And Now His Watch Is Ended

And Now His Watch Is Ended is by far the best episode in the entire season, but it's not the only one (I'll get to the last two episodes of Season 3 later). The pacing's much tighter, the story/script is still well-written, the performances are still solid, the relationships still shine, the directing and editing is still nice, and the scenery's still gorgeous.

There are no problems I have with this episode because after three great episodes for Season 3, this is really starting out even more fresher than I thought. So, overall, the best episode in the entire season and does a great job continuing the story lines so neatly.

Season 3, episode 4. The Night's Watch is having problems with Craster. Daenerys gets an army and readies them and her dragons. Arya, Gendry and The Hound are taken to a secret location with the Men of No Banners. Jamie is upset over the loss of his hand, wants to die but Brienne tries to get him understand he needs to live to get revenge - use his other hand. Cersei is growing tired of the Tyrells. Lord Varys talks to Tyrion of his past, captures the sorcerer that made him what he is. Margaery wants to be good friends with Sansa. Theon is recaptured and tortured.

9/10

There's a lot of good things about this episode. A lot of characters facing hard times, some rewards, small steps forwards, some wild terrors ... And there's a lot of twists and turns. I think this must be one of my favourite Game of Thrones episodes (although admittedly I have several favourites).

How much can one squeeze in a fifty minute session. We have the freeing of Theon and his savior being something unexpected. Joffrey begins to be influenced by his bride to be. Tyrion is researching again, trying to find proof of his potential murderer. There is a mutiny. And, ultimately, we see Dany asserting her authority, working a system and playing on the idea of freedom. Meanwhile, Jaime has been abused to the nth degree. He has been forced to drink horse urine and shoved in the mud. But his companion brings back a possibility of dignity for him. It's interesting how those who were despicable can pull at our hearts when their adversaries prove even worse. Cersai is up to no good and tries to gain some modicum of respect. She will endure. We can see that.

• Story (4/5)
• Soundtrack (5/5)
• Dialog (5/5)
• Graphic (4/5)
• Reasonableness (3.5/5)
• Entertainment (5/5)
• Overall (4.5/5)

BONUS - Tywin is so savage.