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

The episode's key confrontation played out in an exemplary scene humming with quiet tension between Viserys and Daemon, as the King has his worse for wear brother dragged before him to confront him for his scandalous antics with Rhaenyra.

Considering Viserys' oft foolish nature as a character to date, fans likely would have expected him to simply be incandescent with anger. However, while clearly seething beneath the surface, the King is surprisingly measured in his fury; before he buries a kick in a prostrate Daemon, his manner and tone are almost businesslike and by the time their conversation is over, the King is visibly contemptuous as he effectively banishes his brother. Paddy Considine is revelling in bringing Viserys' iron streak to life; this was arguably his finest scene on the show as the veteran actor flows smoothly from one visceral emotion to the other with polished ease.

The inimitable Matt Smith is also as excellent as always; how else does a hungover man flat on the floor still manage to steal the scene? Daemon's trademark laconic indifference is on full display again as audiences get a further taste of what a dangerous piece of work they have on their hands; the Prince is utterly without remorse and even asks for Rhaenyra's hand in marriage.

Daemon ends the scene perfectly summing up the enigmatic nature of his mercurial character; as the King strides away, leaving his brother banished from his sight for ever, the bleary eyed Prince rolls over and falls asleep on the floor of the throne room. One doesn't know whether to laugh or cry.