Rumor: HBO reaction to screening “not positive”

All may not be sunshine and rainbows on the Game of Thrones front. Commenter Michael has remarked that he has a source that is stating that HBO’s reaction to the pilot screening was “not positive” and that they are “back editing, trying to make it work.” He later goes on to say:

I should probably elaborate since I’m sure I’ll be attacked, but HBO just wasn’t as positive as they thought they would be. That doesn’t mean it won’t receive the light, but the show is so expensive that it just doesn’t bode well. I am told that Sean Bean is terrific, though.

Adam Whitehead of The Wertzone adds some conflicting info from his own sources:

Consulting my own sources suggests that whilst Michael’s comments that the pilot may not be 100% perfect (and no pilot ever is) and some elements may need further work might be correct – I’d be surprised if this was not the case – the overall vibe and enthusiasm for the project remains quite high at HBO.

Winter Is Coming: My feeling is that the original comments from Michael are reflective of, like Adam says, the normal pilot process being played out. Of course, HBO is likely to want some tweaking here and there. But based on everything else we have heard, HBO still seems excited about the project. Either way, this rumor is a good reminder that a green light is still not 100% guaranteed.

• Published on 02/18/2010 at 9:44 AM CDT
• Last updated on 02/18/2010 at 9:58 AM CDT