Why It Was A Mistake: In the novels, Mance was characterised as something of a middle-aged Pied Piper of the Wildings. This was due to the character's influence in uniting of all the Free Folk using his considerable charm, intelligence, and his much-lauded lute playing skills. In the show, there was no reference to the character's musical ability, he is gruff and unsubtle, and he looks like he'll rather stick a knife between your eyes rather than engage in a civil conversation. Hinds was admirable in the part and he did bring a sort of leader-like physical presence to Mance on-screen. However, the portrayal felt thuggish and unfitting of a character who primarily uses his charisma and cunning rather than his imposing presence. Who Shouldve Been Cast: There were reports that The Wire's Dominic West was actually offered the part of Mance Rayder before Hinds was cast. If West's portrayal of Jimmy McNulty was anything to go by, he could've easily brought the charm and intelligence to Mance that the role required. Had West still declined the role, then the incredibly charming (and frightening) Mads Mikkelsen would be a welcome alternative. The suaveness and intelligence that Mikkelsen brought to Hannibal would perfectly suit Mance Rayder.
My life story is nothing special. I haven't cured ebola, I'm nowhere near stopping terrorism, and I'm still working on that climate change problem.
Instead, all I've done so far is put a few hundred words together in an attempt to make people laugh.
You can follow me at @Fry_ying_pan but don't be offended if I don't tweet back. It's usually because I've spent too long trying to think up a witty response that the reply window has closed.
