“House of the Dragon” is embracing the fantastical elements that made “Game of Thrones” such a groundbreaking series. Initially, “Game of Thrones” drew in a broader audience by downplaying traditional fantasy elements like magic, focusing instead on political intrigue, complex characters, and shocking plot twists. However, as the series progressed, it gradually introduced more overtly magical elements such as dragons.
Now, “House of the Dragon,” set in the same universe but during the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons, seems poised to fully embrace the fantastical. The mention of “warring clan[s] who all ride dragons” suggests that dragons will play a central role in the conflicts of the series. This shift may appeal to fans who enjoyed the later seasons of “Game of Thrones” where dragons and magic became more prominent.
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The phrase “the Targaryens’ cold war turns hot” implies escalating tensions and open conflict among the Targaryen family members, possibly fueled by ambition, betrayal, and the sheer power of dragons. It sounds like the series is building towards epic battles and dramatic confrontations, which are hallmarks of high fantasy.
For fans of the genre and followers of George R.R. Martin’s expansive world-building, “House of the Dragon” delivers on the promise of grand fantasy storytelling, complete with dragons at the forefront of the narrative.
Corlys is devastated as we all were over the death of Rhaenys. We see him and Rhaenyra grieve their loss. Back at the Red Keep, Criston is parading Meleys through the streets lying about Aegon’s victory like the jerk that he is. The people however see this as a bad omen. They are starving and want an end to the war. The shot of the dragon being pulled and the rat catcher’s bodies was visually disturbing in a good way – shows the city’s vulnerability. Not so sure it was smart to show the people that dragons can in fact be killed.
Aegon of course lives but there was a small hope that the writers were not going to follow the books. I think Otto is somewhere smirking evilly. Alicent’s looks towards Aemond are starting to show her inner thoughts. She does not trust him and is perhaps scared of him. The scene of Aegon being treated did not make me feel badly for him at all. Aemond is the more interesting character and I love to hate him. His cold delivery of the line that someone will have to rule was great.
“Episode 5” – HOUSE OF THE DRAGON, Pictured: Ewan Mitchell as Aemond. Photo: Ollie Upton/HBO ©2024. All Rights Reserved
Rhaenyra is struggling at her council meetings with Ser Alfred challenging her at everything. Rhaenyra seeking counsel from Mysaria is interesting. The minute I start to warm up to her she does something that makes me not trust her again. I did enjoy the conversation between Jace and Baela. I would love to see their relationship explored more. Seeing Rhaena was a nice surprise as I thought her story might be over.
Alicent is not faring any better at her own council meetings. She wants to rule in Aegon’s stead but is quickly reminded that she is only a woman and everyone turns on her, including her lover Criston. As they vote for Aemond to rule, he immediately gives his orders and closes the city – no one is to leave. The city will turn on the Greens soon. Helaena knowing the truth about Aemond’s actions adds another layer of intensity. Alicent and Criston appear to have ended their affair but you just never know with Alicent and him – she flip flops more than shoes.
Baela speaking with Corlys so freely really showed her strength. Their conversation was needed. I found it interesting Corlys wanting to name her heir and her turning him down. This could mean he will ignore Jace and he now cares about blood over names.
“Episode 5” – HOUSE OF THE DRAGON, Pictured: Bethany Antonia as Baela. Photo: Ollie Upton/HBO ©2024. All Rights Reserved
Daemon has made his intentions fully known in this episode. He wants to rule and always have. He has no problem with Rhaenyra being by his side but he would be making all the decisions. He continues to enforce brutality while on the verge of a mental breakdown.
Rhaenyra and Jace need to work together if they have any chance of winning. I understand why Rhaenyra is hesitant to send him out after what happened with Luke and she makes valid points while expressing her own frustration at her lack of combat training and being forced to stay inside her castle. They have an honest conversation and come up with a plan to find new dragon riders.
The episode was too slow in pace and full of dialogue. I just wanted some more truths and confrontations to be had. Why didn’t Alicent speak with her brother about the battle to get the truth? Why didn’t we see Criston and Aemond speak about the battle? Some of these conversations would have heightened the episode and gave it some much needed tension.
What did you think of the episode? Leave a comment and remember to connect with me on X @jereereviews for more.
