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HBO unveiled a new ad campaign this morning to pay homage to their legendary original content intro. You know the one. It’s the one that starts in silence until a screen flickers to life and we see the HBO logo. The accompanying sound? A zen-like, “Ahhh…”
The new videos, which are all on YouTube, feature characters from HBO’s pantheon of hit original content. Selina Meyer, Dolores Abernathy, Marnie, and Elmo all give their own quirky take on the famous “Ahhh…” However, what might be of interest to hardcore Game of Thrones fans is that we get “blink or you’ll miss them” first looks at some of our favorite characters from Westeros. The first video gives us looks at (in this order) Jaime, Dany, Tormund, Sansa, Bran, and Jon, all dressed in their new Season Seven looks. The second clip, below, treats us to Cersei, Hodor(!?!), Tyrion, Arya, the Hound, and Dany (again). Each of the characters, with the exception of Hodor, seems to be wearing new duds.
Finally, John Oliver hosts a meta clip where he digs HBO on the concept of the ad and jokes that they managed to unite the whole cast just for this bit. Then we get a swift look at…well, the whole remaining cast. (Hey, Brienne, Missandei, Varys, Davos, and Theon!)
HBO just unveiled an official Game of Thrones teaser last week that only featured good looks at Cersei, Jon, and Dany, all taking their respective places as the last three warring leaders of Westeros. Even though these new network promos give us the briefest of glimpses at what the characters will be wearing next season, it’s clear to see that battle lines have been drawn and winter is finally here. I see you Sansa and Arya — you’re both finally bundled up in leather and fur like real Starks. But why-oh-why is Hodor back? Could he be coming back next year? Speculate away, folks!
These first three videos are just the first in a series of clips that will be released over the next few weeks. The videos will run on the HBO linear channel and online on the various series’ social platforms. The idea is that what makes HBO special isn’t all about one show or one talent, but a cavalcade of creators, shows, and characters. (But of course, I’m the nerd freaking out about Game of Thrones because…GAME OF THRONES.)
