“House of the Dragon” - Episode 8 Review
“I am the Sea Snakes own blood, I am his next of kin” - Vaemond Velaryon (Wil Johnson).
The eight episode titled “The Lord of the Tides” starts in Driftmark where Princess Rhaenys Velaryon (Eve Best) is hearing that her husband Lord Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint) has been injured in battle and the question about who will take his place comes to life.
The legitimacy of the princess Rhaenyra Targaryen’s (Emma D’Arcy) three sons has been a topic and argument for the last few episodes and this episode is no different. Petitions have been made for the title of “Lord of the Tides” and the council has agreed to hear them.
King Viserys (Paddy Considine) health has worsened in the six years since his daughter Rhaenyra last saw him, seeing him now with scaly skin and gauze over one side of his face. Rhaenyra fears that she will not win this petition and goes to her father in the middle of the night and begs him to help her defend her claim and her children if he truly believes in “the song of ice and fire” from Aegon the conqueror's dream.
“I must admit my confusion. I do not understand why petitions are being heard over a settled succession,” King Viserys says. Viserys lets his cousin the princess Rhaenys speak to the wishes of her husband and says who will take the title is settled once and for all.
The dramatization for the entrance of King Viserys to the throne room is perfect and Paddy Considine’s acting continues to be flawless and Emmy-worthy. This may be the last we see of Considine’s King Viserys and it truly wouldn’t feel right if anyone else playing the character. This episode definitely shows why Considine was a great fit.
This episode was an emotional one, probably the most emotional of the season. Queen Alicent continues to be a character that you either love or hate and that can all be given to Olivia Coke’s amazing portrayal of her.
Whether you’re a fan that has read the books or just a fan who watches the show, “House of The Dragon” is definitely worth watching from start to finish. This series so far has something for fans of any genre.
“Let us no longer hold ill feelings in our hearts. The crown cannot stand strong if the House of the Dragon remains divided.” - King Viserys Targaryen.
Oh, King Viserys. if you only knew what was coming next.
Rating: 4/5
CheRanda Hammond is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email clh5932@psu.edu.
