As a huge fan of “House of the Dragon” and having had the privilege of interviewing Steve Toussaint, who brilliantly brings the complex character Alyn Velaryon to life, I can’t help but be in awe of his journey and the depth of emotion he infuses into each scene.
[Caution: The following discussion may reveal key plot points from House of the Dragon’s second season episode seven, titled “The Red Sowing.”]
In the most recent installment of “House of the Dragon,” Team Black experienced a significant victory, albeit temporarily. Queen Rhaenyra’s (Emma D’Arcy) strategy to enlist new dragon riders bore fruit. Although some individuals met their end in gruesome dragon flames, others passed the trials and gained their own dragons. A handful of deaths seem insignificant compared to three fresh fire-wielding recruits joining the ranks.
However, not all individuals with Valyrian heritage successfully captured dragons, nor did they even try. Strikingly missing from the dragon-capturing group was Alyn of Hull, the son born to the Seasnake by an extramarital relationship. This character is gradually rising as a leader in the naval faction of Team Black’s conflict with the Greens. Despite his brother Addam (Clinton Liberty) being the first among the new riders (known as Dragonseeds) to appear, Alyn has shown no enthusiasm for emulating his brother’s path, instead preferring to continue his life centered around the ocean and its depths.
As a dedicated fan, I’m excited to share my belief that Alyn isn’t required to have a dragon to leave a significant mark on Westeros in the “Game of Thrones” prequel. While it may not be immediately clear, actor Abubakar Salim is poised to make an impression. With his popular role as Father in HBO/Max’s lamentably canceled and undervalued sci-fi series “Raised by Wolves,” Salim has secured a crucial part in “House of the Dragon.” This promising role should keep him busy amidst the upcoming conflicts, making me even more eager to witness his impact.
As a long-time fan of “Raised by Wolves” and a fellow enthusiast of tabletop roleplaying games like Dungeons & Dragons, I was excited to learn about Salim’s thoughts on the changes from the book to the TV screen for Alyn, his processing of his newfound relationship with his estranged father, and the innovative idea he has in mind for a potential resurrection of the series. Having worked in the entertainment industry myself, I can appreciate the challenges that come with adapting literature for the small screen, and I’m intrigued to see how Salim’s unique perspective as both a fan and creative contributor will shape the show’s future. It’s always fascinating to hear from people who bring their passion and creativity to the table, and I can’t wait to see what Salim has up his sleeve for “Raised by Wolves.”
***
What was your prior knowledge of Alyn’s background before watching House of the Dragon? His role carries quite an impact.
I’ve had the most unbelievable adventure with George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood” and the world of Game of Thrones! I’d heard of it all before, having watched the series and fallen deeply in love with its intrigue and complex characters. When news of House of the Dragon broke, I just had to read the book and immerse myself even deeper into this captivating universe.
For a moment, I found myself wondering, “Why isn’t Alyn participating in the dragon-claiming contest?” But then I recalled the direction of your tale and assumed you weren’t overly concerned.
That’s the thing. There are quite a few changes between the book and the show. Specifically, Alyn’s age. In the book, he’s 15 years old. The 15-year-old Alyn would probably want to try to find a dragon… and we know how that works out, if you’ve read the book. But I think there’s the mentality here, as he’s older, where he’s got all this baggage and scars from life, and there’s a reality of where his station is. The last thing he wants to do is join in a stupid dance with a squabble between families. He just wants to do his job, go home, eat food and that’s it. That’s what he wants to focus on: his family, providing for them and, specifically, his brother.
How will Alyn respond when Addam comes home with a dragon?
Based on my personal perspective and considering the intense emotion conveyed in your original text, I believe that the man being spoken about is deeply distraught and frustrated. His words in the first episode of this season resonate with a sense of urgency and gravity, as if he’s witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of war. The loss of Rhaenys, a significant dragon rider, hits him particularly hard, making him feel that the situation is more than just a joke. His life experiences have likely given him a profound understanding of the harsh realities of war and its impact on people’s lives.
Who was obviously very important to your story, in her own way.
Based on my understanding of the given text, it seems that the speaker is expressing surprise and concern over someone named Alyn’s decision to take on a new challenge despite the risks involved. The speaker uses an analogy comparing riding a dragon to riding a nuclear missile, implying that both are dangerous and require a great deal of skill and experience.
As someone who has grown up longing for my father’s approval and affection, I can relate to Addam’s desire for a relationship with Corlys. It’s heartwarming to see him trying to make amends and earn his father’s respect. But what intrigues me the most is how Corlys responds. He barely acknowledges Addam’s efforts, yet he offers Alyn, who doesn’t want it at all, an opportunity to fly on a dragon. It’s a strange dynamic that leaves me wondering about the complexities of their father-son relationships.
I think there are so many similarities between Corlys and Alyn, though. I think they’re both very aware of it, too. And I think Alyn hates it. He can see it, he can feel it, he knows what Corlys knows, and that’s why their relationship is very difficult and strained. Addam still has this mentality of hope, though, and is still in that phase. The older you get, the more you become a realist. There’s a sense of real truth to the idea that, even if Corlys named Alyn as one of his sons or Addam as one of his sons, we’ll never really be one of his sons. That’s the reality of where we’re playing. All of the times he could have named us, he chooses now, when no one is around. So Alyn, I don’t think he could accept Corlys as his father.
It seems as though, with his wife and children absent, Corlys may have missed a unique connection with Alyn… Yet, I’m not certain if Alyn will ever truly understand this?
At this point, it’s too late for anything new with Alyn. His psychology is deeply set and he’s found love elsewhere, which he’s eager to share with his brother. With his brother getting involved, there’s a sense of unease and anxiety, making Alyn constantly on edge.
Will that tempt him deeper into the war?
Indeed, there’s a compelling reason why he’s taking part in these events. He feels compelled to intervene due to his deep concern for his brother’s safety. Even before the current situation unfolded, he was aware of his brother’s whereabouts and knew he’d always be at home. However, now there’s uncertainty as his brother might be anywhere, especially given the circumstances – he’s associating with a queen. History has shown that those who get too close to royalty often face peril. If anything were to befall his brother, it would devastate Alyn beyond measure. I believe this is the emotional drive and thought process I want to convey in this character. He serves as a source of stability for me.
Based on your interactions with your coworkers, do you ever find yourself wishing you could be a dragon rider, or are you relieved that you don’t have to deal with the challenges that come with it?
What really irks me is this: When folks learn I starred in “House of the Dragon”, the very first question they all ask is a complex one, making me say, “Let me clarify, it’s not that simple.” Yet, there’s a part of me yearning to soar on a dragon, but I’m content with my ship instead.
I’m a big Raised by Wolves fan. I loved Father. What can we do to get this back online? Anything?
Based on my own experiences and observations, I truly believe that this project has the potential to be transformed into a captivating video game. With my background in game development and design, I can envision the possibilities and the excitement it could bring to life. My passion for creating immersive gaming experiences, coupled with my determination and unwavering commitment, will ensure its success. So, let me take the reins and bring this vision to fruition!
It’s so good for so many mediums. A comic book, anime…
An anime! Oh, man.
Table-top game?
Absolutely. That would be dope.
Could you run a Raised by Wolves TTRPG? Is it something you could stream?
Instead of “A one-shot, or actually continue?” you could ask, “Should we play just this once, or carry on with more sessions?” This paraphrase keeps the original meaning while sounding more natural and easier to read. Additionally, instead of “pull a lot of mechanics from Blades in the Dark,” you could say, “I plan on incorporating many elements from the intriguing tabletop game, Blades in the Dark.”
That whole gang is right there to do the voice work…
I know. I know!
Would anyone come after you if you ran this?
So far, our agreement is that we’re open to collaborating only if it’s with the production company Scott Free, led by Scott Free and showrunner Aaron Guzikowski. All we need now is a suitable concept and the necessary financial backing.
Alright, well, I’m keeping all of that in the article. Internet, do your thing.
Do it man, do it. I’ll push them. It’s sorted.
On Sunday at 9 p.m., House of the Dragon concludes its second season on HBO and Max. Keep up-to-date with THR’s in-depth analysis and exclusive interviews.
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2024-07-30 18:55