Review of House of the Dragon Season 2 – Episodes 1 and 2

This is a spoiler-free review of Season 2, Episodes 1 and 2 of House of the Dragon. Season 2 premieres on HBO and Max at 9pm ET on Sunday, June 16. Reviews of new episodes will post Sunday nights through August 4.

House of the Dragon promised a thrilling pace similar to the mid-seasons of Game of Thrones when it debuted in 2022. The co-showrunner Ryan Condal hinted at a season with a “burning fuse” running through it, leading to explosive moments. However, the first two episodes of Season 2 are more of a slow burn, lacking the expected intensity in between the climactic scenes.

The focus of the opening episodes is on personal grief and the tension building between Targaryen factions. Queen Rhaenyra and Queen Alicent are both struggling with their grief and the desire for power, setting the stage for an intense power struggle for the Iron Throne.

Despite the slow start, House of the Dragon is visually stunning. The change in filming locations to snow-capped landscapes adds to the immersive experience of the show. The new opening credits, depicting the history of the Targaryen clan, provide a unique touch to the show’s storytelling.

Character Development and Dynamics

The cast delivers strong performances, with standout portrayals by Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, and Matt Smith. The characters show depth and complexity, especially Daemon and Otto Hightower. However, the lack of characters to root for might be a drawback for some viewers, as the show lacks the charismatic figures seen in Game of Thrones.

While the absence of dragon action in the initial episodes may disappoint some fans, the overarching themes of power, revenge, and political intrigue still drive the narrative forward. The slow buildup to the inevitable conflict may test the patience of viewers expecting more action and tension from the start.

Final Thoughts

House of the Dragon Season 2 starts off with a slow burn, setting the stage for the impending clash of Targaryen factions. The show’s stunning visuals and strong performances from the cast keep viewers engaged, despite the lack of major action sequences in the initial episodes. As the season progresses, viewers can expect the tension to escalate and the stakes to be raised higher.