"House of the Dragon" continues its slow-burn storytelling, carefully crafting viewer allegiances while ensuring the other side isn't completely dehumanized.
The twin vs. Twin showdown is among the best scenes in "HOTD" so far. It showcases why the show excels when it focuses on actual conflict intertwined with the exposition of inner turmoil, rather than delaying action for emotional buildup.
A unique aspect of this episode is the portrayal of women in positions of power, with men like Daemon, Cole, and Otto wanting to wield authority through them. These men act as the enforcers for proxy rulers, highlighting a fascinating power dynamic.
Aemond's scenes are particularly poignant, revealing him as a boy out of his depth with deep-seated issues. His "mommy issues" are likely to be explored further, given the show's deliberate pacing.
One of the biggest merits and demerits of "HOTD" is its ability to make viewers pick sides, despite both factions being equally flawed and vain. This creates a sense of community among viewers and characters, making it easier to justify the worst acts committed by each side. This might explain the show's decision to cut down on gore, especially in the Blood and Cheese sequence, to prevent burying one side in irredeemability.
This approach contrasts sharply with "Game of Thrones," where the lack of a clear bilateral conflict meant fewer sides to pick. While viewers rooted for the Starks, the show offered much more than just their struggles. "HOTD" compels viewers to engage deeply with the characters and their complex, often dark, motivations.
