Abubakar Salim Reveals Why Alyn is the Perfect Heir in ‘House of the Dragon’ – Shocking Details!

Welcome to Screen Gab, a newsletter for anyone who appreciates how personal conflict often fuels compelling TV drama.

In the world of “House of the Dragon,” Alyn of Hull is no exception to this rule. Having long been disconnected from his father, Corlys Velaryon, Alyn’s relationship with him has hardened into a nearly unbreakable wall. However, the second season of this “Game of Thrones” prequel hints at the potential for change in their dynamic.

In this week’s Guest Spot, actor Abubakar Salim delves into Alyn’s character and what could possibly mend his relationship with his father. Additionally, our editor checks out the popular legal drama “Presumed Innocent,” and shares two streaming recommendations for the weekend.

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Suggestions from The Times’ film and TV experts

“The Decameron” (Netflix)

In Giovanni Boccaccio’s 14th-century collection of short stories, seven women and three men leave plague-ridden Florence to spend time in a countryside villa, where they entertain each other with stories. The Netflix adaptation of this classic flips the narrative structure, focusing more on the characters’ experiences in the villa. Their host (and Zosia Mamet’s childish noblewoman’s fiancé) is dead — a secret that servants Tony Hale and Leila Farzad are desperate to hide. The series is a mix of farce, tragicomedy, genuine emotion, violent slapstick, and historical tourism — a combination you don’t see every day. — Robert Lloyd

“Licorice Pizza” (Criterion Channel)

Los Angeles indie rock queen Alana Haim flirts with Cooper Hoffman (son of the late Philip Seymour Hoffman) in this 70s-era comedy directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. The film, released during the 2021 lockdown, received both praise and controversy. Looking back, “Licorice Pizza” radiates nostalgia, portraying a bygone era that Anderson himself barely experienced. You can watch it exclusively on the Criterion Channel, which is also streaming four other Anderson classics, including “Magnolia” and “There Will Be Blood.” — Joshua Rothkopf

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Get the scoop on the film or TV series that has everyone talking

If you’re like me and crave the dramatic tension of pretrial motions, lawyers’ meetings, and fierce legal rivalries, “Presumed Innocent” (Apple TV+) is a must-watch. Based on Scott Turow’s novel, which also inspired a 1990 movie featuring Harrison Ford, David E. Kelley’s eight-episode limited series stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Rusty Sabich, an arrogant Chicago prosecutor accused of murdering his colleague and former lover, Carolyn Polhemus (Renate Reinsve).

It’s not Gyllenhaal’s conflicted character or the murder mystery’s unexpected twists that make the series worth watching. The series stands out for its detailed portrayal of the ruthless politics of daily life, where everyone has an agenda — whether they realize it or not.

“Presumed Innocent” nearly stumbles when it comes to Sabich’s family life, using flashbacks and nightmares to stir up an already complex narrative and failing to fully develop its key teenage characters. However, the casting of Ruth Negga as Rusty’s wife, Barbara, who is fed up with the male-dominated world, keeps the series exciting. Her performance alone makes up for any narrative shortcomings. — Matt Brennan

Guest Appearance

A weekly conversation with actors, writers, directors, and others about their current projects and what they’re watching

As Season 2 of “House of the Dragon” (HBO Max) wraps up, actor Abubakar Salim discusses his character Alyn’s journey this season and why he’s been binge-watching “The Kardashians.” — Matt Brennan

What have you been watching lately that you would recommend to others?

Believe it or not, I’ve been enjoying “The Bear” [Hulu] and “The Kardashians” [Hulu]. “The Bear” is an incredible show with amazing writing, performances, and production. Every scene delivers a concise yet impactful story. It’s inspiring to see how much can be packed into just 30 minutes to create such brilliant, quality entertainment.

As for “The Kardashians,” there’s something intriguing about watching a family whose lives have been constantly documented and how they’ve adapted to this as their new “normal.” It’s a strange mix of reality and drama that I watch to escape from the world while also being reminded of what is considered “reality” TV.

What’s your go-to “comfort watch,” the film or TV show you keep coming back to?

I always go back to “The Dark Knight” [Max]. It’s a film that still resonates with me because it realistically depicts the epic battle between a hero and antihero. The film’s soundtrack also holds a special place in my heart.

How did learning that Alyn is Corlys’ illegitimate son, along with his brother Addam, in Season 2 of “House of the Dragon” affect your understanding of Alyn’s actions?

Knowing this gave me a valid reason for Alyn’s actions throughout the show. His aloofness and professionalism, as well as his routine of shaving his head, are his way of reclaiming his self-made identity. The Alyn we see on the show is a young man still hurt by his father’s abandonment, and it’s still very raw.

What do you think would need to happen for Alyn to consider becoming an advisor or heir to Corlys?

I don’t think any material thing — be it wealth or titles — would change Alyn’s mind. He has no desire to be an advisor or heir, which is why he might be the perfect candidate. This is a recurring theme in George R.R. Martin’s works, where those who are reluctant to seek power often find themselves in positions of authority. To change Alyn’s mind, there would need to be a psychological event so significant that it would force him to redefine his identity.