Episode Title: ‘Blackwater’
Written By: George RR Martin
Directed By: Neil Marshall
Synopsis: Tyrion and the Lannisters fight for their lives as Stannis’ fleet attacks Blackwater Bay. King’s Landing becomes the stage of the most decisive battle of the War of the Five Kings.
The Verdict: You’d be forgiven for thinking this week’s episode was the season finale, not the penultimate episode. Because ‘Blackwater’ is GAME OF THRONES turned up to 11. The word ‘epic’ is hardly befitting enough to use to describe this masterpiece of television. But since my dictionary’s gone walkabouts, it’ll have to do!
Those who’ve been critical of THRONES’ lack of action in the past will be well and truly silenced – the explosive, shield-shattering, and bloody action on display here is more than anyone could have anticipated. The superb direction, excellent cinematography, and flawless CGI effects on display here are a tour de force, whilst the performances from the central and supporting cast are top notch as ever. George RR Martin’s script is a perfect balance of bloody intense action and some wonderful little character moments (particularly the scenes with Bronn, the Hound, Sansa and drunk, bitchy Cersei). The pre-battle build-up is also fantastic, increasing the tension more and more until it’s almost unbearable.
There’s not much more to say – it’s flawless, it’s action packed, it’s confident, and more importantly, it’s the best episode of GAME OF THRONES to date. Next week’s finale has a lot to live up to.
Best Bit: Can I say all of it? No? OK – it has to the epic speech from Tyrion towards the climatic moments – a fantastic scene that amps up the tension tenfold and gives Peter Dinklage plenty of amazing lines to spout.
Trivia: HBO gave the producers a 15% budget rise just to make this episode. God bless you, HBO. And yes, that is the Neil Marshall of DOG SOLDIERS fame on directing duties this week. Perfect choice!
Music: The song at the end of the episode is ‘The Rains of Castamere’, and is adapted from the ‘A Song Ice and Fire’ novels, and it’s performed by indie rock band The National. Hopefully one for the OST album!
Star Performance: Everyone is on fine form here – but special mention to Rory McCann as the Hound, who finally gets the chance to open up his character and explore just what makes the man tick, resulting in some wonderful character moments, as well as some very intriguing hints as to what’s still to come.
Best Line(s):
Tyrion: ‘Those are brave men knocking on our door – let’s go kill them!’
Stay tuned for the final part of our GAME OF THRONES Series Blog next week.
GAMES OF THRONES can be seen on Sky Atlantic 9pm Tuesdays.
