House of the Dragon review: Seeds finally sprout in rich, emotional new episode, “Smallfolk”

As a longtime fan of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, I have grown accustomed to the intricate web of politics, power struggles, and unexpected twists that define Westeros. With each new episode of “House of the Dragon,” my excitement builds as I witness this rich world come to life on screen.

As a long-time fan of the intriguing world of Westeros, I’ve been eagerly devouring each episode of “House of the Dragon.” However, despite my enthusiasm, I must admit that this new series has had its pacing issues. The Battle of Rook’s Rest was an exhilarating highlight, filled with drama and action that left me on the edge of my seat. But when the show shifts its focus to lengthy conversations among the characters, my attention tends to wane.

In this latest episode titled “Smallfolk,” I found myself utterly engaged in the conversations as much as the thrilling action sequences. The reason for this renewed sense of excitement isn’t clear-cut. Perhaps it’s because the ideas introduced earlier in the season have finally come to fruition. Maybe it was the brilliant execution of weaving together the intricate tapestry of characters that makes this show so special. Or perhaps, the exceptional collaboration between writer Philippa Goslett and director Andrij Parekh truly resonated with the story. From my perspective as a devoted fan, it all came together beautifully in “Smallfolk.”

Similar to the previous episode titled “Smallfolk,” this installment primarily serves as a means of advancing the characters’ stories from one place to another, rather than reaching a definitive conclusion. Nevertheless, the journey itself proves engaging and satisfying.

House of the Dragon review, Episode 206

Throughout the entire season, new characters have been gradually appearing, some of whom may seem insignificant if you haven’t read the source material, “Fire & Blood” by George R.R. Martin. Among them are Hugh Hammer (Kieran Bew), the blacksmith with a sick daughter yet to be paid by King Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney). There’s also Ulf White (Tom Bennett), a regular at the bar who boasts about being a Targaryen bastard. Brothers Alyn and Addam of Hull, portrayed by Abubakar Salim and Clinton Liberty, live on Driftmark island and have so far appeared as peripheral figures. However, their significance to the story is now becoming more apparent.

Alyn and Addam have been revealed to be Corlys Velaryon’s (Steve Toussaint) illegitimate sons, a secret the show has gradually unveiled throughout episodes. Notably, Addam is suggested to have ridden a dragon for the first time among non-Targaryens, as hinted at the episode’s conclusion. Recall that Addam had seen Seasmoke, Corlys’ dragon, back in the second episode of the season. In this scene, Seasmoke pursues Addam across the island in an exciting, nerve-wracking sequence. My theory is that Seasmoke recognizes a connection between Addam and Laenor Velaryon, Rhaenyra’s first husband and the last rider of Seasmoke. Even if they never crossed paths, Laenor and Addam share the bond of being half-brothers, and the dragon seems to sense this hidden kinship.

In every episode, I’ve been deeply troubled as Rhaenyra, struggling to find any Targaryen relatives capable of riding my dragons residing on the island. With insufficient dragonriders at hand, my prospects of reclaiming the Iron Throne appear slim. Initially, I thought Ser Steffon Darklyn, the noble-born Kingsguard knight, could rise to the challenge. Regrettably, I was proven wrong in a shocking scene. The moment when Steffon attempted to mount Seasmoke and instead turned into ashes left me breathless – it was tense, evocative, and even held a touch of dark humor.

Rhaenyra will be surprised when she discovers that she’s been searching among the wrong lineage. It’s not trueborn Targaryens she requires, but rather their bastards. This revelation is certain to cause quite a stir as commoners and nobles intermingle! I found the ending of the episode slightly underwhelming as Rhaenyra departed Dragonstone to investigate, but I’m still eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.

Based on Ulf’s previous claims about his Targaryen lineage and Hugh’s silver-blonde hair, it’s likely where their stories are headed. However, even without these connections, they both deliver strong performances in this week’s episode. The show meticulously sets up the story by showing us the strained food supply of King’s Landing due to the Velaryon blockade since the premiere. It was only a matter of time before the city erupted in violence, and the careful build-up made me fully believe the people’s angry reaction. Ulf and Hugh provide valuable insight as they witness the city’s unrest firsthand. Wouldn’t you feel enraged too, seeing the people go hungry while Vhagar the dragon continues to be fed wagons full of sheep daily?

Including Ulf and Hugh in the scene provides us with a different viewpoint on the riots, as opposed to just focusing on Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke) and her daughter Helaena (Phia Saban) being confronted by the mob. Although I was concerned for their safety, their presence adds depth to the situation. It’s an intense sequence from start to finish.

Let’s all talk about our feelings

I’ve found an issue with House of the Dragon that bothers me: the characters don’t usually have deep emotional connections with each other. I recall some heart-wrenching conversations from Game of Thrones and long for similar moments with this new cast. In this episode, however, I experienced just that.

As a devoted fan of this captivating series, I’ve grown deeply connected to the characters and their complex stories. Among them is Alicent Hightower, a woman who has faced more than her fair share of trials and tribulations. Her life has been a rollercoaster ride of pain and loss.

Club-footed spymaster Larys Strong (Matthew Needham), who has fallen out with Aemond, surprises everyone with an emotional revelation to the recuperating King Aegon. With a heavy heart, Larys shares his own experiences of living with a disability and cautions Aegon about the challenges ahead. Although there’s hope that Aegon may survive, his injuries are extensive, and he will face mockery, underestimation, and pity from others. Moved by the conversation, Larys sheds a tear as he delivers this difficult truth.

Surprisingly, I wasn’t aware that Larys harbored such feelings. His past actions have given us very little insight into his emotions, and it’s important to remember that he reportedly watched as his father and brother were killed without any apparent remorse. However, this unexpected depth adds an interesting dimension to his character and strengthens the relationship between Larys and Aegon. Such connections are essential for engaging with characters and investing in their stories.

Regarding Aegon and Aemond, their relationship is far from loving. In this episode, Aemond, standing in as regent for his injured brother, displays a chilling danger. He’s meticulous, arrogant, and powerful – a formidable leader. Yet, he’s intoxicated by power, which puts those around him at risk but keeps us hooked. It’s unlikely that he’ll relinquish the throne once he has it, making me fearful that he may carry out his plans from “The Red Dragon and the Gold” and eliminate Aegon while he lies ill. I can’t decide which side to support, but within Team Green, I lean towards Aegon.

Toward the end of the episode, Rhaenyra and Mysaria share an intimate moment. They confide in one another about their struggles and fears; Rhaenyra expresses her doubts about winning the war, while Mysaria reveals her past and offers words of support. The conversation leads to a heartfelt hug, which unexpectedly develops into a tender kiss.

I wasn’t anticipating this development – it’s not hinted at in the source material – yet I was once again captivated by how skillfully the showcrafted this unexpected turn. This season, Rhaenyra and Mysaria have been subtly growing closer. Their interactions have been a highlight for me, so when they made this progression, it took me by surprise but ultimately fit seamlessly with what had come before.

Leave Harrenhal now, Daemon

The part of the episode that felt less engaging was Daemon Targaryen’s time at Harrenhal. While actor Matt Smith delivers an excellent performance, and I found Daemon more intriguing this week as his nightmares and setbacks pushed him to the brink, this storyline has grown repetitive. I’m growing weary of the frequent dream sequences slowing down the narrative flow. I’m weary of Daemon being portrayed as inept, as it goes against the depiction of him in “Fire & Blood” and diminishes the suspense surrounding his character; if he’s incapable, why should I be concerned about his potential conquest of King’s Landing and the consequences for other characters?

Instead of continuously having Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin) function as Daemon’s ominous confidante, providing repetitive commentary on his problematic nature, the writers could have given her more diverse interactions and intriguing dialogues. By observing characters like Hugh Hammer and Ulf White in various settings, we gain a deeper understanding of their complexities. However, Alys’ one-dimensional role solely revolves around reprimanding Daemon for his shortcomings. Although it was the writers’ intention to delve into Daemon’s psyche this season, they could have achieved this goal without resorting to preachy and monotonous exchanges between these two characters.

Daemon slightly marred an otherwise immaculate episode. The season picked up pace after a sluggish beginning, but it’s disappointing that there are only two episodes remaining.

House of the Bullet Points

• Jason Lannister (Jefferson Hall) leads his Lannister host into the Riverlands but won’t attack Harrenhal until Aemond joins them on Vhagar. The show seems to be setting up the Battle at the Red Fork, a relatively minor fight in the book that the show will probably sell as something bigger.
• We hear secondhand that there’s fighting in the Reach. Martin describes this section of the war in some detail in Fire & Blood, but I’m betting it will take place offscreen on House of the Dragon. I’m fine with that; the show has a lot to cover already.
• Multiple characters are sending letters to Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans), who’s been absent since the second episode of the season. If they’re talking about him, odds are he’ll be back sooner or later. I never thought I’d say this, but I miss the guy.
• Aemond sends his Master of Coin Tyland Lannister to treat with the Triarchy. In Fire & Blood, it’s Otto who comes up with the idea of forming an alliance with Corlys Velaryon’s old enemy, but the show has given that job to Aemond.
• Hugh Hammer pets Cheese’s dog, who has appeared in most of the episodes this season. At this point he’s one of the most important minor characters on the show.
• Rhaena Targaryen (Phia Saban) comes across evidence of a dragon in the Vale. I won’t get into all the details, but this very likely means that the show is cutting a book character named Nettles, which upsets me because I was really looking forward to seeing them. But I’ll try to keep an open mind.
• I liked the detail of Alyn shaving his head so his natural Targaryen white-blonde hair wouldn’t peak through and give away that he’s the boss’ son.
• I assume the three dipshits King Aegon appointed to the Kingsguard were beaten to death in the riot, or at least badly injured. Maybe they can join Aegon in the recovery ward.

Episode Grade: B+

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2024-07-22 05:43