House of the Dragon: “Soars to the same heights of Game of Thrones”
In the wake of the controversial finale of Game of Thrones and the news that HBO had axed a prequel after filming an expensive first episode, there has been a sense of cautious trepidation amongst fans of the fantasy epic regarding spin-off House of the Dragon. Going by the first three instalments, however, fans will be glad to know they can breathe a sigh of relief. While some sizable time jumps between the opening episodes may give some pause for concern that the series will be as rushed as GoT’s ending, the long-awaited return to Westeros nevertheless has all the political intrigue, violence and drama viewers were hoping for.
Based on George RR Martin’s novel Fire & Blood, the show takes place 200 years before the events of the main storyline and chronicles the downfall of the mighty House Targaryen. With no male heir, King Viserys (Paddy Considine) declares his daughter Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) will take the Iron Throne in a move that goes against traditions. Meanwhile his brother Daemon (Matt Smith) aims to seize power for himself by any means necessary. Cracks in Viserys’ reign begin to form as the probability of civil war grows.
Much like the series that came before it, part of what makes the spin-off so compelling its intricate world-building and fascinating history. Likewise, the return of director Miguel Sapochnik and composer Ramin Djawadi lend the same epic scale as Game of Thrones, tying both shows together within a connected language of imagery and music. The names and faces may be different, but entering this vast setting once gain feels like a homecoming.
Praise must also be given to the central cast. Considine is a perfect fit for the troubled but caring king; D’Arcy’s fiery spirit matches that of Emilia Clarke’s Daenerys; and Matt Smith relishes every moment onscreen as the conniving villain. Olivia Cooke, Steve Toussaint and Eve Best are also notable highlights. However, screen time for Crabfeeder would have been welcomed.
As it stands, it’s unknown whether House of the Dragon will have the same cultural impact as its predecessor. Containing everything that made Game of Thrones so successful, though, there’s no reason why the spin-off can’t soar to the same heights.
Andrew Murray
House of the Dragon is released on Sky and NowTV on 22nd August 2022.
Watch the trailer for House of the Dragon here:
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