House Of The Dragon 2 Review: Emotionally Charged Finale Makes Up For A Somber Season

House Of Dragon Season 2 Review: When its first season premiered, House Of Dragon came across as perfect companion piece to Game Of Thrones. Focussed mainly on House Targaryen, mighty dragons spitting fire and rivalry for Iron Throne were set up as central mes. However, HOTD appears to be a far cry from GOT, barring unexpected twists and gory fate that a few, or many, or all will encounter. Fans will have to wait and watch.

Season 2 of HOTD has concluded, setting stage for Dance Of Dragons. However, what awaits stakeholders has been me evident in 8-episode-long season. For many, it may have fewer thrills to offer than expected, but plenty more will follow and, safe to say, that sophomore installment has relied more on giving a deep dive into twisted minds of its characters than moments that leave you gasping.

storylines that stand out in second season are that of Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) and Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith). Prince Aemond's character has also come into spotlight and Ewan Mitchell and his dragon Vhaghar have some of most meaty scenes in latest episodes.

Criston Cole Or Kingmaker, too curious to le his armies to battle at start of season, realises late but for certain that death and destruction lie ahe for those who march to war. Seemingly regretful of his decision to side with Aemond, Cole's fate is now sealed. He has come to be disliked for his actions and shifting loyalties and Frankel does a commendable job essaying role of a knight torn between his lust for power and letting go of what he holds dear.

Matt Smith as Daemon claims his authority in finale ' Queen Who Ever Was' and more than makes up for sitting out of action through new season. His greed for power, even though growing by minute, complemented by his hallucinations in Harrenhaal, serves as a sneak peek into his complex mind and machinations. Smith's aura and presence are unmatched and he has proven to be MVP in Rhaenyra's troop and show at large.

Ewan Mitchell's stands out with his performance as fearsome and unpredictable Aemond. His mid-air battle with Princess Rhaenys Targaryen and her dragon Meleys becomes highlight of an orwise mellow season, focusing on politics and setting up battle that follows next.

Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra, who shows her maternal instinct early on, comes out in open, hungry for power. It's interesting to witness her transformation from someone battling internal conflicts to one who comes to fore and stakes her claim as queen of seven kingdoms.

Not through dialogue, she emotes with her eyes. Her confrontation scenes with Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke) carry an undercurrent of friction and long-lost friendship. two actresses imbue qualities of grieving mors, queens seeking safety of realm, friends, family and warriors. y play most intense roles with effortless ease and do heavy lifting in somber season.  

beautiful landscapes of Westeros are depicted beautifully in House of Dragon 2. Ramin Djawi's score blends beautifully with various moods characters embrace. It certainly does have a slow pace but sits well with patient watchers. seeds of battle are sown and Westerosis seems thirsty for blood. What lies ahe for viewers is a high-octane battle involving dragons and HOTD fans will know what's it like when clouds rain fire.

Rating: 3/5 Stars