The video is set to the strains of a slowed-down cover version of David Bowie’s Heroes, but few heroes are evident. Instead, the trailer features scheming Queen Cersei (Lena Headey), who appears to be intent on vengeance against her younger brother, dwarf Tyrion (Peter Dinklage).
Meanwhile, Tyrion himself is shown in exile, discussing his future with eunuch Varys (Conleth Hill), and sporting a much heavier beard. Intriguingly, their scenes hint that Lannister Tyrion may end up joining Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) on her quest to retake the Seven Kingdoms.
Arch-plotter Littlefinger (Aidan Gillan) also appears, alongside Sophie Turner’s Sansa: the scenes shown suggest that the compelling, but increasingly uncomfortable dynamic between the two will continue to develop in season five.
The trailer also features several new locations, including a shot of what appears to be the Water Gardens of Dorne, home to the Martell family. Last season, we witnessed the death of Oberyn Martell (aka The Red Viper). This season, we’ll be meeting the rest of Oberyn’s family, who are likely to play a much bigger role in the new season. 24 actor Alexander Siddig will play Doran Martell - the ruling lord of Dorne and older brother to Oberyn, while Toby Sebastian will play Trystane Martell – Prince Doran’s son and heir to Dorne. Oberyn’s three illegitimate daughters – known as the Sand Snakes – have also been cast.
Finally, the fate of Ned Stark’s youngest daughter Arya (Maisie Williams) is also hinted at. In HBO’S recent series of Three Eyed Raven viral teasers, fans caught glimpses of Arya approaching a distinctive black and white door. In the full length trailer, the door – believed to be the door to the mysterious House of Black and White – is much clearer. In Martin’s novels, the House, based in the foreign city of Braavos, is the headquarters of the mysterious assassins known as the Faceless Men.
Season five of Game of Thrones will premiere on April 12.
