Jon_Targaryen

Season 7 has continued its streak of consistently improving every episode. But I doubt that any of us expected for an episode 4 of Game of Thrones to stand as one of the top 5 episodes of all time.

Everything was perfect. A breathtaking installment.

The Winterfell storyline was amazing this time around. Bran's characterization seems to be consistent, and Meera's acknowledgment to the new developments in his character helped us further understand the impacts of becoming the Three Eyed Raven. Littlefnger, despite somewhat lacking of his typical plotting proficiency, is still playing the game of thrones behind the scenes. As if he's attempting to influence all the Starks to momentarily doubt his capricious nature and then instantly turn all of the siblings on each other. Arya's homecoming has been long awaited and was everything I expected it to be and more. The parallels to season 1 were heavy in this one, and the emotional reunion in the crypts was great. We remember that Arya and Sansa couldn't be more different - like ice and fire - yet they are now mature enough to coexist and embrace each other as family, which is really beautiful to see. Finally, the Arya vs. Brienne scene was absolutely fantastic. If anyone felt that Arya's storyline was a waste the last two seasons, they shouldn't feel that way anymore. She's become the most deadly assassin in Westeros, and remarkably one of the best fighters too.

In Dragonstone, Jon takes Daenerys into the cave to show her the dragonglass mine. First of all, the score couldn't get any better. Ramin Djawadi nails the soundtrack for every scene in every episode, but this, in particular, added so much more emphasis on to the scene. Due to the ancient carvings in the walls made by the Children of the Forest, Dany seems to be less skeptical of the White Walker threat. We see her momentarily bring down her walls for Jon and drop her Queenly tone in what is likely one of my favorite Game of Thrones scenes of all time. It reminds us that despite all of her character development and life-altering moments, Daenerys is still the same person at heart that she was in Episode 1. Kit and Emilia have some definite chemistry together, and their scenes together have been nothing short of extraordinary. Daenerys also seems to develop some trust, if not attraction, in Jon, and relies on him in front of her counsel to provide advice on her military tactics.

Despite Dragonstone and Winterfell having their best scenes all season, the real outstanding moment of this episode lies with Jaime and Bronn. It is a pleasure to see Ser Bronn of the Blackwater back in Game of Thrones. His banter with Jaime demonstrated some terrific writing and his one-liners have proved to still make us laugh. While transporting the gold plundered from Highgarden to King's Landing, Daenerys attacks on Drogon with her Dothraki at her front. King Robert's notions about the Dothraki in open fields proved true, as this was an absolute slaughter. Tyrion's still evident care for his family, Jaime's paralleling of Dany and the Mad King, Bronn's perfect emulation of the sellsword fighting style, and the best dragon action in Game of Thrones history comes together to create a battle that rivals the Battle of the Bastards. Ramin Djawadi, once again, absolutely shined, and Matt Shakman proved to be just as capable as the legendary Miguel Sapochnik. Bravo once again, HBO. I adored every second of it.

The shortest episode in Game of Thrones history has proved to be one of the greatest. Season 7 has been phenomenal, delivering the strongest first half to a season in Game of Thrones history.

Season 7 of Game of Thrones has consistently improved in quality with every episode. Episode 3 "The Queen's Justice" was an epic hour of television, to say the least.

Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen's first meeting was everything that I expected it to be. Through firsthand witnessing the dichotomy between the two, ice and fire, we realize that they are more similar than we ever thought. Both outliers of their respective societies who rose to the height of the hierarchy. During their second scene together they seem to find some common ground, and Daenerys is willing to set aside her pride in an investment of sorts, hoping that Jon will bend the knee and compensate for her lost allies. Despite a rough clash between them initially, it appears as if they will eventually compromise to defeat each other's enemies. Either that, or the realm will suffer.

Cersei's punishment of the Sand Snakes was a poetic end to their reign over Dorne. For the first time in a while, we are able to obtain a glimpse into Cersei's more human side, the sympathetic aspects of her personality and past which once made us feel so ambiguous about her. The acting from the Sand Snakes was surprisingly good, yet the real star of this scene was Lena Headey. Also, for the second episode in a row, Euron Greyjoy delivers spectacularly and receives further characterization.

Meanwhile, in Winterfell, Sansa is demonstrating that she could potentially develop into a fine ruler over the North in Jon's absence due to the venture to Dragonstone. The reunion between her and Bran is the highlight of this storyline, and the reveal that he was completely aware of what transpired during her wedding was heartbreaking. Bran also seems disorientated this season, as if the pressure of taking on the responsibilities of the Three-Eyed Raven is impacting him mentally. Only time will tell if he finally receives some development after six seasons of being the least- developed main character.

Once again, the highlight of this episode is a battle. Yet instead of demonstrating visual prowess via special effects and outlandish stunts, the battle for Casterly Rock and the Siege of Highgarden are told as if they are part of a larger story. Tyrion's narrative over these conflicts are potentially the best dialogue he has had since the finale of Season 4. The storytelling was perfect and once again, this season emulates various aspects from the first four installments. Some may say that this was a cop-out, but I believe the sequence was conveyed subtly but masterfully.

The scene between Olenna Tyrell and Jaime Lannister at the episode's end was especially great. She has Jaime completely dissected and vocalizes the inner conflict that he has been engaged in from the very beginning of Cersei's descent into madness. He is so profoundly devoted to her that he is willfully blind to her cruelty. Olenna confesses to murdering Joffrey, and Jaime displays some doubt pertaining to his unquestioned loyalty to his sister. It has been a while, but we are finally seeing some more character development for Jaime.

A fantastic episode, proving that Season 7 possesses a degree of consistency regarding the quality of consecutive episodes, which has been absent recently.

After starting off the season with a formidable premiere possessing some of the best dialogue in recent seasons, Stormborn proves to be even stronger than its predecessor and finishes composing the beginning of what appears to be the biggest season yet.

Daenerys' scene at the very beginning of the episode acted as a breath of fresh air. We finally witness the counsel of the Dragon Queen enlighten her with the fact that the players of the game must be capricious by nature in order to adapt to the ever changing politics of Westeros. Varys' speech added multiple layers of depth to his character, as previously his motives remained ambiguous. Now everyone understands what he refers to as "the realm", which is those who live without a political voice. Daenerys' scene with Melisandre was also monumental in terms of plot development, as it is the orchestrator for Daenerys' first meeting with Jon in the next episode.

Jon's scenes were strong as always. He faces some internal conflict amongst his northern vassals regarding whether or not to venture towards Dragonstone, especially given the family history between the Starks and the Targaryens. However, he resolves this in a kingly fashion and cements his position of authority over his men, something Robb had much difficulty with following his inheriting of the North. His scene with Littlefinger, while brief, demonstrated his Targaryen passion along with his loyalty towards his family, qualitative characteristics of a Stark.

Arya's storyline has returned to the spotlight, as every scene she takes part in has absolutely shone in season 7. Her scene with Hot Pie is demonstrative of how far she has come along on her journey, and the characterization and development she has undergone. When comparing this Arya to the one who roamed around the Riverlands with Hot Pie, the contrast is easily discernible. Her reunion with Nymeria, along with her reaction to the Red Wedding, is one of the most heart touching moments in her storyline so far.

Finally, although having a rocky start, the scene with the Ironborn and Dornishmen was the absolute pinnacle of "Stormborn." Although tremendously interesting families, the adventures of the Greyjoys and Martells were previously poorly adapted for television when held in comparison to their book counterparts. However, the battle on the narrow sea was easily the greatest scene that both families have ever been involved in, and rivals the likes of The Tower of Joy and Oberyn vs. The Mountain as one of the greatest short action sequences Game of Thrones has ever produced. The Ironborn reaving culture was on full display, and the Martells...made for suitable victims.

My highest praise has to go to the portrayal of Euron Greyjoy. There is a stark contrast between his season 6 and season 7 depictions. Joffrey and Ramsay were villains that I loved to hate, but Euron Greyjoy has developed such a sense of personality that I absolutely love his character, and stands alongside Cersei and Littlefinger as one of my absolute favorite villains.

Episode three looks to be just as good, or perhaps even better. A stupendous start to the season so far. An interesting blend between Season 4's outstanding storytelling and Season 6's colossal plot points.

After a slow last three episodes, Season 6 Episode 9 reminded all of us why Game of Thrones is not only the best television series currently airing, but the best television show of all time. This cements Season 6 of Game of Thrones as one of the top 3 seasons so far. The episode began with an intense scene that returned a much-needed adrenaline rush to Daenerys' storyline. That alone would have been an outstanding highlight of any Game of Thrones episode, but immediately after we switch to Jon's storyline and witness a suspenseful and outstanding battle with satisfying action and resolution. I've never witnessed a greater battle in all of television and film. Although the battle in Lord of the Rings was much larger with a higher budget, Battle of the Bastards pulls on our heart strings with characters we have both loved and hated for years and gives us a real experience of medieval combat. The camera-work, directing, acting, writing and special effects was all perfect. I wouldn't dare spoil this episode for anyone, as it was a complete privilege to watch. Through all the sorrow, triumph and heart- pounding action, all I can say is this: The North Remembers.

There has been a large amount of criticism directed towards this episode due to comparisons to The Door, one of the greatest Game of Thrones episodes of all time. However, Blood Of My Blood is a strong episode that should not be held back due to the previous episode's overwhelming success. I'll mention my three personal favourite story lines from this episode, as I highly encourage you to watch 606 for yourself.

Coldhands save Bran and Meera from wights after their escape from the cave. Bran is having visions of previous events from within the series, along with some brief scenes of The Mad King, Daenerys' father. It is revealed that Coldhands is indeed Benjen Stark, a character that all Thrones fans have missed dearly.

The King's Landing storyline was well done. Margaery convinces Thommen into accepting the High Sparrow's religious views and way of life, or this could all be a clever attempt to overthrow the faith and reinstate order back into the capital. Jaime is sent to deal with Blackfish at Riverrun.

Arya finally gets some action. After watching incredibly biased and false reenactments of the Bravosi take on the Purple Wedding, Arya ventures backstage and forms a friendship with the woman portraying Cersei Lannister, the one whom she was sent to kill. Arya makes the right decision and turns rouge, refusing to kill the actress and digging up Needle from it's hiding spot.

The Good: - Arya's decision - Sam meeting with his family and claiming Hearthsbane - The return of Benjen Stark - Sets up momentum for a conflict in King's Landing - Gives North and Mereen story lines a break The Okay: - Little action, but makes up for it with strong dialogue - Anti-climatic scene between Tyrells vs Faith Militant The Bad: - Daenerys is my second favourite character...but really?! Stop prolonging her storyline, leave her out of episodes if you have to! Feels like the show is overusing her, bring back her meaningful conversations with her advisors and battles with the slavers, her motivational speeches are repetitive. Hope to see her get some very strong scenes in the last four episodes.

Not as strong as the last two amazing episodes, maybe on par with Oathbreaker.

8.8/10

After Season 6 Episode 1's criticism for being uneventful, we get the exact opposite for Episode 2. The action, witty lines, emotional scenes, and revelations that we all love about Game of Thrones come together in one masterpiece of an episode.

Three Eyed Raven: Bran's storyline is the most interesting of this episode and gave us the show's first major flashback. We see a glimpse of young Stark children, all of which are assumed to be dead. Little Ned is training and even smaller Benjen, while we get our first look at Lyanna Stark as she taunts her brother with horse riding skills. Lyanna is one of the biggest and most important characters (along with Rhaegar and Aerys) that died before the story takes place. Bran also sees a young Hodor, who's name is actually Willis, with capable speech and etiquette. Could his change be related to Lyanna's death, who he seemingly had a good relationship with?

King's Landing: Myrcella's funeral takes place, which Cersei is banned from by Tommen due to fear of her being arrested again. Jaime, before engaging in a confrontation with the High Sparrow, persuades Tommen to talk to his mother. They then share an emotional scene in which Tommen asks Cersei to help him become stronger, and she replies "Always". Could foreshadow Tommen adapting his mother's personality.

Iron Isles: Balon Greyjoy becomes infuriated at Yara and blames her for their recent defeats. They have a heated conversation before Balon is secretly killed by Euron Greyjoy, his brother, by throwing him off a rickety bridge into stormy waters.

The North: Sansa engages in conversation with Brienne about Arya, who informs her of Arya's time with Sandor Clegane. Theon apologizes to Sansa in a brief display of his old self, and acknowledges that he betrayed Robb and the rest of the Stark family. After deciding to march to the wall and seek Jon Snow's help, Theon contemplates going back home to the Iron Isles. Meanwhile, Roose and Ramsay Bolton are considering storming the Wall to kill Jon Snow and recapture Sansa, as the maester of Winterfell announces that Walda Frey has gave birth to a boy. Ramsay congratulates his father, then proceeding to stab his father in the stomach after the false display of affection, killing him and declaring himself "Lord Bolton". Ramsay feeds Walda and his newborn half-brother to his hounds.

Braavos: Arya fails another training lesson. After she is visited by Jaqen H'ghar, and tells her that if she says her name she will be given her vision back. Arya says "no one" multiple times, seemingly passing the test.

Mereen: Tyrion, Varys, Grey Worm and Missandei discuss the recent terror attacks within Meereen. Tyrion provides the episode with its bit of humor when he makes "no cock" jokes to poke fun at Varys. He decides to let Rhaegal and Viserion out of their binds, despite the concerns of Daenerys' other advisers. Tyrion reveals that he was fascinated with dragons at a young age.

The Wall: This is where the episode's action takes place. Ser Davos and Jon's other supporters prepare for a battle after refusing to hand his body over. Before Alliser Thorne breaks down the door a part of the Wilding army, led by Tormund and a giant, barge in the front gate and make the Night's Watch surrender. After showing TOrmund the dead body of his friend, Davos asks Melisandre if there is a possibility of resurrecting Jon. He tells her that all the gods "can go f themselves", and reinstates her faith within herself, if not her religion. After a ritual involving Jon's hair, Melisandre, Davos, Ed and Tormund leave the room in disappointment, believing that it failed. Once the door is shut, Ghost stirs, and Jon awakes wide-eyed and gasping for air.

This was an amazing episode. It showed us the death of two powerful rulers belonging to two powerful houses, a glimpse at Lyanna Stark and the resurrection of a beloved character (my personal favourite), Jon Snow. This had to be one of the 10 greatest episodes that have been released so far, as it embodies everything we love about Game of Thrones: Emotional and dramatic conversations, plot twists, violence, comedy, major deaths and triumphs of a loved character. Although sex may cause boosts in ratings and makes many scenes greater, this episode is evidence that Game of Thrones is much more than "Tits and Dragons".