18/11
George RR
Scenario
Nine noble families battle for control of the lands of Westeros, while an ancient enemy returns after lying dormant for millennia. Martin’s wife once said she would leave him if he killed Arya or Sansa. Tywin Lannister: Any man who has to say “I am the king” is not a true king. During the opening credits, each cast member’s name is accompanied by the insignia of their character’s house. Featured in Hollywood’s Top Ten: Critics’ Choice Nominees: Drama (2011).
What’s the consensus?
Main Title (uncredited) Written and performed by Ramin Djawadi. Let’s say you’re reading these reviews and haven’t watched GoT yet, but now that it’s over, you’re considering a marathon. In this case, the consensus is right, and this is it: Seasons 1-6: Outstanding. Deep world-building, clever dialogue, epic Hollywood-style set pieces, expert acting, detailed plot, genuine surprises, a great soundtrack used sparingly. GoT is definitely worth watching for these seasons, no doubt about it.
There are inexplicable ideas, inconsistent characterization, and soap opera-like drama
Season 7: Suddenly, you notice that the writing and plot have dropped in quality. But at least the entertainment value is still very high, so we move on. Season 8: This drop goes to depths you wouldn’t have thought possible. The writing has become so amateurish that the consistently fantastic production values are no longer enough to save it. If you previously loved Lost but were surprised by how mediocre the last season was, you’re on familiar ground here.
Fatal to the fiction
The biggest problem with the last season was that it took us out of the story and made us think about its many weaknesses. We lost our suspension of disbelief. It also ruined the series arcs to the point that a rewatch of the entire series is pointless. So can I recommend a GoT marathon to newcomers? Yes, the first 6 seasons are worth the later disappointments.
But it’s not the best show of all time
It could have been, but dropping the ball in the final stretch puts it behind the next best shows more worthy of your marathon: Battlestar Galactica (2003-2008) Twin Peaks (all 3 seasons, plus the movie) Breaking Bad
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