Bran continues in his dream world. A boy about his age keeps appearing and soon takes on a corporeal being. The three kids are grabbed up by a group of renegades and kept with them. Arya challenges on to a fight and he soon disarms her. Unfortunately, as they are about to take off, a discovery is made, and not for the good. Theon is tortured. I can't quite figure out how the torture device works, just that when some big screws are turned, he shrieks in pain. We get another look at Joffrey, who is trying on clothes for his wedding and the future Mrs. Joffrey, Margaery, is up to something. Joffrey continues his arrogant defiance of his mother and she is biding her time, knowing that this match is good, even thought she is highly suspicious of the girl. Tyrion is visited by his paramour and continues to warn her that his father will not hesitate to kill her for his own pleasure. He is in love and this could be a problem in the future. Peter Dinklage is excellent and is becoming more and more endearing as he is persecuted for being a rake and for things he can't control (his size/the death of his mother during childbirth). Margaery takes Sansa to see her mother and they discuss what Joffrey is really like. The mother is a tough cookie, and she tells Sansa that they can be trusted. What is said makes for an interesting future. The dragons are on the shelf for this episode, which is fine with me, although Dani's negotiations to secure an army to take her "rightful" place make it interesting.
26 Reviews
Introductions
Tweekums31 December 2015
Warning: Spoilers
While most major characters featured in the season opener those that didn't got plenty of time here; we are also introduced to several new characters who appear to being set up as important characters.
Bran and Osha continue to head north and meet Jojen and Meesa Reed; strangely Jojen had appeared in Bran's dream the previous night. Jojen goes on to explain that both he and Bran are Wargs; people who can possess animals as well as seeing things that happened long ago, things that are happening far away and things yet to happen.
Arya Stark and her two companions run into the Brotherhood without Banners; a group of warriors with no allegiance; it looks as if they will soon part company but on of their prisoners recognises Arya.
Back in King's Landing Sansa meets Olenna Tyrell; the grandmother of King Joffrey's bride-to-be Margaery. She is asked what sort of person Joffrey is; for the first time she feels safe to give an honest answer: Joffrey is a monster.
Elsewhere we see that things are going very badly for Theon Greyjoy, he is being tortured by unknown captors; Brienne and Jaime Lannister run into some trouble on their way to King's Landing and Jon Snow learns a bit more about Mance Rayder.
This was an impressive episode that successfully introduced a surprising number of new characters. The appearance of Dame Diana Rigg was the most notable and she impressed as Olenna Tyrell; a character who appears to be strong and is likely to be more important as the series continues. Similarly the Brotherhood without Banners are intriguing and it will be interesting to see how important they will be to Arya's plot arc. While Jojen and Meesa aren't as immediately interesting they served to tell us more about Bran and go some way to explain his strange dreams. The scenes with Theon are a little unpleasant as he is tortured and has no idea why. As always the acting is impressive throughout and once it was over I wanted more.
Bran and Osha continue to head north and meet Jojen and Meesa Reed; strangely Jojen had appeared in Bran's dream the previous night. Jojen goes on to explain that both he and Bran are Wargs; people who can possess animals as well as seeing things that happened long ago, things that are happening far away and things yet to happen.
Arya Stark and her two companions run into the Brotherhood without Banners; a group of warriors with no allegiance; it looks as if they will soon part company but on of their prisoners recognises Arya.
Back in King's Landing Sansa meets Olenna Tyrell; the grandmother of King Joffrey's bride-to-be Margaery. She is asked what sort of person Joffrey is; for the first time she feels safe to give an honest answer: Joffrey is a monster.
Elsewhere we see that things are going very badly for Theon Greyjoy, he is being tortured by unknown captors; Brienne and Jaime Lannister run into some trouble on their way to King's Landing and Jon Snow learns a bit more about Mance Rayder.
This was an impressive episode that successfully introduced a surprising number of new characters. The appearance of Dame Diana Rigg was the most notable and she impressed as Olenna Tyrell; a character who appears to be strong and is likely to be more important as the series continues. Similarly the Brotherhood without Banners are intriguing and it will be interesting to see how important they will be to Arya's plot arc. While Jojen and Meesa aren't as immediately interesting they served to tell us more about Bran and go some way to explain his strange dreams. The scenes with Theon are a little unpleasant as he is tortured and has no idea why. As always the acting is impressive throughout and once it was over I wanted more.
True Feelings
claudio_carvalho27 April 2014
Bran has another strange dream and out of the blue, the boy of his dreams appears in their camp and introduces himself as Jojen Reed. After a moment of tension, Jojen and his sister team up with the group they head together to The Wall. Theon is tortured by his captors but a servant releases him and he rides to meets his sister. Loras Tyrell escorts Sansa to meet his sister Margaery and their grandmother Oleanna. The old lady asks to Sansa how Joffrey is like and after a moment of reluctance, Sansa tells that he is a monster. Robb and his mother Catelyn leave Harrenhal to go to the funeral of her father. They are also informed about the fate of Winterfell and that Bran and Rickon are missing. Arya, Gentry and Hot Pie are captured by the Brotherhood and brought to an inn to eat and drink. But they also capture The Hound and Arya's identity is disclosed. Jaime lures Brienne and takes her spare sword and they fight on a bridge, but they are surprised by riders from the House of Bolton led by Locke.
"Dark Wings, Dark Words" is another good episode where the viewer is introduced to the witty Lady Oleanna Tyrell and Sansa opens her heart. Will she regret for disclosing her true feelings? Is Oleanna a trustful person? So far, most of the nobles are despicable beings. Who is torturing Theon? What will happen with Brienne and Jaime? My vote is eight.
Title (Brazil): "Dark Wings, Dark Words"
"Dark Wings, Dark Words" is another good episode where the viewer is introduced to the witty Lady Oleanna Tyrell and Sansa opens her heart. Will she regret for disclosing her true feelings? Is Oleanna a trustful person? So far, most of the nobles are despicable beings. Who is torturing Theon? What will happen with Brienne and Jaime? My vote is eight.
Title (Brazil): "Dark Wings, Dark Words"
Beautiful. My favourite episode of Thrones so far!
Fitzy887110 April 2013
There were no 'epic' climaxes. No battles, nobody lost their heads, but i don't think i've ever finished a Game of Thrones episode feeling so satisfied. This episode was beautifully shot, beautifully written and just a pleasure to watch.
New and highly anticipated characters we added flawlessly to the story. Diana Rigg and Paul Kaye were great. As was Thomas Brodie Sangster and Ellie Kendrick. Story lines advanced strongly. New depths were added to characters furthering even their portrayal in the books. I truly did not want this one to end.
Brilliant
New and highly anticipated characters we added flawlessly to the story. Diana Rigg and Paul Kaye were great. As was Thomas Brodie Sangster and Ellie Kendrick. Story lines advanced strongly. New depths were added to characters furthering even their portrayal in the books. I truly did not want this one to end.
Brilliant
A lof of heart
IamInge23 June 2019
Promisinng and better than the season opener
hereishOriZOn8 April 2013
This episode was very exciting as it settled the direction of many story-lines that were really going nowhere.
Bran was finally told what talents he possesses by someone very mysterious. The adventure of Arya comes to a halt because she meets someone who recognizes him. The boring pair of Brienna and Kingslayer might be in danger again. And suspicions also arise about what Lord Bolton might be up to, in Robb Stark's camp.
The feminist element in the series is still relevant as we're introduced to a new character, Lady Olenna Redwyne. She is a sly, witty and very astute women who practically leads Tyrells and is unlike any women we've seen in the series before. She and Margaery have their own schemes and they have already begun moving the pawns forward. I am sure they'll add more excitement to the show.
On the whole, I like where this is going and I am excited for what may come.
Bran was finally told what talents he possesses by someone very mysterious. The adventure of Arya comes to a halt because she meets someone who recognizes him. The boring pair of Brienna and Kingslayer might be in danger again. And suspicions also arise about what Lord Bolton might be up to, in Robb Stark's camp.
The feminist element in the series is still relevant as we're introduced to a new character, Lady Olenna Redwyne. She is a sly, witty and very astute women who practically leads Tyrells and is unlike any women we've seen in the series before. She and Margaery have their own schemes and they have already begun moving the pawns forward. I am sure they'll add more excitement to the show.
On the whole, I like where this is going and I am excited for what may come.
Bit of a Struggle...
sophie-wise14 May 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Last week's premiering episode of Season 3 saw a focused, visually stunning and epic return to our much loved Game of Thrones. Following would be a hard task so it is no surprise, therefore, that this week suffered a lull. A slightly confusing one at that. In this episode the focus is on every other character missed out last week and a return to King's Landing. Additionally, some new faces are added to the mix. That's right... more characters.
Woven together in a mix-match of majoritively non-sensical jump cuts, each character arc across Westeros is covered. In the North, we return to Bran Stark and his younger brother Rickon on their journey to the wall, accompanied by Hodor and Osha. Bran is continuously having dreams, at first dismissed as black magic. However, after meeting Jojen and Meera Reed, the dreams hold more relevance. Jojen reveals to Bran they have been searching for him, believing him to play a critical role in the future.
Child-toasting Theon Grayjoy has been taken captive by a group of unknown men. They torture him, asking questions regarding Winterfell. Despite answering truthfully, the torture continues. At a moments rest for Theon, a boy who claims to have been sent by his sister vows to come to his rescue at midnight.
Brave sword-slinger Arya Stark and her two companions, Gendry and Hot Pie, remain on the run from Harenhaal. They come face to face with the Brotherhood without Banners, who offer them some hospitality. Whilst at their inn, big-man Sandor Clegane arrives as a captive and notices Arya. Upon seeing her, he reveals her identity to the entire brotherhood.
Beyond the wall, Jon Snow experiences his first Warg – a man who is capable of seeing through the eyes of animals – and the Night's Watch remain on an exhausting trip back to their posts.
King in the North Robb Stark receives letters revealing the death of his grandfather and the devastation that took place at Winterfell, resultant from Theon Grayjoy. He also discovers that Bran and Rickon have not been found. After telling his mother, Lady Stark, of the bad news, she then feels responsible for what has happened to them.
In a way, my segmented summaries of each character trope are emblematic of the episode itself. It felt disjointed throughout, and ultimately not as engaging. However, I am by no means saying the quality is not there. Keeping consistent, each performance is great and entertaining, and the new characters this week were interesting additions, some with familiar faces (Mackenzie Crook was a nice surprise). The episode's greatest strengths for me, however, lied in King's Landing and Brienne of Tarth's escort of Jamie Lannister.
If we remember, Brienne of Tarth was sent on a mission by Lady Stark to escort Jamie Lannister back to King's Landing, in the hope of exchanging him for Sansa and Arya. As both treck through various forestry, an unlikely latent chemistry develops. A slew of insults back and forth regarding the likes of one another's manliness provide this week's subtle output of comedy. Their dynamic also showcases some good old fashioned sword fighting action, in a delightfully refreshing clumsy and ungraceful manner.
Yet, events in King's Landing again remain the most gripping, as manipulation is in abundance. Marjory Tyrell and her grandmother grill Sansa over the true nature of Joffrey, causing her to have a mini- breakdown. In an impressive turn by Sophie Turner, it is understated yet emotive, demonstrating the effects of Joffrey's torture and malice. Speaking of which, Joffrey continues to be a joy to watch, brilliantly playing the character that everybody loves to hate. Even better however, was Marjory's manipulation of him. Combing sensual flirtation and a knowing yet naive subservience has the wrongful king fooled. Better yet, it is no doubt the slow start of a progressing battle of feminine wills - newcomer Marjory vs. power-bitch Cersei.
Nevertheless, episode 2 was neither as visually stimulating or engaging. Instead, it felt disjointed and overcrowded. Although, in typical Game of Thrones fashion these various character tid bits are still an entertaining watch and credit is due to the cast and crew for making it so. Still... for me, this week was just not as engrossing.
Woven together in a mix-match of majoritively non-sensical jump cuts, each character arc across Westeros is covered. In the North, we return to Bran Stark and his younger brother Rickon on their journey to the wall, accompanied by Hodor and Osha. Bran is continuously having dreams, at first dismissed as black magic. However, after meeting Jojen and Meera Reed, the dreams hold more relevance. Jojen reveals to Bran they have been searching for him, believing him to play a critical role in the future.
Child-toasting Theon Grayjoy has been taken captive by a group of unknown men. They torture him, asking questions regarding Winterfell. Despite answering truthfully, the torture continues. At a moments rest for Theon, a boy who claims to have been sent by his sister vows to come to his rescue at midnight.
Brave sword-slinger Arya Stark and her two companions, Gendry and Hot Pie, remain on the run from Harenhaal. They come face to face with the Brotherhood without Banners, who offer them some hospitality. Whilst at their inn, big-man Sandor Clegane arrives as a captive and notices Arya. Upon seeing her, he reveals her identity to the entire brotherhood.
Beyond the wall, Jon Snow experiences his first Warg – a man who is capable of seeing through the eyes of animals – and the Night's Watch remain on an exhausting trip back to their posts.
King in the North Robb Stark receives letters revealing the death of his grandfather and the devastation that took place at Winterfell, resultant from Theon Grayjoy. He also discovers that Bran and Rickon have not been found. After telling his mother, Lady Stark, of the bad news, she then feels responsible for what has happened to them.
In a way, my segmented summaries of each character trope are emblematic of the episode itself. It felt disjointed throughout, and ultimately not as engaging. However, I am by no means saying the quality is not there. Keeping consistent, each performance is great and entertaining, and the new characters this week were interesting additions, some with familiar faces (Mackenzie Crook was a nice surprise). The episode's greatest strengths for me, however, lied in King's Landing and Brienne of Tarth's escort of Jamie Lannister.
If we remember, Brienne of Tarth was sent on a mission by Lady Stark to escort Jamie Lannister back to King's Landing, in the hope of exchanging him for Sansa and Arya. As both treck through various forestry, an unlikely latent chemistry develops. A slew of insults back and forth regarding the likes of one another's manliness provide this week's subtle output of comedy. Their dynamic also showcases some good old fashioned sword fighting action, in a delightfully refreshing clumsy and ungraceful manner.
Yet, events in King's Landing again remain the most gripping, as manipulation is in abundance. Marjory Tyrell and her grandmother grill Sansa over the true nature of Joffrey, causing her to have a mini- breakdown. In an impressive turn by Sophie Turner, it is understated yet emotive, demonstrating the effects of Joffrey's torture and malice. Speaking of which, Joffrey continues to be a joy to watch, brilliantly playing the character that everybody loves to hate. Even better however, was Marjory's manipulation of him. Combing sensual flirtation and a knowing yet naive subservience has the wrongful king fooled. Better yet, it is no doubt the slow start of a progressing battle of feminine wills - newcomer Marjory vs. power-bitch Cersei.
Nevertheless, episode 2 was neither as visually stimulating or engaging. Instead, it felt disjointed and overcrowded. Although, in typical Game of Thrones fashion these various character tid bits are still an entertaining watch and credit is due to the cast and crew for making it so. Still... for me, this week was just not as engrossing.
Feelings are real and love is in the air
GusherPop1 March 2023
For a show that's already running over with cast members, it seems crazy to add more people, but it seems as though Benioff and Weiss have picked some of the better personalities from the volumes of words written by George R. R. Martin, and the immediate standout, unsurprisingly, is the Queen of Thorns herself, Lady Olenna Redwyne. From her very introduction in King's Landing, Olenna is a certified stealer of scenes thanks to Dame Diana Rigg. This may be the show's second-best pairing of actor to character, just after Peter Dinklage's Tyrion Lannister (who makes a brief appearance this week). It's difficult for someone to walk onto the set of a show with a history, let alone a show with a bunch of beloved characters, and make an instant impression. Long story short, if Lady Olenna can have one good scene with Tyrion Lannister in which they match wits and crack wise, I'll have a new favorite moment on the show. There's a lot of jumping around this week. Everyone we didn't see last week appears, and some we saw last week come back for seconds. While the zig-zagging isn't confusing thanks to the great job the show's done fleshing out the motivations of Brienne and Arya and Jon Snow and the like, it does feel a little scattered. Some of the transitions make sense, particularly a nice match cut where Joffrey and Sansa are getting dressed and discussing (or trying to in Joff's case) the political machinations of various figures in the court regime and one in which we go from Catelyn discussing Jon Snow and Jon Snow himself, freezing with Mance Rayder beyond the wall. It's a clever bit of structure in an episode that needs some structure to tie it together, courtesy of Vanessa Taylor's pen. The episode didn't have a great deal of visual flourish, but what it did have was a very good sword fighting scene. In some shows, where clashing steel is all about choreography more complex than the average ballroom dance, Game of Thrones is a show where the fighting looks real. There's nothing particularly neat or pretty about it, no real spins or twirls or anything other than gritted teeth, the smash of steel shoulder on steel shoulder, sweat and strain and blood. Daniel Minahan does a great job of capturing the brutality of the right in a creative, visceral way. He creates some good tension in all of the Brienne and Jaime scenes, even when they're jousting verbally or walking through the woods, and that pairing of actors is probably my current favorite on the programme after Tyrion and anyone else. They're just a prisoner and a captive trudging through the woods, and Minahan does a great job of both capturing the necessary paranoia of transporting the most famous prisoner in Westeros and the incredible boredom of a very, very long journey on foot.
Dark Wings, Dark Words. S3 EP2 review
mohammedadallawati16 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Soundtrack : (8.9/10)
Dialogue : (9.1/10)
Story : (9/10)
Cinematography : (8.8/10)
Character development : (9.4/10)
Conflict : (9.1/10)
Excitement : (9/10)
Reasonableness : (9.3/10)
Overall : (9.1/10)
Pros :
Cons:
Pros :
- Arya's meeting with Thoros was great, setting up interesting characters with an interesting conflict in the end as they captured the hound and knew Arya'a identity.
- Catelyn's scene was one of the best scenes in this episode as she mentions her relationship with Jon Snow along with giving their history. It's amazing that this was said to Talissa and not Rob for example as this results in enhancing Talisa and catelyn's relation.
- The start of Theon's painful journey with a slight introduction to Ramsey.
- Jaime and Brienne's scenes are always great and in this episode we get 2 of them. Although there is a thing that annoyed me which I'll mention in the cons part.
- Sansa telling the Tyrells Joffrey's real personality was great and we can see how horrified Sansa is. Its mind blowing that even after the knowledge of how cruel Joffrey is Margery tends to get closer to him ny showing him her cruel side (holding the crossbow).
- Jojen and Meera's introduction was great as something new happens to Bran to enhance his scenes as they are not always great.
Cons:
- in the battle between Brienne and Jaimie, I wish that they had stuck with the books as in this scene Brienne takes on Jaimie easily unlike in the books where Jaimie's skill was too much even for Brienne as she barely takes on Jaimie. I know that Jaimie has a good excuse of not holding a sword for a long time and being a prisoner but for Jaimie being one of the best fighters it was more reasonable in the books.
Game of Thrones: S3E2 "Dark Wings, Dark Words" Review - King Cadmium
kingcadmium18 March 2022
Sansa says too much. Shae asks Tyrion for a favour. Jaime finds a way to pass the time while Arya encounters the Brotherhood Without Banners.
What I Liked:
As usual, it's impossible not to be impressed by the high-quality production value. Again, acting all around is solid.
While there are many characters and arcs to establish, it's remarkable how this show balances them all, with no scene or storyline feeling dragged out or unnecessary.
What I Disliked:
There is a noticeable lack of action throughout most of this episode, causing several uninteresting portions.
Overall:
Game of Thrones delivers another high-quality episode in its third season. One can only surmise this season will get even better from here.
8/10
King Cadmium.
What I Liked:
As usual, it's impossible not to be impressed by the high-quality production value. Again, acting all around is solid.
While there are many characters and arcs to establish, it's remarkable how this show balances them all, with no scene or storyline feeling dragged out or unnecessary.
What I Disliked:
There is a noticeable lack of action throughout most of this episode, causing several uninteresting portions.
Overall:
Game of Thrones delivers another high-quality episode in its third season. One can only surmise this season will get even better from here.
8/10
King Cadmium.
GOT Binge...
jcbsn26 June 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Party at the wall I guess. Or there will be. I feel for Bran and his legs even more now. Stupid Jaime and Cersie and their incest. Joffrey's mother is also growing tired of his idiotic, inbred ways. Glad this old lady is seeing right through Sansa and she is finally opening up something about how rotten and terrible he is. And her mother has realized that she really messed shiz up when she made Jon Snow leave and treated him badly. If they could have him back now...
Arya gets picked up again. Tyrion even slips up a little bit with his love interest. Theon gets tortured. And Arya gets sold out again.
And we fightin'! Jamie and Brienne, throwing it down, and Brienne totally won before they got taken prisoner after refusing to kill a single traveler.
Arya gets picked up again. Tyrion even slips up a little bit with his love interest. Theon gets tortured. And Arya gets sold out again.
And we fightin'! Jamie and Brienne, throwing it down, and Brienne totally won before they got taken prisoner after refusing to kill a single traveler.
Dark Thrones
TheLittleSongbird7 January 2018
Came to 'Game of Thrones' fairly late in the game and due to being so busy the binge-watching was gradual. Have found myself truly loving the show, very quickly becoming one of my favourites. It totally lives up to the hype and not only does it do the brilliant source material justice (a rarity in television) it is on its own merits one of the finest, most addictive and consistently compelling shows in recent years and quality-wise it puts a lot of films in recent years to shame.
"Valar Dohaeris" was a great Season 3 opener. The season's second episode "Dark Wings, Dark Words" is even better. Things feel more settled, more is done with the new characters and their story lines while deftly reiterating those of the older characters and advancing those. It's not the biggest, most epic or boldest of 'Game of Thrones' episodes, and more intimate and character heavy, but all the better for it due to how many characters it introduces. The start of the episode is a bit slow, but overall there is a lot going on and a lot of characters but this is not a case of being over-stuffed or over-crowded.
All the acting is fine across the board, Peter Dinklage is particularly brilliant of the non-new characters, not a surprise as he is always a high point of the show. Diana Rigg is the standout of the new additions.
Visually, "Dark Wings, Dark Words" looks amazing. The scenery is throughout spectacular, the sets are hugely atmospheric and beautiful on the eyes with a real meticulous eye for detail and the costumes suit the characters to a tee. The make-up is beautifully done. The visual effects are some of the best of any television programme and are not overused or abused, the scale, the detail and how they actually have character and soul are better than those in a lot of the big-budget blockbusters. As well the cinematography and editing, which are cinematic quality as well.
One cannot talk about "Dark Wings, Dark Words" without mentioning the thematically, orchestrally and atmospherically multi-layered music scoring and the unforgettable main theme. Again, worthy of a high-budget fantasy/action/drama film.
It is hard not to be bowled over by the quality of the writing, outstanding isn't a strong enough adjective to describe how good the writing is once again. It always has a natural flow, is layered and thought-provoking and demonstrates a wide range of emotions such as suspenseful tension, poignant pathos and witty humour. The story is paced beautifully, structured with such nuance and attention to coherence, a high emotional level and is done with intelligence, passion and sensitivity.
Direction is superb as is, even more so, the acting with not a single weak link.
Overall, great stuff. 9/10 Bethany Cox
"Valar Dohaeris" was a great Season 3 opener. The season's second episode "Dark Wings, Dark Words" is even better. Things feel more settled, more is done with the new characters and their story lines while deftly reiterating those of the older characters and advancing those. It's not the biggest, most epic or boldest of 'Game of Thrones' episodes, and more intimate and character heavy, but all the better for it due to how many characters it introduces. The start of the episode is a bit slow, but overall there is a lot going on and a lot of characters but this is not a case of being over-stuffed or over-crowded.
All the acting is fine across the board, Peter Dinklage is particularly brilliant of the non-new characters, not a surprise as he is always a high point of the show. Diana Rigg is the standout of the new additions.
Visually, "Dark Wings, Dark Words" looks amazing. The scenery is throughout spectacular, the sets are hugely atmospheric and beautiful on the eyes with a real meticulous eye for detail and the costumes suit the characters to a tee. The make-up is beautifully done. The visual effects are some of the best of any television programme and are not overused or abused, the scale, the detail and how they actually have character and soul are better than those in a lot of the big-budget blockbusters. As well the cinematography and editing, which are cinematic quality as well.
One cannot talk about "Dark Wings, Dark Words" without mentioning the thematically, orchestrally and atmospherically multi-layered music scoring and the unforgettable main theme. Again, worthy of a high-budget fantasy/action/drama film.
It is hard not to be bowled over by the quality of the writing, outstanding isn't a strong enough adjective to describe how good the writing is once again. It always has a natural flow, is layered and thought-provoking and demonstrates a wide range of emotions such as suspenseful tension, poignant pathos and witty humour. The story is paced beautifully, structured with such nuance and attention to coherence, a high emotional level and is done with intelligence, passion and sensitivity.
Direction is superb as is, even more so, the acting with not a single weak link.
Overall, great stuff. 9/10 Bethany Cox
I'm Enjoying The Jamie & Brieanne Double Act
slightlymad2227 March 2019
Pacing wise, this is similar to the first episode of season 3, but for me, it is a little bit better.
We catch up with Jaime Lannister and Brienne of Tarth, and we also get the welcome return of Arya Stark with Gendry and Hot Pie, they were some of the most entertaining characters in the last series. Gwendoline Christie and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau have a great chemistry and it is a joy to watch as their characters trade insults and argue.
We get introduced some new characters, the introduction of Noah Taylor's Locke, is brief, but in our our first glimpse at the Brotherhood without Banners it proves a lot of fun. With Paul Kaye's Thoros of Myr, the writers have created a character that Kaye brings to vibrant life. There's something magnetic about Kaye's performance. But for me the introduction of Lady Olenna-the Queen of Thorns is the big one. Diana Rigg is a delight, I adore her.
I have to say, I'm not loving the Bran storyline, it slows things down too much. not the fault of any of the actors, as they are all competent I also did not love the scene with Catelyn and Tulisa. Poor writing (I'm sure to give her character some sympathy) aside, it does not ring true, and was a mistake.
The episodes ends on an appropriate cliffhanger that should keep viewers wanting to come back for more, but the pace needs to pick up a bit. don't get me wrong!! This is a perfectly solid episode, with some fine performances and moments, but it's never going to be classed among the best episodes of the show.
We catch up with Jaime Lannister and Brienne of Tarth, and we also get the welcome return of Arya Stark with Gendry and Hot Pie, they were some of the most entertaining characters in the last series. Gwendoline Christie and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau have a great chemistry and it is a joy to watch as their characters trade insults and argue.
We get introduced some new characters, the introduction of Noah Taylor's Locke, is brief, but in our our first glimpse at the Brotherhood without Banners it proves a lot of fun. With Paul Kaye's Thoros of Myr, the writers have created a character that Kaye brings to vibrant life. There's something magnetic about Kaye's performance. But for me the introduction of Lady Olenna-the Queen of Thorns is the big one. Diana Rigg is a delight, I adore her.
I have to say, I'm not loving the Bran storyline, it slows things down too much. not the fault of any of the actors, as they are all competent I also did not love the scene with Catelyn and Tulisa. Poor writing (I'm sure to give her character some sympathy) aside, it does not ring true, and was a mistake.
The episodes ends on an appropriate cliffhanger that should keep viewers wanting to come back for more, but the pace needs to pick up a bit. don't get me wrong!! This is a perfectly solid episode, with some fine performances and moments, but it's never going to be classed among the best episodes of the show.
Quality continues to rapidly decline.
sogoodlooking25 August 2022
The writers substitute disgust for character. They think witty, Jaime's inevitably dull provocations of Brienne. Graphic urination and physical torture substitute for cadence, intelligence, and craft. Joffrey is merely repulsive and vicious, the easiest sort of character to write---imagine how interesting he might if he had sympathetic qualities, if he was tormented by his conscience. Notice, too, how often in film and tv men are openly, graphically tortured, while women never are. Imagine if Sansa had been tortured onscreen the way Theon is.
The show would have been forced off the air.
The show would have been forced off the air.
Game of Thrones Dark Wings, Dark Words
dalydj-918-2551758 April 2013
Warning: Spoilers
The characters such as Bran, Arya and Jamie to name a few where introduced this season in this second episode. The episode was slower and less thrilling then the first episode as most memorable scenes involved characters walking in the woods. Diana Rigg made her first appearance on the show as the witty and intelligent grandmother of Margarey making for a great scene between Lady Olenna Redwyne, Margarey and Sansa as they talk about the evil mind of Joffrey. The best monologue of the episode was given by Michelle Fairley as she talked about almost killing John because it was delivered in such an affecting way. The further we go through the series Joffrey becomes more uncontrollable and it is obvious from Cersei cannot control him anymore and is losing all of the power she once had. While weaker then the premiere episode it has set up many plots that will be seen throughout the season with Arya and The Houd coming back into each other's life's.
EPISODE GRADE: B (MVP: Michelle Fairley)
EPISODE GRADE: B (MVP: Michelle Fairley)
Loved This Episode
Rainey-Dawn16 September 2018
Season 3, episode 2. Brienne and Jamie are still on their way to King's Landing - and having a go at each other as usual. Jon Snow is still with the wildlings while the Night's Watch are making their way back to the wall. Robb is told that he may loose the war since he married Talisa. Robb aslo learns of what happened to Winterfell and that there are no signs of his younger brothers. Ayra and friends runs into a group of men -- which leads Ayra and The Hound face to face. Bran and group are now with Hodor, Meera and Jojen. Theon is tortured into telling why he took Winterfell. Shae tells Tyrion of Littlefinger and Sansa's meeting. Joffrey and Margaery are getting closer.
9.5/10
9.5/10
Great
aazziizz-8538322 May 2019
Great character introductions
Leofwine_draca14 September 2020
Warning: Spoilers
An excellent episode this week, with the show introducing numerous secondary characters who would come on to dominate things in the following years: Noah Taylor and Paul Kaye are personal favourites of mine, but I also love the seemingly innocuous introduction that Ramsey Snow has. Every plotline here is razor-sharp and intriguing, adding a real wealth of character depth to the show while at the same time ever moving the plotting forward.
A lot of new characters in this.
ououzaza15 April 2019
He's a monster
dannylee-7808219 February 2022
Warning: Spoilers
1. Sansa confides about Joffrey with the Tyrells
2. Bran meets Jojo
3. Jamie and Brienne get discovered
Bit of a slower episode. I am just frustrated that there's lack of communication between the characters so most of the story revolve around finding one another when that wouldn't really be a plot point if set in today's age. Arya's going to head up to The Wall (or Winterfell?) and will not find Jon there because he's with the Free People. Jamie may get back to King's Landing but Sansa most likely won't be there for a trade. Bran and Rickon are also headed to the Wall with little success most likely.
I do find Margaery an interesting character - she seems to be very intelligent and know how to earn the trust of Joffrey's kind. Curious to see how her relationships develop.
Bit of a slower episode. I am just frustrated that there's lack of communication between the characters so most of the story revolve around finding one another when that wouldn't really be a plot point if set in today's age. Arya's going to head up to The Wall (or Winterfell?) and will not find Jon there because he's with the Free People. Jamie may get back to King's Landing but Sansa most likely won't be there for a trade. Bran and Rickon are also headed to the Wall with little success most likely.
I do find Margaery an interesting character - she seems to be very intelligent and know how to earn the trust of Joffrey's kind. Curious to see how her relationships develop.
Dark Wings, Dark Words
tbmforclasstsar8 April 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Well it may have taken two episodes, but we've finally been reunited with the entire cast, and then some. Hopefully everyone's taking notes; it's going to get complicated.
The title of this week's chapter: "Dark Wings, Dark Words," is most likely an allusion to messages regarding a family death and the destruction of a familial home, received by Robb Stark early in the episode, but it aptly describes many of the events that befall the rest of the players in the game of thrones. While the previous installment seemed to have a much brighter tone, one of mostly triumphant returns, it's easy to see why certain characters' stories were saved for this somewhat grim episode full of torture, abductions, and the oh so punchable Joffrey (another form of torture). Game of Thrones as a series presents us with a world that is rarely black and white. Good people do bad things, and bad things happen to good people; in this way, the show has its emotional ups and downs, but twice as many downs. We're back to form here in an episode that mirrors the previous, only slightly gloomier.
As we're reacquainted with Bran in the first scene, it becomes immediately apparent as he's walking and drawing his bow, this is a dream. In a poignant throwback to the series premiere, the young Stark boy is instructed by his older brothers on how to aim and fire his arrow, followed by the ethereal, disembodied voice of Ned, echoing his reassurance after Bran misses his mark. The familiar three-eyed raven he aimed for flies off, and Jojen Reed (played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster, recognizable to any Love Actually fans . guilty) reveals himself, explaining the nature of his dreams to an understandably confused Bran. Finally, it seems viewers are going to gain insight into the frequent and cryptic dream sequences that haunt Bran.
Later, Catelyn receives a one-two punch of bad news from her son Robb: her father has died, and Winterfell has been sacked, leaving her two youngest boy's whereabouts unknown. Dark words indeed. While this scene is clearly meant to be devastating: a daughter mourning her father, a mother beside herself with worry for her children, and a young king grappling with meting justice to his own mother, it comes across as nearly impenetrable to any who aren't paying extremely close attention, or have read the books. It's a shame that this scene lacks the emotional punch it deserves due to over-complication, and weak explanation.
To read the rest (IMDb form too short) visit: http://custodianfilmcritic.com/game-of-thrones- 3-2-dark-wings-dark-words/
The title of this week's chapter: "Dark Wings, Dark Words," is most likely an allusion to messages regarding a family death and the destruction of a familial home, received by Robb Stark early in the episode, but it aptly describes many of the events that befall the rest of the players in the game of thrones. While the previous installment seemed to have a much brighter tone, one of mostly triumphant returns, it's easy to see why certain characters' stories were saved for this somewhat grim episode full of torture, abductions, and the oh so punchable Joffrey (another form of torture). Game of Thrones as a series presents us with a world that is rarely black and white. Good people do bad things, and bad things happen to good people; in this way, the show has its emotional ups and downs, but twice as many downs. We're back to form here in an episode that mirrors the previous, only slightly gloomier.
As we're reacquainted with Bran in the first scene, it becomes immediately apparent as he's walking and drawing his bow, this is a dream. In a poignant throwback to the series premiere, the young Stark boy is instructed by his older brothers on how to aim and fire his arrow, followed by the ethereal, disembodied voice of Ned, echoing his reassurance after Bran misses his mark. The familiar three-eyed raven he aimed for flies off, and Jojen Reed (played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster, recognizable to any Love Actually fans . guilty) reveals himself, explaining the nature of his dreams to an understandably confused Bran. Finally, it seems viewers are going to gain insight into the frequent and cryptic dream sequences that haunt Bran.
Later, Catelyn receives a one-two punch of bad news from her son Robb: her father has died, and Winterfell has been sacked, leaving her two youngest boy's whereabouts unknown. Dark words indeed. While this scene is clearly meant to be devastating: a daughter mourning her father, a mother beside herself with worry for her children, and a young king grappling with meting justice to his own mother, it comes across as nearly impenetrable to any who aren't paying extremely close attention, or have read the books. It's a shame that this scene lacks the emotional punch it deserves due to over-complication, and weak explanation.
To read the rest (IMDb form too short) visit: http://custodianfilmcritic.com/game-of-thrones- 3-2-dark-wings-dark-words/
Another great episode for Season 3
gavin-thelordofthefu-48-46029720 April 2016
Dark Wings, Dark Words is another great episode. My only quibble is that the pacing felt pretty uneven with a nice opening, but a bit too long ending. Everything else turned out fine. The performances and relationships continue to shine, the scenery's still gorgeous, the directing and editing is nice and sharp, the music score's still good, and the story/script is well-written.
Also, it does a great job continuing the story-arcs for the Stark family including Bran Stark who journeys with three people named Hodor, Meera, and Jojen to find the three-eyed crow. Even Arya gets a little more screen time as well and shines in her relationships with two of the slaves she befriended in Season 2.
Overall, another great episode for the third season.
Also, it does a great job continuing the story-arcs for the Stark family including Bran Stark who journeys with three people named Hodor, Meera, and Jojen to find the three-eyed crow. Even Arya gets a little more screen time as well and shines in her relationships with two of the slaves she befriended in Season 2.
Overall, another great episode for the third season.
Womans discussions
AvionPrince1617 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
So we learn that Bran can see trough animals eyes. We can see Sansa, Margaere and her mother talked about Jeoffrey and who is he and his intentions. Sansa tell the truth. Arya met some people on the road and she get recognised by another man. Problems coming? Jaime Lannister and the woman who escort him get some problems and a man recognised the Lannister and they get escorted for a reward on Lannister head. Tyrion talk about Sansa and her natural beauty and her options that make jealous the woman he is with. Theon revealed why he wanted to take Winterfell(for glory of his house and his father, and because Winterfell was weak). We learn also more about John Snow trough his mother words and how he came to her. And how she accepted him anyway. An interesting episode and i really enjoyed the talked with the three ladies and how Sansa was scared to tell the truth. A nice episode with some nice revelations about some characters and some events that make us wondering what will happen to some of them (Arya, Jaime lannister, Sansa, Margaery).
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