go-ahead to produce it or not.

Is the Nymeria spinoff also animated?

It appears that HBO is working on a television program titled “Ten Thousand Ships,” which centers around Nymeria of the Rhoynar, a historical figure from Essos who guided her people to the present-day kingdom of Dorne. Previously, we had presumed this show would be produced as a live-action series; however, during a recent event in New Mexico, George R.R. Martin allegedly mentioned that it will also be an animated production.

Nymeria, unable to submit to the Valyrian Empire which controlled numerous dragons, instead guides her people from Essos. They journey across the seas, exploring unfamiliar and perilous territories. Given its fantastical elements, this tale might require an animated adaptation similar to Corlys Velaryon’s series.

Regardless of the outcome for the upcoming spinoffs, HBO is enthusiastic about expanding the realm of “Game of Thrones”. After wrapping up its second season, “House of the Dragon” will be followed next year by a new prequel series named “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms”, based on George R.R. Martin’s “Dunk and Egg” novellas.

2024-08-28 17:42

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