The transformation of a fiery teen into a dependable woman-- can surmise the House of Dragons in one sentence. The prequel to the thrilling and engaging series Game of Thrones started slow. But picked pace episode three onwards. The series is teeming with interesting characters and an equally interesting cast.
A predominantly Targaryen story, the HBO original so far yet teeming with orgies or gruesome violence. The lack of distasteful sex scenes might be thanks to the two woman directors of the show-- Clare Kilner and Geeta Vasant Patel. There is, however, no lack of well-timed swearing.
The recurring characters include Paddy Considine as King Viserys I Targaryen, Rhys Ifans as Ser Otto Hightower, Steve Toussaint as Lord Corlys Velaryon aka Sea Snake and Eve Best as Princess Rhaenys Targaryen. The other important recurring character of course is Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, who is played by Milly Alcock in first five out of the ten episodes and by Emma D'Arcy in the remaining episodes. Of note is Matt Smith, who exceeds expectations in his performance as the rogue prince with a devil-may-care attitude.
Also of note is Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower in the second half of the series and Eve Best as Princess Rhaenys. Best's portrayal of Rhaenys reminds one of Lady Olenna Tyrell portrayed by Diana Rigg-- the no-nonsense grandma vibe lives on! It is women who really steal the show in this complex, multi-layered series. Not noteworthy is King Viserys Targaryen. Benevolent as he might be, he doesn't have much screen presence nor is it commandeering the times he is on screen. His weakness is, however, everyone else's gain.
Overall, the series is a good watch-- one has to be patient for the pace to pick up.
Cast: Paddy Considine, Rhys Ifans, Steve Toussaint, Matt Smith, Emma D'Arcy
Directors: Clare Kilner, Geeta Vasant Patel, Miguel Sapochnik, Greg Yaitanes, Alan Taylor
Where to watch: Binge watch all episodes of the series on Disney+ Hotstar
Rating: 3/5
