House of the Dragon Season 3 review – the orgy of carnage it should always have been
After two forgettable seasons, the Game of Thrones prequel finally comes into its own – blazing back on to our screens with the most epic dragon-based smackdown imaginable. Fans can breathe a fiery sigh of relief!
The Guardian has published a review of the third season of the television series House of the Dragon, describing it as a return to form for the Game of Thrones prequel after what it characterises as two forgettable previous seasons. The review highlights the season's focus on large-scale conflict, specifically the naval Battle of the Gullet, while noting a shift towards more sophisticated character-driven drama. Key performances praised include those of Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, and Matt Smith.
The review describes the opening of Season 3 as a fine epic that balances big battles with sharp two-hander scenes. Specific plot points mentioned include a power vacuum in Westeros and the Battle of the Gullet, described as a naval smackdown and an orgy of CGI carnage. The review suggests that the Battle of the Gullet really should have been the season two finale.
New character dynamics are highlighted, including the relationship between Corlys Velaryon, played by Steve Toussaint, and Sharako Lohar, played by Abigail Thorn. The review notes a tonal shift from previous seasons, with less reliance on sex and nudity, and the inclusion of offbeat cuteness and comic relief, such as a dragon flame-grilling sheep and the character Ulf, played by Tom Bennett.
James Norton appears in an early scene as Lord Ormund Hightower but is described as being kept in reserve. The review notes that Norton makes the scene funny, but then vanishes again, kept in reserve by a show that has the confidence of knowing that its edge was never sharper.
The review suggests the Battle of the Gullet really should have been the season two finale. New cast members James Norton and Abigail Thorn are also noted, though Norton’s role is described as being kept in reserve. The review notes a tonal shift from previous seasons, with less reliance on sex and nudity, and the inclusion of offbeat cuteness and comic relief.