SkimIt
The epic battle of the season arrived on this week's episode of Game of Thrones, with numerous casualties and bloody scars.
Finally Some Focus
I'm really happy that HBO chose to focus on only the King's Landing storyline for this most epic episode. This season, in my opinion, has suffered from a little distraction because of all of the competing stories and characters. The Battle of the Blackwater truly needed its own hour and HBO definitely came through. When Stannis' (Stephen Dillane) men finally approached King's Landing, the war we've all been waiting for arrived at last.
Battles Between Women
Cersei (Lena Headey) continues to taunt a newly menstruating Sansa (Sophie Turner) even as they hide away beneath the Red Keep for safety. I have to say, drunken Cersei was pathetically hilarious, and added a little bit of comedy to the episode. Sansa, meanwhile, is getting smarter and tougher, maneuvering her words and actions with fantastic skill. I can't wait for her strength to increase throughout the series.
The Battle of Blackwater
As Tyrion (Peter Dinklage) had planned, the Wildfire proved to be most effectual in the fight against Stannis' large fleet. With one shot of a flaming arrow, most of Stannis' ships were consumed by the fire, with plenty of bloodcurdling screams and cries for help echoing long after. Stannis, however, sees this as only a slight annoyance, and urges his men to continue the attack.
Battle Wounds
After Cersei orders her dear little Joffrey (Jack Gleeson) back into the Red Keep for safety, the Lannisters' men lose their wits and begin to retreat. Tyrion takes charge, however, and gives his wavering men a speech to rouse their fighting spirits. Stannis' army is defeated with plenty of blood and gore and with the timely arrival of Tywin's (Charles Dance) additional men. I'm only worried for Tyrion, who took a swift slice to the face moments before the episode ended!
Now that the Lannisters have defeated Stannis, what hope do we have for the King of the North and the Stark battles? Do you guys love Tyrion as much as I do and hope he's okay? After this intense, epic battle, what kind of season finale can we look forward to?
Best Lines:
"I've never known bells to mean surrender. They want to play music with us, let's play. DRUMS!''
--Davos (Liam Cunningham), hearing the King's Landing bells.
"Just because I pay you for your services doesn't diminish our friendship.
--Tyrion to Bronn (Jerome Flynn).
"The worst ones always live."
--Sansa, about Joffrey.
"The dwarf has played his little trick. He can only play it once."
--Stannis about the wildfire.
Tears aren't a woman's only weapon. The best one's between her legs. Learn how to use it."
--Cersei to Sansa
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