House Of The Dragon Episode 1 Review - 8 Ups & 2 Downs

When Game of Thrones was building a reputation as the biggest show on television, a great part of this success was due in part to the scenes that highlight the intricacies of the political snake-pit that is King’s Landing; it doesn’t have to be all sword fights and battles. The early focus on King’s Landing and the political backdrop of the first episode indicate that House of the Dragon is looking to build on the success of this aspect from the original.

Multiple scenes in the first episode feature the return of the Small Council; while the faces who sit the table are unfamiliar, the constant bickering, sniping and cut-your-throat-to-get-ahead personalities are not. Look no further than the Hand of the King, Otto Hightower, sending his beautiful daughter to keep the King "company", following the death of his wife.

Speaking of which, Grand Maester Mellos also demonstrates the usual lack of morality prevalent amongst the ruling circles in Westeros, as he is the one who advises the King they may be able to save the child at the cost of Queen Aemma's life; the absolute disregard for human life in the interests of the crown are another staple of Westerosi politics. One can see why Robert Baratheon signed off on the murder of an infant when his predecessors were so utterly ruthless.

In short, another less celebrated trait that made Game of Thrones a global phenomenon returns in fine form, with the promise of more to come as the season continues.