A Game of Thrones (HBO) and A Dance With Dragons (Book)

I haven't been this excited about a cinematic fantasy adaptation since Fellowship of the Ring in 2001. George Martin's Game of Thrones will premiere in a month (April 17) on HBO, and the trailers so far indicate nothing but the best should be expected. I especially like the new Fear and Blood trailer, though the earlier one and power theme are nice too. What terrific casting.

To those who haven't been following the projected seven-volume Song of Ice and Fire series, start reading before you are a month older. They're only the best fantasy books since Tolkien, and as if the HBO adaptation of the first book weren't treat enough, the long awaited fifth book is coming out this July. Yes, it's a real date this time, announced by the author himself. Get ready to dance. The dragons are finally coming.

The Supreme Court's Decision: Picketing Funerals

Many are shocked at the Supreme Court's decision to allow homophobic hate paraders to picket military funerals, but the court is obviously right. As long as the Westboro Baptists aren't trespassing, keep the right distance, aren't violently disruptive, and follow police instructions, they can and should have every right to spew their hateful bile. It's an 8-1 decision for a good reason (I'll kindly refrain from remarks about the lone justice), and I say this as one who despises the Westboro church for everything it represents.

(See Yahoo and The Atlantic for brief reports.)