Game of Thrones Fans Could See Aegon's Conquest in Both Film and Series as 'Andor' Writer Submits Script

Game of Thrones fans may soon see the legendary conquest of Westeros brought to the big screen.

Beau Willimon, the writer behind Andor and House of Cards, has reportedly submitted a script depicting House Targaryen's rise under Aegon the Conqueror. Also known as Aegon's Conquest, the story will show the unification of the Seven Kingdoms and the establishment of Targaryen rule, a major moment in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire universe.

While the film appears to be moving forward, a television adaptation of the same story is still under consideration at HBO. This leaves fans with the possibility of experiencing the conquest in two distinct formats.

Beau Willimon's Take on Aegon's Conquest

According to reports by The Hollywood Reporter, Willimon's script focuses on Aegon's arrival in Westeros, the battles, and political moves that allowed the Targaryens to take control. Known for his work on political dramas, Willimon's involvement hints that the film might focus not just on the action but also on the characters and strategies behind the conquest.

For years, fans have speculated about adaptations of Aegon's Conquest, a key but mostly untold story in the Game of Thrones universe. Until now, projects about this period have been aimed at television.

The news of a big-screen film marks a shift, suggesting a more cinematic and possibly grander take on this important chapter in Westeros history.

What is Aegon's Conquest About?

Aegon's Conquest is the story of how Aegon I Targaryen and his sister-wives, Visenya and Rhaenys, took control of Westeros.

Before Aegon arrived, the land was divided into seven separate kingdoms, each ruled by its own king. With the help of their dragons, Aegon and his sisters defeated these rulers and united the kingdoms under one crown. This marked the start of Targaryen rule, which lasted for nearly 300 years.

Aegon also created the Iron Throne from the swords of the kings he defeated, showing his power and warning others not to challenge him.

In the TV world, Aegon's Conquest is often mentioned in Game of Thrones, as the Targaryen family's claim to power begins with him. House of the Dragon takes place about 200 years later and focuses on a Targaryen civil war, but Aegon is still remembered as the founder of the dynasty.

Parallel TV Adaptation Still in Development

The Targaryens' conquest has also been in the works for a TV adaptation at HBO.

Early reports from 2024 indicated that Mattson Tomlin, co-writer of The Batman Part II, had joined the project, signalling HBO's continued interest in bringing Aegon's story to the small screen.

Despite Willimon's submission for a movie, HBO's series has not been cancelled. This suggests fans may eventually see multiple interpretations of the same historical events within the fictional world.

Industry sources note that producing two adaptations simultaneously could provide creative freedom. While the film may condense the narrative into a visually striking, two-hour story, the series could offer a more detailed exploration of House Targaryen's politics, family dynamics, and the larger mythos of Westeros.

Warner Bros. Sale: Is It Something to Worry About?

Fans, however, worry that Warner Bros.' talks with Paramount over a possible £90 billion ($110 billion) takeover could make the future of the project uncertain.

Paramount CEO David Ellison has called Game of Thrones his favourite HBO series, showing he supports the franchise. Still, past Paramount takeovers have led to major changes in ongoing projects, including the cancellation of long-planned Star Trek sequels.

Experts say that while both the film and TV series are still being developed, their schedules and budgets could change depending on the outcome of the Warner Bros.-Paramount deal. Delays or adjustments to casting, direction, or release dates are possible, although the franchise's huge fan base may protect it from major cuts.

What Fans Can Expect for Now

For viewers, these projects represent a rare opportunity to explore a cornerstone moment in Westerosi history. Aegon's conquest, which set the stage for centuries of Targaryen rule, has been referenced in Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon, but never fully realised on screen.

The combination of Willimon's cinematic expertise and HBO's serial storytelling promises two distinct experiences: a condensed, visually compelling film and a more nuanced television narrative. Fans may gain insight into the political manoeuvres, battlefield strategy, and personal ambition that defined Aegon's reign.