Any Game of Thrones Fans?

[clydepepper]

I'd call myself a BIG fan, just short of fanatical - and I anxiously await the new season's first episode tonight.

I do wonder if this season will keep up with the high quality of prior seasons in spite of the fact that Mr. Martin could not write quickly enough to have more material to base it on.

My phone will officially be off the hook at 9:00 PM ET!
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[gnaz01]

I'd call myself a BIG fan, just short of fanatical - and I anxiously await the new season's first episode tonight.

I do wonder if this season will keep up with the high quality of prior seasons in spite of the fact that Mr. Martin could not write quickly enough to have more material to base it on.

My phone will officially be off the hook at 9:00 PM ET!
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Mine too!! HUGE FAN!!!!!

[the 'stache]

Yup.

[chaddurbin]

I dont know grrm is too rich, too old, and enjoying life too much to lock himself in a room and attempt to solve the massive puzzle he has created...im not sure he has it in him anymore.

He may just let the show bring an ending to the series and satisfy the fans and leave it at that...at this point hes probably not as invested as the readers out there.

[clydepepper]

I think I was expecting too much and came away a little disappointed with this first 'solo' episode. I'll try to reserve judgment as the stories play out.
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Question of the Week:

Will the Red Woman resurrect John Snow?

- or did Kit Harrington already leave the show?

[4815162342]

Brienne and Podrick showing up at exactly the right moment was a little too convenient. The Red Woman reveal almost made me regurgitate. Though most everyone seems to hate Dorne, the Mutiny of the Dornish Hens might breathe new life into that subplot. Arya's Karate Kid/Bloodsport-esque training should be interesting. All in all, I'd give the ep a B-.

[clydepepper]

The Red-Headed Bearded Wilding guy is doing Windham Hotel Rewards commercials. Is he selling out? :cool:

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[the 'stache]

Just watched episode 2. I won't give out any specifics, but that's the Game of Thrones I know and love.

A episode!!!!

[packs]

Episode 2 was great. I could not be more bored to death by Arya and the Sand Snakes. What a snooze. But thumbs up to Hodor coming back and always good to see my man Davos being a bad ass.

[Joshchisox08]

First 2 episodes were too predictable. Disappointing what happened at the end of episode 2 although I knew it would happen.

Not crazy about that character and all my other's have died except 2.

[autograf]

(SPOILER ALERT IF YOU HAVEN'T WATCHED) (Page down)






















So far so good. Need a little more time on each storyline. Don't feel like they have to update EVERY storyline EVERY episode. Wonder if Snow will be the same old Snow or if he will waken with some new drive or some wackiness since brought back to life. Glad Milisandra (sp?) put her ugliness cloak back on.

[aaroncc]

Yeah I agree they need more time. Episode cut short, too many stories to focus on. Ya gotta hate Ramsay Bolton..

[egri]

Yeah I agree they need more time. Episode cut short, too many stories to focus on. Ya gotta hate Ramsay Bolton..

I've noticed the villains keep getting worse as the show goes on. First there was Viserys, who was a despicable human being, but only hung around for six episodes and by the end was all bark no bite. Then Joffrey, who executed Ned, but could sometimes be held in check by Tywin and Tyrion, and sooner or later would have sparked his own downfall (sooner since he cheesed off the Queen of Thorns). Now it's Ramsey, who is even worse than Joffrey. But he just murdered the only man he ever took direction from, and the only person who could have challenged him as Roose Bolton's heir. He also has the most powerful houses in the North on his side, and no enemies that are in any kind of shape to attack him.

[clydepepper]

I've noticed the villains keep getting worse as the show goes on. First there was Viserys, who was a despicable human being, but only hung around for six episodes and by the end was all bark no bite. Then Joffrey, who executed Ned, but could sometimes be held in check by Tywin and Tyrion, and sooner or later would have sparked his own downfall (sooner since he cheesed off the Queen of Thorns). Now it's Ramsey, who is even worse than Joffrey. But he just murdered the only man he ever took direction from, and the only person who could have challenged him as Roose Bolton's heir. He also has the most powerful houses in the North on his side, and no enemies that are in any kind of shape to attack him.


Ah...but you've forgotten what's coming...the White Walkers

- that'll leave a mark...for sure.

Nobody worries about frost-bite in the North...they don't have time.

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[pokerplyr80]

I'm a fan. Just got into the show last year and watched them all. I don't think Ramsay survives this season but we shall see.

[clydepepper]

...and what is 'Little Finger' up to these days?

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[the 'stache]

That's right, we haven't seen Little Finger yet.

I am ready for the Arya storyline to progress. And Jon Snow is my favorite character, along with Tyrion and Arya. Briene is catching up to them fast. I like her a lot. So, obviously I'm happy.

I'm interested to see what happens on the Iron Mountain now that the senior Greyjoy took a platform dive onto the rocks below.

[packs]

I wouldn't count out the men at the wall. Ramsay is most likely going to attack the wall next to eliminate Jon Snow, the only real challenge he has to control of the North. The Watch didn't flinch when the Wildings attacked last time and they haven't lost a battle in a thousand years. If Ramsay wants that wall, he's got a fight ahead of him.

[clydepepper]

I wouldn't count out the men at the wall. Ramsay is most likely going to attack the wall next to eliminate Jon Snow, the only real challenge he has to control of the North. The Watch didn't flinch when the Wildings attacked last time and they haven't lost a battle in a thousand years. If Ramsay wants that wall, he's got a fight ahead of him.



...and he may very well wind up in a two-front war...the White Walkers are coming!


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[ullmandds]

i just started 1 1/2 weeks ago...at the beginning of season 3...i will ignore from here on!

[4815162342]

It's rare to have such a major character on a television show with absolutely no redeeming qualities whatsoever, but GoT has had several.

[gnaz01]

No talk of Khaleesi?? Way sexy and probably my favorite character!!!

[ullmandds]

just finished season 3...1 benefit of being sick...2nd to last episode shocking to me!!!!!

[4815162342]

just finished season 3...1 benefit of being sick...2nd to last episode shocking to me!!!!!


Ah, the Red Wedding.

[clydepepper]

Ah, the Red Wedding.


I hated that - but it reminded me to not get too fond of any particular character.

Life expectancy in Westros isn't very long.


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[chaddurbin]

i just started 1 1/2 weeks ago...at the beginning of season 3...i will ignore from here on!

ahh 2013, before we had the t206 red cobb bst thread...good times.

[clydepepper]

ahh 2013, before we had the t206 red cobb bst thread...good times.


I will assume I am better off having missed that.


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[Ulidia]

I've never actually watched a single episode of Games of Thrones but I have some interest in it as much of the content is filmed in my home location of Northern Ireland.

In fact, it has significantly boosted Northern Ireland's tourist industry due to large numbers of visitors specifically attracted to the region as a result of the series:

https://www.discovernorthernireland.com/gameofthrones/

[chaddurbin]

I've never actually watched a single episode of Games of Thrones but I have some interest in it as much of the content is filmed in my home location of Northern Ireland.

In fact, it has significantly boosted Northern Ireland's tourist industry due to large numbers of visitors specifically attracted to the region as a result of the series:

https://www.discovernorthernireland.com/gameofthrones/

thx for the link, very interesting to match up the landscape with the show's scenes. a good use of your 86th post!

[Joshchisox08]

...and what is 'Little Finger' up to these days?

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Hopefully he's just douching and stays that way. Can't stand that guy!!!

[Joshchisox08]

No talk of Khaleesi?? Way sexy and probably my favorite character!!!

ehhh, I'd take the Red Woman any day over Khaleesi :)

[clydepepper]

....was AWESOME!!!!!

[ullmandds]

sansa is finally growing up!!!!

[clydepepper]

ehhh, I'd take the Red Woman any day over Khaleesi :)



After the 5/15 episode, you may want to reconsider.


My money is on the 'Unburnt' NAKED Khaleesi !



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[chaddurbin]

you can really tell GRRM is out of the picture, this season feels like it's moving along too fast and there's no waiting for the payoffs at all....and i don't necessarily like it. i'm used to the slower pace...in past seasons it would've taken sansa 3-4 episodes to meet up with jon or daenarys meandering around the grassy knolls for awhile before burning the house down. with the pacing i feel less buildup and tension.

[aaroncc]

Enjoyed the last episode, a little fast paced as mentioned. But still good. Khaleesi :eek:

[the 'stache]

Some things have to move a little faster, as they are nearing the end of the series. Season seven has been rumored as the final go for GoT.

you can really tell GRRM is out of the picture, this season feels like it's moving along too fast and there's no waiting for the payoffs at all....and i don't necessarily like it. i'm used to the slower pace...in past seasons it would've taken sansa 3-4 episodes to meet up with jon or daenarys meandering around the grassy knolls for awhile before burning the house down. with the pacing i feel less buildup and tension.

[the 'stache]

Don't mess with the mother of dragons. :eek:

And I'm just fine with Emilia Clarke walking around naked again.

Enjoyed the last episode, a little fast paced as mentioned. But still good. Khaleesi :eek:

[packs]

Sorry to burst your bubble guys but that is a body double. Cersei was too.

[aaroncc]

Sorry to burst your bubble guys but that is a body double. Cersei was too.

Just read a body double was not used..

[the 'stache]

No, that wasn't a body double. That was all Emilia (http://moviepilot.com/posts/3917378).

“I’d like to remind people the last time I took my clothes off was season 3,” she says. “That was awhile ago. It’s now season 6. But this is all me, all proud, all strong. I’m just feeling genuinely happy I said ‘Yes.’ That ain’t no body double!”

http://images-cdn.moviepilot.com/images/c_scale,h_239,w_500/t_mp_quality_gif/kxjy72akpg52oyajmmiy/that-ain-t-no-body-double-emilia-clarke-talks-baring-it-all-for-daenerys-s-fiery-game-of-977973.gif

[packs]

Oh wow I remember her being on Howard Stern and talking about how she was too famous to do any more nude scenes.

[clydepepper]

While I personally do not object to body-doubles being used, I would prefer the real deal if Sansa should ever be so inclined...or reclined.

:cool::D:eek:


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[gnaz01]

While I personally do not object to body-doubles being used, I would prefer the real deal if Sansa should ever be so inclined...or reclined.

:cool::D:eek:


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Or the Queen!!

[packs]

I hope Tormund and Brienne hook up.

[clydepepper]

What did you think of 'The Door' episode?

Hated to loose Hodor, but he died a good death. Seeing the transformation of Wylis into Hodor was disturbing. I predict Bran will be haunted by that.

And thanks to Max Von Sydow for his excellent work.



I sure enjoyed Sansa giving it to Little Finger...he's such a douche.

I almost wanted to Brienne to 'open up the can' on him, but it's best that he squirm for a while.

After 'looking daggers' through the 'first' Red Priestess upon arrival at Castle Black, I get the feeling Brienne is ready to do some damage.

Was it me, or did I detect a little drool at the corner of her mouth when the possibility of her dispatching Little Finger was brought up?



Yarys was quite shook up by the 'new' Red Priestess (who is sexy as hell by the way - no body doubles for her either please) - never seen that side of him.


I thought the farewell scene between Daenerys and Jorah was great. He's a good character and I hope he accomplishes his mission and returns- but I don't give him good odds on that.


Overall, a fairly emotional episode, but I thought it was a good one.


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[autograf]

Definitely a good episode. While Von Sydow was okay, I think they could have used him more than just the little they did. Maybe they didn't have enough $$ in the budget. The door scene was reminiscent of some of the scenes in the Hobbit movie. This season has not disappointed.

[packs]

I don't think they spent enough time explaining what's going on with Bran. There's no context for anything going on in there.

I was really surprised that Varys would take the new priestess so seriously. He'd easily convince other people he's a wizard too just by reciting secrets they figured no one else knew. Seemed odd he'd be swayed so easily by a secret of his own. Also, the Light people have so far only succeeded in killing a relatively good guy (Renley), getting Stannis killed, and talking Stannis into murdering his own child. I would not be quick to side with them.

[clydepepper]

I don't think they spent enough time explaining what's going on with Bran. There's no context for anything going on in there.

I was really surprised that Varys would take the new priestess so seriously. He'd easily convince other people he's a wizard too just by reciting secrets they figured no one else knew. Seemed odd he'd be swayed so easily by a secret of his own. Also, the Light people have so far only succeeded in killing a relatively good guy (Renley), getting Stannis killed, and talking Stannis into murdering his own child. I would not be quick to side with them.



No - not with them - on her!

:eek:

[the 'stache]

Just finished the episode. Wow.

First of all, the Stark dire wolves are becoming in short supply. Summer is now gone. Rickon's dire wolf, Shaggydog, was shown dead a few episodes ago. We know Lady, Sansa's wolf, was killed by Ned on order of the King. And we all know what happened to Greywind, Robb's wolf. That leaves Ghost and (I think) Nymeria, though God only knows where she is. A girl has no name, but does she still have a pet? Somehow, I think she will make an appearance at a critical moment in Arya's life. The link between direwolf and master is not easily broken.

The Hodor scene was haunting. Hated seeing him, Leaf and Summer all die in rapid succession. Now my question is, how the hell does Bran get away? And I'm seeing an eerie parallel between the White Walkers and the Children of the Forrest, and the Cylons in Battlestar Galactica. Why do the Walkers hate the Children of the Forest? Why did the Cylons hate their creators?

I am liking Sansa more and more. She's really grown up. Sophie's grown into a beautiful young woman, too, hasn't she? I feel much better having Brienne with her. I also loved watching Tormund checking out Brienne, and Brienne turning away with disgust. Somebody needs to make a gif out of that.

Really good episode, overall. The high points, for me, were Daenerys and Jorah, and also seeing Theon stand up for Yara. I think the Ironborn have made a really big mistake. Yara is meant to be their queen.

[Joshchisox08]

I hope Tormund and Brienne hook up.

I hope the Hound is alive and comes back and destroys that ugly man beast. God I hate her.

[packs]

What's to hate about her?

[the 'stache]

What's to hate about her?

Nothing at all.

[clydepepper]

Nothing at all.



+1

I'd climb that



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[4815162342]

I don't think they spent enough time explaining what's going on with Bran. There's no context for anything going on in there.


+1, and I would expand that to several others on the show - not just Bran. I wish they would double the episodes in a season so that they could devote more time to fleshing out these characters. Sometimes they jump around Westeros so much it feels like an Avengers movie.

[clydepepper]

+1, and I would expand that to several others on the show - not just Bran. I wish they would double the episodes in a season so that they could devote more time to fleshing out these characters. Sometimes they jump around Westeros so much it feels like an Avengers movie.



Make a note: Daryl needs more flesh.



It's okay with me if they start with that new Red Priestess !

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[benderbroeth]

one of the best shows ever.

[4815162342]

Make a note: Daryl needs more flesh.







It's okay with me if they start with that new Red Priestess !



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Ha, no pun was intended. Just a poor choice of words on my part.

[the 'stache]

Another great episode. I'm really loving this season.

Seeing Benjen again made for a powerful moment, imo. There are so few Starks left, and seeing him alive, and well, and protecting Bran...excellent, and unexpected. Could we be seeing another member of the Starks make her long awaited return? /hands clenched in prayer

And the ending of the ep, especially, Daenerys riding down to her Khalisar on Drogon. Wow. That little girl knows how to make an entrance, either buck naked and hot (literally and figuratively) , or on the back of a dragon.

Oh, and Arya has Needle again. That waif girl better be careful.

The only downside is now I have to wait seven more days for another episode. Damn.

[packs]

I was actually loving the episode until the end. Maybe it's just me but sometimes I find Dany's story to be really corny. Or at least they're handling it in a corny way. I felt the same way about the scene where the people in Mereen passed her around.

I loved the rest of it though. I hope that many faced twerp gets needled too. I wonder if they'll put a piece of dragon glass int Bran's heart and he'll be able to walk again.

[egri]

I hope Bran returns to the Tower of Joy, and sees whatever it is that Ned promised Lyanna. Though if Jon is Lyanna's son, that probably won't come until a later season. I'd also like to see Arya leave Braavos soon. Her whole story line has just been mired in quicksand ever since she got there.

[chaddurbin]

unlike some here who looks forward to the boobies (spartacus had better imo), i get excited when some valyrian steel makes an appearance. they're like the t206 wagner of the ASOIAF world.

and they have such cool names heartsbane oathkeeper widow's wail etc.

[packs]

Man I loved Spartacus too. Crixus #1

[clydepepper]

I was very disappointed with tonight's episode.

- though I have had that feeling before and after watching one or two more times, it may grow on me...but I doubt it.



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[the 'stache]

I haven't watched last night's ep yet. I just wanted to post http://tinyurl.com/jzlznww. Emilia Clarke's body double/stand in though the end of last season, Rosie Mac. What a freakin' hottie!!

There are two Khaleesis! :eek:

[the 'stache]

http://www1.theladbible.com/images/content/630w/553e27e681659.jpg

Drop dead gorgeous, wow! My sun and stars..... :eek:

[the 'stache]

I watch the show because I love the story, and the characters.

The eye candy is just an extra bonus.

unlike some here who looks forward to the boobies (spartacus had better imo), i get excited when some valyrian steel makes an appearance. they're like the t206 wagner of the ASOIAF world.

and they have such cool names heartsbane oathkeeper widow's wail etc.

[clydepepper]

I watch the show because I love the story, and the characters.

The eye candy is just an extra bonus.


Oh we believe you Bill (nudge, nudge, wink, wink)




:rolleyes:



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[the 'stache]

Seriously. I was intrigued by what I read before I ever knew there was going to be a lot of t & a. I won't lie, I very much enjoy looking at a 20 something babe jiggling around on my high def tv. But if the show sucked, no naked women would keep me interested. I can always find that online for free. I subscribe to HBO primarily for GoT. And, I've bought the first three seasons on Blu-ray, and will own the others shortly.

[clydepepper]

WHO WAS THAT BADASS 10-YEAR-OLD WHO STOLE LAST NIGHT'S 'GAME OF THRONES'?

On last night's Game of Thrones, we finally met Lyanna Mormont, the Lady of Bear Island and niece of the late Jeor Mormont, Lord Commander of the Night's Watch. Her only scene lasted just three minutes, but that was all this 10-year-old spitfire needed to steal the whole episode.

Lady Mormont, played by newbie Bella Ramsey, proved that youth is no excuse for poor leadership (*cough* TOMMEN *cough*). The pint-size actress nailed the commanding attitude necessary to survive and prosper in the world of Thrones. Twitter lit up over her defiant speech to Jon, Sansa, and Davos' request for support on the battlefield.

"We were excited about the prospect of the character, because she's mentioned in passing in the previous season," co-showrunner D.B. Weiss tells us in the after-episode commentary. "The more we thought about it, Jon is gonna come up against so many old guys with beards in the North, that, like, what if she was a tougher audience?"

Tough doesn't even begin to describe Ramsey's performance. Weiss added, "It also was terrifying because it's putting a lot of dramatic weight on the shoulders of somebody who needs to be very young, and we're very lucky to have found Bella because she is doing such a great job of just talking smack to these guys who are used to being the heroes who make proclamations."

And he wasn't the only one blown away: as co-executive producer Bryan Cogman said in an interview with Entertainment Weekly, "Bella is a terrific young actress -- the whole cast and crew were very impressed. I think, much like the character does with Jon, Sansa, and Davos, Bella kept Kit, Sophie, and Liam on their toes!"

[ALR-bishop]

I have never watched an episode but just got back from a trip that included several days and locations in Croatia, including several film locations

[ALR-bishop]

http://i1267.photobucket.com/albums/jj555/Bishop539/201620Itinierary133_zpsgvdwnro4.jpg?t=1465488920

[clydepepper]

This week's episode was 'bloody' good...previews look like next week is going to be a 'hum-dinger' (as Luke LaLoosh would say).


will Ramsey Bolton finally get his? Come and See.




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[the 'stache]

I watched the last two episodes back to back last night. Loved them both. I hope Ramsay gets it, and I hope Brienne makes it back in time to be the one who chops off his....head.

And Arya is officially a bad ass now. Took care of the many faced girl like a boss, and now she's on her way home. The Starks haven't been together since season one. This will rock if they get Rickon.

[clydepepper]

ONLY 2 Episodes left....AAAARGH!

It's not enough!!!


Episode 9 is titled, "Battle of the Bastards" - it had better be great!

[ullmandds]

I watched the last two episodes back to back last night. Loved them both. I hope Ramsay gets it, and I hope Brienne makes it back in time to be the one who chops off his....head.

And Arya is officially a bad ass now. Took care of the many faced girl like a boss, and now she's on her way home. The Starks haven't been together since season one. This will rock if they get Rickon.

i hope they disembowel ramsey and show every gory detail!!! better not be lame death like poisoning!

[chaddurbin]

ep 9 is always the pinnacle and most memorable show each year. this year has been kind of a blur. the showrunners are doing the tl:dr version w/o the book's guidance. damn you GRRM.

[packs]

Maybe I am alone in this but I am really bummed out by how lazy the showrunners and writers are this season. I'm starting to feel like I'm watching late season LOST where writers are desperate to make things happen just to throw away storylines when they don't know where to go with them.

Please tell me why we wasted so much time in Bravos with Arya? She did nothing there except train, which she was already doing with Syrio off screen. Yet we spent episode after episode watching her do it just so she could kill one person and leave.

Riverrun: talk about a waste of time. Brienne goes all the way there just to have Blackfish do the exact thing he would have done had she not even shown up. What was the purpose of those scenes? Could they not have found a way to reunite Brienne and Jamie in a way that advanced the plot?

[chaddurbin]

the showrunners are definitely lost...are all the people in DORNE dead? just so many throwaway storylines. with GRRM you would never get to a destination, but at least the journey getting there is never-ending :)

edit: i am waiting for a targaryen prequel show, that would be pretty awesome. feels like with GoT success the franchise is not going to end in a couple years with ASOIAF

[ullmandds]

Maybe I am alone in this but I am really bummed out by how lazy the showrunners and writers are this season. I'm starting to feel like I'm watching late season LOST where writers are desperate to make things happen just to throw away storylines when they don't know where to go with them.

Please tell me why we wasted so much time in Bravos with Arya? She did nothing there except train, which she was already doing with Syrio off screen. Yet we spent episode after episode watching her do it just so she could kill one person and leave.

Riverrun: talk about a waste of time. Brienne goes all the way there just to have Blackfish do the exact thing he would have done had she not even shown up. What was the purpose of those scenes? Could they not have found a way to reunite Brienne and Jamie in a way that advanced the plot?

+1...I hated the arya training episodes...boring and dumb!

[the 'stache]

Please tell me why we wasted so much time in Bravos with Arya? She did nothing there except train, which she was already doing with Syrio off screen. Yet we spent episode after episode watching her do it just so she could kill one person and leave.

Riverrun: talk about a waste of time. Brienne goes all the way there just to have Blackfish do the exact thing he would have done had she not even shown up. What was the purpose of those scenes? Could they not have found a way to reunite Brienne and Jamie in a way that advanced the plot?

Um, Arya was a young girl, and had trained with her "dancing master", Syrio Forel, for only a few months, if that, before Ned was murdered, and Arya was forced to flee the Capital. The instruction she received from the nameless girl did much more to advance her fighting abilities. Before this last fight, the only person Arya had ever killed was a fat kid that tried to steal Needle from her. Arya could have never killed this nameless girl based on Syrio's instruction, alone.

Why does every single element in a story have to "advance the narrative"? Can't a character just be shown learning a skill, or a craft? However, here, Arya didn't simply "learn to fight, kill a girl, and leave", as you stated. She'd started down a path to completely forego her identity as Arya Stark to be one of the Faceless. When presented with a task she felt was wrong, she demurred, and didn't poison the woman actress. That had a tremendous impact on her character arc, because had she not refused, and poisoned the woman, who would have helped her when she ultimately refused to commit another kill for the Many-Faced God, and got stabbed? She didn't know anybody else in Bravos except Jaqen, and he was the one who sent the training girl to kill Arya. Arya's mercy for that woman ended up saving her own life. Not sure how you can't see that. And, when Arya confronted Jaqen at sword point, she decided that the path she'd started down was not for her, that she was indeed a Stark, and she was going home. This is an incredible moment of self-affirmation for a young woman. She's stopped running. She's no longer a child, but a woman in control of her own destiny. Both Arya and Sansa have grown by leaps and bounds in this season. The Stark family, which was on the verge of utter collapse at the end of season five, is not only alive and well; they're on the verge of reclaiming their home, Winterfell. Should Jon and Sansa retake Winterfell, the entire family, which has been separated since season one, could reunite. Retaking Winterfell could save Rickon. Arya is returning home. Jon is alive. Sansa has escaped Ramsay Bolton. And, Uncle Benjen is with Bran; he will likely take him south to the wall, and they will be told that Jon and Sansa have returned to Winterfell. The tide could be turning in a very big way. The pieces on the chess board are moving, and the Lannisters, who have seen victory after victory, are on their heels. Cersei has just found out that she is in real trouble, because she has been counting on a trial by combat to save her from the High Sparrow. Now King Tommen, her own son, has ruled that trial by combat is antiquated, and barbaric.

And the Blackfish does the exact same thing he would have done had Brienne not showed up? And the plot wasn't advanced? Really? You, apparently, weren't paying very close attention, because Brienne's appearance at the siege has a dramatic impact on what happens next.

Before Brienne and Podrick show up, Jamie Lannister assumes control of the army, and has a formal parlay with the Blackfish. They size each other up, and the Blackfish balks at the Kingslayer's appeals to forego a battle which would cost thousands their lives. It is quite evident that there is going to be a protracted, bloody siege battle. Thousands of men loyal to the Lannisters are going to die in the retake of the Frey's keep. And, hundreds of men defending the keep will also die. Only when Brienne has shown up does Jamie Lanister try a different approach. After they speak, and Jamie tells Brienne that Oathkeeper is hers forever, only then does the possible result of this battle become clear: as she is leaving, Brienne tells Jamie that should her negotiations with Blackfish fail, she would be honor-bound to fight alongside the Blackfish, as the forces within the keep are aligned with the Starks. This means that Jamie and Brienne could meet in a fight to the death. Jamie clearly does not want this. Though he will not openly admit it, he cares very deeply for Brienne. And she cares for him as well. This is apparent to anybody paying attention when she and Podrick are slowly meandering down the river leaving the keep. Both wave farewell to each other. Jamie would be fully within his authority, and abilities, to have her captured. She is, after all, loyal to the Starks, the Lannister family's sworn enemies. But he lets her go.

Back to Jamie's decision. He has Edmure Tully brought in; they exchange some barbs, Tully questioning Jamie's goodness, and openly mocking "the word" of the Kingslayer when Jamie promises that, should the Blackfish and the soldiers inside the keep surrender by midnight, they will be allowed to leave unharmed. Jamie then tells Edmure that he will have his new bride, and their newborn child brought to the front; Lannister promises to have the child catapulted into the keep if Edmure does not negotiate a surrender. Jamie promises to kill every single Tully in order to complete his task, and return to Cersei. That is the justification he uses, verbally. But he clearly does not want to endanger Brienne's life. The tactic works. Edmure Tully, who is the Lord Commander of the keep, tells the captain of the guard to instruct his men to lay down their arms, and exit the keep; which, they do. The Blackfish fights to the death. He is the only casualty.

So what happened because of Brienne's appearance? Oh, not much changed. Thousands of men didn't die. Jamie Lannister re-took the castle for Walder Frey in one day, instead of taking weeks, if not months, to do so. And, more importantly, hundreds of soldiers, loyal to the Starks, were allowed to leave the keep unharmed (and where could they possibly go now, after the Blackfish received written correspondence from Sansa that they are about to retake Winterfell??) And, both Jamie and Brienne leave the conflict unharmed.

But yeah, Brienne's appearance was not at all consequential. :D

Respectfully, perhaps you should pay a little more attention to what's really going on.


the showrunners are definitely lost...are all the people in DORNE dead? just so many throwaway storylines. with GRRM you would never get to a destination, but at least the journey getting there is never-ending :)

edit: i am waiting for a targaryen prequel show, that would be pretty awesome. feels like with GoT success the franchise is not going to end in a couple years with ASOIAF

"with GRRM you would never get to a destination, but at least the journey getting there is never-ending :)"

I don't even know what that means, really. But have you learned nothing from watching this show? Are story arcs ever really "done" with? They're certainly not just "thrown away", as you opined.

We thought Benjen Stark was dead in season one. Lo and behold, he's alive and well, and helping Bran Stark escape the White Walkers in season six.

How about you just wait and see what happens? If, after the series has concluded, there are story arcs that you feel were left to no conclusion, please feel free to share those thoughts. But the show is ongoing, and there are at least 12 hour long episodes remaining. I think the show runners have earned a little leeway after six great seasons. If anything, I think we'd all agree that George RR Martin, and the show runners/writers are masters of misdirection. Just when you think you've got something figured out, or you think somebody is safe, all hell breaks loose.

[the 'stache]

And by the way, gang, while George hasn't written a novel to cover the narrative as we're seeing it in season six, be absolutely sure that none of the story lines being written for the show are not meeting his final approval. For instance, the shocking ending of Hodor's life, while clearly not covered in any of Martin's ASOIAF novels, was told directly to David Benioff and D.B. Weiss (http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/news/game-of-thrones-season-6-showrunners-recall-the-moment-george-rr-martin-told-them-about-hodor-a7044631.html).

George is still very much involved in the creative process. While the writers have been given some leeway, this is still very much George RR Martin's show.

[packs]

You can defend it all you want. The scenes at Riverrun were a disaster in my opinion. The whole show has been moving towards turning Jamie into a better version of himself (i.e. the scenes with him and Tyrion / his daughter / niece and the original scenes with Brienne) only to have him throw all of that away for a blind allegiance to Cersei that seemed thrown in just to drum up some drama. The ancillary things you mention about the keep and the soldiers mean nothing to the overall story. That's all surface and no substance. Who cares about Edmure or his soldiers?

The same is true of Arya. The idea of her losing her identity and reclaiming it is a good storyline. But using Bravos to accomplish that was not a good choice in my opinion. Those scenes were painfully dull. The play scenes between the Starks and the Lannisters were great but it was too little too late if you ask me. There was a ton of time that could have been cut, especially since it seems like Bran is the real power player of the story and has received a fraction of the screen time.

[the 'stache]

How the hell do you know what the scene with the soldiers, and the keep, are going to mean going forward? Are you clairvoyant now?

"Who cares about Edmure, or his soldiers?"

Um, Jon Snow and Sansa Stark just might, if those soldiers come to aid their retaking of Winterfell. It might not happen, as there may be insufficient time for them to get there, even if that was their aim. But the point is, you don't know.

You completely whiffed in your assessments of two key scenes. Now, instead of attempting to refute either of the statements I made, you're left with "you can defend it all you want. the scenes were a disaster, in my opinion."

Yes. Your opinion. And your opinion is, seemingly, pretty ill-informed.

And as for Bran receiving a fraction of the screen time...if he'd been receiving more time, you'd be complaining "oh, all Bran does is sit in a tree, and visit things that happen in the past. Nothing really advancing the narrative. Boring!"

If you're enjoying the show so little, stop watching. It's that simple.

You can defend it all you want. The scenes at Riverrun were a disaster in my opinion. The whole show has been moving towards turning Jamie into a better version of himself (i.e. the scenes with him and Tyrion / his daughter / niece and the original scenes with Brienne) only to have him throw all of that away for a blind allegiance to Cersei that seemed thrown in just to drum up some drama. The ancillary things you mention about the keep and the soldiers mean nothing to the overall story. That's all surface and no substance. Who cares about Edmure or his soldiers?

The same is true of Arya. The idea of her losing her identity and reclaiming it is a good storyline. But using Bravos to accomplish that was not a good choice in my opinion. Those scenes were painfully dull. The play scenes between the Starks and the Lannisters were great but it was too little too late if you ask me. There was a ton of time that could have been cut, especially since it seems like Bran is the real power player of the story and has received a fraction of the screen time.

[packs]

Haha ok dude settle down. I already said the concept behind the scenes were things I enjoyed but the execution of them was poor. They pumped the Blackfish for like 3 episodes, gave him 20 minutes of screen time, passed on a battle, and then killed him off screen. That's not compelling to me. Jamie and Brienne could have had their reunion in a much more effective way and the total 180 of Jamie's character out of nowhere let me down tremendously. And that's what I think. I don't care if you agree. This thread isn't about everyone sharing your opinion. I'm free to have my opinion and you're free to have yours.

[the 'stache]

You absolutely are entitled to your opinion, and I welcome reading it. But when you make a statement that has no basis in fact (basically saying Brienne's arrival had no bearing on the outcome), that's a different matter.

Jamie has very strong feelings for Brienne. What other rational is there for his not only giving her Oathbreaker, one of perhaps ten swords in the world made of Valyrian steel, but letting her go when he had every justification for having her captured? Sansa, the woman Brienne serves, is wanted for King Joffrey's murder. If, indeed, he cares very deeply for her, a 180 degree turn is not at all surprising.

"The things we do for love."

Remember Jamie uttering that in the very first episode of season one, right before shoving Bran out of the tower window for seeing he and Cersei in a very compromising position? If his feelings are truly as deep as they seem to be, I don't think his actions are at all surprising.

Haha ok dude settle down. I already said the concept behind the scenes were things I enjoyed but the execution of them was poor. They pumped the Blackfish for like 3 episodes, gave him 20 minutes of screen time, passed on a battle, and then killed him off screen. That's not compelling to me. Jamie and Brienne could have had their reunion in a much more effective way and the total 180 of Jamie's character out of nowhere let me down tremendously. And that's what I think. I don't care if you agree. This thread isn't about everyone sharing your opinion. I'm free to have my opinion and you're free to have yours.

[packs]

The 180 I was talking about with Jamie was that his character was on an arc of redemption. He begins the series as this cruel, warrior-type that has a blind faith in his name and family. But throughout the series he's wavered in key moments, like when he allowed Tyrion to escape or when he initially came to Brienne's aid. When he lost his hand he seemed to lose some of what he was in the past as well. He goes on this great mission to rescue his daughter and tries to mentor her as a father shortly before she dies, something he wouldn't have done in the past. And then we get to Riverrun where he simply decides he will just continue to be the same Jamie he had always been, with a blind allegiance to Cersei.

[chaddurbin]

for being just a support character who probably won't be there 'til the end, jamie's arc has been one of the most fleshed out of the show. it's fascinating to see him go from the show's biggest villain in season 1 ("the things i do for love") to slowly turning face and becoming a hero in the eyes of many. i feel his struggle (losing his hand), sorrow (loss of his daughter), rejection by cersei, hopelessness etc etc moreso than my attachment with many other main characters like daenerys or jon snow tyrion (is he a lannister or targaryen?). the show is intentionally ambiguous with the old good guys/bad guys trope so in the end it's up to the viewers to identify who they root for.

[the 'stache]

So, he's conflicted?

How many people in real life, or how many characters have you seen on television that were clearly good, or bad? I don't know why you're surprised that one of George RR Martin's focal characters is unpredictable. Most of the main characters on the show have displayed inner conflict of some kind. Ned Stark was a moral man, his loyalty to the King was unquestionable. Yet, when called upon to be the King's Hand, he was incredibly conflicted. He wanted to stay in Winterfell with Catelyn and his family. And as strong as his loyalty to was, he refused to have Danerys killed on the King's order. He relinquished his position as Hand because it conflicted with his principles.

Catelyn felt conflicted by Jon Snow. He was a constant reminder of her husband's infidelity. Yet, towards the end of her life, she admitted feeling shame for the way she treated him. Yet, she could still never embrace him.

I could go on. The point being none of the characters on this show are one dimensional. They might revert to one path, but they will do things that surprise you. Tyrion Lannister is portrayed, early on, as a miscreant, a drinking, womanizing little monster that embarrasses his father, Tywin. But he's also wildly intelligent, and he is wise beyond his years. He also has a very clear sense of right and wrong. He has surprised me time and time again. Then, he kills his father with a crossbow.

If one thing should be clear after six seasons, it's that nothing is ever really clear.

And then we get to Riverrun where he simply decides he will just continue to be the same Jamie he had always been, with a blind allegiance to Cersei.

[packs]

No offense man but you act like you can't criticize something if you like it. I like GoT but that doesn't mean it's a perfect thing just because I like it. And it's not perfect because you like it either.

[the 'stache]

You can criticize whatever you like. I just don't get why you think a character can't act in a manner that differs from their normal personality. Joffrey was sadistic; pure evil. I don't recall, off the top of my head, his ever diverging from that frame of mind. Everybody else in the Lannister family has surprised me, at one time or another, by being out of character. Even Tywin. I could say the same thing about everybody, pretty much, in the Stark family.

[the 'stache]

Absolutely epic! One of the best episodes of the entire series.

Somebody get me an animated gif of Jon Snow beating Ramsay Bolton half to death. Wow.

"You know why people like violence? Because, it feels good."

Why yes, sometimes it does.

[gnaz01]

absolutely epic! One of the best episodes of the entire series

+1000

[clydepepper]

I have to admit...I miss Ramsay already- especially his smirk...

Hey, Rover, how did he taste?


I'll miss 'the Big Guy' too. Who knew his right eye was his weak spot.



It was an awesome episode!

[ullmandds]

awesome fight scenes...unrivaled! it looks like we're shaping up for an all female run kingdom with reek as their servant!!!!

[packs]

Great episode. Wouldn't want Wun Wun becoming a white walker, that's for sure. I'm sure Littlefinger is up to some creepy plan too.

Side note: not sure if any of you watched Last Kingdom on BBC America but I think you'd enjoy it.

[clydepepper]

Wun Wun & Done

Something I did not know: Wun Wun is named after Phil Simms, a quarterback for the New York Giants who wore #11.

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[egri]

Season 6 went out with a bang.

Sorry, couldn't resist being punny. :o

[clydepepper]

That's the most awesome 10-year-old actress in the world!!!

I'm glad they got rid of a lot of tiresome characters in Kings Landing.

I can do without Samwell and everybody in Dorne too.

A Very Good Last Episode after last week's Masterpiece!


Lots of stuff to look forward to next season!

[the 'stache]

That may very well be the best episode in the six years the show has been on. Even better than last week's, which is saying something. What a roller coaster.

Cersei started out :mad:
Then, she was :D
Then, she was :(
Then, she was :cool:

Epic epic epic television! Loved every moment. Can't wait for season seven!

[packs]

Pretty surprised at how much that finale packed in.

I wonder about Varys. He seemed to hint he was taking a risk in his journey, but what was he risking? He united the Tyrell's and the Dornish people against a common enemy. I guess the risk was in the travel? Not sure why he hinted at never coming back.

[clydepepper]

from The Wall Street Journal:

http://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2016/06/26/game-of-thrones-season-6-finale-recap-the-winds-of-winter/

[bravos4evr]

The Battle of the Bastards may have had all the adventure and excitement, but I think the finale might have been the greatest episode of the entire series. So much happening, so many things settled and so much setup for the final 2 seasons!

IT'S NOT FAIR I HAVE TO WAIT A YEAR FOR SEASON 7!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! lmao

[chaddurbin]

assuming kingslayer jamie gonna take care of cersei...we have jamie leading lannister army and the fallen frey house, up north we have jon/sansa/tommy carcetti with the northern army, wildlings, and vale army, and sailing west we have daenarys stormborn, theon/asha greyjoy with the dothrakis, iron fleet, dorne/tyrells and 3 big-ass dragons. am i missing anyone? all the baratheons are dead, boltons are gone, and the freys are no more. when you play the game of thrones, you win...or you die.

and the winner gets to meet the night king with his undead army and the white walkers for all the realm. seems like the tv showrunners are not sick and a masochist like GRRM, so they're actually giving the viewers some satisfactory payoffs. looking forward to the stark children reunions and bran breaking the news about R+L=J to the family. gonna be awkward when jon is revealed to have more of a stake in the iron throne than his current title of king of the north.

[packs]

Technically Gendry is still alive and is Robert Baratheon's bastard. He is the true heir to the throne but last time we saw him he was just rowing away.

I'm kinda bummed we didn't get to see Margery's plan play out at all. She gave her mother the rose drawing to hint at her faking her allegiance for some purpose, but it never really came to be anything.

[the 'stache]

Jamie Lannister is going to face an incredibly difficult decision at some point during the next season (or two). He is going to be forced to choose between his sister, and his brother.

Jamie obviously loves Tyrion. He knows that Tyrion was not responsible for Joffrey's death, though I do believe he knows that their father died at his hands. He helped Tyrion escape the dungeons, which, of course, is explicitly against Cersei's wishes, as it means he cannot be tried for the King's poisoning. And, we know just how strong his bond is with Cersei. He's always known she was a monster, but she's always acted in a manner that protects their family. So, Jamie might have rationalized her evil acts that way. But, how does he rationalize what she just did in blowing up hundreds of people with wildfire? Jamie has no love loss for House Tyrell, or the members of the Faith of the Seven. But he's going to learn of Lancel's death, and trace it back to his sister. Even though he'd turned into a holy roller, he was still a Lannister. And, Cersei's killing of the many, including Queen Margery, is directly responsible for King Tommen's suicide. That's their son. Jamie has now lost Myrcella and Tommen in close proximity. Are his feeling for Cersei slowly changing, and does Brienne have anything to do with it? I can't help but laugh at the possibility of Jamie and Tormund fighting for her affections.

https://media.giphy.com/media/3o7qDSozG0KG6RmtBS/giphy.gif

http://www.williamgregory.net/images/laughing_2.gif

Danerys has named Tyrion Hand of the Queen. This is a remarkable honor for the would be rightful heir of Westeros to bestow on a Lannister. And Tyrion clearly respects, and believes in her. If Cersei wasn't pissed off at her brother enough for what she perceives is his role in killing her son, Joffrey, how much more do you think she's going to hate him once she finds out he is the chief adviser to the woman who will come to remove Cersei from the throne?

Then there's Olena Tyrell. She's met up with Ellaria Sand, and has the help of the Dornish people in taking back Westeros. Obviously, after Cersei killed her whole family, Olena cannot wait to get some payback.

How do you think she's going to feel when she learns that Danerys Stormborn's Hand is Cersei's brother?

So many interesting subplots exist for next year. Nine months is too long a time to wait.

[aaroncc]

So any guess who will eventually take the throne? I have heard people speculate Jon Snow and Daenerys. But since Jon's her nephew guess that won't happen...

[pokerplyr80]

That's the most awesome 10-year-old actress in the world!!!

Lots of stuff to look forward to next season![/SIZE]

Agreed she is great. My guess is they're setting up John Snow to end up on top. If he's a Targaryen he should be able to control the dragons.

[clydepepper]

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