Game of Thrones episodes tend to be widely spread out, mainly detailing the three leading families of Westeros in the wake of the fall of the fourth, across numerous far-flung cities. “Blackwater”, however, focuses almost entirely on the Lannisters, (the presumed antagonists), and a single city, (the capital city King’s Landing). The short review is that this episode is a fantastic Game of Thrones, which means it’s outstanding in terms of television in general.
One this that stands out is that by focusing on a smaller scope, we are given a much more personal and detailed look at several characters and their interactions. Cersei (Lena Headey) and Sansa (Sophie Turner), for example, seem to have almost a swapping of position. Cersei is more manic and obsessed simply with her son, whereas Sansa is stepping into a position of respect (at least among the ladies of King’s Landing). This temperament reversal is displayed most in how they interact with the other women they are cloistered with- Cersei mocks and belittles them as opposed to Sansa who is calming and inspiring them.
The Hound (Rory McCann) and Bronn (Jerome Flynn) have been broadly similar characters in many respects, though with different masters. How they deal with the impending battle, as well as the battle itself, distinguishes them. The actors both play this distinction in the pre-battle confrontation exceptionally. Yet it is how the characters react to the unfolding battle that plays most explicitly- note the Hound’s statement to the King.
Peter Dinklage has another of his exemplary moments as Tyrion Lannister in this episode- the non-inspiring speech is a soon-to-be classic. As the defense begins to falter, King Joffrey (Jack Gleeson) retreats, causing the troops to start deserting. Knowing there is no other choice, Tyrion tells the soldiers he will lead them out a secret passage for a surprise attack. Then, he gives his non-inspiring speech: “Don’t fight for your king, and don’t fight for his kingdoms. Don’t fight for honor, don’t fight for glory. Don’t fight for riches, because you won’t get any. This is your city that Stannis (Stephen Dillane) means to sack. That is your gate he’s ramming. It will be your house he burns. It will be your gold he steals. Your women he’ll rape… Those are brave men knocking at our door- let’s go kill them!” It is a telling Tyrion moment- he does NOT seek glory in battle- he’s a master tactician, not a general (in the classical sense) – but the pragmatist in him knows he must charge into battle.
To restate, Blackwater is one of the best, if not the best, episode of Game of Thrones to date. This reviewer thinks it has to do with a few key points, not the least of which is having a significantly smaller focus. Having an amazing cast doesn’t hurt any either, with an especial notice to Emmy Winner Peter Dinklage. However, I would be remiss in not pointing out how Sophie Turner shined in this episode. Her character is perpetually abused, but her mettle was shown in Maegor’s Holdfast- not only holding her own with Cersei, but inspiring the other cloistered ladies there with saccharine words and hymns sung. (Plus, singing is not the actress’s strong point, as she has said in interviews before- so from a stagecraft perspective, that is extra impressive.) This is an hour of television of the highest quality; from the gritty battles, interpersonal drama, all set to the canvas of grand political intrigue. This reviewer is wondering how next week’s extended season finale can top this…