Based on a septet of popular fantasy novels, this new series adds a fresh twist to the Lord of the Rings formula. Not only is its saga of dynastic intrigue set in an intricately imagined world, it delivers generous dollops of sexual intrigue. Sean Bean (The Fellowship of the Ring) anchors the sprawling story; he and the rest of the large cast are first-rate. Filmed in Northern Ireland and Malta, the show often achieves a painterly quality, and though its teeming plot may daunt at first, it moves quickly from watchable to downright addictive. Sunday, April 17, at 9 p.m., HBO
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