Although House of the Dragon still has 2 episodes left, Episode 8 of the Fire and Blood adaptation feels conclusive. Don’t be mistaken, plot points are still left to be explored. Still, the plot points of this episode, and its conclusion give it the feel of a season finale.
New Faces, Same Characters, Fewer Eyes
Courtesy of HBO
Once more there is another time skip. Six years have passed, the triarchy is rising once more, and Corlys has gone missing. Lucerys’ claim to the throne of Driftmark is being challenged by Vaemond. Daemon and Rhaenyra are expecting a third child, and Viserys’ is on death’s door. In addition, Aemond is now a deadly fighter and warrior, despite losing an eye in the previous episode. Among the new actors are Harry Collett as Jacaerys, Tom Glynn-Carney as Aegon, Ewan Mitchell as Aemond, among many others. Of those, it’s Ewan Mitchell as Aemond that stands out. Who once was the butt of jokes to his brother and nephews, has transformed into a deadly warrior. In many respects, he parallels Daemon. Visually, he looks similar, with the exception of his lack of depth perception. Like Daemon, he tends to stir the pot, looking to get a reaction out of his nephews.
The show even sets up a rivalry between the two. In sticking up for his step-sons, Daemon stands before Aemond when he threatens Jacaerys. Avoiding spoilers, their rivalry in Fire and Blood is among the highlights of the original story. It will certainly be something to pay attention to in this show, and may well lead to one of the most hype inducing moments in television.
Farewell Sweet King
Courtesy of HBO
Of all the bittersweet moments in the show, the conclusion of this episode is the most bittersweet. This episode marks the final performance of Paddy Considine as King Viserys, bedridden; his body falling apart. Considine goes out with a bang, and steals any scene he’s present in. In particular, the scene where Viserys enters the throne room is the highlight of the season. The effort put into making his way to the throne can be felt with each step. One moment as he just makes it better left unspoiled, but knowing the moment just as he reaches the throne is improvised truly shows how committed to the role these actors are. Still, despite the pain the character feels, despite the dark times to follow, knowing the character can now finally rest is relieving. The character may have only been present for this one season, yet Viserys’ legacy is an impactful one.
Fire And Blood Will Follow
House of the Dragon will soon see fire and blood. With Viserys gone, a new era is soon to begin. Episode 8 has all the hallmarks of a season finale. A major story line concludes, while others have begun. Still, with two episodes remaining, one question remains. How will the Dance of the Dragons begin?
Check out House of the Dragon on HBO Max. Check out the review of Episode 7.
Graduated from Point Park University in 2021 with a Degree of English Creative Writing.
Author of the Chronicles of a Broken World Series
Avid Nerd and Enjoyer of All Things Fun and Thoughtful
