GAME OF THRONES “The House of Black and White” Review


Will Game of Thrones start to gather momentum? Or is this fifth season destined to be somewhat of a slowburner? Read on to find out. The official description from HBO:

 Arya arrives in Braavos. Pod and Brienne run into trouble on the road. Cersei fears for her daughter’s safety in Dorne as Ellaria Sand seeks revenge for Oberyn’s death. Stannis tempts Jon. An adviser tempts Dany.

Game of Thrones latest season got off to a…. lets just say average start, as though it was generally good, with many fans being overjoyed just to see it return, I personally felt it was a little tame in comparison to what we’re used to getting. That being said, this isn’t a shock considering the way Season 4 ended, as with such a game changing climax, there needs to be a subtle reintroduction, that eventually works into the aftermath.

GoT Ep 2 (3)

This second episode starts to build upon this, as though there’s still a little more development to come before we reach the same level of tension that Season 4 ran with, it’s starting to draw nearer. As ever “The House of Black and White” follows several different narratives, and where certain series such as The Walking Dead are hindered by this, Game of Thrones thrives. For this viewer, the chance to see what Arya got for her money at the end of last season was what I enjoyed most, as though it took a while to reveal itself, the sheer passion of the character is always a marvel. On the flipside, I continue to be disappointed by the lack of Tyrion Lannister, as though it’s natural to have him a little inconspicuous, I miss his wit and charm.

GoT Ep 2 (2)

Much like last week, there were few actors that truly stand out, as with Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister) continuing to act more as a backing member, there isn’t a shining personality to lead the pack. That being said, the powerful, deliberate performance of Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen) and the curious, charmful display from Maisie Williams (Arya Stark) certain impressed, and when you add the coldness of Leanne Headey (Cersei Lannister), it certainly seemed as if the females ruled the roost. As for new cast members, we are introduced to the gout stricken prince of Dorne, Doran Martell (Alexander Siddig), and though we aren’t shown much, Siddig’s performance shows sternness and regality.

Game of Thrones‘ fifth season continues to be a little haphazard, as though it’s still better than anything else on television, this fan knows that it can do better. “The House of Black and White” does however give some pivotal developments, and along with the odd bit of action, it allows for a somewhat exciting progression to this epic story.

OUR RATING
8
  • + Great fight involving Brienne of Tarth
  • + Ladies rule the roost.
  • + Intriguing climax.
  • - Could be better.