When I had finished watching Game of Thrones, I had promised myself to never fall in love with a show this much (wdym I don’t have real life heartbreaks?). And then 3 years later I’m doing exactly what I had vowed not to (talk about commitment issues). House of the Dragon, the highly anticipated prequel to Game of Thrones, takes viewers back to the thrilling world of Westeros, focusing on the legendary House Targaryen. This dragon-fueled adventure is a perfect combo of nostalgia and newness, offering a treat to the Fans of the Seven Kingdoms.
Based 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones (172 years before the birth of Daenerys), House of Dragon recounts the events of the ‘Dance of the Dragons’, which is the civil war that happened within the kukarmi House of the Targaryens. It’s packed with the trademark twists, power struggles, and popcorn worthy family drama that made Game of Thrones a sensation. The plot is a roller coaster ride, that captivates you from the first second. Thanks to the intermittent surprises, the show leaves you in awe and eagerly anticipating the next episode. When you realize you gotta wait one week for another episode, it’s legit like Drogon breathing fire into the heart of Westeros!
When it comes to the GOT universe, an underperforming cast is never a problem for the makers. The cast of House of the Dragon continues the legacy with their fiery performances. Emma D’Arcy shines as Princess Rhaenyra, effortlessly blending vulnerability and strength. Matt Smith impresses as the loose cannon Prince Daemon Targaryen, with a captivating mix of charm and ambition. Paddy Considine is the perfect king Viserys I, and delivers a moving performance, almost show-offing his skills. Milly Alcock and Emily Carey, who play the younger Rhaenyra and Alicent Hightower, set the perfect tone of the show, after which the elders take over effortlessly.
Visually Stunning and Top Notch VFX
HOTD is a feast for the eyes. The production design is meticulous, creating an immersive Westeros that the nostalgic fans will appreciate. (Kya fark padta hai, 200 saal baad toh kisi ne barbaad kar hi dena hai). And let’s not forget the dragons, the real piece of art. These magnificent creatures are brought to life with stunning detail, making every moment they grace the screen a spectacle to behold. The visual effects, detailed costume design and cinematography combine seamlessly to transport viewers into the realm of fire and blood. *chef’s kiss*
The Show Soars, But Also Has Its Winter Era In Patches
The show checks most qualities of a textbook perfect series. But there are a few minor challenges that the first season faces. The pacing can be a double-edged sword. While the story keeps you on the edge of your seat, it occasionally, especially in the last two episodes, rushes through important character development and plot points, thus ruining the meticulous development of the first half. Saath hi the makers also under-utlized the potential for deeper exploration of political intrigue and the impact of dragons on the realm (look at me shamelessly craving for more masala).
Dekha jaye toh House of the Dragon is more than a worthy comeback of the GOT franchise. Despite its pacing issues and underdeveloped storylines, the show leaves us eagerly anticipating more dragon-filled escapades in Westeros. One can safely say that good days are back for the OG fans. What I am most excited is to find out how Aemond’s gonna tell his mom about the Galti se Mistake he does in the finale. Till then, be loyal to your king, otherwise get ready to be microwaved.
