As I noted at the top - I really struggle to keep things straight with these shows, and despite my best efforts, I apparently got the Targaryen lineage incorrect. My error has been noted and I will dive further into my fictional genealogy before next week.
Dan gets an upvote right away for dissing on the evil Santa for not writing the end of Ice and Fire. I also refuse to read any book by that bastard till he releases at least Winds of Winter!
You could look at the family tree for an hour and still not get it, there's like 6 name variations for everyone. It's like Italians... that's Pauly and Anthony, my cousin Tommy and his brother Pauly, and his sister marie
Regarding the "royal secret"... I'm not as knowledged in this lore as hardcore fans, and I could be wrong here, but isn't Robert Baratheon the king (and not a Targaryen) when we first see the White Walkers make an appearance? As in, isn't the prophecy true...?
@@MichaelStrathmore The prophecy of the Night King coming as a royal secret of Targaryens is added to the show, to tie the series together, Winter is coming is A first man prophecy passed down for hundreds of years and is the Stark Mantra. Ok with them doing this prophecies and visions are common in this world.
Episode 2 amped up the intensity. How Young Rhaenyra stood up to Daemon like that and got the egg, with no bloodshed. Total badass. I really like Milly Alcock’s performance.
Everybody though the decisions of the dwarf in last season where dumb... But on this show , they sent 20 guys to speak with a guy on is on fortress , a guy that knows he STOLE a dangerous weapon from the King, and yet , all of those 20 guys seemed so surprised to see... The Dragon they knew Daemon owns in a situation they knew was potentialy tense.... C'mon ...
@@FlavioSilva-iz6lz I liked it BECAUSE it was dumb. It shows to me Otto Hightowers arrogance and how he easy the king is manipulated by him. The first thing Viserys wanted to do, was to go there himself. Now Viserys's Dragon is dead and he never bonded with another one, so he wouldn´t have gone with a Dragon either but Viserys wouldn´t have needed one. We know that Daemon would never want to hurt his brother, that he is all about family. If Viserys would have gone, this wouldn´t have been a threat. But Otto was so sure he could handle this himself, so driven by his own hatred for Daemon, that he didn´t think for a second what it would mean if he would go there alone. So yes it is dumb of him to get there with 20 Men and NOT expecting the Dragon, but it shows perfectly that Otto thinks of himself as much smarter than he actually is.
@@maxkehm5080 I'm not a 100% clear on his motivation. Part of it might have genuinely about keeping the king out of danger. But I think he also wants to keep Viserys and Daimon apart so that they don't have a chance to make peace.
I'll probably be in the minority for this, but I actually appreciated the c-section scene, because it viscerally shows what women for thousands of years have had to go through. This isn't just fantasy, actual women have had this happen to them, and to see is as oppose to just hearing about it really puts it into perspective. Also, I didn't think it was gratuitous at all. Beyond the fact that this show has showed much more violent content in my opinion, they cut away from anything particularly gruesome.
I agree! It was obviously not fun to watch, but it wasn't intended to be. As Dan said, it was a visual depiction of what women were used for in royal families historically, and having it end so gruesomely was kind of perfect.
I also appreciated the c-section scene. By switching back and forth between it and the joust for me it showed the violence men choose to participate in versus the violence women have put upon them.
I agree. There was nothing about it that glorified gore, violence, or violence against women. It was an honest and harsh depiction of what women…even privileged women had to go through during the historical period that HotD/GoT is based on. Much like Viserys getting infected cuts from the Iron Throne, which could potentially kill him, this world wouldn’t have had antibiotics or vaccines, therefore a simple cut could be a death sentence. That’s a far more interesting world to explore in my opinion. I know it’s a fantasy series and people are saying that it’s called fantasy for a reason therefore historical accuracy isn’t a valid reason to depict such scenes of violence, but for me these tie-ins to the brutal reality of our own history is what sets GoT aside from so many other fantasies. It’s not a cushy fairytale.
What I think most don't realise is that both the mother and the baby were going to die. The king only decided to try and save the baby. Caesarean was only performed as on dying mothers...
This show also airs on HBO when did we forget that! Perfectly said though. The fact it had to be addressed at all for any longer then 5 secs maybe is what’s truly wrong with the world in my opinion.
The iron throne cuts are all over the book, it's meant to be seated by a strong regent, that is why is made of swords. Being wounded by the throne might be a metaphor for weakness.
I thought it was when someone was not worthy. In the World of Ice & Fire they said they found King Magor dead on the Throne possibly impaled by the Throne himself. He was a ruthless ruler who had plenty of strenght and power.
Im already liking Rhaenyra more than Daenerys and a lot has to do with Milly Alcock performance. So far im enjoying this show inmensely, like the early season of Game of Thrones, even though i dont find most of the characters as interesting as the ones in Game of Thrones.
I'm already feeling pre-sad that there's a time jump and Milly gets replaced. I wonder if they'll keep using her in flashbacks or if once they do the time jump she's Just completely gone :(
It was somewhat bittersweet for me when they referenced the "coming winter" prophecy, especially considering how badly Season 8 shit the bed on its execution.
Yeah, it's sad thinking about it now - this huge, mystical threat; dreaded for centuries... That is dealt with in 2 episodes and never managed to take a single castle.
It just seemed that they were just tickling our nostalgia/Easter egg cells. As someone who has watched Fire and Blood extras, Aegon didn't came to Westeros due to dream but to rule
GRRM did an interview recently, and he pretty much hinted that the books will not end the same maybe except for Bran being king. From what I have read, Dan and Dave cut out so many characters from the books, that there isn't much chance they will end the same.
As someone who has had children, including one c-section, that scene was incredibly hard to watch. But it wasn't unwarranted -- labor sucks even on a good day and forced c-sections that killed the mom have been recorded throughout history even pre 500BCE.
Matt Smith must be overjoyed at having landed a role that he can really sink his teeth into. Daemon is the kind of character that actors dream of playing.
Same. Give me more Milly! I was in awe of how phenomenal her performance as Rhaenyra is. I can’t believe I’m saying this but I think she might take over Daenerys as my favorite Targaryen.
@@natesthoughts664 Milly is 22 yo and Emma D’Arcy is 30 yo. They should have just aged up Milly for the later parts. It’s gonna be awkward when the transition happens cause Milly is clearly the fan favorite.
@@WriterusAeternus yeah I just looked up milly’s age and she’s my age. So why did they need to have two actresses play Rhaenyra? Lol. Like hey, good for Emma D’arcy for being casted and we need to see what they can do as the character but I feel like milly will be the fan favorite here.
@@WriterusAeternus This story takes place throughout decades. Emma will end up playing Rhaenyra into her late 30s. Milly is a great actress but she has a young face. No amount of make up can make her look believable as a 35 year old.
I was in awe of how phenomenal Milly’s is performance as Rhaenyra is. I can’t believe I’m saying this but I think she might take over Daenerys as my favorite Targaryen.
I can't believe she's 22! She portrays a convincing pre-teen. But mature for her age. Awesome when she rode in on her dragon Syrax. Daemon's dragon, Caraxes, be like Oh damn. Lol
While agree that the show has a bit of a digital look to it. But I don't think it's because they are relying too much on visual effects. This show was shot a lot on location and had extensive sets. I think the issue is their using new kind of cameras. A lot of new digital cameras have a very digital look to it. Also I think there's a difference because HotD is using new kind of Visual effects. In a lot of scenes instead of using green screen HotD is using Virtual sets or video walls. And you can tell the difference.
Love to hear Dan's thoughts on the show. About the dreams/prophecies. I actually thought they fit pretty well with the show. Because i dont think that they are totally correct when the Targaryens are having them anyway. For example Viserys dreamt of a male baby (which was true) but the boy died. And Jon Snow (a Targaryen) did make all kinds of people come together against the White Walkers in order to stop them, and Dany did afterwards become the Queen of the Iron Throne (for a minute or so). And Danys vision in the House of the Undying about the burnt Throne Room in Kings Landing were true, even though Khal Drogo and the baby obviously werent real. So I dont think they are perfect prophecies anyway. But just my thoughts on the dreams/prophecies.
People seem to downplay Jon Snow's role in the defeat of the White Walkers alot just because he didn't deliver the killing blow. But as you say, if it was not for him, none would even be there to fight them, he rallied them all. Not only that, but he did so because he is who he is as a person, not because of his lineage. He is his own person who carves a path for himself who later becomes aware of his heritage, wich he then does not suddenly use as his whole identity. So the prophecy Viserys states in episode 1 is to me the same as Rhaegar is obsessed with that sets of Roberts Rebellion. And that one is fulfilled from a certain point of view.
I would say as someone who never saw a full episode of GOT, this show for me is a really solid start with both episodes. I think the show is so well done from a filmmaking side and acting side that I buy so much of what's happening with regards to the tension, acting, politics inside of the story of who wants the throne and positions of power in government and ruling. So far it's a great start for me I think I have some minor nitpicks with a few things but no major problems.👍
Also in case you want to know it is written in the book that whomever is cut by the iron throne doesn’t deserve to be on it. So it is a sign of weakness of the king himself. There are other people who will be cut by the throne in the future so I m pretty sure that that visual image will come back :)
Have to say all the visual effects have looked really good to me and I haven’t noticed any iffy effects especially compared to most other TV shows out there (I.e. Disney+ and some Netflix shows).
Small correction Harrenhall is still inhabited and it s the siege of House Strong! You can see one of them in the small council and he’s the master of whispers. The complete abandonment of Harrenhall actually happens at the end of the dance of the dragons :) And it will be the stage of a very cool action scene later on if they decide to adapt it there.
Game of Thrones theme song was the only way to go for the opening credits. Like how do you top that you can’t there’s no topping that. They probably had one meeting and realized that was the case.
Yeah, I thought this was very impressive, particularly when you consider the weight of GOT disappointment that was hanging over it. It could VERY easily have gone wrong from the start. It was similar in tone but different in its execution. The performances surprised me the most along with a lean, smart script. Very good.
As much as they've touted the feminist narrative, I'd love to see/hear from the women working on the show, are they department heads, writers, etc? Just haven't seen that in the behind-the-scenes/aftershow breakdowns yet. Gonna take me a minute to warm back up to this world, but I'm interested in learning more about the Targaryens. I'm glad it's released week to week to give us time to digest and let the conversation evolve. I'm with you on pretty much everything you said Dan, thanks for the review!
The confrontation scene at Dragonstone was a combination of location shooting in Portugal and this series' equivalent of Stagecraft's 'The Volume' for the dragons' entrances and other fx. A seamless blend of film craft, imo.
With the mention of the petulant nature of Smith's Daemon, it reminds me a great deal of Harry Lloyd's Viserys Targaryen from the early GoT episodes. I like that connection.
To me the music felt like the MCU intro. Very specific to the franchise and they knew they couldn't do better so they just decided to stick with it. Especially considering they hope to have more spin-offs in the next few years, all of them using the same music with different intros seems okay.
7:24 , You got it wrong mate. Viserys is Son of BAELON (2nd Son of Jaehaerys, old king) & Rhaenys is Daughter of AEMON (1st son of Old king). They're basically his Grandchildren.
I stopped watching GoT after season; it felt too much like a cynical deconstruction of Lord of the Rings which rubbed me the wrong way. House of the Dragon feels more Shakespearean; it reminds me a lot of King Lear or the history plays, very focused on intrigue and character choices, which is probably why it appeals to me a lot more.
I was never a huge fan of GOT but I introduced my wife to it and she's extremely passionate about the show. This one, however, is tickling my fancy much more. I like where this is going and I enjoy the focussed narrative.
I'm confused by your opinion on the childbirth scene... cause it very much felt like exactly what George wants the focus to be. The graphic and violent destruction of people which in the end is fruitless anyway. He genuinely loved his wife and instead of enjoying his time with his wife as she died in a natural way he made her last moments ones of pain and fear at his order for the hope that her death would secure the future and it didn't...
Had totally given up after the last season of GoT, but the cool tention so far between all the characters has me hooked. I think they must have watched The Crown, cause a lot of the vibe (especially the use of music) actually remind me of that show
The Dragonstone in S07 felt Clear and Tangible. One gripe is here locations are CGI Misty and Grey Even Kings Landing isnot Colourful like in S04 of GoT
I liked that they used the original theme. I wasn't sold on the show until I heard it. It's more like hearing the Star Wars theme. It helps connect things together.
I think that the cutting himself on the throne is a metaphor for his unsuited ability for the throne. You're never supposed to sit comfortably on it or you'll injure yourself
The reason they didnt do location filming for dragonstone is because dragonstone in GoT looked like shit, nothing like how dragonstone is described whatsoever but I do miss the locations as well.
Just a small correction: Viserys and Rhaenys are both grandchildren of Jaehaerys I. Rhaenys is the only child of Jaehaerys's eldest son Aemon Targaryen and Jocelyn Baratheon, while Viserys is the eldest son of Jaehaerys' second son Baelon Targaryen and Alyssa Targaryen
1 - GRRM deliberately writes prophesy as something that is misread by his characters 2 - In the Westeros mythology the prophecy Viserys is referring to was found 150 years later by Daenerys’ oldest brother (Jon Snow’s father), so it is consistent it was more widely spoken of in times past, even if its never referenced in the histories, none of which come from the Targaryen’s themselves.
I looked at the prophecy as being misinterpreted by Aegon or that it was slightly changed as it was passed down between generations. It is a Targaryen that united all of Westeros to fight the White Walkers. Jon united the wildlings, the night's watch, the north, and Danaerys and her allies to unite against the long night. He wasn't on the iron throne, but he was the rightful heir and he was the reason that the realm of man survives.
7:25 So Viserys is the old king Jaeharys grandson by his second son. Whereas Rhaenys is his granddaughter by his first son. So by modern standards Rhaenys is the rightful Queen.
I'm always surprised by the comments like "after the horrible ending of Game of Thrones, I didn't want to return to Westeros and see more." Like many others, the ending of GoT left a very sour taste in my mouth, but when I first started hearing about House of the Dragon, everything mentioned that it was from completely new show runners and divorced from the original show runners. The world as a whole was very engaging and I was eager to return. While Dan and Dave did have some great, well written scenes at the beginning of the series (Cersei and Robert's conversation in season 1 was their creation; Arya interacting with Tywin at Harrenhal instead of Roose Bolton in season 2 was them, too), they seemed totally burnt out by the end and desperate to leave, yet also too married to it to hand it off to more available show runners. I've been a huge fan of all of the ASOIAF books (even going into World of Ice and Fire, Fire and Blood, and the Dunk and Egg books) for a long time, so I'm definitely coming from a different perspective and have probably read more into the background details of these shows than others.
Yeah I'm one of the people who didn't want to watch this show because of how GoT ended. Why would I blindly trust people who wasted years of goodwill. You damn right they had to win me back.
@@beammeup1930 Different showrunners under the same banner: HBO. So I don't care that its different showrunners. HBO allowed it to happen once, no reason they wouldn't let it happen again. I'm just giving you the reason why some of us weren't tripping over ourselves at first to give the show another chance. I like the show and will keep watching but they had to give a reason for me to spend my time with them again. I wasn't going to do it just because they were back.
@@sadikquahflowers5507 ..You didn't trust HBO?..They literally knock it out of the park time after time with their shows. The show started to decline once they ran out of source material and not include grrm as much. He's heavily involved in this one so that shouldve been a sign it'll be great
I'm on the fence for now. I really only committed to watching because 1) my roommate wanted to watch with me and 2) I work in the industry and kinda have to keep up with things. I think the communal watching element can't be understated for this franchise, it was such a huge part of GoT with people doing watching parties and stuff. I can say that when I graduated college (and stopped having access to those big watching parties with friends on campus) my interest in the show withered, despite being a fan of the books. I wonder how much of that is impacting people now who want to remember a time pre-2020?
Generally in the same camp as you. Hated the end of GoT so I wasn't even planning on watching this one. Gave it a shot, and I'm in for now. I like where it's going.
I can't help but wonder if the prophecy stated that a Targareyan had to be sitting on the throne because in their short-sightedness, they never imagined the downfall of their house and all their Valerian swords getting divided out between the other houses. It would make a bit of sense owing to the fact that only Valerian steel could kill the White Walkers...
Otto Hightower is by far the best character in the show. His political pursuits are done in a subtle, non-invasive and intelligent way. Not only that - when he decided to go to Dragonstone, instead of the king it became obvious his ambition goes so far, that he prefers putting his own life on the line, instead of his plans going to waste, which is really rare and interesting.
I really enjoy the political games and plot setup so far. I’ve read some spoilers and I’m really excited for what’s next. Although one thing is clear after 2 episodes, the actors elevate what’s already solid source material to higher standards. Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower is another standout; makes what could be just a simple nobleman trying to further his family’s name to someone which you question his motives. I didn’t think another show this year outside of BCS would make me this invested but HOTD is great so far. Cannot wait for episode 4 which I’ve heard is quite a spectacle.
i like the parallel between viserys and ned the way they treated their willful daughters. viserys reluctantly named rhaenyra his heir after he exhausted all his options while ned fully expected arya to grow up to become a lady and marry some lord or other, only to cave in and get arya her own sword fighting tutor.
I was not excited to go back to Westeros and I begrudgingly watched the first episode. The second episode had me sold. Milly is incredible. I am pre-mourning the time jump. The chemistry between her and Daemon is electric. As for the theme song, I was here for it. It is the realm. I am sold on the show, but I am praying they do not break my heart again. Smart storytelling, please!
11:18: If depiction equaled endorsement, Ken Burns would be considered one of the most evil men of all time. So would Stephen Spielberg, Akira Kurosawa, Stanley Kubrick, Terrence Malick, Francis Ford Coppola, Kathryn Bigelow, Christopher Nolan, Quentin Tarantino, Orson Welles, David Lean, John Sturges, Clint Eastwood, Robert Aldrich, Oliver Stone, Peter Weir, Roberto Rossellini, John Ford, Spike Lee, Ang Lee, Michael Cimino, Steven Soderbergh, David O. Russell, Michael Mann, Ridley Scott, Brian De Palma, and now I'm tired...
Very pleased with the dramatic setting developing through two episodes!!!!!! Think this could really, truly line up against some of the best GOT material
This show is coming together as a really high quality show with all the good ingredients that made GoT the hit it was. I'm really looking forward to the next episode.
The bombshell about Aegon Conquering Westeros because of a Great Winter aka The Long Night was great. I even thought about this years ago. I remember him having dreams and Rhaegar had dreams about the "Prince that was Promised" and possibly made Jon Snow because of that. It's ironic that the menace in the end was a Targaryen, not the beasts from the North. I think it was done on purpose as you see the King telling that to his daughter who reminds us of Dany. Might as well have wrote in big letters IRONY. But that's always the case with A Song of Ice & Fire books, it's stories people tell each other but it's always basically somewhat fiction and falsehoods. Even when true magic is there. Like maybe there's no Lords of Light even though the power is there. It's always playing with perception what is real what is not real. Again Littlefinger talking about the blades on the Iron Throne.
I know critics hate the idea of “Snyder cuts” or revisions, but the ending to the original GoT series needs one. Especially if the books were intended to end differently. Add a couple of episodes to flesh out Daenerys’ decent into madness and fix the Bran Stark of it all. The rest of season 8 is passable.
5:58 nooo robb died because he went against his word to walder frey. and then had the gall to say "hey can I get married with the woman I broke my bow with here, in your keep?" not a great plan
Alcock and Smith are both acting circles around the rest of the cast. No shade to the rest but they just have that extra bit of charisma that I want to see and miss in scenes they aren't in.
Viserys and Rhaenys are the great kings grandchildren, not nephew and daughter. Viserys is the oldest son of the great kings second oldest son. Rhaenys is the only child of the great kings oldest son. On a side note in the book, the two strongest claims to the throne were between Viserys and Rhaenys’ son Laenor. The council went with Viserys because he was through a male line and he was closer in the bloodline being a grandson whereas Laenor was a great-grandson.
King picked the other girl to be queen, not because she was slightly older but because they both got something in common with their finger problems. To me this twist was very obvious from the start.
Having not watched this show, just listening to that clip of viserys, I think it's entirely possible that aegons vision was accurate, winter is coming, and then HE drew the conclusion that a dragon-riding Targaryen must be in control of Westeros to stop the white walkers, because nothing is hotter than dragon fire, and fire must defeat ice right? Interpretation of prophecy is always the biggest pitfall of prophets.
To be honest, I was disappointed by the opening credits. The animation/visual was confusing. I didn't understand what I was looking at till I saw a tweet explaining that it was the Targaryen bloodline and showing the direct line of successors. But even after having that pointed out, I couldn't decipher what exactly I was looking at. Also the lackluster visuals combined with the Game of Thrones theme music threw me off. I would have much preferred them using the Targaryen theme tune that they used in the trailer (?).
I personally do not take it that part of the prophecy was a Targaryen has to be sitting on the Iron Throne to defeat the white walkers, Aegon(or whoever) saw the prophecy just came to that conclusion.
To the prophecy: I don't think the King (whatever his name is :D ) said, that the Prophecy states, that there WILL be a Targaryen King when this winter-stuff goes down. I think he said: This winter-thing is happening and we shall better have a Targaryen ruler, King or Queen wink wink, on the throne, because he does not believe that anyone else will be able to handle it (looking at you, Cersei).
Have to admit the show is starting to grow on me with the great performances we're seeing. But I'm also really missing the huge scope of GOT and feel like the endless palace intrigue could get tiresome after awhile, without anything but the occasional dragon scene to break it up.
As I noted at the top - I really struggle to keep things straight with these shows, and despite my best efforts, I apparently got the Targaryen lineage incorrect. My error has been noted and I will dive further into my fictional genealogy before next week.
Dan gets an upvote right away for dissing on the evil Santa for not writing the end of Ice and Fire. I also refuse to read any book by that bastard till he releases at least Winds of Winter!
Geez you're very nice to your fans haha feels like an apology pin is in every video. We love you dawg!
You could look at the family tree for an hour and still not get it, there's like 6 name variations for everyone. It's like Italians... that's Pauly and Anthony, my cousin Tommy and his brother Pauly, and his sister marie
Regarding the "royal secret"... I'm not as knowledged in this lore as hardcore fans, and I could be wrong here, but isn't Robert Baratheon the king (and not a Targaryen) when we first see the White Walkers make an appearance? As in, isn't the prophecy true...?
@@MichaelStrathmore The prophecy of the Night King coming as a royal secret of Targaryens is added to the show, to tie the series together, Winter is coming is A first man prophecy passed down for hundreds of years and is the Stark Mantra. Ok with them doing this prophecies and visions are common in this world.
Episode 2 amped up the intensity. How Young Rhaenyra stood up to Daemon like that and got the egg, with no bloodshed. Total badass. I really like Milly Alcock’s performance.
It also shows Dameons love for his family. He was all ready to burn Otto but he could never raise a Sword against rhaneyra
Everybody though the decisions of the dwarf in last season where dumb... But on this show , they sent 20 guys to speak with a guy on is on fortress , a guy that knows he STOLE a dangerous weapon from the King, and yet , all of those 20 guys seemed so surprised to see... The Dragon they knew Daemon owns in a situation they knew was potentialy tense.... C'mon ...
@@FlavioSilva-iz6lz I liked it BECAUSE it was dumb. It shows to me Otto Hightowers arrogance and how he easy the king is manipulated by him. The first thing Viserys wanted to do, was to go there himself. Now Viserys's Dragon is dead and he never bonded with another one, so he wouldn´t have gone with a Dragon either but Viserys wouldn´t have needed one. We know that Daemon would never want to hurt his brother, that he is all about family. If Viserys would have gone, this wouldn´t have been a threat. But Otto was so sure he could handle this himself, so driven by his own hatred for Daemon, that he didn´t think for a second what it would mean if he would go there alone. So yes it is dumb of him to get there with 20 Men and NOT expecting the Dragon, but it shows perfectly that Otto thinks of himself as much smarter than he actually is.
@@maxkehm5080 I'm not a 100% clear on his motivation. Part of it might have genuinely about keeping the king out of danger. But I think he also wants to keep Viserys and Daimon apart so that they don't have a chance to make peace.
I'll probably be in the minority for this, but I actually appreciated the c-section scene, because it viscerally shows what women for thousands of years have had to go through. This isn't just fantasy, actual women have had this happen to them, and to see is as oppose to just hearing about it really puts it into perspective. Also, I didn't think it was gratuitous at all. Beyond the fact that this show has showed much more violent content in my opinion, they cut away from anything particularly gruesome.
I agree! It was obviously not fun to watch, but it wasn't intended to be. As Dan said, it was a visual depiction of what women were used for in royal families historically, and having it end so gruesomely was kind of perfect.
I also appreciated the c-section scene. By switching back and forth between it and the joust for me it showed the violence men choose to participate in versus the violence women have put upon them.
I agree. There was nothing about it that glorified gore, violence, or violence against women. It was an honest and harsh depiction of what women…even privileged women had to go through during the historical period that HotD/GoT is based on. Much like Viserys getting infected cuts from the Iron Throne, which could potentially kill him, this world wouldn’t have had antibiotics or vaccines, therefore a simple cut could be a death sentence. That’s a far more interesting world to explore in my opinion.
I know it’s a fantasy series and people are saying that it’s called fantasy for a reason therefore historical accuracy isn’t a valid reason to depict such scenes of violence, but for me these tie-ins to the brutal reality of our own history is what sets GoT aside from so many other fantasies. It’s not a cushy fairytale.
What I think most don't realise is that both the mother and the baby were going to die. The king only decided to try and save the baby. Caesarean was only performed as on dying mothers...
This show also airs on HBO when did we forget that! Perfectly said though. The fact it had to be addressed at all for any longer then 5 secs maybe is what’s truly wrong with the world in my opinion.
The iron throne cuts are all over the book, it's meant to be seated by a strong regent, that is why is made of swords. Being wounded by the throne might be a metaphor for weakness.
I thought it was when someone was not worthy. In the World of Ice & Fire they said they found King Magor dead on the Throne possibly impaled by the Throne himself. He was a ruthless ruler who had plenty of strenght and power.
@@johnnyskinwalker4095 That's the point. You can have infinite strength and power and still be a weak king
Otto is looking out for number one, and I love it. He makes every scene more interesting.
Im already liking Rhaenyra more than Daenerys and a lot has to do with Milly Alcock performance. So far im enjoying this show inmensely, like the early season of Game of Thrones, even though i dont find most of the characters as interesting as the ones in Game of Thrones.
Needs some Tyrion/Bron or Tyrion/Varys type interactions. I miss the snarky wit that livened up the doom and gloom.
I'm already feeling pre-sad that there's a time jump and Milly gets replaced. I wonder if they'll keep using her in flashbacks or if once they do the time jump she's Just completely gone :(
@@restlessoblivion i don't think they realize how good she would be
i would watch the first season entirely on this timeline , time jump to season 2
It was somewhat bittersweet for me when they referenced the "coming winter" prophecy, especially considering how badly Season 8 shit the bed on its execution.
Yeah, it's sad thinking about it now - this huge, mystical threat; dreaded for centuries... That is dealt with in 2 episodes and never managed to take a single castle.
It just seemed that they were just tickling our nostalgia/Easter egg cells.
As someone who has watched Fire and Blood extras, Aegon didn't came to Westeros due to dream but to rule
I comfort myself by thinking that even if GRRM never writes it, the trash we saw on the show is not the tr00 canon version.
GRRM did an interview recently, and he pretty much hinted that the books will not end the same maybe except for Bran being king. From what I have read, Dan and Dave cut out so many characters from the books, that there isn't much chance they will end the same.
It's meant to be ironic. Like they thought the menace would come from the North but it came from a Targaryen.
Rhaenys and Viserys are both the old King's grandchildren. Rhaenys is just older and the daughter of the king's first-born son.
As someone who has had children, including one c-section, that scene was incredibly hard to watch. But it wasn't unwarranted -- labor sucks even on a good day and forced c-sections that killed the mom have been recorded throughout history even pre 500BCE.
Matt Smith must be overjoyed at having landed a role that he can really sink his teeth into. Daemon is the kind of character that actors dream of playing.
I love Milly Alcock too! She is why I like Rhaenyra so much. I actually don’t want the other actress to replace her. 😬
Same. Give me more Milly! I was in awe of how phenomenal her performance as Rhaenyra is. I can’t believe I’m saying this but I think she might take over Daenerys as my favorite Targaryen.
@@natesthoughts664 Milly is 22 yo and Emma D’Arcy is 30 yo. They should have just aged up Milly for the later parts. It’s gonna be awkward when the transition happens cause Milly is clearly the fan favorite.
@@WriterusAeternus yeah I just looked up milly’s age and she’s my age. So why did they need to have two actresses play Rhaenyra? Lol. Like hey, good for Emma D’arcy for being casted and we need to see what they can do as the character but I feel like milly will be the fan favorite here.
That's a damn shame that they are replacing her. They should at least have waited in the second season.
@@WriterusAeternus This story takes place throughout decades. Emma will end up playing Rhaenyra into her late 30s. Milly is a great actress but she has a young face. No amount of make up can make her look believable as a 35 year old.
I'm really liking it so far. I love that they are going for more of the fantasy look and feel for the show.
These past two episodes have been great thus far, and a return to form of what made GOT so great in the earlier season's.
I was in awe of how phenomenal Milly’s is performance as Rhaenyra is. I can’t believe I’m saying this but I think she might take over Daenerys as my favorite Targaryen.
She’s more complex and isn’t God like which is why I find her more relatable
I can't believe she's 22! She portrays a convincing pre-teen. But mature for her age. Awesome when she rode in on her dragon Syrax. Daemon's dragon, Caraxes, be like Oh damn. Lol
No hate to Emilia but Milly is a much better actress imo.
Sad, she's gonna be replaced from Ep06 because Time is forwarded when they are Older.
Too early to tell about the character, but for sure the actress is doing a great job!
While agree that the show has a bit of a digital look to it.
But I don't think it's because they are relying too much on visual effects. This show was shot a lot on location and had extensive sets.
I think the issue is their using new kind of cameras. A lot of new digital cameras have a very digital look to it.
Also I think there's a difference because HotD is using new kind of Visual effects. In a lot of scenes instead of using green screen HotD is using Virtual sets or video walls. And you can tell the difference.
Those virtual sets or video walls are actually called volumn sets. Just letting you know
@@BadAnik11 Oh thank you. I just looked up their it's name and it said video walls so I went with that.
Love to hear Dan's thoughts on the show. About the dreams/prophecies. I actually thought they fit pretty well with the show. Because i dont think that they are totally correct when the Targaryens are having them anyway. For example Viserys dreamt of a male baby (which was true) but the boy died. And Jon Snow (a Targaryen) did make all kinds of people come together against the White Walkers in order to stop them, and Dany did afterwards become the Queen of the Iron Throne (for a minute or so). And Danys vision in the House of the Undying about the burnt Throne Room in Kings Landing were true, even though Khal Drogo and the baby obviously werent real. So I dont think they are perfect prophecies anyway. But just my thoughts on the dreams/prophecies.
People seem to downplay Jon Snow's role in the defeat of the White Walkers alot just because he didn't deliver the killing blow. But as you say, if it was not for him, none would even be there to fight them, he rallied them all. Not only that, but he did so because he is who he is as a person, not because of his lineage. He is his own person who carves a path for himself who later becomes aware of his heritage, wich he then does not suddenly use as his whole identity. So the prophecy Viserys states in episode 1 is to me the same as Rhaegar is obsessed with that sets of Roberts Rebellion. And that one is fulfilled from a certain point of view.
I would say as someone who never saw a full episode of GOT, this show for me is a really solid start with both episodes. I think the show is so well done from a filmmaking side and acting side that I buy so much of what's happening with regards to the tension, acting, politics inside of the story of who wants the throne and positions of power in government and ruling.
So far it's a great start for me I think I have some minor nitpicks with a few things but no major problems.👍
GoT is most definitely worth a watch... just know that you will be disappointed by the destination, so enjoy the journey!
@@alexjames2264 I mean you never know
Also in case you want to know it is written in the book that whomever is cut by the iron throne doesn’t deserve to be on it. So it is a sign of weakness of the king himself. There are other people who will be cut by the throne in the future so I m pretty sure that that visual image will come back :)
That's such a cool concept. I haven't read any of the books, and I definitely wouldn't have picked up on that, so thank you for commenting this!
7:25 Not a nephew, nor a daughter. Both of them are Jaehaerys' grandchildren.
Have to say all the visual effects have looked really good to me and I haven’t noticed any iffy effects especially compared to most other TV shows out there (I.e. Disney+ and some Netflix shows).
Same here. Early GoT OTOH really struggled with a low budget so some scenes looked a bit cheap or small.
I totally agree!
Yeah I completely disagreed with Dan when he was talking about the look of the show.
Not a fan of using the GOT opening music either.
Small correction Harrenhall is still inhabited and it s the siege of House Strong! You can see one of them in the small council and he’s the master of whispers. The complete abandonment of Harrenhall actually happens at the end of the dance of the dragons :) And it will be the stage of a very cool action scene later on if they decide to adapt it there.
He’s Master of Laws
@@daemontarg000 not in the book. Unless I gave out a spoiler. Which is possible oops
@@tornapart Your confusing him with his son Larry’s Strong The Clubfoot he is Master of Whispers he will come later in ep 5
@@daemontarg000 ooooh yes! I’m confusing him with him! Thanks :)
the wounds from the throne are telling us that he is not fit to be king
Game of Thrones theme song was the only way to go for the opening credits. Like how do you top that you can’t there’s no topping that. They probably had one meeting and realized that was the case.
Yeah, I thought this was very impressive, particularly when you consider the weight of GOT disappointment that was hanging over it. It could VERY easily have gone wrong from the start. It was similar in tone but different in its execution. The performances surprised me the most along with a lean, smart script. Very good.
As a ASOIAF books lover, and that have read everything in that universe, it’s amazing having a show that doesn’t follow books AND is good is great
Having GRRM as an Executive Producer and hand picked the showrunners is probably why.
I’m loving it a lot. It is staying really close to the source material and the acting is top notch.
Thanks Dan! You have explained a few things a peasant like me didn’t pick up on while watching but in simpler terms.
Viserys and Rhaenys are King Jaehaerys' grand children, not nephew and daughter.
As much as they've touted the feminist narrative, I'd love to see/hear from the women working on the show, are they department heads, writers, etc? Just haven't seen that in the behind-the-scenes/aftershow breakdowns yet. Gonna take me a minute to warm back up to this world, but I'm interested in learning more about the Targaryens. I'm glad it's released week to week to give us time to digest and let the conversation evolve. I'm with you on pretty much everything you said Dan, thanks for the review!
Brenda Hess is one of the main writers with Ryan and she seems pretty good
The confrontation scene at Dragonstone was a combination of location shooting in Portugal and this series' equivalent of Stagecraft's 'The Volume' for the dragons' entrances and other fx. A seamless blend of film craft, imo.
With the mention of the petulant nature of Smith's Daemon, it reminds me a great deal of Harry Lloyd's Viserys Targaryen from the early GoT episodes. I like that connection.
The visual effects on this show are fantastic, especially compared to anything on Disney + 😂
I feel like Matt Smith as this character is essentially the best live action adaptation of Elric of Melnibone we're ever likely to get.
Exactly my thoughts. JRR must have read Moorcock in his youth (as I did) and at least subliminally been influenced in the Targaryen characters.
@@pasteye1671 He has stated before in interviews that the Targaryens are based off Elric
To me the music felt like the MCU intro. Very specific to the franchise and they knew they couldn't do better so they just decided to stick with it. Especially considering they hope to have more spin-offs in the next few years, all of them using the same music with different intros seems okay.
So for the Jon Snow show (assuming that will be the next show) the intro will just be the GoT music?
@@mk6rfc1 idk I assume they’ll stick with that music and have a different visual, with the same design but at/beyond the wall
For me , I think using the same music is comforting in a world (real) which right feels so tenuous.
7:24 , You got it wrong mate.
Viserys is Son of BAELON (2nd Son of Jaehaerys, old king) & Rhaenys is Daughter of AEMON (1st son of Old king). They're basically his Grandchildren.
really enjoyed the first 2 episode by far, though some casts are not as high profiles as GoT, which would be gamechanger for em
If you want to see more of Milly Alcock, I highly recommend Upright. Not sure where it's steaming in US but on Sky in UK.
I was strangely unexcited for this but I've been getting into the first two episodes! Your opinions track with mine.
The Great Council awarded the crown to the king's grandson by his second son vice awarded the crown to his granddaughter from his oldest son.
I stopped watching GoT after season; it felt too much like a cynical deconstruction of Lord of the Rings which rubbed me the wrong way. House of the Dragon feels more Shakespearean; it reminds me a lot of King Lear or the history plays, very focused on intrigue and character choices, which is probably why it appeals to me a lot more.
Yes! It does feel Shakespearean, but with dragons!
Good seeing this guy again. I miss the old school movie fights…. 😢
Milly Alcock was awesome in Upright with Tim Minchin.
Hightower is a conniving SOB in the vein of Little Finger but without the theatricality.
I was never a huge fan of GOT but I introduced my wife to it and she's extremely passionate about the show. This one, however, is tickling my fancy much more. I like where this is going and I enjoy the focussed narrative.
I'm confused by your opinion on the childbirth scene... cause it very much felt like exactly what George wants the focus to be. The graphic and violent destruction of people which in the end is fruitless anyway. He genuinely loved his wife and instead of enjoying his time with his wife as she died in a natural way he made her last moments ones of pain and fear at his order for the hope that her death would secure the future and it didn't...
Had totally given up after the last season of GoT, but the cool tention so far between all the characters has me hooked. I think they must have watched The Crown, cause a lot of the vibe (especially the use of music) actually remind me of that show
The Dragonstone in S07 felt Clear and Tangible.
One gripe is here locations are CGI Misty and Grey
Even Kings Landing isnot Colourful like in S04 of GoT
I liked that they used the original theme. I wasn't sold on the show until I heard it. It's more like hearing the Star Wars theme. It helps connect things together.
" Whatever book he will write or has written to avoid completing ASOIAF...." I felt that.
I think that the cutting himself on the throne is a metaphor for his unsuited ability for the throne. You're never supposed to sit comfortably on it or you'll injure yourself
The reason they didnt do location filming for dragonstone is because dragonstone in GoT looked like shit, nothing like how dragonstone is described whatsoever but I do miss the locations as well.
Just to clarify the queen was going to die either way per what the mastier said. The choice was either to lose both or try to save the child.
I was immediately emotional at the use of the original theme. It felt right straightaway.
I don't agree with the music thing. A lot of people say that though. I feel it's like the universes theme song. Like star wars
Weird. I found your video through the recommendations. And you’re wearing a Florida State hat and I’m from Louisiana and a big LSU supporter!
I’m back in - had a great time with the second episode :)
Just a small correction: Viserys and Rhaenys are both grandchildren of Jaehaerys I. Rhaenys is the only child of Jaehaerys's eldest son Aemon Targaryen and Jocelyn Baratheon, while Viserys is the eldest son of Jaehaerys' second son Baelon Targaryen and Alyssa Targaryen
1 - GRRM deliberately writes prophesy as something that is misread by his characters
2 - In the Westeros mythology the prophecy Viserys is referring to was found 150 years later by Daenerys’ oldest brother (Jon Snow’s father), so it is consistent it was more widely spoken of in times past, even if its never referenced in the histories, none of which come from the Targaryen’s themselves.
More Matt Smith please! He’s been great. I’m excited for Dragon vs Crab People next week.
I looked at the prophecy as being misinterpreted by Aegon or that it was slightly changed as it was passed down between generations. It is a Targaryen that united all of Westeros to fight the White Walkers. Jon united the wildlings, the night's watch, the north, and Danaerys and her allies to unite against the long night. He wasn't on the iron throne, but he was the rightful heir and he was the reason that the realm of man survives.
I was thinking the injury on the King’s back was greyscale as well, but I think it might just that the throne is hard to keep and rule from.
7:25 So Viserys is the old king Jaeharys grandson by his second son. Whereas Rhaenys is his granddaughter by his first son. So by modern standards Rhaenys is the rightful Queen.
I'm always surprised by the comments like "after the horrible ending of Game of Thrones, I didn't want to return to Westeros and see more." Like many others, the ending of GoT left a very sour taste in my mouth, but when I first started hearing about House of the Dragon, everything mentioned that it was from completely new show runners and divorced from the original show runners. The world as a whole was very engaging and I was eager to return.
While Dan and Dave did have some great, well written scenes at the beginning of the series (Cersei and Robert's conversation in season 1 was their creation; Arya interacting with Tywin at Harrenhal instead of Roose Bolton in season 2 was them, too), they seemed totally burnt out by the end and desperate to leave, yet also too married to it to hand it off to more available show runners.
I've been a huge fan of all of the ASOIAF books (even going into World of Ice and Fire, Fire and Blood, and the Dunk and Egg books) for a long time, so I'm definitely coming from a different perspective and have probably read more into the background details of these shows than others.
I know that makes no sense to me. "I won't watch Batman Begins because I hated Batman Forever"..lol
Yeah I'm one of the people who didn't want to watch this show because of how GoT ended. Why would I blindly trust people who wasted years of goodwill. You damn right they had to win me back.
@@sadikquahflowers5507..because it's different show runners
@@beammeup1930 Different showrunners under the same banner: HBO. So I don't care that its different showrunners. HBO allowed it to happen once, no reason they wouldn't let it happen again. I'm just giving you the reason why some of us weren't tripping over ourselves at first to give the show another chance. I like the show and will keep watching but they had to give a reason for me to spend my time with them again. I wasn't going to do it just because they were back.
@@sadikquahflowers5507 ..You didn't trust HBO?..They literally knock it out of the park time after time with their shows. The show started to decline once they ran out of source material and not include grrm as much. He's heavily involved in this one so that shouldve been a sign it'll be great
I'm on the fence for now. I really only committed to watching because 1) my roommate wanted to watch with me and 2) I work in the industry and kinda have to keep up with things. I think the communal watching element can't be understated for this franchise, it was such a huge part of GoT with people doing watching parties and stuff. I can say that when I graduated college (and stopped having access to those big watching parties with friends on campus) my interest in the show withered, despite being a fan of the books. I wonder how much of that is impacting people now who want to remember a time pre-2020?
Dope video I truly understand everything Your saying about this show.
Wasn't a huge fan of the first episode minus the performances but loved the second...few more like this and I'll be hooked!
Generally in the same camp as you. Hated the end of GoT so I wasn't even planning on watching this one. Gave it a shot, and I'm in for now. I like where it's going.
I can't help but wonder if the prophecy stated that a Targareyan had to be sitting on the throne because in their short-sightedness, they never imagined the downfall of their house and all their Valerian swords getting divided out between the other houses. It would make a bit of sense owing to the fact that only Valerian steel could kill the White Walkers...
Otto Hightower is by far the best character in the show. His political pursuits are done in a subtle, non-invasive and intelligent way. Not only that - when he decided to go to Dragonstone, instead of the king it became obvious his ambition goes so far, that he prefers putting his own life on the line, instead of his plans going to waste, which is really rare and interesting.
I really enjoy the political games and plot setup so far. I’ve read some spoilers and I’m really excited for what’s next. Although one thing is clear after 2 episodes, the actors elevate what’s already solid source material to higher standards. Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower is another standout; makes what could be just a simple nobleman trying to further his family’s name to someone which you question his motives. I didn’t think another show this year outside of BCS would make me this invested but HOTD is great so far. Cannot wait for episode 4 which I’ve heard is quite a spectacle.
Otto Hightower seems like a perfect mix between Rhys Ifans, Tywin Lannister and Petyr Baelish
i like the parallel between viserys and ned the way they treated their willful daughters. viserys reluctantly named rhaenyra his heir after he exhausted all his options while ned fully expected arya to grow up to become a lady and marry some lord or other, only to cave in and get arya her own sword fighting tutor.
I was not excited to go back to Westeros and I begrudgingly watched the first episode. The second episode had me sold. Milly is incredible. I am pre-mourning the time jump. The chemistry between her and Daemon is electric.
As for the theme song, I was here for it. It is the realm.
I am sold on the show, but I am praying they do not break my heart again. Smart storytelling, please!
11:18: If depiction equaled endorsement, Ken Burns would be considered one of the most evil men of all time. So would Stephen Spielberg, Akira Kurosawa, Stanley Kubrick, Terrence Malick, Francis Ford Coppola, Kathryn Bigelow, Christopher Nolan, Quentin Tarantino, Orson Welles, David Lean, John Sturges, Clint Eastwood, Robert Aldrich, Oliver Stone, Peter Weir, Roberto Rossellini, John Ford, Spike Lee, Ang Lee, Michael Cimino, Steven Soderbergh, David O. Russell, Michael Mann, Ridley Scott, Brian De Palma, and now I'm tired...
Man, I thought the effects have been top notch!!
THANK YOU, DAN... we need locations. The cgi makes it more fantasy and less grounded.
Very pleased with the dramatic setting developing through two episodes!!!!!! Think this could really, truly line up against some of the best GOT material
There is 0% chance I will remember any characters names in this series.
I loved that they used the GOT theme, to me it says GOT is back!
im sold
This show is coming together as a really high quality show with all the good ingredients that made GoT the hit it was. I'm really looking forward to the next episode.
The bombshell about Aegon Conquering Westeros because of a Great Winter aka The Long Night was great. I even thought about this years ago. I remember him having dreams and Rhaegar had dreams about the "Prince that was Promised" and possibly made Jon Snow because of that. It's ironic that the menace in the end was a Targaryen, not the beasts from the North. I think it was done on purpose as you see the King telling that to his daughter who reminds us of Dany. Might as well have wrote in big letters IRONY. But that's always the case with A Song of Ice & Fire books, it's stories people tell each other but it's always basically somewhat fiction and falsehoods. Even when true magic is there. Like maybe there's no Lords of Light even though the power is there. It's always playing with perception what is real what is not real. Again Littlefinger talking about the blades on the Iron Throne.
I know critics hate the idea of “Snyder cuts” or revisions, but the ending to the original GoT series needs one. Especially if the books were intended to end differently. Add a couple of episodes to flesh out Daenerys’ decent into madness and fix the Bran Stark of it all. The rest of season 8 is passable.
5:58 nooo robb died because he went against his word to walder frey.
and then had the gall to say "hey can I get married with the woman I broke my bow with here, in your keep?"
not a great plan
Alcock and Smith are both acting circles around the rest of the cast. No shade to the rest but they just have that extra bit of charisma that I want to see and miss in scenes they aren't in.
Viserys and Rhaenys are the great kings grandchildren, not nephew and daughter. Viserys is the oldest son of the great kings second oldest son. Rhaenys is the only child of the great kings oldest son.
On a side note in the book, the two strongest claims to the throne were between Viserys and Rhaenys’ son Laenor. The council went with Viserys because he was through a male line and he was closer in the bloodline being a grandson whereas Laenor was a great-grandson.
King picked the other girl to be queen, not because she was slightly older but because they both got something in common with their finger problems. To me this twist was very obvious from the start.
I'm loving this show so far! Matt Smith is brilliant, and everyone else is wonderful as well. Plus we have more dragons, which I'm all for. 🙂
Terrific review!
Having not watched this show, just listening to that clip of viserys, I think it's entirely possible that aegons vision was accurate, winter is coming, and then HE drew the conclusion that a dragon-riding Targaryen must be in control of Westeros to stop the white walkers, because nothing is hotter than dragon fire, and fire must defeat ice right?
Interpretation of prophecy is always the biggest pitfall of prophets.
In the book Fire and Blood, the Iron Throne rejects the ruler by cutting him ( or her)
To be honest, I was disappointed by the opening credits. The animation/visual was confusing. I didn't understand what I was looking at till I saw a tweet explaining that it was the Targaryen bloodline and showing the direct line of successors. But even after having that pointed out, I couldn't decipher what exactly I was looking at.
Also the lackluster visuals combined with the Game of Thrones theme music threw me off. I would have much preferred them using the Targaryen theme tune that they used in the trailer (?).
You're Complaining about opening credits, how fucking petty. You'd complain no matter what they looked or sounded like.
Dan it’s a prophecy they not always 100% accurate is how I took it personally
I personally do not take it that part of the prophecy was a Targaryen has to be sitting on the Iron Throne to defeat the white walkers, Aegon(or whoever) saw the prophecy just came to that conclusion.
To the prophecy: I don't think the King (whatever his name is :D ) said, that the Prophecy states, that there WILL be a Targaryen King when this winter-stuff goes down. I think he said: This winter-thing is happening and we shall better have a Targaryen ruler, King or Queen wink wink, on the throne, because he does not believe that anyone else will be able to handle it (looking at you, Cersei).
I would guess the split between young Rhaenyra and adult Rhaenyra is going to be 50-50
I did notice that the show, in comparisom to game of thrones, does not feel real because of the digitalization
Have to admit the show is starting to grow on me with the great performances we're seeing. But I'm also really missing the huge scope of GOT and feel like the endless palace intrigue could get tiresome after awhile, without anything but the occasional dragon scene to break it up.