Episode 2.3:
Episode Title: ‘What is Dead May Never Die’.
Written By: Bryan Cogman
Directed By: Alik Sakharov.
Synopsis:
Catelyn Stark arrives at ‘King’ Renly’s camp to negotiate an alliance. Tyrion also tries to gain supports for Joffrey’s cause by proposing three different marriages. At Winterfell, Bran Stark needs help to decipher his dreams.
The Verdict:
Fans of walking through deserts with horses will no doubt be disappointed by the lack of Daenerys this week! Still, her absence this episode is an improvement. Better that then another painstakingly boring little cut-scene, I guess. However, the lack of Robb and Jaime for the second week running is a tad annoying.
Still, the lack of some major players does little to ruin what is most definitely the best episode of the Season so far. The scenes depicting Tyrion’s deception in order to draw out his sister’s spy within the council are just some of the highlights in an Episode that brims with strong characterization and fantastic set pieces. GAME OF THRONES is at it’s best when it juggles the political thrills with plenty of gory action, and this latest episode doesn’t disappoint in that respect. The scenes between the Greyjoys are electrifying, and Theon’s test of loyalty is a wonderful little sidestep that reeks of great storytelling potential, whilst elsewhere Gethin Anthony returns as a much more confident and kingly Renly Baratheon, which makes for a nice change from the whining little git we had to put up with in Season One. And best of all, there’s the uncomfortable dinner scene between Cercei and Sansa, which left this reviewer feeling a little bit sickened! Surely, a testament to how good both the writing and performances have been this week.
A strong cliffhanger complements an excellent, crowd-pleasing episode. And the best bit is that there are still seven episodes to go – if this episode represents GAME OF THRONES on the start of an upward climb, then here’s hoping we don’t reach the top too soon.
Best Bit:
Yoren’s death! Wonderfully gory, and yet oddly moving, especially since the character was nothing more then a grumpy old soldier just a few episodes ago. His heartwarming little scene just before with Ayra comes a close second.
Trivia:
Director Alik Sakharov was previously the Director of Photography on four Episodes of Season One, and essentially played a major part in establishing the house style for the series’ stunning cinematography. A well deserved promotion, methinks!
More Sex Please, we’re HBO:
Some boobs, a bit of snogging and…actually that’s it. Must be an off day!
Star Performance:
Peter Dinklage gets some fine material again this week, and he clearly revels in the chance to have some fun playing Tyrion’s darker side. Who knew Tyrion would turn out to be so bad ass and, dare we say it, scary?!
Minor Annoyance:
Gemma Whelan as Yara Greyjoy. Her continuous monotone delivery is starting to get on my nerves. It’s ruining the otherwise excellent scenes between Patrick Malahide and Alfie Allen. I pray to the Drowned God, please, let her do a Ned Stark and die! Soon!!
Best Line(s):
Catelyn Stark (in response to Renly): “My son is fighting a war, not playing at one”.
