House Of The Dragon Episode 1 Review - 8 Ups & 2 Downs
3. Up - The tourney
What an utterly stunning visual sequence.
Invoking memories of the Hound fighting the Mountain at the tourney in Game of Thrones, the tourney is absolutely unmissable television from start to finish; Miguel Sapochnik's exemplary trademark direction made it an even grander occasion. The titanic collisions and death defying point-of-view shots during the jousting provide genuinely bone shattering impact, while the unerring quality of the gorgeous armor and sigils on display make the viewer feel like they are genuinely sitting in the stands watching the action unfold.
The sequence also features the introduction of Ser Criston Cole, an unheralded knight that fans of Martin's canon will know has a vital role to play in the wars to come. It's one hell of an introduction too, as he bests and disarms none other than legendary warrior Daemon Targaryen in a brutal melee.
Matt Smith particularly shines in this scene; Daemon's vindictive nature and legendary abilities as a warrior are on full display as he savagely unhorses rival Otto Hightower's son in front of him. The shot of Daemon, arms outstretched as he drinks in the adoration of the crowd after throwing Cole to the floor is absolutely riveting television; the Prince of the City visibly basking in the riotous energy of the raucous crowd.
That is of course, until Criston pops back up and flattens the gleeful Daemon with a morning star. Daemon would do well to keep his guard up better as the show progresses; just ask what's left of Oberyn Martell's head.