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Articles by Ashley Morton
The First Short Story.
I don’t even know where to begin: does my story even have a beginning? Not in the conventional sense of a beginning, but has my story truly begun- the story of me: who I am, my purpose. My story. Is this where I actually start and my life begins? The tears streaming down my face was nothing new, they had become more commonplace than not, this place of sadness and hurt I frequented often. The vacant blank stare had become uncomfortably familiar as was my expressionless response of “okay”.
The Deuce - Interview with James Franco
HBO: Why was The Deuce a project you wanted to sign onto? James Franco: I met with David Simon three and a half years ago to talk about Show Me a Hero, but ultimately I couldn’t do it because of scheduling. But I was huge fan of The Wire so I said, “If you have anything else coming down the pipe, I’d really love to work with you.” And then I read this book Difficult Men. And before I was even done with that book, I was sold on this long form of storytelling.
San Diego Comic-Con Helps Fans Say a Final Goodbye to GoT — Making Game of Thrones
Hall H, a room that holds thousands, was packed for the farewell Game of Thrones panel held at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con. The event was filled with emotion — mostly that of joy and laughter, but also the sadness of saying goodbye to a series that has inspired television fans to engage with a show on a whole new level.
Robert Ball Completes the Final Beautiful Death
Artist Robert Ball created his last Beautiful Deathfor series finale “The Iron Throne.” Below he describes the inspiration for the image.
Isaac Hempstead Wright Sees Bran’s Ending as a 'Real Victory' — Making Game of Thrones
Heir to Winterfell, Three-Eyed Raven, King of the Six Kingdoms. The actor behind Bran Stark shares his thoughts on his character’s remarkable journey. HBO: So, the biggest question on our minds: What was your reaction when you found out Bran would become king? Isaac Hempstead Wright: I had to physically get up and walk around my flat. I said, “What?! You’re joking.” It was the very last thing I expected to happen.
The Cleganes Go Head-to-Head in "The Bells" Beautiful Death
“This episode had my heart thumping like a jackhammer and ended with floods of tears. It really put me through the wringer,” shared artist Robert Ball about Season 8’s penultimate episode. “My Beautiful Death focuses on 'Clegane Bowl', with the crumbling of House Lannister as a dramatic context.
Check Out the Artwork That Helped Clegane Bowl Come to Life
Season 8, Episode 5’s “The Bells” was full of major moments. From Varys’ death, to Daenerys’ attack on King’s Landing, to the much-anticipated showdown between the Mountain and the Hound, take a look at the concept art and storyboards that illustrated these pivotal scenes before they were filmed.
Go Behind the Scenes of "The Bells"
The fifth installment of Season 8’s The Game Revealed delves into the astounding set builds, stunt work, and battles of “The Bells.” Production designer Deb Riley, SFX supervisor Sam Conway, VFX producer Steve Kullback, and prosthetics designer Barrie Gower give exclusive interviews alongside series creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, episode director Miguel Sapochnik, actors Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister), Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Jaime Lannister), Maisie Williams (Arya Stark) and more to...
Missandei’s Beautiful Death Tells the Story of a Dream That Will Never Come True
“The Long Night” brought us chaos and war, but Missandei’s death in “The Last of the Starks” has made a lasting impression. Artist Robert Ball explains how he wanted to create a “contrast in tone” from last week’s image to this week’s. “I wanted to focus on Missandei's death,” he stated. “The starting point of my idea was to somehow show her dream of returning to the beaches of Naath with Grey Worm: a dream that died with her.
"The Long Night" Beautiful Death Is as Epic as the Episode That Inspired It
Last week’s Beautiful Death was inspired by a deathless episode, and this week’s was far from that. Artist Robert Ball gives insight into his image inspired by “The Long Night.” “My brief for this week's Beautiful Death kept changing every ten minutes or so as another character met a sticky end. Then that ending!” Ball continued, “It was obvious the Night King would be the subject of this week's image, but I couldn't bring myself to ignore the characters we've grown to love over the season.
Bella Ramsey Loves a Good Battle Cry
The young actor behind fan-favorite Lyanna Mormont chats about the epic Winterfell battle and what goes into taking down a wight giant. HBO: How did reading the final scripts make you feel? Bella Ramsey: I was buzzing. I think I did a mini battle cry! I was so excited to get going and full of gratitude to even be asked back. I didn’t expect it. So when I read Episode 3, I was shook. But in a good way. HBO: Is there anything in particular you did to get into character?
Iain Glen Describes “The Long Night” as the Hardest Sequence They Shot Over 8 Seasons
The actor who plays Daenerys’ right-hand man Jorah Mormont reflects on the battle’s outcome, and watching an 11-week night shoot come together in the midst of his own personal trials. HBO: What was your initial reaction to seeing how the final season unfolds? Iain Glen: On the whole, I thought [creators] Dan [Weiss] and David [Benioff] had really excelled in shaping the final endgame.
A Deathless Episode Creates a Fun Challenge for Robert Ball
“This week's episode didn't have any deaths in it for only the third time in the show's history!” said artist Robert Ball about “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms”. A rare occurrence for Game of Thrones, it was a far cry from the season premiere’s intense Ned Umber death scene, and presented an unusual challenge. “I did consider a couple of metaphorical deaths — did Jon's confession to Daenerys confirm the 'death' of Jon Snow and the 'birth' of Aegon Targaryen?
Robert Ball Creates a ‘Beautiful Death’ From Last Hearth
The final season of Game of Thrones kicked off with a death that was less about whom it befell (sorry Ned Umber!) and more about what kind of threat looms over Winterfell should the Army of the Dead win the Great War. Artist Robert Ball, who has been working on his Beautiful Death series since the beginning, shares how he went into creating a piece of art from the young lord’s horrific demise. “The way Last Hearth is introduced could be straight out of Bram Stoker,” Ball said.
Game of Thrones Loves Belfast
Cast and crew gathered to celebrate the final season of Game of Thrones in Belfast, Northern Ireland on April 12th. As the primary production location for the series, Belfast was the obvious destination to host the final red carpet and debut the first episode. “It’s hard to describe what Northern Ireland has meant to Game of Thrones because it’s so integral to it,” noted Jerome Flynn (Bronn).
The Beginning of the End: Season 8 Premieres in New York City
It was a red carpet premiere as epic as the show that inspired it. Cast members from every season attended the screening of the first episode of Game of Thrones’ final season at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. “It’s like a high school reunion,” laughed Thrones alum Pedro Pascal (Oberyn Martell). The cast was emotional as they approached the beginning of the end after nearly a decade of Game of Thrones.
Game of Thrones - 5 Reasons to Start Game of Thrones Now
What?s all the fuss about winter coming? With the final season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to finally start Game of Thrones. Here are five reasons why. You still haven?t started epic fantasy series Game of Thrones. What are you waiting for? With Season 8 fast approaching in April 2019, now is the perfect time to catch up from the beginning. If you?re still not convinced, here are five reasons to start bingeing. 1. Celebrities will binge with you.
The Deuce - How Emily Meade Started a Conversation and Brought Change to Set
The Deuce's Emily Meade, whose character Lori is ?looking for trouble and fame? in New York City, and Alicia Rodis, the show?s intimacy coordinator, spoke with HBO.com about making sets more comfortable when actors are at their most vulnerable. HBO: What was your role in bringing an intimacy coordinator onto the show?
Sharp Objects - Sharp Objects’ Camille Preaker Can’t Be Contained in 2 Hours
?You?ve seen nothing tonight,? director Jean-Marc Vall�e told the audience at ATX Television Festival?s world premiere of Sharp Objects. The audience laughed, understanding they had seen only the first episode of the dark new series, and journalist Camille Preaker?s journey would only get more intense.
The Tale - Jennifer Fox Was Tired of the ‘Fade to Black’
HBO: When did you first decide you wanted to tell this story as fiction? Jennifer Fox: I started making films when I was 20 and in the back of my mind, I always wanted to tell this story but didn?t know how. It took until I was a mature woman to feel like I was ready. But weirdly, I always thought it had to be fiction. Because it?s dealing with the ephemeral of memory, and there were no witnesses to speak directly about it, it really had to be enacted and built as fiction.
- Ramin Bahrani Created 'Water in a Digital Desert' With Books
Director, executive producer and writer Ramin Bahrani recently adapted classic Ray Bradbury novel Fahrenheit 451 into an HBO original film. The modernized rendition highlights the necessity of keeping reading-culture alive, even in a digital age. Inspired by #ReadingIsLit, and Fahrenheit?s message, Bahrani shared his favorite reads and which books were involved with the making of the movie. HBO: What book would you recommend for fans of Fahrenheit 451?
- Damon Lindelof Loves a Great, Sad Ending
Showrunner Damon Lindelof is no stranger to dark, edgy stories. As a part of #ReadingIsLit, the creator behind HBO adaptation The Leftovers gets into the appeal of Tom Perrotta?s novel, and the books that influenced his own storytelling. HBO: What about The Leftovers attracted you? Damon Lindelof: I was already a fan of Tom Perrotta, and that was a big part of it. I respond to great writing that makes me feel something, and The Leftovers was an incredibly emotional experience for me to read.
- Westworld’s Jonah Nolan, Lisa Joy and the Writers Who Inspire Them
With a unique mythology, literary references galore and nuanced narratives, the epic drama Westworld is a bibliophile?s dream. Showrunners Jonah Nolan and Lisa Joy share some of the writers and stories that inspired Season 2. Satirical sci-fi writer Kurt Vonnegut is ?a huge favorite? of Joy?s. ?There are references to his novels throughout the show,? she shares. ?I put a copy of Silence of Titan in the episode I directed [Season 2, Episode 4 ?The Riddle of the Sphinx?].
Game of Thrones - Fan of Game of Thrones? 5 Reasons Why Westworld Is for You
Let?s be clear: Fantasy and science-fiction are two different genres, but they often appeal to a similar fan-base. One of the things audiences love most about Thrones is its fine balance between a completely made-up world, and true-to-life emotions and messages. Do we want to see battles for a throne? Yes. Do we want to watch women triumphing in the realms of men? Yes. Do we also want dragons? Hell, yes. Westworld embraces these same beliefs ? self-determination, female empowerment, weaponized animals ?
- Steve Martin's Shopgirl Is a Charming Indie With a Pitch-Perfect Cast
Take everything you might expect from a Steve Martin film and toss it aside, because Shopgirl is different. Though you might associate Martin with his broader comedic performances in Roxanne; Father of the Bride; Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and Little Shop of Horrors, the actor also has a noteworthy career as a writer, and Shopgirl is the touching adaptation of his own novella.
Give Your Mail an Epic Feel With Game of Thrones Postage (Raven Not Included)
Starting January 23, a set of 15 First Class UK Stamps will be available for order from Royal Mail. While the postage is not usable outside of the United Kingdom, U.S. dwellers can purchase the stamps as fun collectibles — or in case they ever make their way across the sea. The stamps depict photographic representations of central characters in a montage of images across all seven seasons of the series. The set of 10 bespoke images embody the crux of each character’s story.
5 Reasons Not to Miss the U.S. Premiere of Kit Harington’s Miniseries Gunpowder
What better way to spend the time between Game of Thrones seasons than seeing other projects your favorite cast is working on? Three-part miniseries Gunpowder is the latest from Kit Harington (GoT’s Jon Snow) and here are five reasons why you won’t want to miss the premiere on December 18 at 10 PM. Gunpowder tells the story of Robert Catesby, a man who will do anything for the right to practice his religion — including plot to kill the King of England.
Text Revelations: See the Significant Letter and Diary From Episode 7
Sansa learns that Jon bent the knee to Daenerys and Sam reveals he absorbed the diary entry Gilly read aloud in Episode 5. Take a closer look at both below.
Where to Start: The 7 Must-Read Sherlock Holmes Stories - Signature
The first story in the collection The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, this may not be Doyle’s longest tale, but it has left quite a lasting impression as the only piece to reference “The Woman” Irene Adler. Doyle’s stories frequently refer to “women’s intuition” and many of his female characters are perceived as quite clever (if not, perhaps, untrustworthy), but only Adler has gone on to be repeatedly portrayed in television and films as one of the people held highest in Holmes’s esteem.
Kristofer Hivju Has a Method for Getting in the Tormund Mood
The wildling actor gets into the frozen lake battle, his love for Brienne, and some spirited board games. HBO: What's driving Tormund to fight the White Walkers? Is it simply an urge for survival? Kristofer Hivju: The White Walkers have been nightmares the Free Folk have dealt with as long as they can remember, so I think it’s something deep down in him. The Army of the Dead has always been his greatest fear, even more than the Night’s Watch. If you see the wights, you know what’s at stake.
The “Eastwatch� Beautiful Death You May Not Expect
To the delight of GoT fans everywhere, Gendry came back to Game of Thrones swinging. Artist Robert Ball explains why he chose to feature the death of the two King’s Landing Gold Cloaks for his “Eastwatch� Beautiful Death piece. “Each Beautiful Death is, in part, a reaction to the previous one,� Ball says. “Last week was high on drama (and burning soldiers!), so this week I wanted to go heavy with the symbolism.�
The Beautiful Death in “The Spoils of War”
Fans are still reeling from Daenerys’ power play in Episode 4 of Season 7, and so is artist Robert Ball. “An awful lot happened in the final 10 minutes,” Ball says. “We had Jaime sinking into the depths of the river, Bronn shooting a giant arrow into Drogon, Dothraki hordes and Tyrion watching — it was a visual feast!” To make this week’s Beautiful Death, Ball explains he, “had to edit down.
Isaac Hempstead Wright on the 'Fine Balance' of Playing Bran
The young Three-Eyed Raven actor discusses reuniting with his on-screen sisters, rattling Littlefinger, and Bran fighting with his mind. HBO: What was it like reuniting on screen with Maisie Williams (Arya Stark) and Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark)? Isaac Hempstead Wright: Getting back together was odd because we’ve known each other more in a social context — hanging out on the set together in Belfast. That’s how we bonded, rather than being in any scenes together.
Michele Clapton on Costuming the Reunited Stark Children
It finally happened: the three remaining Stark children have reunited, and at Winterfell no less. Costume designer Michele Clapton explains why many of characters this season — Starks, Lannisters and Targaryens alike — are choosing to wear all black: “Winter has come, so I wanted to reflect the somber mood, a closing down.
The Beautiful Death and Storybook Image From “The Queen’s Justice”
The last moments from “The Queen’s Justice” continue to resonate with audiences, who are mourning the Queen of Thorns. Artist Robert Ball, who has captured the significant scene in this week’s Beautiful Death poster, offers his inspirations for the piece. “Tonally it is very different from last week, which was all action and chaos. This week has to be quiet and mournful,” Ball explains. “It is a heartbreaking scene, particularly for Jaime.
Look Over the Letters and Pages Featured in ‘Stormborn’
From Tyrion’s letter to Jon to the book Sam used to help cure Jorah’s greyscale, each of these documents played a key role in the Season 7 episode, “Stormborn.” "Dear Khaleesi" See what Jorah was writing to Daenerys when he thought he was living his last days.
Read Cersei’s Summons to Jon Snow
Cersei Lannister does not mince words. Check out her letter to Jon Snow from “Dragonstone” below.
Kristian Nairn Thinks Hodor Is the Better Man
The man who carried Bran on his shoulders says everything Hodor never could. HBO: When did you learn about Hodor's fate? Did you get "the call" from series creators David Benioff and Dan Weiss? Kristian Nairn: Actually, it was a three-stage thing. First I heard from friends, people who had read the script, some other cast members.
Play the Final Installment of #PrepareforWinter Trivia
The maesters say the coming winter will be “the coldest in a thousand years.” Are you ready? See how you do in the final round of the #PrepareforWinter trivia game before the Season 7 premiere. Stream Season 6 to discover the answers to the questions below. Share your answers on Facebook and Twitter using #PrepareforWinter ? correct responses will prove you eligible for recognition in the realm. 1. In “The Door,” whose opening line is “I feel the winds of winter”? 2.
GoT and MLB Are Teaming Up This Summer
Winter may be coming to Westeros, but summer has arrived at a ballpark near you. Beginning June 20, HBO and Major League Baseball teams across the country are partnering in a cross-promotional event lasting through this summer’s Game of Thrones and baseball season. Each team’s involvement will feature different themes, giveaways and merchandise.Check out the list of teams below, and find the most up-to-date information about dates and tickets here.
Keep Up With #PrepareforWinter Trivia
If you have your wits about you, you know winter is coming July 16. Get ready by playing along with #PrepareforWinter trivia. Continue streaming a season each week leading up to the Season 7 premiere and discover the answers to the questions below. Share your answers on Facebook and Twitter using #PrepareforWinter ? correct responses will prove you eligible for recognition in the realm. Are you ready for Season 2? 1.
Get Ready for Season 4
The cameras are now rolling for Season 4 of 'Game of Thrones'! There are some differences to filming this year. We’ll be sticking to two units, Wolf and Dragon (with the occasional splinter cell coming into play). We started in Iceland early this year, rather than in the depth of November’s six-hour shoot days. We're in Croatia and Ireland now, as you might have heard.
See How Well You Know the Music of GoT
You’ve seen the show and you’ve heard the soundtrack, now take the quiz below to see how well you know the tunes from Seasons 1-6 of Game of Thrones.
Natalie Dormer’s Margaery Tyrell Is No Victim
HBO: What did you think when you first read the Season 6 scripts? Natalie Dormer: We get all the scripts at once, which is wonderful. I read the King’s Landing scenes so I know what’s going on in the capital, but I purposely chose not to read other storylines. I watched Season 1 as a fan, and in the last few years I’ve really tried to go back to that feeling – on Sunday night I have the most amazing experience like every other audience member.
We Know No Scene-Stealer but the One on Bear Island, Whose Name Is Bella Ramsey — Making Game of Thrones
Following her introduction in “The Broken Man,” feisty Lady Lyanna Mormont has quickly become a GoT fan-favorite. Bella Ramsey, the 12-year-old actor who portrays the formidable leader of Bear Island, chats for the first time about her role. HBO: What did you first think of Lyanna when you read the script?
Check Out Sansa's Letter to the Blackfish
"She's exactly like her mother." Read the letter that Brienne delivered to the Blackfish on Sansa's behalf below:
Andy Greenwald and Chris Ryan Delve into 'Book of the Stranger'
“Book of the Stranger" saw Jon and Sansa reunited and the Tyrells and Lannisters once again – shakily – allied. Mallory Rubin and Jason Concepcion joined the After the Thrones hosts to discuss. Jon is a “Snow” and Sansa is a “Stark,” but is family in more than just a name?
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