House of the Dragon Episode 8 Review (Spoilers)

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Beau & Aaron review episode 8 of House of the Dragon, 'THE LORD OF THE TIDES'
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[@littlefinger2987]

U have as much determination to upload this video throughout copyright claims as viserys walking to the throne

[@Jessesalvo]

The battle of ser hunts involved shadowbanning which is forbidden in the 7 kingdoms.

[@IndomitableAde]

I get the feeling HBO doesn't actually watch these videos beyond Sansa proclaiming the soup good.

[@vanessalore9942]

KZbinrs with a more subscribers get preferential treatment

[@WynneJean]

Literally crying laughing.

[@thatsthat2612]

Your user name made this a 1000 times better 🤣

[@52BLUE]

The actor who plays Aemond did such a great job with very little dialogue. His looks and mannerisms really helped in establishing the kind of character he is. Great casting in this series.

[@koalachina]

And he is getting beheaded millions of times in twitter. Poor thing.

[@agirlhasnoname6637]

That chin alone is doing 70% of the work. 😆

[@alik5895]

People need to lay off Aemond about the dragon. If Rhaena wanted the dragon she should have claimed it. Even her mother told her that. She didn't want a dragon. She wanted a teddy bear. Dragons are for claimers.

[@taylorbarbieri4018]

Aemond is the best “green” in the book, hands down

[@kalecrystal4054]

The scene between Viserys and Daemon with the crown falling... I actually cried. Paddy is truly an amazing actor - really highlighting what defined Viscerys- his humanity. He was the human king - not untouchable. Paddy played him with such truth. He felt VERY real. Really also liked the stare down between Daemon and Aemond. That gave me chills for what’s to come. My heart breaks for Lucerys!!!!!!! That laugh across the pig just reignited the anger in Aemond. I still see little Luc actor in my minds eye and it’s so sad!!!!

[@queerym87]

I read Matt improvised that part!

[@MatthewJBD]

And it was somewhat improvised. The crown fell by accident.

[@Ash.Crow.Goddess]

Yes and then to find out it was improvised.

[@nathandomke2721]

Yes Daemon helping him to the throne was heart-warming for sure. Great scene.

[@jarrodkunze5334]

@@Ash.Crow.Goddess still dope though

[@lydiaquinn2892]

Yup Paddy Considine needs a special Emmy, he is top tier as Viscerys. What a heroic walk to support his daughter, made me cry but the whole episode was emotional. I agree with everything you said, poignant beautifully acted and near perfect episode. Love your reviews. Feel better.

[@xajaso]

I really appreciated the show's focus on the contrast between the family dynamics here. As Viserys truly loved & cherished Rhaenyra, we see her children growing up in a loving environment. Jace & Luke seem like decent, humble kids just trying to do right for their house. The boys are decent to Baela, Rhaena, and Helaena. The opposite has happened in the Hightower household; Alicent frequently berating &/or slapping her sons. Otto wasn't a warm father, and used Alicent for his own purposes. Now we see Alicent passing her ambitions, grudges, and coldness onto Aegon & Aemond. Now as young men, they have little regard for women, much like Otto.

[@WarrenFranceSportsNetwork]

Amazing. You are absolutely right. Alicent playing so high and mighty and look at her children. She has no motive but her pride. The fear that Rhan. Would kill her kids is nonesense. It’s all about her and her father now.

[@Senoba]

Viserys being mostly absent in their parenting doesn't help either. to be fair, of course, his health started to rapidly decline around the same time his presence was most crucial to the boys' upbringing. but without him being a strong figure for them they really only had Alicent to go to, who as you pointed out isn't exactly full of warmth or guidance. plus Criston Cole as their stand-in father figure just making everything worse. with being so spoiled and misguided, and the ones they seek guidance from all being vindictively petty on top of it, it's no surprise they turned out like they did.

[@dawngrrrl]

1000% agreed.

[@philosophynerdlady]

Vicerys did not treat his children with Alicent well. He is also responsible for them and he failed them as a father. I love Paddy Considine's acting - he was amazing! But Vicerys is responsible for the war, and for his children. It cannot all be blamed on Alicent and Otto.

[@xajaso]

@@philosophynerdlady Agreed. My comment wasn't really speaking to that, just the overall difference in the parenting styles of the 2 friends. One could be forgiven for expecting the inverse to be true, that the traditionalist, gentle, & sensitive young Alicent become a more loving parent. No question Viserys bears chief responsibility for all that's happened. As with GOT/ASOIAF it's maddening to see otherwise sympathetic characters make stupid choices, unforced errors, or fail to act. But that's why the story is so good, so human. Viserys knew he was doing a revolutionary thing in naming Rhaenyra heir. He should have been working to strengthen her claim, train her to the task, & consolidate her power for the remainder of his life. Imagine if he'd legitimized her succession in public repeatedly across the last 20 years, kept her close at every small council meeting, and continuously reinforced bonds/oaths with every lord who swore. Would've been easy to do, the time to talk terms/future benefits to each is BEFORE she's queen. By being so passive Viserys destroyed his own family & damaged his realm, no question

[@gavinjonsn]

Paddy Considine had me crying twice this episode. First was when he reached the steps to the throne, and gave Rhaenyra that look. Then the waterworks really turned on at the dinner scene when he was trying for one final time to reconcile his family. This man deserves every bit of academy recognition he can get. Not only has he provoked the more emotion out of me than any other character on the show, he also has been the glue that grounds everything throughout this entire season. Viserys is so relatable as a character, which is a massive feat when you consider that he's a king, a situation none of us are familiar with.

[@zaebumafu]

I feel like one thing lost on a lot of people about Daemon and Vaemond is that not only was he acting on behalf of the king but also in defense of his wife

[@RizztrainingOrder]

Is Daemon the Kings Justice? I’m all for murdering Someone that tells the truth about my wife/niece but I didn’t know Daemon holds that title.

[@MishMishRedRed]

@@RizztrainingOrder In the book, Rheanerya (sp?) Ordered his death but Daemon still did the deed. Then Viscerys order Vaemonds children's tongues be removed as well.

[@sebastiaanv]

@Raymond Sims get over it lol

[@slim420MM]

Daemon represents Social Media justice.

[@BrawnyStream]

@Raymond Sims the truth is relative. Honestly Vaemond fucked around and he found out it is what it is 🤷‍♂️.

[@singularm5923]

What I find interesting about Vaemond and Daemon in that scene is the parallels between one second son and the other. Where Vaemond couldn't wait for his older brother to die to take his place and disregard his wish, Daemon is by his bro's side, placing a crown on his head and serving as executor of his will. The Blacks stand strong together.

[@MatthewJBD]

That crown wasn't supposed to fall off. It was somewhat improvised. Matt Smith just scooped it up and took his arm. Both actors played along and they loved the take and what it did for their relationship... So it made the final cut.

[@kandicescalf]

Also I absolutely sobbed the whole walk of the king & then lost it when daemon helped him up the steps lol

[@kins1894]

Man I got Chills and Tears during Viserys' walk in the Throne room, and Daemon helping him and Crowning him on his throne. Man that was soooo Great!

[@WestCoastIrk]

this episode hit hard. Paddy deserves an award for his performance... its insane how before i was kind of undecided about him. But this episode had me feeling so bad for him and feeling his pain and his anguish and his sadness due to his personal family drama. When he made the walk to the throne, i instantly teared up and it just hit me.... then the moment with his brother picking his crown... and his revealing moment at the dinner table... damn! BEST episode so far 100%

[@gabbyspringer8356]

This episode broke my heart. Recently lost my father who was on hospice. Watching a loved one wither away is a nightmare whether you are a fictional princess or just a daughter in real life. Amazing performances!

[@jags1008]

Deamon going to help V up the stairs and putting the crown on his head was unscripted and an improvisational move by Mat smith . After the take both paddy and matt went to the director and asked to keep it and thank the gods the director had the wisdom to do so.

[@vario6492]

WHAT THE F???? that was the best part of the episode

[@sillylittlesheepjax6009]

@@vario6492 ye it just shows me that they want demon to be seen as bad guy

[@rafaelmarkos4489]

IIRC, helping him up was part of the script, but the crown falling off was not planned, and Matt Smith putting it back on his head was improvised.

[@jags1008]

@@rafaelmarkos4489 Its possible I could have misunderstood but in an interview it seemed that Paddy said the whole thing was improvised.

[@rafaelmarkos4489]

@@jags1008 Yeah, it's also possible I read it wrong too. Either way, I'd say the moment with the crown is the most impactful part of the scene, and adds a lot to the emotion and thematic idea of the scene.

[@afireinsidebrad]

I recently lost my grandfather after a several year long battle with Parkinsons and the degeneration it brings, helped take care of him up until the end, seeing Viserys like this hit home hard and Paddy brought an accuracy to a withered soul that i hadnt seen before, he was so good Give this man an award!

[@MatthewJBD]

Same here. Covid put him in hospital and then him not being moved enough caused a stroke/blood clots.

[@AL-fl4jk]

I think anyone who’s lost someone to cancer was hit hard by this ep too, seeing him waste away

[@AhegaoEinstein]

The fact that Alicent marries her two children together reinforces, for me, that she wasn’t mad at Rhaenyra for sleeping with Daemon but was mad at Rhaenyra because it wasn’t her…

[@Ash.Crow.Goddess]

Yep.

[@tgentilcoremd]

Daemon loves his family and in my view is crazy in love with Rhaenyra. He is seen in the past two episodes to stand off to the side in the background, until her virtue is questioned, at which point he is all about defending her, There are lots of small gentle gestures and glances and similar couple types of reactions. However their relationship is portrayed in the text, in this entire series to date, it is entirely passionate. In my opinion, it may be one of the more significant reasons why, he felt the need to stay away, until most recently, from King's Landing. He loved and loves her :)

[@apanapandottir205]

The "good name for a king" line and them all kinda laughing hit me. Very relatable moment.

[@Dinosgurl20]

Alicent is ridiculous. This man hopped up on milk of the poppy, who called you his dead wife’s name, who spent his life defending his daughter and his brother through everything and just defended her again. He’s exhausted and sick and when he starts up a conversation that you never had with him you use his words to justify passing over Rhenyra and putting your son on the throne. Ma’am 😒

[@ayandak47]

Just a nice excuse for her to justify what she was conditioned to do.

[@rollyflan]

The brilliance of Rhaenys in this episode is how she was fully willing to let Rhaenyra take that political death-blow until the king showed up. At first she denied Rhaenyra's marriage proposal, but as soon as the power dynamic shifted, Rhaenys switched sides and accepted. It really shows her cunning as a politician, and the fact that she isn't actually taking Rhaenyra's side, she's just doing whatever works best in her favor. She still hates Rhaenyra and Daemon because she believes they murdered her son.

[@michaelh9649]

Announcing the betrothals like that in public was pretty brilliant too. Rhaenyra made the proposition initially in desperation because her position was weak, so once the situation flipped, Rhaenys ensured there’d be no way for her to back out from it. Because, honestly, the betrothals of Jace and Luke, heir to the next queen and lord of Driftmark respectively, are two incredibly potent political chips that Rhaenyra probably would not have wanted to use all on one house if she could help it.

[@koalachina]

I like Rhaenys better than Rhaenyra.

[@PrincessLioness]

@@michaelh9649 Yes, a lot of book readers are calling that decision dumb, as it kind of led to what happens at storms end. But Rhaenyra kind of had to to keep the Velaryons as allies. I think it makes a bit more sense in the books, when they betrothed since they were toddlers, which makes Corlys not caring make more sense. The fact that he had Adam and Alyn legitimized means that he does care are about blood.

[@Captain_Insano_nomercy]

@@michaelh9649 and now we see how it came back to bite her. Really too they used up 4 chips, because Daemon decides who his daughters marry, not Corlys and Rhaenys

[@Captain_Insano_nomercy]

@@PrincessLioness I think it made sense in the moment but it was a terrible decision because they lost 4 separate marriage alliances, and truth be told the kids are ALREADY the heirs to the Velaryons, so they don't really have to win over the grandparents at all seeing as how they threw in with the blacks for their grandchildren

[@rev0568]

Funnily enough Paddy's idea WAS that it was Aemma coming to collect him

[@alik5895]

Rhaneys. She saw in that moment, when Viserys entered the throne room, a way of resolving her conflict with Corlys. Remember she wanted Driftmark to pass on to her blood while Corlys didn't. But through Rhaneyra's offer of marrying their offspring, both her wish and Corlys' wish could be fulfilled.

[@tsheporabekane4172]

But now Driftmark belongs to the Targeryans...

[@alik5895]

@@tsheporabekane4172 Um, no. Rhaena is half Velaryon. When she has kids with Luke there'll still be Velaryon blood in the family.

[@80sBaBii774]

I really enjoyed episode 8 Daemon has grown on me. I also shed a few tear at the dinner scene as they showed Viserys looking around the room and enjoying his family. It seems that his wish was coming true, all he wanted was for them to get along.

[@jonny-b4954]

At least for that few minutes his wish was coming true. Soon as he left the room shit went down.

[@80sBaBii774]

@@jonny-b4954 😂 absolutely!!!!! Lol they couldn’t wait to be petty!!!!

[@roxystarlite4106]

I BAWLED during that scene. My dad died from cancer and we watched it ravage his body. All he wanted was for us to eat dinner together every night before he died. That was really hard for me to watch. But Paddy did a phenomenal job.

[@80sBaBii774]

@@roxystarlite4106 yes , paddy did phenomenal. I am ready for next week’s episode.And my condolences to you and your family.

[@jaymierae9890]

I think Alicent intentionally misunderstood Viserys’ words to advance her and Otto’s plot to usurp Rhaenyra.

[@philosophynerdlady]

She probably thought about their discussion in episode 3, in front of the campfire, when Vicerys told Alicent about his dream of a son on the throne. No doubt every character in the show (now that Lyonel is gone) is doing whatever is in their own interest. Rhaenyra is lying to the realm out of her own interests...

[@rawbones4117]

My roommate had waltzed into the room and stuck around for this episode. He hasn't watched any of GOT or HotD, but he lingered regardless. He didn't understand 98% of what was going on, but did say that Daemon "has that chad shit going on"

[@Eyeofapollo]

Throughout all of the time jumps, changes in key character actors, and the fluctuations in relationships, the one constant has been Paddy as Viserys. Much like Sean Bean’s role as Ned Stark, he created an emotional baseline that will resonate throughout the future episodes and seasons. We all took Viserys for granted, both the audience and characters. We laughed at his Lego set, shook our head at his hubris in naming Rhaenyra heir, and named him a weak and ineffective leader. But when he took that walk to the throne, we saw Viserys as something more. We saw him as KING. Someone who, through pure force of will, LIVED far beyond his own body’s ability to sustain it. Why? Because he loved his family and could not die knowing he not only failed his family, but the whole country.

[@bakedandsalty9234]

Maybe that infusion of Strong blood is why Rhaenyra’s kids aren’t complete psychopaths? It’s too bad Alicent wouldn’t let her daughter marry Rhaenyra’s son.

[@Brysonhundley]

A thing I haven't heard many people mention is the significance of swapping out Targaryen heraldry for the faith of the 7 iconography. Because the faith of the 7 is centralized in old town, it's a key aspect of Hightower influence, so them switching them out is a subtle way that they can make the crown less synonymous with House Targaryen and instead have it be guided by institutions that are more or less under Hightower control

[@leroylindsay7654]

It’s the reason Otto is able to manipulate this whole thing,because he has backing from “old town”

[@talya1877]

Cool thing about Alicent’s Handmaid/Mysaria’s whisperer Talya is the actress is Miguel Sapochnik’s wife. She’s also the only show original show character not in the books.

[@BlushGush]

Wow thanks for this info! People thought she was young melissandre because of her resemblecento the red witch

[@telenuvem6355]

Vaemond is not wrong to be unsettled about Rhaenyra's sons, but their line wouldn't vanish if he doesn't have the throne. Go have your children. Besides, Rhaena and Baela will continue the Velaryion line even if they get married to Rhaenyra's sons. Laena's daughters come before him in terms of succession anyway and he's willing to uphold male succession over females. So..... invalid petition since Viserys has determined that this wouldn't be a thing after him..

[@the2dudes1]

Yeah Vaemond was a hypocrite focused on gaining power

[@the2dudes1]

@Rahul Shah He's a hypocrite because he says the bloodline will end if driftmark doesn't pass to him which isn't true with Daemon's two girls + obviously if Luc marries one of them then their children will have Valeryeon blood. Also he says how he has spent his life defending the Valeryeon family. Why isn't he in the Stepstones fighting with his brother? He was comfortable sitting at home away from danger. But mainly his hypocrisy is not considering any way that driftmark could pass to the girls which would still secure the Valeryeon bloodline but he acts like it's only possible by passing to him alone. Yes I do agree that in the world he was in he was technically legally correct. But he's still a hypocrite

[@tsheporabekane4172]

Does House Velaryon exist in GOT? It got wiped out of existence. So Vaemond was right. Rhaenys doomed house Velaryon...

[@telenuvem6355]

@Tshepo Rabekane not sure about the whole house, but Vaemond doomed himself by being dumb and and upholding stupid traditions. They didn't grow beyond their traditions and they died for it. His end is not the end of house Velaryion. Rhaena and Baela are alive. We don't know yet how The Dance will happen in the show..so it's difficult to know what exactly triggered the doom of these houses nor when.

[@tsheporabekane4172]

@@telenuvem6355: That's why no woman queen has sat the iron throne after Dance Of The Dragons...Westeros traditions went back to normal contrary to what Viserys wanted. The name Velaryon disappeared by this choice made by Rhaenys. Now Driftmark belongs to the Targaryans, Corlys said "History remembers names", but his house name died out eventually.

[@52BLUE]

During the dinner scene, my girlfriend looks over at me and saw me trying to hide my tears. She asked why I was crying and I went on to tell her that all this king wants before his death is to keep his family united in love. In his final moments he gets that. The happiness that runs through him is enough to stop his pain for long enough to truly appreciate it. It’s a perfect moment. We don’t get many in life.

[@kash.e.w2936]

Your girlfriend is lucky to have a partner who can express such a complex and overwhelming emotion in an eloquent way. I was able to visualize your description, and it was spot on🥹

[@BlushGush]

Beautiful. Thanks for sharing. This was definitely the best episode of the season. Esp for these viserys and it all happens within two days. Shame the director Of this episode, Geeta Patel, isn’t coming back 😢

[@locke2517]

This is one of the best episodes of GOT ever. So good. Paddy's performance when he was pleading with his family to move past their petty differences and love each other was moving.

[@sgt.pepper5078]

Recency bias.

[@that.canadian.vaper.guyTCVG]

Did you notice when Vaemond was speaking with Otto and Alicent in the council room? They didn't have their attendance stones, meaning that what they were speaking of was off the record. Meaning Vaemond knew that what he was petitioning to Otto and The Queen could be considered treasonous and spark mutiny, so he wanted to speak to them off record. And Otto was ALL about it. He wants the naval support of Vaemond and you could see it when Daemon beheaded Vaemond. Otto was PISSED because that is a GIGANTIC ally now dead.

[@jeremybowser7690]

Oh yeah, everything in the throne room scene was great. The long struggle to the throne, the wrestling style interrupt with the king's guard and the heralds and the looks on everyone's face. Also, Daemon supporting him, crowning him, then provoking and executing Vaemond. Just excellent. It builds on everything that episode and the season has been setting up. Daemond and Aemond are clearly a parallel. This whole episode was so tense, except that 5 mins of good vibes at the dinner. This is my favorite, and The stepstones are a close second.

[@rawbones4117]

The thing is, I feel like Laenor's mother would ultimately understand and come to peace if Rhaenna told her the truth about her son's fate. She'd immediately be upset, but given her numerous conversations in private with her husband about how she ultimately cares deepest about the well being of her family, kids, and grandkids - I think she'd come to peace with understanding her son's choice in being happiest. Obviously Rhaenna doesn't know this, and she'll probably never tell her aunt the truth, so the whole situation is quite tragic.

[@ashtton_tapiwa]

I really don't know what Luke thought would happen with the roast pig prank. I feel like if I had this big legitimacy issue hanging over my head I'd try and not piss people off, especially someone like Aemond.

[@jkhawaja1]

"Whaddyou call it - freebasing?" "Sure."

[@jackmorrison8059]

Appreciate the re-upload, you guys are the best

[@alisterfolson]

I was almost sure Vicery's last word would be "Rosebud."

[@BlushGush]

This scene was very much a citizen Kane reference

[@mildlydazed9608]

I watched this yesterday, then on Spotify when KZbin interrupted my watch. Time for round 3

[@roxystarlite4106]

Paddy Considine deserves an Aemmy(see what I did there) for his performance. RIP such a brilliant performance! He will be missed.

[@Ecutt]

I lost it when Aaron called it freebasing ❄️😂 it’s free soloing btw

[@tavmack]

Yall have the best recaps/ spoiler reviews. Catch the little things ALOT of channels miss

[@luzhen2014]

I work my entertainment around these reviews so I was legitimately worried for you guys when you didn't post the spoiler review so I'm glad you guys are still alive.

[@Beanirino]

Love this channel. Best place to get HOD content every week.

[@Trowa71]

Not enough love given to the editors and cinematographers of this show. They are hitting every cut, especially the "I will have your tongue" cut, just super well timed. In the previous episode too during the scene where everyone is just glancing at each other, the racking focus really drove the narrative. Just great stuff on every front, unlike some other show I won't mention.

[@dandyman2182]

6:11 so far aemond has neither been a bully or an instigator he kept to himself at the dining table only standing when he viewed jace as challenging his family by stepping to aegon and he only made his toast after being laughed at by the kid that permanently maimed him and helped his brother bully him

[@dandyman2182]

36:23 aemond didn't stir the pot he responded to being mocked by telling a joke of his own you say he's the one that couldn't let it go even though je never attacked jace and luke they charged him and even after jace hit him with an enraged punch he still didn't start beating on him he just shoved him

[@cliffordadam100]

i didn't think this would be my favorite ep from HotD but Viserys made it for me. Rest in Power, King.

[@christian18193]

i keep seeing people blame Alicent for the prophecy stuff, but wtf was she supposed to think? "Ohhhhhhh it's this super secret prophecy that literally no else knows about that Aegon the Conqueror wrote on that dagger I cut Rhaenyra with." She should have chalked it up to him just being delusional because he's on his deathbed, but there is really nothing else she could reasonably take from what he said.

[@sajinokami]

I haven't actually watched a single episode of the show I just been listening to all the people talk about it on KZbin such as yourselves. But the way people describe the scene of the viserys walking to the throne, the bits and pieces, I had to go watch it. it made me tear up you really feel the scene. Damon's not even helping him up the stairs, he's just making sure viserys doesn't fall back. Such a a good scene.

[@Dinosgurl20]

This episode really made me wish we had more. The years passed too quickly.

[@kandicescalf]

I walked out the kitchen last night & when I came back it was gone 😭😭😭 Anyway. Glad we’re back lol

[@356z]

I was gonna listen at the gym!

[@BlackPenzo]

I love how it feels like the succession of Driftmark is a small scale version of whats to come and also how it's ultimately decided by violence. (haven't read the book, it's just a guess)

[@taylorknight5702]

nah there’s no war, it’s actually a nice ending tbh

[@BlackPenzo]

@@taylorknight5702 And they lived happily ever after 🌈

[@char90303]

Seems the scene where the king’s crown falls from his head as he approaches the throne and Daemon picked it up was improvised by Matt Smith. The crown fell (by accident) and the actor just picked it up and placed it on Paddy Constantine’s head. Beautiful, intuitive acting.

[@inviz666]

Not sure how you can say Aemond instigated and flip the table when the kid that cut out his eye orders him a full pig a laughed in his face.

[@sillylittlesheepjax6009]

fanbase is very pro black team, imo show runners rly going hard on how evil greens are so even if something is more gray

[@daemontarg000]

He dint order the pig it was just a funny coincidence but yeah stupid of him to laugh

[@nostalgicbliss5547]

@@daemontarg000 It's not just that, he was the one that literally took his eye. It's insult to injury. Young Luke will have to answer for that

[@BossALKENO]

I don’t think Rhaenys decided to back Rhaenyra until Viserys walked in the throne room. I think the original plan she had was to suggest that Baela and Rhaena inherit in their own right but then realized that she should back the marriage pact instead.

[@MrJohnRenna]

Daemon sneak attacking Vaemond before he can demand a trial by combat.

[@susanosammor1456]

Finally 😩😩😩 Been waiting impatiently for your review So sorry about your health, Get well soon❤

[@Stephy2185]

A great and interesting review! my ONLY critique of the casting is the older version of the boys look like they were swapped...Aemond was round and blunt featured whereas Aegon was long and linear..."Adult" Aemond looks like adult Aegon and "adult" Aegon looks like adult Aemond LOL

[@llianneolivoreyesmusic]

Helaena is not an asshole. Her entire story is horrible. Rhaenyra’s kids are not assholes. Her sons would have saved the Targaryens and Westeros if Alicent’s sons didn’t ruin everything. I don’t think you are familiar with Fire & Blood, a Song of Ice & Fire, or all of the literature from GRRM within this universe.

[@JackHGUK]

Yeah lol very weird.

[@Dustaroo]

Only bad part of the episode was the end when Allicent interprets viseryes words to mean "now throw away everything I said and did today both at court and dinner and put Aegon on the throne and start a war" it's was just a cop out to get a sappy moment.

[@jodiecatherine1433]

I'm really surprised when folk say "Viserys should just ligitimise them". To do so would mean admitting that they are not legitimate - which would mean that Rhaenyra has committed high treason and should be put to death. I don't think he can both pardon Rhaenyra's treason AND legitimise her sons, probly might get away with one or the other, but both is like double dipping - not cool at all. You might say, why not just play their 'Targaryen Exceptionalism' card, and that people with dragons can do whatever they like, but if they're trying not to further antagonising the Faith of The Seven, that's not going to work. I think Alicent really did misunderstand what Viserys was saying to her at the end, thinking that he was talking to Rhaenyra. From the toasts they were making at the dinner it seemed that Alicent was stepping back from making a fuss about legitimacy, but now she thinks Viserys' dying wish was to get her son on the throne, she feels she must fight for that now. I could be wrong, but that's how it seemed to me - that he came so, so soooooo close to settling everything peacefully, but in this tragic misunderstanding has absolutely ensured the war to come. It's like reading that book by Adam Silvera "They Both Die at the End" - we know from the start how badly this is going to end for most involved. But it's tantalizing to see every now and again how close it comes to everything maybe working out well. It makes it all even more tragic.

[@Mic-Mak]

THANK YOU for thinking of Puerto Rico. I'm not American or Latino, and I don't live there either, but I've seen various channels I follow mention Florida in their videos, and not a single thought for Puerto Rico, even though they were hit first. As if they're not American too, and still going through the worst of it. Glad there are channels like you that spare a thought for your fellow American.

[@Loakum]

in his weakest physical state, he showed the most strength, he ever had as King. “I will sit the throne today.”

[@quinny98]

I always love your reaction videos and analysis videos 👏❤️

[@nathandomke2721]

How loved how enthusiastic Daemon was at dinner laughing his ass off at the Targ girls joke and then being all like "here here!" after the toast from the older Strong lad

[@sculptureofsound2]

I disagree that Viserys was the "least deserving of his fate". He did have his wife cut open while she was alive and didn't even give her a choice. That said, I genuinely love Viserys and he has paid for that with this fate he bravely endured. When he was walking towards the throne, the look on Alicent's face...she almost looked ashamed. And when he looks at Rhaenyra, she's the only thing he sees. Absolutely gives me chills.

[@chelscara]

I have to say, after the ending for this episode, Allicents cardinal sin is blind stupidity. Rhaenyra is reckless. But she knows what she’s doing and believes in it. Allicent is so used to doing what she’s told, she apparently cannot think beyond the 1 Aegon she knows or care about the past day. I don’t think she believes in it, she just believes she has to do it. It’s what upsets me the most about her, I cant defend a character who has Zero actual personal reasons, just “I’m used to doing what I’m told”.

[@Dinosgurl20]

The Vaemond character was great. I felt his frustration and intent to shove their faces in the crap they insisted on ignoring.

[@michaelh9649]

It would definitely be frustrating. He didn’t know about the marriage proposal between Luke and his grand niece, so as far as he was concerned, he was basically being forced to watch his family seat being supplanted, quietly and without a fuss. After his family survived so much, it would be difficult to watch it end in a trickle like that, everyone knowing but no one acknowledging.

[@lindsayoprea3429]

Question: I feel like maybe the cup holder girl was given more than moon tea… Alicent seemed more than just regretful… I just don’t think they would let the girl walk away with money and a mouth….. liability but idk 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@18pablo88]

Ahh we are back

[@sangaman2007]

The tea that Alicent gives Dyana wasn't moon tea, it was poison. You can hear her choking as she drinks it, and the scene cuts to the bottom of the cup tipping up, and focuses on Alicents face. It's also why Haleanna later asks the whereabouts of Dyana in order to get the kids dressed. Also, the first question Alicent asks Dyana wasn't if she was okay, it was who all knows about the assault.

[@The810kid]

Cap

[@Lord_Clarke]

I think she poisoned her to but Helanna asking about her whereabouts isn't proof she's dead, because Alicent gave her a bag of coins so where to believe she paid her off to both stay quiet and never comeback to work

[@TheEnecca]

@@Lord_Clarke isnt the bag of cains proof that she wasnt poisened? why do that if she will be dead anyway

[@johnnyodom6915]

@@TheEnecca maybe it was to make believe things will be alright so she would drink it.

[@afireinsidebrad]

@@TheEnecca if memory serves, in the books Alicent is a big fan of using poison, highly theorized she poisoned Viserys, so her killing a victim of her son to keep the staus quo is well within her character

[@laramueller9658]

Aegon is too damn common of a name!!

[@Will-thon]

What a great review! Well done guys

[@DavidPricegprofile]

Great job guys, feel better

[@kendalltaylor897]

You know what else was great?! I haven’t had a true *gasp out loud* in a long time, but when my boy Vaemond said “bastarrrrrddddsss”….I died. Also, best meme of the week is the Kermit the frog in the hood saying “say it”. Classic Daemon. 😂

[@MrDash711]

Man what? Aemond ain’t a bully or an instigator lol - dude got served L after L as a kid before losing an eye undeservedly, then 6 years later the kid who took your eye (& got away scot free) is sat there laughing at you - the disrespect is nuts. Aemond was fully entitled to what he did, & he handled it smoothly no less (got his dig in, then ate a punch with a smile without spilling a drop of wine)

[@temptationofmemories]

In the prior episode Laenor wanted to leave and go with Qarl to fight in the stepstones, and Rhaenyra as the princess orders him to remain, before they all leave for Dragonstone. So as much as Laenor pledged himself to her again, Rhaenyra was giving Laenor what he actually wanted, which also allowed her to marry Daemon the person she actually wants.

[@vibangigan5336]

The thing about Alicent taking his dying words completely to heart and going full in made sense to me when it’s told to you beforehand that she’s basically givin herself to the faith and like rhynera she’s looking for something to stay the course.

[@aricahawkins9959]

“clearly CGI” when Daemon took off Vaemond head like oh shit was he really cut his head off 😩💀

[@jayburdification]

The way the show handles the time jumps reminds me of I, Claudius. Excellent pacing.

[@milenabianca9787]

I was saving this video to watch this morning (UK time) and it was gone 😂 I thought I imagined it!! But it’s back!!!

[@Oncopoda]

I was half way through it and KZbin took it down. 😡

[@milenabianca9787]

@@Oncopoda Oh nooo!! Glad it’s back up I always wait for their take on the episodes

[@miscellaneousgab]

I loved this episode a lot! I do agree with the feeling of missed time. I would've loved a bit more of a feel for Daemon and Rheanyra's relationship. It felt like this meeting of fate last episode when they got together and things felt really neutral between them - not bad, not good. Just nothing to really pick up on.

[@aaronwise6710]

This was the most I’ve liked Daemon so far, such a great alpha presence

[@Mdrnsamurai]

Great video... feel better... this was a great episode...

[@4Ever_2Eternitii]

I think the dinner scene was truly the best scene of the season, it had so much sentimental value bc you knew it was never going to be so peaceful again. It really was the eye of the Hurricane and such a great way to end Viserys' reign. This writing is everything i wished Rings of Power could have been,

[@Etticos.]

Viserys was rocking the Sanguine Noble set chest piece from Elden Ring. Also, Alicent INTENTIONALLY, whether consciously or subconsciously, misinterpreted the prophecy bit. She wants the security the throne brings to her children, and it has been so programmed into her to need it for them so she will take any reasoning to go back to that. Plus she doesn’t know the prophecy. At the same time if she was being reasonable she would have written Viserys’ speech off as a death bed fever dream.

[@aryrios4165]

I mean, yes. Still I don't blame her. She was just another pawn in this game that breeds monsters.

[@conorlavelle9748]

I gotta watch this quick while it's up. I left it for later earlier and it was gone when i checked back

[@Niinque]

I am SO happy that Viserys got a "happy" ending, thinking that he had reunited his family. He deserved that

[@ianschmitt4991]

Some of the adaptation differences have been weaker than others this season but undeniably Paddy's King Viserys is the best difference so far and will be surely missed

[@mongothedestroyer88]

Great episode. Vaemond's actor absolutely killed it. I would have liked to see him raise his banners.

[@Elementroar]

Have we forgotten that Ned Stark executed a young boy for running away/deserting? Death is CHEAP in Westeros. Daemon just executed a man for treason, a much larger crime, with less fanfare and ceremony.

[@alienishere002]

Viserys told Alicent about Aegon’s dream during the stag hunt (when he was drunk). She heard what she wanted to hear on his deathbed.

[@JohnnyCakescgty]

No he told HIS dream where he saw he had a son and was fluctuating on whether to make Rhenera heir. He never told her about the prophecy

[@Adamantium93]

@@JohnnyCakescgty I kind of hope that they bring this up again, because it makes more sense for Alicent to take this as a callback to that conversation and have her think he was referring the dream of Aegon on the throne.

[@kwakud.2485]

Thank you guys for not spoiling how this is going to go

[@TheBrotherdarkness9]

Viserys entering the throne room with the music playing was absolute badass, i had tears in my eyes. Hope this Video wont be taken down.

[@latinmonsieur]

5:03 Alicent wasn't a hypocrite in this. She didn't have a problem with incest, that's normal within Targaryen customs. She had a problem with that fact that Rhaenyra was sleeping around when she was supposed to remain a virgin until her marriage. If she'd been married to Daemon, Alicent wouldn't have said anything.

[@rafaelgonzalez-ft8fd]

"I'll try anything once" 😂 I would give a shot to that milk of the puppy too

[@perkibest22]

I cried when he made that walk for his daughter, and cried harder when his brother stood by his side and put that crown back on his head. The music was incredible, and I agree! Give Paddy an Emmy!!! Remarkable!!!

[@kendalltaylor897]

Look… I could go on and on about this episode! It was my favorite so far! But…..who the heck styled the Strong Boys’ hair?!? My God. Harwin had these soft brown curls…and Luc has a Brillo pad for hair and Jace looks like Aegon II cut his hair in the dark…while drunk!!!

[@TeamDaemon1980]

I was reading about Roddy the Ruin last night. He might be a bigger BADASS than Daemon and Aemond. He's on Team Black. Most of the cool ones are Team Black. 🖤😎🖤

[@Niinque]

I disliked the Alicent misinterpretation as well... I just HATE misunderstandings as plot devices in movies/Tv-series