Rygar wrote:

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I hate to say it, but Hinds has not been impressive as Mance

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 Agreed. He was miscast as Mance in my opinion.

Then again, I'd say the fault lies more with the script than with the actor. Except for S1 I haven't liked the "Beyond the Wall" storyline.

He is fine as Mance, but all the Jon scenes have been very short and thats not doing them any favors. But I have a feeling the have interesting stuff coming later. ( they gotta right? )

-- Edited by DonalNoyesArm on Monday 15th of April 2013 02:56:15 AM

Wow, what an episode! This whole season has been a step up over season 2 and the fact the episode felt like it was only 10 mins long speaks a lot.

Quick impressions:

I found the episode:

Touching ( Arya saying goodbye to HotPie , Cat and Brynden Tully by the window )
Funny ( All the King's Landing scenes with Tyrion, his chair bit and OMG Podrick the STUD! Bwahahaha!)
Intruiging ( The Astaphor scenes with Dany, she is stepping up and showing who is in charge )
Exciting ( Theons escape I*literally* ducked when the first arrow flew by )
Tense ( Figures the one time Jaime does something honorable, by saving Brianne from being raped and beaten,
in typical GOT fashion, he gets punished and punished hard, even as I knew it was coming it was still edge of my
seat intense).

More detailed write-up Later! Oh and I thought the song at the end was BRILLIANT!

O M G !

Basi we'll talk tommorow

Bwahahaha! Basi's reactions are my favorites!

So glad I can entertain you, Don.

She's been really good. Better than previous

I loved the scene with Tyrion and Bronn after Podrick returned.
Also, Hot Pie. Such a moving moment.

I hate to say it, but Hinds has not been impressive as Mance

I'm rewatching now. The Robb/Tullys scene isn't quite making sense...

Lyanna Stark wrote:

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The Bear and the Maiden Fair!

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 I'm still laughing. Seriously, I'd say it was oddly placed, but...

The more I think about it, the more I like it. It was a shocker. I was expecting it on Episode 7. D&D caught me off-guard

Things I loved:
- Small council musical chairs
- Direwolf bread (I love bread)
- Blackfish being a BAMF
- Dany being a BAMF
- Jamie & Brienne

Things I didn't love:
- Pod's scene could have been a bit shorter

Things I hated with the flames of a thousand suns:
-The credits

Overall, episode 3 was a good episode. The pace was less breakneck than episode 2. The ending blew away the rest of the episode, so it's hard not to focus on that. But I won't. I'd like to note that I got all three of my wishes for this episode. lol.

I was happy to see Riverrun in the opening credits, and then the episode opened at Riverrun. I loved the concept of the funeral, fitting for the fish people. The execution of the funeral pyre was a bit humorous, not only the bungling of the archer, but also the body language of those assembled. I never did notice whether Catelyn was in manacles. The old grizzled guy, Blackfish, was good throughout the episode. And his black scaled armor was fitting. I felt badly for the younger Tully in both of his scenes. He gets no respect. Granted, he doesn't appear to deserve any, but it could be that he's getting a bad rap. I was glad to only have to learn two new characters, even though they never introduced the younger Tully.

I was impressed with Robb and they way he brought his uncles (I assume?) to heel. I don't know that he actually accomplished anything else in his meeting with them, but it was nice to see him evolving into a stronger leader who demands respect. The comment about “father’s brother’s great-grandsons" was perfect in making the younger Tully look like a fool. Robb, as expected, seems much more concerned with Tywin than Tywin is with him. As we've discussed in previous weeks, I'm not sure how big a mistake that is on Tywin's part.

As I mentioned earlier, I was initially confused about what was going on with the two Tullys. The younger one wanted to give Robb some information about a stone mill, and the Blackfish interrupted him. We never did find out what happened with a stone mill. I'm sure the conversation makes sense to book readers, who are aware of what's been happening with the Tullys in the war, but it's not at all clear to me as a non-ASOIAF reader. What I pieced together after watching the scene for the third time was that Robb was luring The Mountain and his men into a trap, and the younger Tully ruined it by driving them in the wrong direction. And he has only dead troops and two young Lannisters to show for it. They should have skipped the "previously on GoT" crap and spent another minute on this scene to make it clearer who the two Tully men are and what happened with the Mountain and the stone mill. My only significant question is whether Robb sent ravens so that the Tullys were aware of the trap he was setting for the Mountain. The younger Tully may have screwed up Robb's plans with his impulsiveness and thirst for glory, but the reaction of Robb and Blackfish is only warranted if he had some inkling of Robb's strategy.

The scene between Blackfish and Catelyn dragged a bit. But it had good acting, and it was a good exposition of who Blackfish is and what he's about. I liked seeing Catelyn's recognition of how wrong she was to leave her little boys. Of course, if she hadn't headed south, we'd have a very different series of events. Unless we need to recognize the little captive Lannister boys in some later scene, the scene with Talisa and those boys was pointless.

Arya and Gendry are so funny. Gendry is being his usual helpful self who said far too much last week and is offering his services this week. He doesn't have Arya's strong principles and confrontational nature. He just goes with the flow in a charmingly naive way. Speaking of confrontations, Arya's conversation with the Hound was cut short, and I was disappointed. I have the feeling they'll meet again, but the writers let an opportunity for some great dialogue go to waste. Either that, or we might've ended up hearing a litany of who's a killer.

Thoros' topknot cracks me up. And I suppose it's sad to see Hot Pie leave the group, but I'm not really that attached to him. I wonder if the love of Hot Pie is purely a reader phenomenon. His Winterhell comment was genuinely funny though, and his goodbye and wolf bread were touching. I wonder whether we'll be seeing him again.

I was pretty unimpressed by the north of the wall scenes. I did like Mance's instruction to Tormund to throw Jon Snow off of the Wall. And I like that Mance's forces are going to head south to the Wall with Jon in a smaller advance team. So what does this mean for Jon Snow? I assume he's going to betray the wildlings, as Qorin Halfhand expected him to do, but I'm sure it won't be easy.

I liked the horse sculpture. Those White Walkers are some artistic fellas. It was so similar to the very first episode when the Night's Watch brethren find the wildling encampment, but much fancier. It raises the question of whether non-human animals can become wights/zombies. The White Walkers in episode 210 had horses, but they didn't seem to be mindless zombie types. They appeared to be some other sort of undead horse. And I was glad to see that Ghost didn't have glowing blue eyes. lol.

The scenes at Craster's Keep were silly. As the Crows' not-so-veiled threat made clear, Craster has absolutely no ability to stop them from staying there and taking anything they want. And yet, they let him keep blustering on, I guess as a plot device? He certainly shows how despicable he truly is. The birthing scene was annoying. Again, I know it was a plot device, but it's a grating one. It does lead me to wonder if the birth of Gilly's son (that was Gilly, right?) will be a turning point for Sam. Will protecting her finally lead him to stand up for himself and for her? I wonder whether he'll bash Craster's head when we see him next. Wouldn't that be fun? But that's a lot to hope for.

Jaime and Brienne are exactly the same bickering couple after their capture as before. I was happy to see her call him out for his near-loss to her. But, as usual, Jaime can't take those personal jabs and instead brings up how Brienne's about to get raped. I thought it was completely awful of him to bring up, and the misery on Brienne's face made me want to hug her.

I didn't realize until later, when Jaime was trying to save her, that maybe he brought up rape so that Brienne would be mentally prepared for what was coming, whether she decided to fight or not. Did he think he was doing her a favor? I just don't know. The torment on Jaime's face as he heard Brienne struggle says that he has grown fond of her, even if only as a verbal sparring partner. Jaime's use of promises of sapphires to save Brienne doesn't entirely make sense. Especially in light of what happened after he promises gold for his own release. Does this mean that those men will go back for Brienne after they're through with Jaime? I hate to even think of it. I just remember thinking what a stupid ploy it was, and I was surprised when the Bolton man fell for it. Now that I think of it, I'm even more surprised that his men obeyed his orders. It makes me think back to what happened to Khal Drogo for depriving his men of their spoils.

I was annoyed that Jaime's promises of gold were working on the Bolton man. I liked hearing the other side of the dyslexia story that Tywin told last season. And I really enjoyed Jaime's rationalization for why it was okay to betray the Starks. His rationalizations fit in perfectly with his beliefs about honor. I couldn't believe how successful Jaime was. Right up until they chopped his hand off! I was thinking that what the Bolton man said about hiding behind his father rang true, and then WHACK! That was an awful ending! And now I'm left wondering if they're going to continue cutting off body parts and rape Brienne and who knows what else!

I'm in mourning for Jaime's hand. So much of his self-worth is tied up in his skills on the battlefield and in tournaments. What a terrible thing to take from him. He'll never be the same. I hope we haven't seen the last of his cocky comments and teasing.

Are you still reading? Sorry. This is way too long. I'll stop and continue later.

Here’s part 2. Much shorter this time.

The dynamic between Danaerys, Ser Jorah and Ser Barristan are interesting. Jorah seems to be attempting to give Dany a reality check. She is so kind-hearted that he thinks the realities of war will be too much for her. Or at least he’s using the horrors of war as a selling point for purchasing the Unsullied. And yet, when she decides to buy them, he protests. Odd.

Barristan Selmy appears to be against the purchase of the Unsullied, based on his comments. Is it slave ownership that he finds abhorrent, or it is something else? Is there some strategic consideration that is being overlooked, such as the reaction of potential allies to a slave army? I’m not sure. The dialogue isn’t clear enough here. I enjoyed the discussion of Rhaegar Targaryan though. And I enjoyed Dany’s success at asserting herself both in this scene and after the scene with Kraznys. She’s learning to put her “advisors” in their place and to demand their respect in a similar way to how Robb has learned.

The scene with Kraznys the slavemaster is clever. The dialogue isn’t nearly as funny as in episode 301, but I still enjoyed it. And I liked how Dany bargained for Missandei. Not a flattering outfit on Missandei, if you ask me. But I like her. I wonder how much trust Dany will put in her and whether she will end up influencing Dany’s decisions at some point. She may become a real thorn in Jorah and Barristan’s sides.

Just as with Craster this episode, they’ve gone out of their way to show how despicable Kraznys is with the walk of punishment. And I don’t think either of those demonstrations is meaningless. Does anyone for an instant believe that Dany intends to part with one of her “babies?” She might temporarily, but she clearly intends to double-cross Kraznys. Missandei tells her “once they are yours, they are yours.” Meaning that they will not retain any loyalty to Kraznys, and Dany will be free to order them to kill him and all of his men. And of course, she still commands all three dragons, whether they are in her hands or not. So I’m expecting a slaughter followed by Dany making Kraznys’ slaves the same offer she made the Dothraki slaves…the option of going home or following her. Of course, I could be wrong. That is a rather predictable path.

The scene between Melisandre and Stannis is interesting on a number of levels. For starters, we see the first real passion we’ve seen from Stannis at any time in the series. Mel’s comment that “when I return, you will understand” is ominous, especially considering last time she left for a little while. The discussion about creating another son and Stannis’ “fires burning low” is revealing on two levels. It sheds some light on how Mel’s magic works. She needs an infusion of…something from another person in order to create a shadow baby or maybe to cause any significant magical event to take place. It also sheds a rather disappointing light on Stannis. He really wants to take the easy route again to kill his rivals, rather than beating them using legitimate means? I can’t respect that. And Mel’s desire for Stannis to sacrifice one of his daughters (does he have more than one? I just know he has no sons) is despicable. Will he do it? I think he might seriously consider it, if not take affirmative steps to make it happen. But I would be surprised if he actually followed through.

Stannis’ fires may be burning low, but he seems much more engaged than in episode 301. He’s clearly aware of what’s happening with what’s left of his men. He’s aware that his rivals are counting him out. Maybe in Melisandre’s absence, Stannis will regain his mojo. And maybe he will pay Davos a visit. It’ll be interesting to see what happens on Dragonstone in the next couple of episodes.

I was happy to see Theon set free. I don’t know whether his sister is indeed behind his escape, but I don’t see why she wouldn’t be. Except that she never appears. The chase through the woods was fun, especially seeing that flail swinging behind Theon. Ouch! Alfie does a great job of showing a Theon who is scared as a little girl and in a great deal of pain. The contrast between Theon’s begging and cowering at the prospect of being raped is in such contrast to Brienne. Maybe that’s why both attempted rape scenes were in the same episode. And the boy coming to save the day was terrific. And Theon lying there with his pants down is so embarrassing that I cringed for him. Again, I expected Theon’s sister, so I wonder whether she’s really behind the escape. I’m not certain who else would find Theon valuable, so I’m not sure.

The King’s Landing scenes bored me for the most part. The small council meeting was somewhat entertaining, solely because of Tyrion and Cersei. Tyrion still seemed cowed at first, but then he quickly recovers his spunk. His attempt to refuse the position as Master of Coin didn’t make sense to me. And Cersei’s body language and facial expressions throughout the meeting were incredibly funny.

I’m not excited about the prospect of seeing Lysa Arryn and her halfwit boy again. But the trip to the Aerie is exactly the sort of trip that Baelish spoke to Sansa about. So I’m interested to see how this plays out. Taking Sansa to the Aerie wouldn’t be doing her any favors. I was disappointed that Tyrion only made a single comment to Little Finger about enjoying the Aerie. The writers missed an opportunity for a priceless comment about Tyrion’s captivity.

Tyrion’s discovery about the kingdom’s indebtedness to the Iron Bank of Braavos is a revelation. So if they don’t think they’ll be repaid, they’ll fund Danaerys? Or Robb (who would turn them down, so it’s a moot point). Some overseas meddling could make the war more interesting.

The Podrick scenes were mildly amusing, but pretty meh. I’m sure Varys would love to hear about Pod’s talents, but I didn’t think it made for a better episode or furthered the plot, so I could’ve done without.

I’m looking forward to next week. I’ll be doing a lot of speculating between now and then. I'm anxious to see some Davos!

Basi , as always very intuitive... re watch Mel and Stannis scene ... listen to watch she says ... I think you may have got the wrong end of the stick on that one . Also I believe Blackfish does tell him he is his King not his Nephew . Anyhoo , great review as always .

Oh noes! They cut off the sexy man's hand!

I could also watch Conleth Hill's face all day long.

Oh the Thrones Patricks this episode!

I would like to start by wondering why GoT does not start with more cold openers? Oh well. Enough of my yapping. Lets begin.

Red fish, blue fish, Dead fish: so it's true, dead fish float. And burn apparently. Or maybe not? The look on Edmures face when he misses the first shot is priceless. So thankful we have Tobias Menzies. Brilliant actor. Anyone see the Catelyn look alike at the funeral? Good scene. 

Pissy Robb: three words your grace, next time you have a plan, send a fucking raven. seriously. King or no king, Robb deserved a "fuck off" there. Loved the acting.

Musical chairs: great scene. One of my favorites so far. PD was soo good. "20,000 unwashed Northeners". Lol. Tywin. Wtf is up w Littlefinger using his Batman voice? That husky whisper was odd. I know you we're in TDKR, but come on.
And now we know that he is a tit man, and Lysas got tits

The Lion and Maiden Foul: liked that they were singing. However, and I'm about to get all puristy, Brienne would never, ever, call herself a woman. At least from what I remember. But I will say it gives her show character more depth. A bit of sensitive side. NCW nailed it as always. So great to watch.

Anguy comedy guy: god do I so badly want the Hound to fuck his corpse with one of his arrows. Hot pie was really good in this scene. Gendry still can't act. But so far he hasn't really had to so I forgive him. The best part about hat scene? What Arya didn't know was that Hot Pie jizzed in that bread.

Cat and Blackfish: no quirkiness. Perfect scene. Kudos to DB. Man I just want to grab Michele's cheekbones

Talisa tells bedtime stories: ugh, next.

White Walker Folk Art: ok, I am being serious, is it me, or does Mance look and talk like Beeker from the Muppets? Meep meep meep meep. His upper lip never moves. Worst pun "lets see if crows can fly" . Um, Mance, they can. It's Nights Watchmen that may not be able to. Bad scene.

Welcome back Craster: wow Craster got fat. Must be all that bacon he is hoarding. Ooh Sams first vajayjay. Try getting him to go down on a girl now. "It's a boy Mrs White Walker, it's a boy". - best Rygar pun ever..think about it.

Theon and the boy: that hood on his head must, ah, Reek.

Horny Stan: fun scene. Stannis really looked drained. Mel is so hot. "Then serve me" lol. I'm gonna use that line. "Your fire burns too low" I'm gonna use that one too.

Dany: good scenes. Liked that they added the Rheagar died line, although not delivered as dramatically as it could have been. Nice interaction with Kranzys again. And Missandei is now the hottest eligible character. Mmmm.

Pod gets his pod wet: watched this scene four times. Kept missing the dialogue.

A hump and a stump: one of the best five minutes of the series. Everything was perfect. Jaime saving Brienne from the rape, Locke being amazing, DB adding the eye thing to keep the climax of he scene unpredictable, and then, "No whammies, no whammies, no whammies....Whammie".

Ladies and Gentlemen, The Hold Steady..... Meh.

-- Edited by Rygar on Monday 15th of April 2013 10:09:36 PM

-- Edited by Rygar on Monday 15th of April 2013 10:10:34 PM

Oh Im sure many will disagree. I just feel that Aiden's acting is really poo and Noah is fantasticiker

II meant poor not poo. Although they go hand in hand.

The Riverrun scenes were great since they do a couple of things well. The wordless introduction at the funeral scene, and the archery debacle, quickly introduces us to Edmure and Brynden and their relationship.

Then when we see the scene where Edmure argues with Robb about an unplanned raid, Robb chastises his uncle like a boy for his blunder, but did Robb forget he himself screwed up with the Freys when he followed his heart instead of his honor?
I wonder from which of his parents he inherited this trait?

The scene with Brynden and Cat by the window is very telling, they speak how Edmure and Brynden had a 30 year falling out because of a silly nickname, they show how illogical the Tully's can be about their grudges, and explains Cat's behavior towards Jon for 17 years.

The Tully's have emotional issues and Lysa Aryn is the most extreme end of that spectrum....

Yup Lady Black, the only name uttered during the riverrun scenes was "Blackfish" Edmure wasn't even named. But all in due time I suppose, we still have 7 hours of show left.

Ha ha ha very funny Ry! But there was a reason no ravens were sent !