Last week’s premiering episode of Season 3 saw a focused,
visually stunning and epic return to our much loved Game of Thrones. Following would be a hard task so it is no surprise, therefore, that this week suffered a lull. A slightly confusing one at that. In this episode the focus is on every other character missed out last week and a return to King's Landing. Additionally, some new faces are added to the mix. That’s
right... more characters.
Woven together in a mix-match of majoritively
non-sensical jump cuts, each character arc across Westeros is covered. In the
North, we return to Bran Stark and his younger brother Rickon on their journey
to the wall, accompanied by Hodor and Osha. Bran is continuously having dreams,
at first dismissed as black magic. However, after meeting Jojen and Meera Reed,
the dreams hold more relevance. Jojen reveals to Bran they have been searching
for him, believing him to play a critical role in the future. 
Child-toasting Theon Grayjoy has been taken
captive by a group of unknown men. They torture him, asking questions
regarding Winterfell. Despite answering truthfully, the torture continues. At a moments rest for Theon, a boy who claims to have been sent by his sister
vows to come to his rescue at midnight.
Brave sword-slinger Arya Stark and her two companions, Gendry and Hot Pie, remain on the run from
Harenhaal. They come face to face with the Brotherhood without Banners, who
offer them some hospitality. Whilst at their inn, big-man Sandor Clegane arrives
as a captive and notices Arya. Upon seeing her, he reveals her identity to the
entire brotherhood.
Beyond the wall, Jon Snow experiences his first Warg – a man who is capable
of seeing through the eyes of animals – and the Night’s Watch remain on an
exhausting trip back to their posts.
King in the North Robb Stark receives letters revealing the
death of his grandfather and the devastation that took place at Winterfell,
resultant from Theon Grayjoy. He also discovers that Bran and Rickon have not
been found. After telling his mother, Lady Stark, of the bad news, she then
feels responsible for what has happened to them.
In a way, my segmented summaries of each character trope
are emblematic of the episode itself. It felt disjointed throughout, and
ultimately not as engaging. However, I am by no means saying the quality is not there.
Keeping consistent, each performance is great and entertaining, and the new characters
this week were interesting additions, some with familiar faces (Mackenzie Crook was a
nice surprise). The episode's greatest strengths for me, however, lied in King’s
Landing and Brienne of Tarth’s escort of Jamie Lannister.
Yet, events in King’s Landing again remain the most gripping,
as manipulation is in abundance. Marjory Tyrell and her grandmother grill Sansa over the true nature of Joffrey, causing her to have a mini-breakdown. In an impressive turn by Sophie Turner, it is understated yet emotive, demonstrating the effects of Joffrey's torture and malice. Speaking of which, Joffrey continues to be a joy to watch, brilliantly playing the character that everybody loves to hate. Even better however, was Marjory's manipulation of him. Combing sensual flirtation and a knowing yet naive subservience has the wrongful king fooled. Better yet, it is no doubt the slow start of a progressing battle of feminine wills - newcomer Marjory vs. power-bitch Cersei.
Nevertheless, episode 2 was neither as visually stimulating or engaging. Instead, it felt disjointed and overcrowded. Although, in typical
Game of Thrones fashion these various character tid bits are still an
entertaining watch and credit is due to the cast and crew for making it so. Still... for me, this week was just not as engrossing.
What are your thoughts on this week’s episode? Post a
comment!
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