Enakshi takes a look at two popular TV shows, The Expanse and Game of Thrones, and gives a comparative analysis of these two. An exclusive for Different Truths.  

If you have been a part of all the fuss about the winter coming and the furor created by the protomolecule, this article will definitely interest you. Game of Thrones (GoT) was a raging success right from the release of its very first season. The plot revolving around nine families that fight wars to exercise their control on the mythological land of Westeros won hearts of millions owing to the extraordinary screenplay, exemplary dramatic sequences and political intrigue. The fun had just ended in last April when the last season was aired on HBO.

As we all waited for another show to satiate our curious mind, we didn’t think that a show of a different genre could match the benchmark set by Game of Thrones. When Syfy cancelled the renewal of the critically acclaimed sci-fi show, The Expanse, a lot of hopes were shattered. But then Amazon Prime came to the rescue and took the reigns of the 4th season in its hands. After having watched The Expanse, I can say one thing for sure that this show bears an uncanny resemblance with Game of Thrones and that just makes me want to watch these shows again! Here are the six similarities in these two shows:

The Fight for Power

While Game of Thrones was circled around the fight between the Starks from Winterfell and the Lannisters from Kingslanding- two of the superpowers, The Expanse also revolves around the fight for supremacy between Earth and Mars. Caught in the conflict are the colonists of Iron Islands, Casterly Rock, Riverrun (and many more) in GoT and the Belters in case of The Expanse. Both these shows focus on how hatred for one another proves to be harmful to humanity in general.

James Holden vs Jon Snow

 Jon Snow, the illegitimate child of Ned Stark, was one of the most loved characters on the show. His stage presence gave a sense of security to the viewers. He was the driving force for the show and eventually, his back story proved to be the main focus of the show. Similarly, James Holden is the pivot for The Expanse. He falters in making decisions, he belittles himself just like Snow, his point-of-view is often met with repudiation and he is always willing to sacrifice- all these personality traits make him Jon Snow’s metaphorical doppelganger.

Both Holden and Snow are brave at the time of the battle, skilled even when it comes to fighting but their common flaw is their incapability to take decisions. This boils down to their genes because both of them don’t seem interested in becoming in charge. With every person who deceives them, they learn their lesson and become stone-hearted before it is too late.

White Walkers vs the Protomolecule

The colour blue holds much important in both these shows. While GoT used the first few seasons to establish the authenticity of the trouble that lay ahead (reiterating on why winter’s arrival held so much importance), The Expanse also does not deter from the prime focus on the presence of protomolecule, an alien species that has hidden motives for the human race. both – the White Walkers and the Protomolecule- are extremely powerful and they can make the humans disappear in a flash. Both can be fought with fire. Both are contagious. Both intend to conquer the place occupied by humans. And lastly, both are scary!

The Political Agendas

The plot, be it for Game of Thrones or The Expanse, is driven by political agendas that aim to convince, conquer and capitalize. While the Lannisters and the Starks have their wits about them when it came to planning a definite course of action against each other, Earth and Mars are not far behind politicizing their campaigns and exploiting their powers. These people can murder, bomb or even imprison the ones who will come in their way. Shawn Doyle of The Expanse is the evil equivalent of Lena Headey, Shohreh Aghdashloo and Sean Bean are the harbingers of peace but both of them have to make choices that don’t quite go well with their morals and values. And then there are others who are just a part of all the chaos, plotting against their rival, unaffected by the destruction and the loss of life.

The Importance of ‘Meanwhile’

Both these shows have a lot of sub-plots that run alongside the main plot. The most striking feature of these two shows is the powerful narrative that oscillates between different places on the same timeline. Be it the aftermath of Daenerys transformation into the Unburnt or the transformation of Miller into a lovestruck and kind-hearted protector- all narratives are interconnected. Miss one and miss all is the key here! Kudos to the authors George R. R. Martin and James S. A. Corey who did a splendid job in intricately weaving the threads of the plot together.

The Common Punchline(s)

Last but not the least, the punchlines of these two shows also show an unusual parallel. Take a look at some of them:

What we don’t know is what usually gets us killed. Peter Baelish

Divided by hate, ignited by love, united by war. The Expanse

I grew up with soldiers. I learned how to die a long time ago. Ned Stark

As long as we’re living and breathing, there’s more we can do. We just have to be strong enough. James Holden

The night is dark and full of terrors. Melisandre

Every shitty thing we do makes the next one that much easier, doesn’t it? Naomi Nagata

All said and done, Game of Thrones and The Expanse are the best shows to date in their respective genres. It is healthy to watch such shows as the mind is on tenterhooks and the anticipation leads to speculations and discussions which I personally love!

Photos from the Internet