As a die-hard fan who’s been following the Song of Ice and Fire saga since the dawn of time (or at least since George R.R. Martin started writing), I must say that this Season 2 finale of House of the Dragon left me feeling like I’ve wandered into the wrong tavern by the Wall.
Note: This story contains spoilers for House of the Dragon season two finale.
HBO cutting to black hasn’t annoyed this many TV fans since The Sopranos ended.
As a dedicated fan of House of the Dragon, I can’t contain my excitement for what’s coming next! Season two set the stage for an epic showdown over Westeros, a conflict that could erupt on multiple fronts. It promises massive armies, towering stakes, and an abundance of fire-breathing dragons! Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait a couple more years for season three, as Sunday’s finale left us hanging right before the action was about to kick off (“When the most thrilling part of the season finale was mud wrestling,” a viewer lamented below).
For those viewers (with their diverse and intense responses), the final episode seemed somewhat familiar. The first season finale concluded with an atmosphere of “now it’s time for battle!”, while the second season finale has just finished on the same note: “now, let the battle commence!” HBO’s promotional materials leading up to the season hinted at a Green vs. Black conflict through trailers and a viral stunt involving Targaryen banners displayed at significant landmarks, foreshadowing an intense civil war within a faction known for its grand conflicts.
Although the fourth episode of the season provided an engaging dragon battle scene that was highly appreciated, there were also scattered action moments throughout. However, Rhayerya (Emma D’Arcy) and Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke) spent most of their time within their castles, conducting council meetings. Meanwhile, much to the disappointment of fans, Daemon (Matt Smith) was sent to Harrenhal, where he too engaged in castle-based discussions, along with dreams and premonitions.
During the current season, the Daemon’s actions left viewers puzzled, as they appeared more in line with how a program might handle a well-established character when it has 20 episodes to fill in the fifth season, rather than the way such events would unfold for a highly favored character during the second season of an eight-episode series.
As a gamer, I’ve got to say, the finale was a real treat! The nail-biting confrontation between Rhayerya and Alicent had me on the edge of my seat, especially since it was so simple to sneak back and forth between their castles. Plus, Daemon’s vision hinting at Daenerys Targaryen from the original series was a nice touch. The appearance of Abigail Thorn as Sharako Lohar was intriguing, and Ramin Djawadi’s score really added to the overall experience. All in all, it was an exciting end to an amazing journey!
The short length of the current season (eight episodes) is being keenly felt, as the first season had 10 episodes. Previously, Deadline reported a significant conflict was relocated from season two to season three. Showrunner Ryan Condal stated the abbreviated season was to provide a strong start and finish. However, executive producer Sara Hess also mentioned that the shorter season wasn’t their initial decision. The production took place during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike, but it had an exemption since many actors were under the Equity union instead of SAG. This occurred after the scripts had already been written. HBO claimed the episode reduction was due to story considerations rather than cost-cutting measures resulting from the leadership change at Warner Bros. Discovery.
Below are some of the varied reactions to the finale.
Hold up, seriously? That’s all there is? I was expecting to dive right into the epic Battle of Gullet!
— The Realm’s Delight (@tv_film_lover) August 5, 2024
House of the Dragon writers checklist for the season 2 finale:
— E. E. Tucker (@etuckerwrites) August 5, 2024
As a dedicated fan of epic fantasy series, I must confess that House of the Dragon has left me feeling quite frustrated and underwhelmed. With a rich history and fascinating characters at its disposal, the show seems to be stuck in a cycle of endless build-up without any significant payoff.
— Wallin Ballin (@wallin_ballin) August 5, 2024
I found the final episode of House of the Dragon quite frustrating. I was expecting wild events, significant character demises, unexpected turns, and shocking surprises – all the things that typically mark a series finale. Instead, it seemed like we’ve been endlessly preparing for war, and I just want to see some action already. Come on, let’s get this show on the road! (or screen, in this case)
— hunt 🐝 (@huuntresss) August 5, 2024
As a devoted fan, I must express my delight with the latest episode, it truly was exceptional. However, it felt more like a mid-season cliffhanger rather than a season finale. Frankly, this finale underscored the need for Game of Thrones: House of the Dragon to extend its seasons to 10 episodes.
— JJ 😈 (@KingJordan_57) August 5, 2024
Is that the House of the Dragon season finale or the season 3 preview? I’m genuinely asking, not joking. #HOTDS2 #HouseOfTheDragon #HouseOfTheDragons
— Shelby (@shelby_lc) August 5, 2024
As a dedicated game-lover, I’d say: “Swapping places with Game of Thrones’ final season, House of the Dragon Season 2 delivers an underwhelming experience that feels more like a rushed remake rather than a polished sequel. #HOTD #HOTDS2”
— The Bravo Watcher (@TheBravoWatcher) August 5, 2024
House of the Dragons S2E8 – Anticipation vs. Reality
— Krrish (@itsme_krrishm) August 5, 2024
We had to deal with Freud dreams for this?!!
chile#HouseOfTheDragon #DemDragons— Princess Weekes Discourse Free (@WeekesPrincess) August 5, 2024
I recently caught up with the gripping Season 2 finale of House of the Dragon. It’s been a fantastic season featuring outstanding performances, captivating drama, stunning action and visuals, and some genuinely shocking twists. Can’t wait for Season 3! #HouseOfTheDragon
— Jordan Carpenter (@JordanCarp3nt3r) August 5, 2024
When the most action in the season finale is mud wresting. #HOTD #HOTDS2
— Dr. Acula (@_Dr_Acula_MD) August 5, 2024
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2024-08-05 05:55