Reviews

Great acting, wonderful visuals but the entire series was essentially euthanised by episode 3 in season 8. That episode killed the last shred of mystery and suspense. The story arc of major characters, especially Jon Snow is abysmally lackluster.

I can understand and appreciate some finishing plotlines and the winner(?) of the Game of Thrones, it's just that the road to the conclusion was rushed beyond belief.

The worldbuilding and /or consistency regarding Westeros has suffered beyond belief this season; logic is thrown out the window for mere plot-points and individuals not only act out of character, but out of context regarding prior established rules of conduct in the "realm".

Valonquar? worthless

Azor Ahai and by extension Stannis Baratheon's story? worthless

Winter is Coming? winter was never a viable and interesting threat, failing to elevate the story

Jon Snow as far as a "classical hero" concerned? deeply unsatisfying

Final thoughts: The Finale doesn't merit a repeat viewing of the series as the story wrap-up is among the worst I've seen on television.

There's always a huge anticipation towards every season premier of Game of Thrones and it's easy to go completely mental, having waited so long.

I didn't expect any greater moves on the chessboard. The first episodes are seldom the highlights of an entire series (a few exceptions).

I loved the human portrayal of both Arya and "the Hound". Many will say the "Ed Sheeran"-scene was shoehorned in but I disagree. I thought it made sense to give us a glimpse of Arya still being good at heart and not merely a coldblooded assassin. Her meeting with the soldiers and minstrel "Ed" also gave the viewer a wider picture of the ordinary soldier; the world is not necessarily divided into good/evil. Considering the hardships Arya has been through, I felt it was a well needed breath of fresh air.

The hound has his redeeming moment in the company of the brotherhood of banners as well. He may be a badass antihero (the best in my opinion), but he's remorseful of past sins and gets to show a different side to him.

The continuing dissent between Jon Snow and Sansa Stark is a bit dull & wearing though. Fuelled by a still scheming strong Littlefinger. Ew.

Sams initially fruitless search for knowledge of dragonglass in Old Town offers some levity through brilliantly edited sequences. His role is important, but I feel he's given a bit too much airtime.

Daenarys landing in Dragonstone. The scenery in Dragonstone was awesome, with the dragons circling the keep. I felt the scenes were supposed to be emotional, since Dragonstone is Daenarys birthright and the reclaiming of the throne to be pivotal. The lack of dialogue can be effective in a scene but in this instance it fell a bit flat. I was not convinced by Emilia Clarkes performance.

Still, solid show!