Chattanooga Times Free Press

Can’t get enough ‘Game of Thrones’? Try these shows

- BY NEAL JUSTIN

The return of “Game of Thrones” is cause for celebratio­n for fans who swear their allegiance to the series, claiming there’s nothing else like it in this or any other world.

Not quite so. While “GOT” has captured the world’s imaginatio­n — and 38 Emmys — the HBO fantasy epic is not as unique as some believe. Many of the elements that appeal to the show’s fans can be found in past TV series that would make for excellent binge-watching on Amazon, Netflix or DVD as you wait breathless­ly between each of “GOT’s” final 13 episodes.

If you’re drawn to the show’s family feuds: Try “Hatfields & McCoys”

(2012), in which Kevin Costner and the late Bill Paxton play patriarchs who put honor above everything else, including getting a decent shave.

If you’re drawn to the epic scale of the action: Try

“Rome” (2005-07), the woefully underrated drama that concentrat­ed more on edge-of-your-chariot storytelli­ng than historical accuracy. Like Julius Caesar, it was gone too soon.

If you’re drawn to the sassy swordplay: Try the BBC America version of

“Robin Hood” (2006-09). It’s not as thrilling as the 1938 Errol Flynn swashbuckl­er (few adventures are), but it’s loaded with sex appeal and zingers so delicious even “Downton Abbey’s” Dowager Countess would swoon.

If you’re drawn to the stronger-than-expected female warriors: Try Netflix’s new series “GLOW,” a powerhouse dramedy that transcends its campy premise to emerge as an early contender for show of the year. Alison Brie (“Community”) flexes new muscle as a struggling actress in the 1980s searching for identity in and out of the ring.

If you’re drawn to characters drunk on power: Try “Boss” (2011-12), in which Kelsey Grammer plays a Chicago mayor who wouldn’t be caught dead in a bar like Cheers. The series ultimately didn’t work, but if you want to see political corruption in action, check out this two-term effort.

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