Episode Title: ‘The Ghosts of Harrenhal’
Written By: David Benioff & D.B. Weiss
Directed By: David Petrarca
Synopsis: In Harrenhal, Arya Stark is promised help by the mysterious Jaqen H’ghar, one of the three caged prisoners during her trip to the Wall. Catelyn is forced to flee from Renly’s camp. Theon sails from Pyke prepared to prove that he is a true Ironborn. The Night’s Watch arrive at an ancient fortress called the Fist of the First Men, where they intend to make a stand.
The Verdict: Holy Hell! They killed Renly! In the opening minutes!! If you need further proof that this week’s GAME OF THRONES is a brilliant, ballsy, rug pulling, twist turning episode, then fear thee not, for there was plenty more beside the sudden death of Renly to enjoy!
For starters, Daenerys’ story finally kicks into gear this week, whilst at the same time taking an unexpected turn that holds promise for plenty more good stuff to come. Emilia Clarke’s scenes with Iain Glen as Ser Jorah are wonderfully sweet, and the glimpse of some dragons after three episodes without even a snifter are welcome.
The scenes with Jon Snow and the rest of the Night’s Watch hold plenty of promise as well. The scenes at the Fist of the First Men are extremely chilling, as we are left to only imagine what’s out in the wilderness watching them. Next week looks set to be one hell of a belter for action. Fingers crossed!
However, the best bits this episode are without doubt the scenes with Arya – her ‘three wishes’ courtesy of convict Jaqen H’ghar are a brilliant and intriguing addition to her storyline, and her scene with the deliciously evil and nasty Tywin Lannister sizzle with suspense. More please!
There’s a few niggles, sure – but only minor ones. Greyjoy’s scene especially suffers this week, as a result of it being rather underwhelming (oh, joy, another scene in which Theon gets berated by everyone on the bloody Iron Islands, including his annoying sister!). A shame, since his story seems to be moving in a very interesting direction.
Overall though, after last week’s slower then snails installment, things are back to where they belong this week – i.e. bloody unmissable television!
Best Bit: The aforementioned opening scene is a real killer (sorry, couldn’t resist that one) and is a brilliant little narrative sidestep that THRONES does so well!
LMAO: Dany playing mother to her khalasar in a hilarious scene in which one of her men discusses how best to steal a golden statue from Qarth. Whoever thought last season that the menacing Dothraki were capable of being so funny (albeit unintentionally)?
Star Performance: Tom Wlaschiha as Jaqen H’ghar is incredible this week. His restrained performance as he does what he does best is both funny and a little bit unnerving. Sent a chill down my spine, that’s for sure!
Best Line(s):
Jaqen H’ghar: ‘You stole three deaths from the Red God, we have to give them back. Speak three names and the man will do the rest.’
Stay tuned for part five of our GAME OF THRONES Series Blog next week.
GAMES OF THRONES can be seen on Sky Atlantic 9pm Tuesdays.
