House of the Dragon (TV Series) The Black Queen (2022) User Reviews

If we don't mind our own histories...

[tristan_19 · 10/10 · 23 October 2022]

It will do the same to us. Viserys warned us from the beginning. The Targaryens do not control the dragons, and Aemond got a hard reality check at the end of this episode. The whole scene with Lucerys and Aemond, from Storm's End ending all the way above the clouds is one of the most shocking pieces of media in the Game of Thrones Universe and will imprint itself as a TV Classic forever.

The Black Queen is one of the bleakest episodes ever, and it shows in its execution. Grey, sad, dark, no joy whatsoever. You just feel the doom and the gloominess. It picks up at Dragonstone, right after the events of The Green Council. Rhaenys comes in and delivers sad news, making Rhaenyra go into labor early.

Slowly, the audience is let into the plan. Corlys is an absolute trooper, and chooses to support the princess, even though he still thinks she had Laenor killed. Talking of troopers, the moment where Ser Erryk gives Rhaenyra her father's crown is full of emotion and really touching.

There's a weird scene here with Daemon and Rhaenyra, and it will leave you thinking. But the formation of the Black Council and hatching of plans to sway the lords of Westeros to the cause is truly engaging and mesmerizing. It marks the beginning of the end for Lucerys, as his brother suggests they ride on dragonback to the different locations.

I love the parallel here between Jacaerys and his mother, tying back to episode 2 where Rhaenyra suggested the council sent her to Dragonstone to talk with Daemon. Of course, the foreshadowing is out of this world and Rhaenyra claims the children should receive a warm welcome from the different Lords.

But she couldn't have predicted Aemon's presence. And it all goes down real quick. An eye for an eye. The meeting goes sideways, but Lord Baratheon forbids Aemon to kill Lucerys in his hall.

Little did he know of the event that would follow, as Aemond hops on Vhagar at the pursuit of young Lucerys. But in a moment of distress, the protection instinct kicks in for Arrax and he shouts out flames at Vhagar, who won't let the affront slide. Lucerys stands and hides above the clouds, but Vhaegar sweeps from below and devours Arrax and Lucerys whole, under Aemond's stupefaction.

Gotta love all the nuance the writers brought to the table. It wouldn't have made sense for Aemond to just kill Lucerys and be straight up evil right away, as that would have completely screw things up for the war. Instead, we get a young guy who has to deal with a mistake he truly didn't intend for. I'm truly excited to see his development in season 2.

Pan back to Dragonstone, Rhaenyra is once again learning bad news, mirroring the beginning of the episode. She turns to the fire, and then slowly turns back to us, the audience, letting the episode sink in and providing the wait for the next season.

Great work so far!

[dharialaswad · 10/10 · 23 October 2022]

We enjoyed every single episode , great characters, acting, soundtracks and CGI especially this episode.

We cant wait for the next season! G. R. R. Martin we trust you plz don't let them ruin your masterpiece!

King veseryrs , Daemon , and alicent were amazing!

Rhanyira , and Laris Strong were fantastic.

Aemond was on of the best young actors!

This season gave us many questions about the other houses, which gives us a great dose of agitation!

We loved Vhagar and its look! Reminded of Godzilla.

Finally, the season was very good, hope to see house Stark , Gregoy and lannister next season!!

Excellent first season

[judalejandro · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

I watched the episode before it aired since it leaked and I was kinda pissed to see all the annoying twitter book readers complaining about the few changes made to the story. First of all, the book is told in a way that makes it so we're not sure the events actually happened the way they did, which makes it easier for the TV series writers to have more freedom, and I think they did it marvelously. Apparently in the book Aemond is a full-on demon and he didn't kill Rhaenyra's son accidentally, he very much intended to do it. But I think it's better for it to be like it was in the finale episode, he's not just a big bad boy who does things without reasoning and this event is probably gonna weigh on him and bring him closer to the person that he is in the book (or not, and that's okay too). Now Daemon is apparently someone who loves his family very much in the book and who would never hurt them, but it's time to stop with the 'bad writing' allegations because Daemon's behavior in the show has been nothing but true to what we've seen since the pilote episode. He groomed Rhaenyra and killed his first wife, it's not shocking at ALL that he would be abusive to Rhaenyra. Anyways, all that to say that the writing has been very good throughout the whole season and that I loved it very much, can't wait to witness Rhaenyra's transformation in S2.

"The Black Queen" is brilliantly acted and written, a finale you'll remember for years, a masterpiece

[Holt344 · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

House of the Dragon is back with its season finale "The Black Queen" and it's brilliant, it's cinema. The premise: While mourning a tragic loss, Rhaenyra tries to hold the realm together, and Daemon prepares for war. What follows is some brilliant drama and scenes that will stay in your mind, the writing and direction is superb, and well like I wrote before it's cinema. This is an episode of House of the Dragon, an episode of the Game of Thrones franchise, an episode you'll remember. The writing is superb and you see the passion, in each line of dialogue and in the overall writing, great writers are behind this show and season finale.

With the death of Viserys Targaryen two episodes ago and the ascension of Aegon II in the previous episode titled "The Green Council", for this episode we finally get to see Rhaenyra and Team Black who were absent except for Rhaenys "The Queen Who Never Was" Targaryen. This episode is full of brilliant acting, with people acting out all kind of emotions. If Emma D'Arcy doesn't get nominated for awards for her performance as Rhaenyra Targaryen, I don't know what they would be thinking, she's putting everything she got into this role, top notch performance. The other performance among my favorites are Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen, it's just impressive and like D'Arcy's, it's award worthy. The supporting cast is all great, but Ewan Mitchell's performance as Aemond Targaryen continues to amaze me, they have a rising star in their midst.

"The Black Queen" was directed by Greg Yaitanes who's also producing House of the Dragon, I just have to say this, his direction and visual storytelling is perfect. Like it was in the other episodes he have directed, but this was his best, and possibly one of the season's best episodes. The cinematography too is brilliant and beyond perfect. Fabian Wagner is a genius, an artist. There's so many shots that are brilliantly shot and just stunning, from the camera angles to establishing those shots that lingers on our minds. Truly mesmerizing.

I wrote before how brilliant the writing is and I can't praise it enough, I think Ryan Condal and Miguel Sapochnik along with George R. R Martin have done perfect job with creating the show, with the two former being show runners. Sara Hess wrote episode 1.10 "The Black Queen" and her work was brilliant, with Clare Kilner directing it and her work was too quite phenomenal. There's a Shakespearean quality to this show that makes every scene so interesting to watch, really giving the show a different feeling than it's predecessor and other shows. It feels much more serious and mature, more intelligent in a sense, than Game of Thrones. The characters are so richly drawn and the tension and conflict that's built up between them so compelling and complex. Despite the plethora of dragons, it is less fantastical for one thing. It's also more focused and less epic, with a smaller cast and a tighter focus. Episode 1.10 was brilliant, the whole production was superb and we even got to see a new set of Storm's End which have been referenced but never seen in both shows, it's the home of House Baratheon. The exterior like the interior was impressive and I can't wait to see more of it and everything else we'll see in Season 2. The Storm's End sequence was mesmerizing and truly brilliant. But let's talk about the musical score, Ramin Djawadi uses old musical cues like new ones, making sure that people won't forget how important the powerful and epic music is to the heart of the show, so powerful to our own hearts. I won't go into any details but that ending was spectacular and what a great setup for season 2 which will be arriving in 2024, Ryan Condal wrote a perfect season finale.

A fitting finale to an overall very strong season

[aarongnr · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

This episode - "The Black Queen" - concludes the prologue to what's so fittingly called "The Dance of Dragons" or "The Dying of the Dragons". A season full of drama, faimly feuds, political intrigue, dragons and ... timejumps. But now we have arrived at the pivotal moment in this story. From here on out, it's all put war. This episode co cludes this season in an elegant, shocking, sad majestic manner and gives co text to the beginning of the end of the Targaryen dynasty.

The characters may not act like we'd hope they would, Daemon once again shows that he is not the "converted" good guy like the last few episodes make it seem, in fact: He's still the same old, chaotically gray fucker that killed his wife.

The standout of this episode is easily Emma D'arcy as Rhaenyra. Their regal yet vulnerable look fits perfectly woth her character and she also does a fantastic job portraying pain and loss.

I cannot wait for next season, and it's 2 years awaay still :/

AMAZING

[Maxwell01 · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

Everything on this episode was perfect, in line with the Dance of the Dragons.

George Martin should be proud, the acting was stunning, from minute 1, specially the acting from Emma D Arcy. Of course we need more seasons as the Dance of the Dragons was an event with a lot of things happening but still I think the first season covered well almost all of them, the most important ones.

I enjoyed every episode and thanks for bringing Ramil as the composer, the music was epic as usual and for keeping the same music for the opening as it is very characteristic in the Game of Thrones world, a different one would be weird.

Let the Game of Thrones commence!

[GomezAddams666 · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

"The Iron Throne is the most dangerous seat in the realm." The fact that is built upon the swords of the fallen should be a violent indication that very few transitions of power in the history of Westeros have been a peaceful one, and this ne is not one of those.

This final episode did not have a lot of action as one would have hoped, but that does not mean there were not a lot of things at play, and the set up has finally been built into what we all want, the Dance of Dragons.

Rhaenyra's wish for a peaceful transition of power could never be, because as long as she and her family are alive, they will always be a thorn in King Aegon II's alleged claim to the Throne.

Prince Daemon saw the Hightower's as what they are, traitors and usurpers. Rhaenyra has been so consumed with Visery's prophecy of "the Song of Ice and Fire" that she did not realize the threat that House meant for her own, but the foolish act of one of the Greens has finally started one of the most violent and tragic wars in the history of Westeros.

The swords are now drawn beyond the point of no return, this Game of Thrones has just started.

Great build to the story with some epic Dragonstone Cinematography

[saadi-42422 · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

The writers are attempting to tell the "real" story compared to the ones written by biased maesters. It's inspired writing, though risky as hell as they can easily change the direction of the story from going skywards to diving into the god's eye in flames.

Its sad and tragic that The actual Dance of Dragons is actually caused by the Dragons and not Targaryens. In the book, Aemond kills poor Luke intentionally, but here he lost control of his dragon and looks totally perplexed over what havoc he has caused. Aemond is a meance but a calculating sociopath. I mean why should Aemond be a one dynamic character, just pure evil? I feel it adds more layers of depth to character and allows a lot more reactions and emotion to be shown. Especially to the outcome and direct response from this action. It's more compelling, to see that he went to far with his ego and now realizing what how he took it too far. So it made complete sense to show him already processing what he is going to tell them upon his return, especially when the negotiations are in place and there is yet for either side to hit the first bloody strike.

Also, the scene was to enforce what Viserys said earlier in the season that dragons can never truly be tamed and the fact they think they control the dragons is a mere illusion.

Another great example is of our Black Queen, Rhaenyra. Even though she has the right to the throne and even (literally) had the chance to crush Otto and declare war, she restrained herself and realized her role in the big picture: that is, to uphold her promise to her dear father and keep the realm in peace. She had done the same and avoided bloodshed earlier too when some years ago Daemon had stolen her Dragon's eggs (for attention seeking purposes ofcourse). This just heightens and elevates Rhaenyra's character.

In short, they're trying to humanize all the characters and show how the atrocities of history still happen even when people aren't caricatures of good and evil. It's being done to keep people on either green or red side. To make everything have a argument for both sides. They do very wrong things, feel guilt, but then surround themselves in armor of rightness and defend their own actions no matter how insane.

There Will Be Blood

[851222 · 9/10 · 25 October 2022]

Greetings from Lithuania.

There is never (almost) one truth to a war, as there always at least two sides of the story. What i love about this series is that there is not black and white - there is a space in between called perception.

"The Black Queen", a 10th and final episode of "House of Dragon" was a heavy drama with superb ending. But this drama is done so well, and it is so intense that it plays out like a thriller. Clearly there will be blood next season, which i will highly look forward because i highly enjoyed this one - and i'm not even a big fan of the source material - never read books.

Overall, "House of Dragon's" first season was a drama, but it's a top tier TV drama. Just like "Better Call Saul" this is a spin off done right. It enriches the world, and leaves its own mark, and it's not just a gimmick of the original. Superb first season, and what a pleasant surprise.

A Dragon is not a Slave!

[aprytova · 10/10 · 25 October 2022]

I LOVE the episode!!!All the people who are furious about the changes from the book COME ON.... It is a TV adaptation for a book which is written from the perspective of Maesters. So there is a possibility that they didn't knew exactly details of events.

1)About Aemond - I liked very much that writers didn't show him a cold-blooded killer of his nephew. Yes, he wanted to scary Luke, he was still angry at him about his eye but he didn't want the death of him. He started this game with Lucerys and he is responsible for the outcome but the DRAGON IS NOT A SLAVE! Viserys has told "The idea that we control the dragons is an illusion". And this event add a lot of tragedy to his character. In the previous episode we have seen that he is definitely more suitable for the throne than Aegon II. Aemond was studing while Aegon was wandered through the brothels. He is definitely smart, educated and loyal son to his mother. But his arrogance, resentment, rancor on Luke led to the tragic death and first blood was spilled and there is no way back. I am pretty sure we will see Aemond to become more cruel in future but I am 100% agree that he is not a MONSTER at the beginning of the war. I 100% team Black but Aemond is one of my favorite character and the depth of his character that the writers add to him is great. Thank you Ewan Mitchell and Leo Ashton for the great portraing of Aemond!

2)Death of Luke - I knew it was coming but the scene was heartbreaking. Till the end he was following his mothers instructions not to engage in the fight but Arrax had other in his mind. I think the dragon felt that his rider was afraid and his reaction(fire) on Vhagar was kind of protective for Luke. But the outcome we know and it is really SAD!

3)Daemon - I also was frustrated and surprised by the choked scene with Rhaenyra. I couldn't imagine that he would do that to her. Daemon was always protective of his family. Viserys has never told him about the song of ICE&FIRE. What was the, jealousy...?!I don't know. But I am pretty sure that Daemon doesn't want to bend the knee to Hightowers, he has seen from the beginning that Otto Hightower is not a good person and above all, these has been Otto actions from the beginning that lead to the war. And even the thought that Rhaenyra is considers to accept the terms of Hightowers make Daemon furious and sick. He definitely will not do THAT! So I kind understand his mental state right but I don't justify the choked scene. But he still my favorite character! Matt Smith is fantastic in this role!

4)Corlys Velaryon returns and it is great. I like that he and Rhaenys Targaryen are so protective of their grandchildren, even they do realize that Jake, Luke, Joffree are not sons of Leanor. But they always will be in danger while Aegon II is a king. And I think Rhaenys wants to help Rhaenyra to become a queen. She was "The Queen that never was" because of all that patriarchy thing which she is observing the second time now. Maybe for her it is like the second chance to break the wheel. Besides that they definitely receive privileges while Rhaenyra is a queen. And I hope that they will know that their son is not dead.

5)Rhaenyra - I was really sorry for her during the episode. Treason of Hightowers, death of daughter and son is a big tragedy! The last scene where Damon informs her about Luke death is fantastic. The camera moves closer to her, music of Ramin Djawadi at this moment is marvelous, and at the end we see her full face and we know "THE DANCE OF DRAGONS BEGINS"!

The first season of HOTD was fantastic! And all who is now complaining that the last episode of HOTD is bad, they have ruined the characters, I am pretty sure they will be waiting for season 2.

For me HBO redeemed itself from the GOT season 8 which end I didn't like and it was so rushed. Wish to win HOTD all the awards!!!

Season One Review

[southdavid · 8/10 · 25 October 2022]

I would still consider myself a fan of "Game of Thrones" even if the final season fell short of the previous entries, so I was eager to watch another story set in that world. Though undeniably smaller, in terms of storytelling scope, and a little confusing in the earlier episodes, it eventually settles into strong series, worthy of its predecessor.

Having had an uneasy rise to power, King Viserys Targaryen (Paddy Considine) looks to stabilise the kingdom by naming his daughter Rhaenyra (Milly Alcock/Emma D'Arcy) as the heir to the Iron Throne, over his brother Daemon (Matt Smith). When his Queen dies in childbirth, his hand Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans) manipulates his daughter, Alicent (Emily Carey/Olivia Cooke) into becoming her replacement. When she bares the King a son, the future of the Kingdom is again thrown into doubt as the Hightowers, and other elements opposed to a female ruler, scheme to cling to power.

One thing GOT did that HOTD doesn't do quite as well is explain the stakes early on. There is an undead army coming from the North and whomever is on the Iron Throne when they do will be key to defeating them. That also gave the series a wide scope, as anyone from numerous houses could theoretically have ended the show in power. Dragon has neither of these. The focus is who will be next when Viserys dies, which initially looks to be a ways away, but comes closer and closer with each time jump that the early episodes go through. Though the old houses are mentioned, it becomes increasingly apparent that this will be a Targaryen civil war.

The other problem in those early episodes is that there are a lot of similar looking people with white hair, some of which having similar sounding names, so I found it difficult to maintain who was who, particularly as several characters, especially the children, change actor several times as they get older.

It did all come good for me though, and the nuances of the story start to come to the forefront, little character moments and misunderstandings that become major plot points. The performances are excellent, particularly in this first run from Paddy Considine. The CGI work is really strong too, and the numerous Dragons look great.

Interesting to see where we go from here when the show returns in 2024, but it's off to a promising start.

Under the shadow of a great show

[mkakdag-00887 · 7/10 · 24 October 2022]

Even tho I think House Of The Dragon is blant compared to A Game Of Thrones , I do admire the fact that the writers are trying to portray how the kingdom fell apart and it was all because of a big misunderstading.

Setting aside the great acting by the lead actors , having one of the princess killed for a season finale was really weak . To be honest I call him prince casue I can't even remember his name and that is kind of the problem . I have no emotional attachment with the second characters they have no depth. Their deaths are meaningless to me . I used wait for GOT every week during the seasons wondering about what would happen next week, but with HOTD I am not excited for next year...

Excellent season conclusion.

[UnbiasedAnonymous · 24 October 2022]

This episode shows the blacks perspective over the events of episode 8-9, after the greens usurp the throne under Rhaenyra. The episode was visually stunning, and the performances again were excellent, with Emma D'arcy being the standout. It was beautifully directed, with many scenes paralleling those of episode 1 gracefully.

The ending of this episode likely raises the most concern, where Lucerys' death by Veiger was a mistake rather than intended by Aemond as is told from the books. This change is understandably polarizing.

On one side, Aemond is a young man who has never seen war. Lucerys is his cousin, and so you could understand why he may have a level of restraint in his execution. On the other, it seems the writers are shying away from purely villainous characters.

The main issue that comes with these changes is the war feeling like it was lead from a series of 'accidents' rather than pure character driven decisions. Alicent misunderstanding Viserys, and now Aemond unintentionally executing Lucerys. I do hope the seasons to come focus much more on pure character driven motives as from the books.

Overall, this season has been quite excellent. The time jumps were quite daunting at times, a few narrative hoops and a little messy CGI, but mostly hard to find complains with. This season has surprisingly managed to match up fairly nicely to that of its predecessor. Looking forward to what is to come.

Getting worse and worse

[JensSeidl · 2/10 · 24 October 2022]

Here we are again. The writers are utterly incapable of inducing emotion into this soulless story. A miscarriage? We haven't really learned to like the mother enough to care. One of her other sons killed by a massive beast of a dragon (and due to a stupid stupid tactical error of that son) - again, we didn't know him well enough to really care. The display of a dragon to intimidate two white cloaks. Two. White cloaks. Really? All that accompanied by a bunch of empty politics yet again nobody cares about. What's worse, the CGI is also dropping to Matrix Part 3 Levels - so borderline ridiculous. Where did this all go wrong?

True to the books

[usamahmoolla · 10/10 · 23 October 2022]

Absolutely phenomenal ending to top of a great first season of what will be a ground-breaking show. The shots, score and VFX remain top tier as they do throughout each episode. Acting given by. Each cast member was outstanding and I have no doubt many emmy nominees will be coming from this show. The pacing from last episodes is much better and goes to show Rhaenyra in a new light than the books have as well as Daemon. Despite his loyalty he still struggle to grasp that containment and wishes to immediately go to war but Rhaenyra holds the peace which gives house Velaryon to their side through Rhaenys. The ending with Luke and Aemond was done perfectly, with F&B being from different sources and now showing the real story of how Aemond didn't wish to be a kinslayer makes it all more tragic than it was. Absolutely phenomenal and cannot wait for season 2.

Pieces are moving... with consequences!

[and_mikkelsen · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

House of The Dragon concludes with an intense and captivating episode that picks up nicely from the previous episode!! To me they had to nail this final episode and i think they did! Everything that was set up over the course of years now becomes clear as the Dance of Dragons begins with the seeds of war being planted!

I really enjoyed Cinematogrophy and visuals! There were some nice shots of locations such as Storms End and Dragonstone! The dragons also looked great in this episode! The actors were great as usual! This show competes with Better Call Saul for this years Emmys!

I enjoyed this show way more than i thought and can't wait for season 2!!

Brilliant!

[elartu-95 · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

Starting with Daemon, thank god we see finally his true character my god! That's a real warrior, immediately planning on how to reply to the greens. Amazing acting by Matt Smith you could see the fearless and big of a threat that Daemon truly is and how he will give everything to defend his family with honor till the grave. Then Rhaenyra was amazing, starting from the episode until the end where there is no mercy in her eyes and soul. This is what all the season was cooling and if you were surprised by this then you weren't putting attention and don't deserve to follow up with the show. This is GoT world and it delivered us everything we were expecting.

Also the realistic thing of how dragons behave by nature was spectacular, what a way to deal with that detail. Couldn't think on a better ending for the first season. Things will be very very different on the second season by looking at this. Fire and Blood is all I can say and summarize for this excellent season finale!

Daemon and Aemond is amazing, so is the whole season!

[tesseractzv · 10/10 · 25 October 2022]

I can't express enough of how much I love Daemon and Aemond in this series. For me, they definitely stand out but other characters are very very good as well. Daemon and Aemond is just special, every scene they have been in, in this season, they have literally OWNED it. These 2 might be the best characters ever in my book. Kudos to GRRM for that!

I felt as though this specific episode was a built up to an amazing upcoming season. The last Storms End scene was absolutely amazing from the moment it started to end. I also loved how they gave Aemond a depth and didn't only make him a bloodthirsty villain as the book (written by maesters) makes him out to be. I believe this is the way he was always supposed to be, the book was just not a reliable source since it isn't as detailed.

Absolutely LOVED this season. I keep comparing this to Game of Thrones because I think these 2 series are absolutely amazing in their own ways that no other serie has reached before. As much as I loved the first season of GOT, I have to say that HOTD's season one is even better than GOT's. Which is an AMAZING accomplishment!

I can't WAIT for season 2... I'm so infuriated that it isn't gonna be released for 2 years but atleast we are getting a new season from this masterpiece.

A haunting and bittersweet end to a fantastic first season of television

[cena-23919 · 10/10 · 23 October 2022]

I was too weak and decided to watch the episode when it leaked, and it was glorious. Going in I had two scenes or sequences spoiled for me by edits on Tik Tok of all places. Got to admit that I was a bit unsure on what I saw, but watching the actual episode gave me relief. IT was an incredible episode, the writing and directing along with the perfect acting by these experts in their craft gave me one of the best season finales in Game of thrones history.

Let us discuss the sequence at Storm's end, firstly, how crazy is it that we get to see this epic sequence on our television screens, everything just looked incredible... now to the elephant in the room.

In fire & blood, which is an unreliable "fake history book", the book tells us of a few possible scenarios that to Lucerys' death. Some say he was swallowed hole by Vhager, others say that Vhager bit part of Luke and killed him. These two scenarios have one thing in common, that in both, it was Aemond's intention of killing his nephew. Here however the writer and showrunner Ryan condal, along WITH George rr martin took a different route. Aemond for all his talk, never wanted to kill Luke, but Vhager is a stubborn old queen and wanted Luke and his dragon dead. Luke's dragon was also disobeying orders. Luke did not want the fight and wanted to go back to Dragonstone.

"A Dragon is not a slave"

This is my favorite "change" from the book, adds so much more depth to Aemond, he is not (yet) a cold-blooded killer. He trains and talks like a killer, but he is still a boy. This has caused debates in a small part of the fandom. Some sources say that having Dragons disobey their masters is dumb, I disagree. Multiple times in GOT we have heard that Dragons are said to be even wiser than man, that they have a mind of their own and are highly intelligent. Even in this show, we have seen examples of Vhager herself disobey orders, until she eventually obliged. In episode six and episode seven. Viserys warned us in the very first episode, that Dragons are not to be trusted.

"The idea that we control the dragons... is an illusion. They are a power man should never have trifled with. One that brought Valyria its doom. If we don't mind our own histories, it will do the same to us."

Let the Dragons dance!

[dritonsu · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

Wow. I remember the time after Game of thrones season 8 came out, it was not fun being a fan back then. So much toxicity on both sides of the fandom and multiple youtube videos trashing the season. I'm not saying that they are wrong or right, just pointing out how the fandom was in a dark place. The hype for HotD was certainly there, but there was always season 8 there to concern some viewers of this show's potential.

Those concerns were eradicated, I would say so. This show is and has been the absolute best show on tv by a mile, in my opinion. We live in a great era of tv, and this finale did not disappoint. As many are aware, the episode leaked but I did not watch the leaked version. Tik tok users didn't hesitate to put edits and clips on their profiles, and I was spoiled by a few things. However this did not stray me away for I am able to put any expectations at the door every time I consume art. I do not go in with wishes and what I want to see. I, as a viewer want the showrunner and writer(s) to tell me a story.

I can say with certainty that this finale has delivered, I loved every second of it. While I do wish that it was 5 minutes longer, the finale offers a fantastic conclusion to this incredible first season.

The writing, directing and acting is as strong as ever. The ending sequence at storm's end is mesmerizing. I adore the change from the book, Aemond not being cold hearted killer (Yet) adds so much more depth to his character. We lost Luke, poor lad didn't know what he was getting himself into, poor Rhaenyra is completely broken. Daemon telling Rhaenyra what had occurred and her final look into the camera was haunting. Bravo Emma D'arcy, we are lucky to have been introduced to your greatness. We will follow your career with great interest.

Daemon and Rhaenyra definitely have some conflict in this episode, while I won't go too much into what's going to happen. All I'll say is this, do not doubt Daemon's love for Rhaenyra. "Lucerys will be avenged"

I'll leave with these three words.

Blood and Cheese.

How To Enrage A Dragon

[JoshuaMercott · 10/10 · 24 October 2022]

A finale should, by its nature, be rife with sensationalism, cliffhangers, twists, turns, and jaw-droppers. This last episode in season 1 of "House of the Dragon" contained a good deal of those, and more.

Director Greg Yaitanes and writer Ryan Condal both did exceptional work in episode 10 "House of the Dragon". They bottled a 'silence before the storm' vibe so expertly that it has to be seen to be appreciated. The crew continued to apply excellence at all stages. Great work all round by the production design, costumes, hair-makeup, editing, VFX, stunts, musical scoring, and cinematography teams.

We missed their presence in the penultimate episode, but Prince Daemon Targaryen (played by Matt Smith) and Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen (played by Emma D'Arcy) made a draconian comeback in the finale. They each gave breathtaking performances this episode. Emma D'Arcy was a queen conflicted. As for Matt Smith, well, suffice to say he was being typical in the extreme.

After the stunt she pulled in the previous episode and the lines she also drew at the time, Princess Rhaenys Targaryen (played by Eve Best) redefined the phrase 'heads will roll'. Queen Alicent Hightower (played by Olivia Cooke) was MIA this entire epi, which only made her presence felt in different ways.

Prince Lucerys Velaryon (played by Elliot Grihault) was amazing and intense. Prince Jacaerys Velaryon (played by Harry Collett) was outstanding and memorable. Prince Aemond Targaryen (played by Ewan Mitchell) was noteworthy and foolhardy.

Ser Otto Hightower (played by Rhys Ifans) was superb. Lord Corlys Velaryon (played by Steve Toussaint) was captivating. Lord Borros Baratheon (played by Roger Evans) was good. Aside from his own name, plenty of other familiar Houses were mentioned in this episode.

Everyone else did noteworthy work in "House of the Dragon" S01E10, the finale, now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.

I loved everything about this episode, and not simply because it was the finale. I liked how the showrunners treated it as if it were another significant 'milestone episode' in the series. It genuinely gained an air of dark portent and deep suspense because of that.

The dragons were showcased in a wonderful light this epi. Daemon's Caraxes and Rhaenyra's Syrax were stunning. Jacaerys' Vermax and Lucerys' Arrax were captivating. Aemond's Vhagar was gripping-good. That chase sequence in the rain certainly left an impression I won't soon forget.

The design of the war-table at Dragonstone was *chef's kiss*. We also received early confirmation of where Rhaenys's allegiance lay when she returned to Dragonstone. The way Rhaenyra cordially accepted and included Rhaenys' daughters during the tactical discussion scene cemented a lasting connection that will certainly dictate the flow of "House of the Dragon" in season 2. Then there was the Sea Snake's decision, inspired in large part by Rhaenys herself.

Episode 10 evoked the pregnancy travails that first kickstarted this season. Other exemplary throwbacks included Milly Alcock's draconian entry to 'greet' Otto Hightower at the steps of Dragonstone. Emma D'Arcy recreated the scene exceptionally well.

Alicent Hightower's usurpation of the Iron Throne promised to be met with righteous vengeance from Daemon and Rhaenyra. Fans would've expected no less. But this episode was mainly geared toward building up to that singular climax, which seems set to unravel in season 2.

Whether Rhaenyra wanted it or not, war seemed to be on the menu for season 2. She wished to uphold Viserys' dream of a united realm at peace and refused to fight until the enemy struck the first blow. That blow came near episode's end when Aemond lost control over his dragon and unwittingly ended the life of Rhaenyra's beloved son Lucerys.

The events in episode 10 "The Black Queen" thus forged a path for fresh shocks and shudders to come in season 2 "House of the Dragon", a path lit by dragonfire and scorched with relentless ambition, greed, powerlust, vengeance, and (dare I say it) love.

Dragged out pointlessly

[shrikar-v · 7/10 · 24 October 2022]

Honestly, with so much production value, there needs to be better directing to get the most out of the show. There are so many pointless, empty scenes and lines that add nothing to the drama and the story development. I feel like I watch 20 minutes worth of content for an hour.. and I don't get why.. are they lacking a screenplay? Or is the director failing to deliver the slow burn effect they're going for?

I think the last 3 episodes especially seem especially dragged out. There are all these scenes of Daemon brooding or saying strange things, I understand that they want to convey he is war mongering but I think we need better writing..

Weak finale

[hnt_dnl · 2/10 · 24 October 2022]

As I was watching this episode, I had a hard time believing that this was the season finale. And from my understanding there will be at least 2 years until the second season comes. Much like the last episode, despite some good acting, there was so much filler and for the stuff the writers should be focusing on, they just ignore. The episode starts with Rhaenys arriving at Dragonstone and telling Rhaenyra and Daemon that King Viserys is dead and the Hightower/Team Green clan has taken over and crowned Aegon as the new King upon Viserys' last wishes. As expected, Daemon suspects that Rhaenys may be a double-crossing them, but the writers just gloss over this. She was held prisoner and escapes and never explains how.

A huge elephant in the room for me this season has been the Laenor "death" subplot and specifically Rhaenys as a character. Rhaenys never seemed to even care about Viserys and also she knows that Rhaenyra's first 3 sons are not Laenor's. She has no real ties to them or should care about their success. Rhaenys thinks Rhaenyra had her son killed, yet she continues to support her claim to the throne. Wouldn't it make a ton of more sense for Rhaenyra to have actually just told Rhaenys and Corlys about the bait-and-switch on the night of Laenor's "death"? THAT would explain why the Velaryons are supporting Rhaenyra, because she actually gave their son his freedom and ensured him having a fulfilling and happy life. Otherwise, why should they even support her? Just let the Hightowers and Targaryens fight and destroy each other. Also, Rhaenyra and Daemon should be watching their backs from the Velaryons for as long as they live because I don't get how their granddaughters (who are Daemon's daughters) would sanction how their uncle "died" with both their father and the woman he married being complicit in his "death." It's all so ridiculous, in my opinion, and even if it turns out that the Velaryons were playing along for years and plotting Rhaenyra's downfall, then that makes her and Daemon look dumb, yet the writers want us to believe they are 2 brilliant strategists. And if Rhaenys is truly supporting Rhaenyra with no tricks, then it makes her look bad because that means that Rhaenys cares more about a female being ruler and "girl power" as a way to make up for her getting passed over the life of her own son. Finally, Rhaenys' "personality" amounts to her having a constant smirk on her face. Terrible character that fans are overrating as some kind of badass.

This episode had several meaningless, filler scenes. Yet another birthing scene for Rhaenyra to draw even more manipulative sympathy/empathy from viewers. Also, why didn't she let her nurses help her with the birth? Then there was that boring scene of Daemon, Jace, and the 2 knight guards. Those guys already seemed loyal. What was the point of threatening them being burned by the dragon? And another filler Daemon scene (par for the course for this overrated character) of him talking to his dragon. Then there was that scene with Otto and his guards stupidly showing up without backup where Rhaenyra could have just had her dragon burn them all right then and there. And Otto just lets her rip off his Hand insignia without retaliation? Why would Otto even show up with Alicent's peace offering when she is no longer the ruler and Aegon makes the decisions? Last they saw, Rhaenys killed a bunch of citizens and threatened the Hightowers lives, declaring her allegiance to Team Black. The Green crew should already know it's too late for olive branches. Speaking of Otto, this is another character that is written too on the nose as being a pathetic suck-up who's greedy for power, indicative of none of these characters having any real nuance or depth.

The episode drags on and on and culminates in the confrontation between Aemond (actually one of the better characters of the season) and Luke (one of the worst) and an extended dragon chasing sequence featuring impressive effects. Speaking of Luke, one of my biggest gripes this season is how irrelevant and annoying Rhaenyra's oldest 2 sons Jace and Luke are. They have zero personality or likability and it just makes me like Alicent's evil and screwed up brood even more. At least Alicent's kids have a pulse and feel somewhat dimensional. The season ends on a real bummer as Aemond's out of control dragon causes Luke and his dragon to fall to their apparent death. Then it shows Daemon telling Rhaenyra, then she stares at the screen. Cut to black. Why wouldn't she send her inexperienced and obviously scared teen son with some backup just in case? And the reason why we know he's scared is because that's been the actor's baseline facial expression the entire season! Daemon bragged that they had all these extra dragons and they couldn't just send someone who knows how to fly one with Luke as his guard and protector? And then Rhaenyra knew the royal she was asking to support her had 3 single daughters and would probably ask Luke to marry one of them, yet knew that was impossible. She couldn't have sent someone else with a different and better offer? The writers really ended the season on a scene between 2 feuding teenagers who have barely had interactions and not it's 2 main characters Rhaenyra and Alicent? This show feels very self-important and is garnering praise that I don't think it remotely deserves. The fact that it's an insanely popular and praised HBO show and there will be 2 years wait until Season 2 reminds me of Westworld. The difference is that Westworld had a phenomenal first season, while HOTD's freshman season is mediocre and I find it to be very overrated. At least fans saw through all of Westworld's nonsense after Season 1, but for this show, it seems like it's getting undue recognition out of the gate, which makes me believe that it will continue so in future seasons. Whatever these writers are doing is working for viewers, but not this one. Nothing happened in this finale and I suspect this will continue to be the case for the rest of the series.

Enough Is Enough

[Hitchcoc · 10/10 · 25 October 2022]

The die is cast for the next season. This episode has everything. It lays down a map for diplomacy, but the adversaries ignore this and kill the prince. We have the underdogs facing an incredible uphill battle. We have the rightful king and queen suffering great loss. The face of the Queen at the end tells it all. This series has been ramping up each week and now the forces of good must put it out there. The attack in the sky is a remarkable example of great special effects that are a hallmark of this and its predecessor. I hope we don't have to wait too long for Season Two. I was hesitant when this started but now see it as remarkable.

Amazing first season, brilliant episode

[tfomp · 10/10 · 23 October 2022]

Amazing actings, especially from Emma D'Arcy, Ewan Mitchell and Elliot Grihault. CGI was brilliant aswell (except Daemon-Caraxes scene) And I know book readers don't like some parts of the story but you should remember that Fire & Blood is a history book of Westeros, which depends on only "masters' truths". So that means, for example the truth about how Luke died, could be different than the book, because it doesn't depend on certain informations and also in the books we actually don't know the way of his death. So that scene still makes sense and it was SO good. It was a perfect first season.