User Reviews

As this episode starts we see Arya inside the House of Black and White; it isn't how she imagined; rather than learning how to fight she is sweeping the floor; it will take time before she can become no one and before she can stop being Arya Stark she will have to dispose of Arya's possessions. Back in King's Landing Margaery marries Tommen; a simpler wedding than when she married his brother but a far happier one. After the High Septon is humiliated by the puritanical 'Sparrows' he demands that Cersei has their leader executed; instead she pays him a visit and tells him that she supports the work of the faithful. At Castle Black Jon Snow once again declines Stannis's offer and must make his first decisions as Commander of the Night's Watch… including dealing with a long serving member who refuses to follow an order and seeks to undermine Jon's authority. Further South Sansa learns that she is being taken back to Winterfell where she is to marry Ramsay Bolton. Finally we see that Tyrion and Varys have arrived in Volantis; here Tyrion is recognised by a familiar face who grabs him and tells him that he will be taken to the queen… but which queen does he mean; Cersei or Daenerys?

There is little in the way of action in this episode but that doesn't stop it being gripping. Once again Maisie Williams excels as Arya; managing to capture both her frustration and determination; the little of what we saw of the activities of the Faceless Men served only to make them more intriguing. Natalie Dormer's Queen Margaery continues to become more interesting; she always seems to be caring and polite but there is constant feeling that she has another agenda. Sansa Stark, played by Sophie Turner, has been a bit of a tragic figure since the death of her father and her betrothal to Ramsay seems to continue that although she seems far more spirited than she once was which only serves to improve her character. The events on the wall were impressive as they showed that Jon has what it takes to be Commander as well as providing the episodes only real action. The Sparrows, and the High Sparrow in particular, look likely to be more interesting in later episodes; largely thanks to Jonathan Pryce playing the High Sparrow. Overall I thought this was a great episode with plenty of interesting character and plot development; I can however understand those who want a little more action being disappointed.

To begin with, there are great developments that are happening through this episode. If you are into a song of ice and fire, and game of thrones, you will love this one. Personally, I love Jon Snow, and just now, he is in his first test as a leader. He must listen to Stannis Baratheon advice, that if people don't fear you they will not follow you. Sansa must take an ultimate decision. Believe me, every episode is better than the one before. Queen Margery ensures that the new King Tommen Baratheon, the lean heart king, will be her, not the Queen Regeant, Cersei Lannister. Theon Greyjoy is truly lost now. Can not wait for the next episodes.

Judging by Margaery and newly crowned King Tommen's post coital scene King's Landing has undergone a shift in power. Last week we saw Cersei's desperation to hold onto any last lingering power she may have in the capital and this week saw it slowly disappear before our very eyes. Seeing the very enthusiastic 16 year old boy reaction to his first lay and his naïve plea for his mother to return to Casterly Rock, the show has promoted Tommen to the main cast and he is sure to play a bigger and more intelligent role in this season. The wedding ceremony is nowhere near as lavish as the Purple Wedding but it's quick and Cersei cannot do anything about it.

The nostalgic Winterfell theme plays as Sansa and Littlefinger ride up onto the hill overlooking Moat Caitlin, after a very obvious cut from Roose Bolton discussing Ramsay's new proposed bride. It's a brave change which calls for Littlefinger to let his prized possession go into the hands of those horrible Boltons and back into her old home. Sansa's characterisation has been uneven to say the least but it's hard to recognise with so many story lines and over so many seasons. One minute she's bold and confident as she steps down the spiral stairs of The Eyrie in her new outfit and now she's the audience's proxies as Baelish once again weaves a supposedly masterful plan. To be fair to her no girl in the Seven Kingdoms would want to be married to Ramsay. How Roose exercises his control over him will be interesting to watch. There's a very different feel to Winterfell as Sansa returns to the restored castle. An old serving lady gives us a little indication that there are still people who recognise her claim with a solemn: "The North Remembers". It's not much but it is comforting for how long she has suffered. What's less comforting is Ramsay's promise to never hurt her. We all know cruel he really is, the most prominent example being the ragged and faceless man sweeping the Winterfell courtyards and struggling to suppress memories of the castle and of the elder Stark girl. Time will tell if Baelish's gamble pays off.

Last week we got a great speech from Sam as he put forward Jon's case for being Lord Commander of the Night's Watch but it was a little cheesy when they all clapped his victory and also a little rushed. For Jon Snow all he had ever wanted was to be a Stark, be a part of Winterfell but Stannis' offer to legitimise him was overshadowed and given a lot less significance than it should have had. Thus, Jon's refusal isn't so much a dilemma but a relatively easy decision. It's not the greatest reason to stay either, even with his knowledge of the coming White Walker army. Davos tries his hand at convincing him, but even his political savvy, far better than Stannis has shown, has no effect.

But for what it's worth we know Jon Snow is a capable man. He has been a good, just and honourable leader throughout the many troubles at and beyond the wall. He shows this at once by recognising Ser Alliser's worth and appointing him First Ranger. Immediately after he hits his first barriers as Lord Commander, in the form of a cowardly and disobedient Janos Slynt. Even Thorne knows what a fatal mistake he has made by refusing an order and openly insulting Jon. More and more we see Jon emulate the qualities of his adopted father. The man who passes the sentence should swing the sword, uttered Ned so long ago. And so he does. It's a powerful and significant action by Jon which hammers down his authority. Stannis' nod only reinforces it as the right decision.

They do a good job of hammering the point home of Arya's tendency to hold onto her Stark identity, even if it is less than subtle. She finds a very convenient hiding spot for Needle which signifies that someday she just might return to that part of her life, despite what the life of a Faceless Man entails. Complete and utter abandonment of your identity is no easy task and if Arya is in it only to tick off those remaining names on her lists she might find herself lying more often than not.

Even in Volantis the actions of the dragon queen are widespread and well known and as in Westeros that manifests into whore house gimmicks. Tyrion find himself speaking to someone "with hair" for the first time in weeks, and to my astonishment, charming her to skip the payment. That desire quickly vanishes however at a touch of her arm; perhaps memories of the last whore he bedded surfacing. It's very odd for him to still harbour feelings for Shae, who had been sleeping with the last person Tyrion wanted her to be with at the end of last season. He of course apologised to the corpse who had momentarily tried to murder him with a knife so it's anybody's guess were Tyrion's mind has wandered to this time. In any case we are getting fast forwarded to Dany quite quickly in the form of the banished Jorah, who hopes that the Lannister prize might curry his ex-queen's favour. Next week at last we get the fast talking Lannister against the Dragon Queen. Recipe for disaster or fortune?

I remember watching the first episode of the season and wondering if the whole season was going to be that dull, but guess what: I was absolutely incredibly wrong! First of all, I liked that both the Stark girls are finally training to be someone in Westeros, both in different places, methods and of course teachers. Then we have a drunk dwarf in a wagon with a eunuch (sounds like a bad joke), riding to meet Daenerys Targaryen, named in this episode "the savior" by a red priest like Melissandre, does anyone else smell "Faith war" approaching? And talking about faith, we finally see some new trouble starting to erupt in King's Landing, and for those of us that read the books: We know that the problems are just getting started for Cersei Lannister, aka The queen mother. Finally I can say that HBO is doing it right. I can only wonder what's in store for next week, but rest assured, it's going to be awesome!!

Never underestimate the power of honey trap, it's probably more effective than swinging a sword ever could, though it still attracts the piercing of different sword. Margaery enjoys the fruit of her smile and skin, she seems confident as she challenges Cersei with typical in-law banters, subliminally sending crass thoughts and insult of age. If this were a show of different genre, I'd expect the visual filter turns red as Cersei channels her malicious intent silently.

Jon Snow resides as Lord Commander, not the title he originally wanted or expected, but he must deal with a series of problem that come with the promotion. Stannis still irks him to join his cause and the incoming issue with the Wildlings must be settled soon. Another change in the North also happens as Sansa finally reaches her destination, it is definitely not what she had in mind, perhaps this one is worse for her to take.

Arya is now an apprentice of some sort in Braavos to become nobody. The whole process is very vague, so is the reward. It's unclear if she wants a skill or near supernatural presence, thought at this point any means to her end will be welcomed. This practice proves to be taxing for her, and the "wax on wax off" method certainly isn't telling anything. A nod for Brianne as she tells the story of her childhood to her squire, Gwendoline Christie delivers a private and convincing tale.

For a pariah on a strange land, Tyrion finds an equally bizarre allure of the people and place. Perhaps, the most surprising revelation is the change on himself. His time for reflection is short as he must use his silver tongue other than to channel liquor. It's certainly a good way to wrap up and built for incoming episode.

Soundtrack : (9/10) Dialogue : (9/10) Story : (7.7/10) Cinematography : (9/10) Character Development : (8.1/10) Conflict : (8/10) Excitement : (8.4/10) Reasonableness : (7.5/10) Overall : (8.3/10)

Pros :

• the wedding scene was good. Tommen's talk with Margery was alright.

• Cersei's rivalry against Margery is really good. I love how Margery manipulates Tommen and Cersei tries to prevent that.

• I loved Podrick telling Brienne how he squired for Tyrion. Their relationship is great. Brienne's backstory was amazing.

• Davos's talk with Jon was really good. I liked it.

• my favorite scene in this episode is Jon beheading Janos Slynt. This action develops Jon as a commander and furthermore moves the plot forward. What a scene.

• the sparrows rises in power. Continuing the set up of the conflicts in Kingslanding. We meet the High Sparrow. A well done introduction to his character. Cersei plays her role into giving the sparrows more power.

• Ramsey pretends to be kind. Roose's and Baelish's talk is interesting.

Cons :

• Arya's scenes in the House of Black and White are horribly dull. A huge deterioration in writing. We have so many of these scenes without any use.

• I will never ever forgive David and Dan for the changes they made for Baelish's arc. One of the worst things in this season. There is no reason for Baelish sending Sansa to the Boltons. He lost his trust from Sansa although he needed to strengthen that after she saw him murder Lysa. What a horrible idea from David and Dan.

• Baelish said that he wouldn't force Sansa in doing what she wouldn't want to do. How in the seven hells did Sansa agree in marrying a Bolton.

• Stannis staying so long in one location without several conflicts makes the scenes so dull. Stannis must be gone by now. But what to do, David and Dan's laziness killed the show.

• Tyrion's scenes are soooo boring.

This episode gets a six simply because we are at the point where stuff needs to happen. Not start happening, actually happen. I feel like Arya with that darned broom, watching things almost occur. One thing is building up suspense, another is addiction to filler. If it wasn't for Cersei and Margery hissing at each other, the arrival of the Sparrows, hints of necromancy in the vault and Jon Snow finally growing a pair, this would be a strangely empty episode. No,I don't want to watch Sansa be handed blankly over to another psychopath no I don't want to watch Tyrion ponder his sudden impotence and no I don't want to watch Arya wash dead people's clothes. Even she can't make laundry interesting. Get on with it.

Season 5, episode 3. Sansa finds out it's not Littlefinger that is interested in marrying her but Ramsay Bolton -- The Bolton's still have Winterfell after killing Robb Stark. Arya is still getting used to her new life in Braavos. Jon Snow is the new commander of the Black Castle and beheads Janos Slynt for refusing a command. Tyrion and Varys arrive in Volantis - Tyrion is recognized when he goes into a brothel. Cersei's son Tommen and Margaery are wed. Tommen asks his mother if she would rather go back to Casterly Rock where she grew up but she does not want to go - she feels her home is still in King's Landing. Cersei sends word by raven to Winterfell for Littlefinger to return soon - Roose Bolton got the message first and then insisted on reading Littlefinger's reply.

7/10.

In retrospect, I think this is where the show jumped the shark. The decision to marry Ramsey in order to avenge her family was so illogical and meaningless that it could lead to nothing interesting at all. Indeed, so it was. Avenge how? And when? If you want to have revenge against someone that have betrayed and slaughtered almost your entire family, you usually don't decide to marry him, to live with him, to sleep with him, to make children with him (such are the things that married people use to do, Sansa should know it). A clear sign that bad writing was going to prevail more and more. When the episode first aired, one could pretend it was just a bit weird, thus thinking "let's wait and see". But then, later the downfall has become more and more massive. This episode is a sort of pivotal element for the dull story lines that will follow in seasons 5 & 6.

HIGH SPARROW is generally an episode that moves this season's plot forward in a variety of ways. Scenes involving the titular character and Arya's new training school are still fresh and involving at the moment, introducing new characters and re-introducing interesting old ones in an inviting way. There are some missteps, including a lengthy ten-minute chat merely to add in exposition for Brienne and Podrick, which I found entirely unnecessary. However, the new political intrigue at Castle Black is handled in a pleasing and mature way, leading to some great moments. A pity Tyrion has gone from being the best character in season four to such an irritation here.

1. Tommen and Margery get married 2. Jon deals with disobedience 3. Tyrion gets captured by Jorah

The rivalry between Margaery and Cersei is so well written and well performed. So subtle and real. Both actresses perform out of their minds. Sansa is promised to Ramsay but we can't let our sweet Sansa get married to a monster.. possibly a worse monster than Joffrey. Perhaps Theon plays a role in dissuading her? Jon executing Janos was very satisfying. It solidifies his leadership and shows his hard side when it was needed. I love to see more character frlveopkeng with Brienne and Pod. They make a great duo and are very enjoyable to watch. I am curious to what role she would play down the road. Tyrion continues his journey through the east but is actually captured by Jorah. Not sure how this is going to turn out for both of them but we shall see. A standard GoT episode and season 5 is smooth sailing.

5/10

Best Part: Bye Bye, Janos Slynt

Worst Part: The House of Black and White is still awful. The whole scene with the Game of Faces is boring and brutal and stupid and doesn't make any sense all at the same time. Why is it called the Game of Faces? What is this supposed to teach Arya? Why does the Waif hate Arya so much? Why does Jaqen half go along with it? Later, why can't Arya hide away all of her stuff in the place she hid needle instead of throwing all of it into the river? WHY DID ARYA THROW THE COIN INTO THE RIVER AGAIN??!!! It's SO stupid.

Runner Up Worst Part: So, Tyrion gets out of his car and goes to ONE brothel, and it happens to be the same one Jorah's in? What a funny coincidence. This is a prime example of awful writing to force the plot forward.

A nice episode!. So we follow Margaery who married the new king and what was really interesting was to see that Margaery is going to plan something to put out Cersei and to manipulate the kind king. So yeah it will be interesting to follow this and to know how Margaery will manage this and how can Cersei stopped that? John Snow is the new commander and dont mess arround by killing someone who didnt obey; quite hard for a first time like this. Sansa and littlefinger have new plans and Sansa needed to marry Ramsay. But the main interest here remain that if Sansa will notice Greyjoy or not. Cersei also punish the high Septon because he was in a brothel and Cersei approve the high sparrow advice. And of Coursa we have Tyrion who get kidnapped to put him in the queen's hand; it mean Cersei. Are they gonna succed to bring back Tyrion? So Tyrion will never meet Daenerys? What are the new possibilities of the future of Tyrion? Death? Punishment? Or is he gonna break free and meet Daenerys anyway? Need to see more.