Game of Thrones

The sweeping saga really flaunts its extras in episode two, with long migrations snaking across the screen on horseback. In fact, the land of Westeros is almost too populous, as there’s so much hierarchy and interrelationship for viewers to take in.

Wisely, then, the makers concentrate on the people of the frozen North, where there’s a ticking time-bomb. Young scally Bran Stark lies unconscious after an attempt on his life, having discovered a shocking secret. Despite his mother’s bedside vigil, Bran is looking increasingly vulnerable…

In a world awash with swaggering machismo and brutish deeds, it’s cheering to see scenes of tenderness. Game of Thrones has a scope (and a budget) that other dramas would kill for, but it’s a moot point how much we really care for these characters.