Came to 'Game of Thrones' fairly late in the game and due to being so busy the binge-watching was gradual. Have found myself truly loving the show, very quickly becoming one of my favourites. It totally lives up to the hype and not only does it do the brilliant source material justice (a rarity in television) it is on its own merits one of the finest, most addictive and consistently compelling shows in recent years and quality-wise it puts a lot of films in recent years to shame.
Personally liked to loved all the previous episodes of Season 5, which judging from the negative comments for the previous episode "Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken" doesn't seem to be a popular opinion. Up to this point however, "The Gift" is the best and a big improvement over the polarising (and to me well done episode hampered by the stuff with the Sand Snakes) "Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken".
What are the reasons for my saying this? It's the tightest paced episode up to this point in Season 5, it's the most jam-packed (in a good way, a lot happens but it doesn't feel too much), long awaited answers are provided and the character and story development show the most signs compared to the previous Season 5 episodes of moving forward rather than reiterating or feeling like filler.
"The Gift" and "Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken" as well deserve credit for making Sansa the most interesting she's been in a long time and making me see Theon in a different light, instead of being the nasty piece of work he was previously part of me felt for him. There is a lot of intrigue and suspense, Tyrion and Jorah's storyline is very entertaining and the action is neatly executed. Actually found myself emotionally invested and interested in the Dorne storyline and the nudity in the prison scene was a non-issue.
'Game of Thrones' always delivers on the acting. "The Gift" is no exception and can find no casting issues. Peter Dinklage, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau and Diana Rigg are particularly exemplary.
Visually, "The Gift" looks amazing, as one would expect for 'Game of Thrones'. The scenery is throughout spectacular, the sets are hugely atmospheric and beautiful on the eyes with a real meticulous eye for detail and the costumes suit the characters to a tee. The make-up is beautifully done. As well the cinematography and editing, which are cinematic quality as well.
One cannot talk about "The Gift" without mentioning the thematically, orchestrally and atmospherically multi-layered music scoring and the unforgettable main theme. Again, worthy of a high-budget fantasy/action/drama film.
Script-wise, throughout the humour, mystery, wide emotional ranges and thought-provoking layers are present and the storytelling is passionate and sensitive.
Overall, wonderful episode and one of Season 5's best. 10/10 Bethany Cox
