Game Of Thrones Season 7: 10 Ups And 3 Downs From 'Beyond The Wall'

10. Shared History And One-Liners

One of the reasons these seven warriors coming together was so great is the shared history between them all: whether it's something we've seen in the show, like Gendry and the Brotherhood, or happened way in the past, like Thoros and Jorah.

Like Eastwatch, this episode uses that to its great advantage, leading to a stellar opening as the various members of the group catch-up a little more and talk through their issues, such as some further explanation of the Siege of Pyke.

It helped deepen the unity between these seven characters, which then made the disaster they faced together all the more meaningful, as well as showcasing the density of this world created by George R.R. Martin (and brought to screen by David Benioff and Dan Weiss).

It also allowed for some epic one-liners and conversations, most of which came from either Tormund or the Hound, who came to their own startling connection: Brienne of Tarth. In a heavy episode, they provided moments of levity and reminded us why we love them so much (I really thought Tormund was a goner this week, and while you can argue about the show's reluctance to kill off characters, it's a delightful relief that he lives on).

"Gingers are beautiful. We were kissed by fire. Just like you."