Saturday TV Special: Game of Thrones

Plot: Welcome to Westeros - the land where several families - Starks from the North, manipulative and sneaky Lannisters, the descendants of the dragons Targaryen - Daenerys, the teenage princess and her brother Viserys and several other houses are fighting for the crown. There are also creepy walkers from beyond the wall - the wall that is guarded by the Watch. What's beyond the wall is dangerous, but inside the land there is a continuous string of bloody intrigues, murders, battles and betrayal. In Westeros winters can last for years - and now....the winter is coming.
Structure: The first season is based on the first book by George R.R. Martin, the next season will also follow the books, but if history of HBO adapting the books taught us anything - there are probably going to be many differences between the series and the source material.
Verdict: You have to watch this one - the plot is filled with intrigues, great characters and it has wonderful performances - especially Emmy award winning turn from Peter Dinklage, who plays fan favorite - sneaky, tricky, witty and able to talk his way out of anything Tyrion Lannister. The whole show is like R rated "Lord of the Rings" with sex and blood. It's - along with "Boardwalk Empire" - the best show that premiered on HBO in a very long time.
What makes it so great? Great characters, story, imagery, performances and the Westeros - dangerous, beautiful land.

Who you may recognize: Sean "my characters always die" Bean, Peter Dinklage from "Nip/Tuck" and "Death at the Funeral", Lena Headey from "300" and "Sarah Connor Chronicles", Jason Mamoa - new Conan Barbarian. But there are also many impressive newcomers, especially Emilia Clarke as Daenerys, married to barbarian Khal Drogo - delicate princess who during first season turns into determined, strong, khaleasi.
Who's behind it? The writers of "Troy" and "Stay", the whole series is based on "Game of Thrones" series by George R.R. Martin.
Who will like it? Fans of fantasy genre and royal intrigues.

Daenerys and one of her three dragons

When and where? Season 1 - DVD, season 2 premiers on HBO in April.