(WARNING: Spoilers for season two below.)
Game of Thrones, Season Three:
The War of the Five Kings rages on. After the disastrous Battle of Blackwater Bay, Stannis Baratheon has retreated to his fortress of Dragonstone with his red priestess Melisandre, and his colleague Davos Seaworth soon follows. Renly Baratheon has been killed, and now his forces, including the Tyrells, have shifted their allegiances not to Stannis, but to (shockingly) King Joffrey in King's Landing. Margaery Tyrell is now betrothed to Joffrey, and Cersei fears the Tyrells may be getting a little too comfortable in King's Landing. Theon Greyjoy's forces betrayed him, and now he is being held and inhumanely tortured by a mysterious sadist in a dark dungeon. House Greyjoy has also been busy wreaking havoc across the North while Robb Stark's forces march South towards the Riverlands. Robb Stark must deal with the repercussions of marrying Talisa for love, thus breaking his betrothal vow to the powerful House Frey, and severing their alliance. Catelyn Stark also must deal with some backlash, as Robb holds her as prisoner for letting go their most valuable prisoner: Jaime Lannister. Brienne of Tarth, fulfilling a promise she made to Catelyn, now must escort the nearly unrecognizable Kingslayer back to King's Landing, while avoiding bounty hunters and killers who wish to take Jaime's head back to Robb for a reward. Daenerys continues to raise her army in the continent of Essos, and begins to liberate the people of slave trade cities across the coast. Her dragons continue to grow, becoming more valuable but also more dangerous by the day. Jon Snow, now having been captured by wildlings, must join them and follow their new leader: the "King-Beyond-the-Wall" Mance Rayder, an ex-Night's Watch brother who leads the wildlings South to invade Westeros. Jon is torn between his loyalties to his lover and friend Ygritte, a wilding woman, and his duties to the Night's Watch. But a bigger threat is looming: White Walkers are returning in droves, and their army of wights (super-strong and endurable zombies which only can be killed by fire) follows close behind, there's little hope for Westeros once they arrive at the Wall. The War of the Five Kings may be the focus of many characters' attentions, but the real war hasn't even begun.
Of course, I can't talk about this season without discussing the huge cast of characters. First, House Stark: The numbers of the this pack, initially the heart of the show, are dwindling, and they've been separated and spread out so far throughout the Seven Kingdoms, they're barely even a house any more. Richard Madden reprises his role as the heroic Robb Stark. This season, due to the stress of the war, Robb is a little more harsh and stern. However, he's still the same strong military leader that we've come to know and love. You really root for him this season, as he's in a bit of a precarious situation as of this time, losing a lot of his soldiers day by day, but you want him to succeed because you want to see him get vengeance on Joffrey and the Lannisters for killing his bad-ass dad Ned Stark. Catelyn Stark, played by Michelle Fairley, is a little more unraveled this time around. She's incredibly stressed because her son distrusts her, she has no idea what's happening with her daughter in King's Landing, she thinks her two sons Bran and Rickon are dead, and she feels like she's caused all this to befall her family as bad karma for something she did in the past (she reveals in a touching and revealing conversation with Talisa that she always felt bad for hating on Jon Snow, and not accepting him and loving him like her own, even though it's not his fault he's a bastard son). This makes us relate to her more and want her to succeed and set the wrong things right. Jon Snow, portrayed by Kit Harington, is also in a tough position this season. He is very torn about his loyalties, as he could live a pleasant life with his wildling girlfriend Ygritte, as they really love each other and have great chemistry, but he also feels obligated to return to his Night's Watch brothers. He also must not reveal he feels at al torn about loyalties, or his new wildling friends may have to kill him. Arya Stark played by Maisie Williams, proves herself to be even more tough and brave than I previously thought. She's able to speak her mind openly and isn't afraid to stand up to people who are far more powerful and more dangerous than she is. She also continues to add names to her already lengthy revenge list, and I can't wait to see her just go to town on the people who have wronged her and her family. Sansa Stark, portrayed by Sophie Turner, is still annoying oblivious to the events around her and it's irritating how easily she's manipulated by people. However, you can't help but feel bad for her, as Joffrey (and others) continues to torment her during her captivity at King's Landing, and she's constantly let down and manipulated by people around her, her life is just a mess right now. Isaac Hempstead-Wright returns as Bran, who is going through kind of a spiritual change in this season, as he discovers he may have an amazing power. He's really maturing as a character, and a character who I once found annoying I now look forward to seeing progress in his story. Rickon Stark, played by Art Parkinson, is a sweet and free-spirited child, one of the few characters that's truly innocent. Natalia Tena and Kristian Nairn portray Osha and Hodor, respectively, Bran's companions and personal servants who accompany him and Rickon as they hide in the countryside from enemy soldiers and other dangerous foes. Brienne of Tarth, played by Gwendoline Christie, is still stuck escorting Jaime Lannister across the countryside, still sticking by the promise she made to Catelyn. She must be on her toes at all times, seeing as Jaime is one of the most dangerous men in Westeros. We learn a little more about her, and see her more compassionate side, and all see her get more defensive when Jaime insults and belittles her. Jojen and Meera Reed, portrayed by Thomas Brodie-Sangster and Ellie Kendrick, respectively, are a mysterious brother-sister duo who accompany Bran and his group as they travel around the countryside. Jojen begins to teach Bran about new ideas and helps Bran find new powers within himself, suggesting Jojen is wise beyond his years. Meera is a strong tomboyish type, with hunting skills and a high intellect for her age. They are shown as close siblings (though not in the way Cersei and Jaime are), and are able to survive on their own in a world as cruel and dangerous as Westeros is, which is pretty damn impressive. John Stahl guest-stars as Lord Rickard Karstark, a loyal bannerman of House Stark who joins Robb Stark's fight against the Lannisters, especially after Jaime Lannister murdered his son.
Now for House Baratheon, first, the Dragonstone faction: Stannis Baratheon, once again portrayed by Stephen Dillane, is shown to be a little more compassionate this time around, especially when it comes to his daughter and family in general, but he's still kind of a cold-hearted asshole when it comes to pretty much anything else, especially matters concerning the Iron Throne and how to get to it. He's a little too gullible, though, I feel like Melisandre has him wrapped around her finger and has accomplished that way too easily. Stannis doesn't seem like the kind of guy who just succumbs to an entire new religion and ideology, and basically doesn't do anything without consulting some woman he's known for like a year, no matter how badly he wants the crown. Davos Seaworth, aka "The Onion Knight", played by Liam Cunningham, is now Stannis' least-trusted friend. Trying to always do the honorable thing, Davos is constantly contradicting Stannis and his beloved Melisandre, and disobeys them at every turn. I fear that he may be trying his luck a little too much. What makes his character even more tragic is that literally no one trusts him, and he has now lost his son Matthos is Stannis and Melisandre's desperate quest for the throne (Matthos was killed during the Battle of Blackwater Bay). Melisandre, aka "The Red Woman", portrayed by Carice van Houten, is still as creepy and manipulative as before, now even more so after the Blackwater Bay catastrophe. She is constantly whispering nonsense in Stannis' ear, which she herself believes, being a delusional religious zealot. She just gets under my skin, and I actually kind of want to see her kick the bucket in the next season or so. Salladhor Saan, played by guest-star Lucian Msamati, makes a reappearance in the season premiere after surviving the Blackwater Bay Battle, still sticking by his old friend Davos. Stannis' queen Selsye, portrayed by guest-actress Tara Fitzgerald, a delusional woman who also believes in Melisandre's "Lord of Light", appears in the episode "Kissed by Fire". Kerry Ingram appears as Stannis' sweet and innocent daughter Shireen, who is close with her father and Ser Davos, and likes to read, and must stay indoors constantly because Stannis fears many will be repulsed by her appearance (as a young child she suffered from a rare skin condition which now leaves permanent scale-like scars on the side of her face).
Now onto the King's Landing faction; now that the Highgarden faction has been disbanded and many of those followers have moved over to this faction, I won't count it any longer (Side note: If you've paid attention to the show at all, you can basically see that the King Landing's faction is now just an unconvincing cover for House Lannister): King Joffrey "Baratheon" (he's really just a Lannister), played by Jack Gleeson, continues to cement his status as one of the most despicable and pathetic little shitheads ever portrayed by any actor in any art form (stage, screen, etc.) He's just the worst. He continually proves himself as not only a poor ruler, but one of the worst kings in the history of Westeros, and what makes it even more awful: he shouldn't even be on the throne, seeing as how he has no claim to it (which even he is unaware of). He also continually shows himself to be sadistic, detestable, malicious, and disgustingly violent, I mean he just relishes and savors every moment he gets to inflict pain and suffering on others, and gleefully ruins the lives of his subjects and his "loved ones". He's also a whiny, cowardly, weak little bitch, who fled the Battle of Blackwater Bay before it even really began, after bragging about how he would fight off the hordes himself, and of course he took all the credit away from Tyrion and Tywin, you know, the people who won the battle for him! God, he's such a piece of shit that I can't wait for someone (possibly Arya or Sansa) to hack off his head and stick it on a pike or something. Again, nothing against Jack Gleeson, I've seen interviews with him and he seems like a perfectly nice guy and from what I've heard from watching interviews with the cast he's awesome to work with. In fact, the contrast between Jack and Joffrey is probably a testament to his acting abilities. Queen Regent Cersei Lannister-Baratheon, portrayed by Lena Headey, is still, like I've said many times, a selfish, manipulative, crazy bitch. She's barely clinging onto her power, and feels threatened by the sudden and noticeable presence of the powerful Tyrell family in King's Landing. Margaery Tyrell, played by Natalie Dormer, is now betrothed to Joffrey, and begins to seduce and manipulate him using small sexual advances and subtly playing to his more morbid and sadistic side, among other things. Cersei feels threatened by her presence, as she sort of causes a rift between Cersei and Joffrey. Lady Olenna Tyrell, also known as the "Queen of Thorns", portrayed by Dame Diana Rigg, is one of the best new characters this season. Every scene she's in is awesome. Rigg is an experience actress, and she really breathes life into this role. She's highly intelligent, sarcastic, a bit cynical, and the proud matriarch of the Tyrell clan. Ser Loras Tyrell, aka "the Knight of the Flowers", played by Finn Jones, is now in the service of the Baratheons of King's Landing (really just the Lannisters), and is one of the best knights in the land of Westeros. He is still a bit dumb compared to his sister and grandmother, but is actually a pretty cool supporting character, who is still slightly sad after the death of his lover and friend Renly Baratheon. Ser Meryn Trant, portrayed by Ian Beattie, continues to prove himself a loyal knight, which isn't a good thing when your master is King Joffrey. He's not at all valiant or noble like a knight should be, he's one of those "just following orders" types, despite the fact that the orders he carries out are unnecessarily violent and/or cruel. Julian Glover guest-stars once more as the elderly Grand Maester Pycelle, the corrupt, but loyal religious advisor in King's Landing. He's just an unlikeable, weaselly little asshole.
Onto the King's Small Council: Lord Petyr Baelish ("Littlefinger"), played by Aidan Gillen, continues being a devious and masterful manipulator of politics. He shows how ruthless he can be in this season, one moment in the sixth episode in particular sticks out. I despise the character, but much like Joffrey, he's a fascinating character to watch work, so I always enjoy the scenes he's in. Lord Varys ("The Spider"), portrayed by Conleth Hill, is yet another master manipulator and all-around great character. The more light-hearted of the two, he respects Littlefinger, but also deeply fears him, as Littlefinger is the more dangerous of the duo. The scenes and conversations they share are some of the best moments of the season, and show how excellent these two actors are at breathing life into their characters. Varys also gets some sweet revenge in one episode, which is unsettling to watch, but when you think it through, you kind of side with Varys. Esme Bianco appears as the recurring character Ros, a prostitute in Littlefinger's brothel and one of his employees who deals with his personal matters. She is also working as Varys' informant, something that puts her at risk, and could end her life if Littlefinger found her out. Will Tudor has a minor role as Olyver, a spy and prostitute who is employed by Littlefinger. A smart and savvy man, he also specializes in homosexual clients.
Now for House Lannister: Tyrion Lannister, played by the great Peter Dinklage, is in a spot of trouble this season. After an attempt on his life by a knight, he has a scar across his face, and he's a bit paranoid, and believes someone is plotting against him in King's Landing, and he may well be right. Now that he's no longer Hand of the King, and all of his allies (save for Bronn and Shae) were paid to leave by Lord Tywin, he has little power or influence in the King's Small Council. Dinklage really owns the role, and shows a more serious side to Tyrion, one that I was surprised by, considering that in season one he was more of a comical, light-hearted character, even though he was serious at times during that season, too. Tywin Lannister, portrayed by Charles Dance, is now Hand of the King, and a powerful figure in King's Landing once more. Tywin continues to prove himself a more villainous and cold character with each passing episode. Tywin's got this presence that makes every scene he's in feel tense and awkwardly still, because all the characters either respect or fear him, or both. He's such a powerful figure in Westeros that no one has the balls to stand up to him, which is probably a smart move on their part. Ser Jaime Lannister, the "Kingslayer", played by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, shows us a lighter side this season. After being such a despicable and unlikeable piece of shit these past two seasons, it was a breath of fresh air to see him as more of a good guy this time around, albeit still violent and jaded. I commend the writers and Coster-Waldau for being able to pull off such a challenging character 180, taking a character I (and many other viewers) hated, and making us root for him and empathize with him. Ser Bronn, portrayed by Jerome Flynn, is still such a bad-ass. He's cool, collected, cynical, and a highly skilled assassin and fighter. Shae, played by Sibel Kekilli, is Tyrion's lover. She's a complex character, but is compassionate and takes care of Sansa while she's captive at King's Landing. Despite being a great character, her presence in King's Landing complicates matters and puts her and Tyrion's lives in danger. Podrick Payne, portrayed by guest-star Daniel Portman, is still serving as Tyrion's friendly squire, the one who saved Tyrion's life at the Blackwater Bay Battle, who discovers he has a knack for being an amazing lover. (Tyrion discovers this when he finds out prostitutes he bought as a reward for Podrick enjoyed him so much they gave him his money back.)
Now for House Targaryen: Daenerys "Stormborn" Targaryen, played by Emilia Clarke, is continuing to be a strong leader for her people, and begins liberating slave trade cities to gather followers and make a good name for herself, aside from the fact that it's the just thing to do. Ser Jorah Mormont, portrayed by Iain Glen, is still a bad-ass warrior and loyal servant to Daenerys. Secretly he's infatuated with her, and therefore does everything in his power to make her happy and serve her well. Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, who debuts early in the season. A slave girl and translator, Daenerys respects her and uses her as her personal assistant and advisor. She's an excellent and welcome new addition to the already vast and amazing cast. After an absence in season two, the disgraced Ser Barristan Selmy, portrayed by Ian McElhinney, returns after being abruptly and unfairly dismissed by King Joffrey after the arrest of Ned Stark. Respected by his peers (including Ned Stark and Jaime Lannister), he is a great knight who pledges allegiance to Daenerys after saving her life, and vows to help her retake her rightful place of the Iron Throne. Grey Worm, played by Jacob Anderson, is an Unsullied warrior (a member of Daenerys' newly acquired army), who is fiercely loyal to his khalisee and does everything to please and protect his new mistress. Daario Naharis, portrayed by Ed Skrein, is a new addition to Daenerys' entourage, a Tyroshi warrior who is a mercenary in the group "Second Sons". A stealthy and highly-skilled killer, he's a useful new character.
Now for House Tully: Lord Edmure Tully, played by Tobias Menzies, is Catelyn's little brother. The black sheep of the Tully clan, he's constantly trying to prove himself, but constantly gets in over his head. Although his family loves him, there's plenty of moments where they face-palm because of the time when Edmure fucks up a simple task. Ser Brynden "Blackfish" Tully, portrayed by Clive Russell, is Catelyn and Edmure's uncle, and a great soldier. He's strong, gruff, and protective of his family, especially Catelyn.
Onto House Bolton: Lord Roose Bolton, played by Michael McElhatton, is a close ally of Robb Stark's and his lieutenant. He's sent his bastard son to capture Theon. Locke, portrayed by guest-star Noah Taylor, is a cruel and violent mercenary in the employ of House Bolton who unapologetically maims and torments Jaime Lannister, and threatens and assaults Brienne. Steelshanks, played by Jamie Michie, is one of Locke's henchmen who helps him escort Jaime to Harrenhal, which is now one of the bases of House Bolton and House Stark after Ser Gregor abandoned it. Gary Lightbody, lead singer of the band Snow Patrol, makes a cameo in the third episode "Walk of Punishment", in which he portrays a Bolton soldier leading his colleagues in singing the popular Westerosi folk tune "The Bear and the Maiden Fair" while they ride down a forested road. Now onto House Frey: Walder Frey, portrayed by guest-star David Bradley, is still a disgusting, nasty-ass creep who secludes himself in his castle/fortress The Twins. His young, miserable wife Joyeuse Erenford, played by Kelly Long, also makes a reappearance in the latter half of the season. Coldplay drummer Will Champion makes a cameo as a drummer in Frey's services during a festive feast in the episode "The Rains of Castamere".
Now for House Greyjoy: Theon Greyjoy, portrayed by Alfie Allen, is held captive by a mysterious stranger for the entire season. After his evil actions in season two, you might say he deserves it. However, I wouldn't wish the torture he undergoes upon my worst enemy, poor Theon goes through the wringer this time. What makes it more tragic is that he actually has a change of heart, saying it was the biggest mistake he ever made to betray the Starks, and that Balon may be his dad, but his "real father" was Ned Stark. It's a touching scene that makes you empathize with him, despite his many wrong-doings. His father and sister, Balon and Yara Greyjoy, played by Patrick Malahide and Gemma Whelan, respectively, appears in the season finale. His dad is still a bitter, miserable old bastard, whereas his sister Yara is still a bad-ass who is loyal to her younger brother.
Onto the Night's Watch: Sam Tarly, portrayed by John Bradley, is still lovable and funny, and he's getting stronger, as he learns to defend himself against all sorts of threats. Lord Commander Jeor Mormont, played by James Cosmo, is still a great character, despite his role being slightly toned down. He's a wise and skilled warrior, and is one of the better and more noble Night's Watchmen. Rast, portrayed by Luke Barnes, is a violent and amoral Night's Watch brother who has been a thorn in Jon Snow's side since season one. Pypar, played by Josef Atlin, reappears in the final episode of the season, still residing at Castle Black. Grenn, portrayed by Mark Stanley, is on the scouting troupe with Jon Snow and Jeor Mormont, and has been friends with Jon, Sam, and Pypar since the first season. Maester Aemon Targaryen, played by Peter Vaughn, appears in the season finale at Castle Black. Eddison Tollett, portrayed by Ben Crompton, is a ranger on the Night's Watch who is an acquaintance of Sam. Burn Gorman (Torchwood, Pacific Rim, The Dark Knight Rises, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia) appears as Karl, an aggressive Night's Watch brother who is an ally of Rast.
Now for the wildling clan: Ygritte, played by Rose Leslie, is trying to get closer to Jon Snow, and teach him to adapt to the wildling way of life. The casting of Ygritte was perfect, Leslie really pulls off the wild, tough girl role, and she and Kit Harington have great chemistry together. The episode "The Climb" also exhibits how strong their relationship is, as they must brave an hours-long, incredibly dangerous climb up a 700-foot ice wall. Tormund Giantsbane, portrayed by Kristofer Hivju, is a gruff, fierce wildling warrior and a lieutenant in Mance Rayder's army. Like Ygritte, he takes a liking to Jon Snow, but doesn't keep it a secret that if Jon tries to stab them in the back, he'll brutally slay him. Orell, played by Mackenzie Crook (The Office, Pirates of the Caribbean), is a warg (a telepath who can control a specific type of animal) and a wildling who is slimy and takes an immediate dislike, in fact, almost a hatred, for Jon Snow. He and Jon are at each other's throats the entire season, and every scene between them is intense, especially in the episodes "The Climb" and "The Rains of Castamere", the latter of which shows them finally confront one another. Mance Rayder, portrayed by Ciaran Hinds, is the leader of the wildlings and the King-Beyond-The-Wall. He's an ex-Night's Watch Ranger, and therefore a huge threat to the Seven Kingdoms. His plan is to climb over The Wall, and attack the poorly protected Castle Black, and then invade the North. He has a strong moral code, despite being a the leader of a pack of feral hunters and killers, and he takes a liking to the noble Jon Snow. Edward Dogliani returns as the fearsome Lord of Bones, a notorious raider who wears the bones of his enemies on his clothing, he appears in the season premiere.
Now for the Brotherhood Without Banners (a group mentioned frequently in season two by Gregor Clegane's men): Thoros of Myr, played by Paul Kaye, is a Red Priest and a follower of the Lord of Light, the same religion Melisandre follows. He is a devout man, and is unshaken by any criticism of his beliefs. He and his friends are led by Lord Beric Dondarrion (last seen in "A Golden Crown" being sent on a mission by Ned Stark to take down Gregor Clegane), portrayed by Richard Dormer, another faithful man who is a skilled fighter and one of the founders of the Brotherhood. He has no fear of death, as he is technically immortal, and is physically scarred from his many run-ins with death. Anguy, played by Philip McGinley, is a skilled archer who is a good friend and close colleague of Beric and Thoros.
Now for the Seconds Sons: Besides Daario Naharis, there are two other leaders of this mercenary group: Captain Mero, or the Titan's Bastard, portrayed by Mark Killeen, a Braavosi warrior who is rude to Daenerys, cunning, and violent; and Prendahl na Ghezn, played by Ramon Tikaram, a Ghiscari and a leader of the company, who is also rude and mean-spirited towards Daenerys.
Finally, for the miscellaneous characters, or those with no true affiliation: Gendry, portrayed by Joe Dempsie, is now accompanying Arya and Hot Pie around the Riverlands, and decides to try and join up with the BWB after they come across them. He shows off his blacksmith skills with them, and is taken under their wing. Gendry is still tough and strong-willed, but he's shown to be a little more gullible and naïve this season, especially when it comes to dealing with a certain Red Priestess. Hot Pie, played by Ben Hawkey, is also still joining Arya on her quest to rejoin with her mother and brother in the Riverlands. Sandor "The Hound" Clegane, portrayed by Rory McCann, after abandoning his duties as Joffrey's bodyguard during the Battle of Blackwater Bay, is now a lone wolf travelling across the countryside, fending for himself. Although he's still a cold-blooded killer and a viscous fighter, he shows a more compassionate, almost fatherly side towards the latter half of the season, of course still maintaining his cold demeanor while doing it. Qyburn, played by Anton Lesser, is an ex-hostage of Gregor Clegane who resides at Harrenhal. An old experimental scientist and medicine man, he has a vast knowledge of medical practices and befriends Jaime Lannister and Brienne of Tarth during their stay there. Kraznys mo Nakloz, portrayed by Dan Hildebrand, is a cruel and incredible rude and vulgar slave trader whom Daenerys must deal with when buying her Unsullied warriors. He's powerful, corrupt, rich, and nefarious, but he gets his comeuppance, which is very satisfying to see. Robert Pugh reprises his role as Craster, the cruel, volatile, and incestuous wildling who runs a small village mostly populated by his miserable daughters. Hannah Murray once again appears as Gilly, Craster's innocent daughter and the object of Sam's affection, whom he frees from her horrible life under Craster's roof. She's sweet and lovable, much like Sam himself, and they make a great pairing. Ramsay Snow, played by Iwan Rheon (Misfits), is a cruel, gleefully sadistic, mentally unstable liar and the mysterious man who is tormenting poor Theon Greyjoy. It's not really a spoiler giving away his name, even though they don't reveal his name until the season finale, if you were closely paying attention to the latter episodes of season two, they do allude to the fact it might be him. However, I won't reveal which house he's allied with, you'll just have to wait and see fro yourself. What I will say is that Ramsay is definitely one of the most despicable, creepy, and inhumanely savage characters the series as seen thus far, on par with King Joffrey or Gregor Clegane. He's just so unsettling to watch, and every scene he's in is tense and terrifying, and you can't help but hold your breath when he shows up in Theon's cell, as you know something really awful is about to happen to the poor young Greyjoy. That's pretty much all the major, supporting, and minor characters in the third season. It always astounds me just how many characters are in this series.
This season somehow was able to top the first two seasons as far as the dark tone goes. Although this season isn't quite as violent as the second season (in particular, not much comes close to the horrors of Harrenhal from the second half of the second season), it's the last two episodes (well, the ninth episode and opening scene of the tenth) that make this season the most disturbing and graphic of them all, as well as the most shocking season.
As far as new locations go, there's not much. We revisit The Twins in the Riverlands, which is reminiscent of English and Irish castles from the medieval era, surrounded by foggy marshlands and rivers. We now go to the Slave Cities of Essos, which are very reminiscent of the Middle-East, Egypt, and in some cases India, very sandy, with lots of clear blue oceans, and a very tropical feel, with palm trees and a blazing sun. We get to see more of the lands Beyond-The-Wall, which are very cold, covered with snow, and it all looks very miserable and bleak. The title sequences now has some new features. Even though I'm aware it changes from episode-to-episode depending on what locations the episode takes place in, the major changes I'm discussing are the addition of Slaver's Bay and the new details done to Winterfell: it's got thick black smoke seeping from every orifice and opening, as it was raided and sacked in the finale of the previous season.
The music this season is as incredible as in previous ones (props to Ramin Djawadi), and in particular I enjoyed the dark and moody piece "The Rains of Castamere". Although The National recorded a version for the second season's soundtrack, it's a bigger part of this season, obviously, as an episode was named after it; it even got chosen as the music to play over the Blu-ray menu. It tells the story of The Reynes of Castamare, one of the vassal houses of House Lannister. When the Reynes attempted to take over Casterly Rock, Tywin Lannister strategically killed off the entire family, including theirs heirs and children, and hung their bodies in front of Casterly Rock to rot over the summer, as an example of what happens when you fuck with the Lannister clan. The lyrics refer to the sigils of both houses: the Reynes, a crimson lion, and the Lannisters, a golden lion. The title is also a pun on the family name, now that the Reynes are dead, when "the rains weep" on the rotting remains of Castamere castle, no one is left to hear it. The fictitious event is immortalized in this Westeros folk song, which is actually plays a key role this season. It's so dark and brooding, it sets the mood for the whole season. Another great musical piece from this season is "The Bear and the Maiden Fair", a folk song popular in Westeros, particularly among Locke and his company of Bolton soldiers, who sing the song several times over the course of the season. Brooklyn-based indie rock band The Hold Steady recorded a fast-paced, punk-rock version of the song which is heard during the end credits of the episode "Walk of Punishment". Both versions are good, and the one heard within the world of Westeros itself is cool because it sounds like something people from the medieval era might actually sing: it's a ballad following the story of the conflict between a young and beautiful virgin and a monstrous bear.
Like previous seasons, this one has a recurring theme or motif, one that I believe is pretty apparent is that of matrimony and marriage, it plays a major role in the latter episodes of the season, and there's a special feature on the Blu-ray dedicated to the role marriage plays is the world of Westeros. This previous season also has many character changes: Dany is a stronger leader, Jaime is more relatable and heroic, Catelyn is regretful about her past with Jon Snow, Theon regrets betraying Robb Stark, Bran discovers he has mystical powers, etc.
The special effects this season are equally as amazing as they were in previous seasons: the growing dragons are well-animated for a TV show, even one on a premium network, and the sets and costumes are intricately detailed and incredibly expensive. Everything about them is great.
Game of Thrones: Season Three is a bit slow, but it ultimately has a great payoff, well, I guess it's a "payoff" of sorts. This is definitely better than the second. Not saying the second season was bad, it was actually really fantastic, however, it was a bit weaker than the first and the third. However, with all it's strengths, the third season doesn't quite measure up to the first season, but I'm still convinced the reason I love the first season so much is because of Ned Stark. However, season three is definitely entertaining, and is a fantastical and bold examination of the human journey, even though it's still a fantasy series. I'm really looking forward to the faster-paced and even more dramatic fourth season coming out this April, and I'll try to review that one episode-by-episode if possible, but I'll probably just do an over-all review of it at the end, although I may do small updates here and there throughout the season if anything really dramatic happens. Anyway, I definitely recommend you buy this season, and the previous two ones, on Blu-ray and watch them immediately. If not... you're missing out! 5/5 stars.
Episode List:
One- "Valar Dohaeris"
Two- "Dark Wings, Dark Words"
Three- "Walk of Punishment"
Four- "And Now His Watch Is Ended"
Five- "Kissed by Fire"
Six- "The Climb"
Seven- "The Bear and the Maiden Fair"
Eight- "Second Sons"
Nine- "The Rains of Castamere"
Ten- "Mhysa"
(SPOILERS BELOW POSTER)
(Image: gameofthrones.wikia.com) SPOILER SEGMENT: Seriously, this will spoil the most shocking moment in the series thus far, so don't read ahead unless you really are dying to know, and if you do so, you might regret it afterwards: In the ninth episode, "The Rains of Castamere", Robb Stark must grovel before the Freys and ask that his uncle, Edmure Tully, take his place in marrying one of Walder Frey's daughters, as Robb broke a sacred vow that said he would do so. Frey agrees, and they host a wedding at The Twins. During the ceremony, Edmure, who was reluctant to marry one of Frey's ugly daughters, discovers that Roslin Frey is actually beautiful, and is overjoyed. Everything seems to be going well, and finally, Robb, Catelyn, and Talisa let their guards down and start celebrating along with the Freys and the Tullys. Robb and Talisa even discuss their future together and the possibility of naming their son after Ned Stark. However, after the ceremony and celebratory feast/after-party winds down, Catelyn Stark begins noticing some strange things, such as "Black" Walder Frey (one of Walder's grandsons) closing the doors to the main hall, that none of the Freys (and even Robb's lieutenant Lord Roose Bolton) aren't drinking wine like the Starks and Tullys are, and that Robb's direwolf Greywind has been locked inside a horse pen outside. Even stranger, after playing upbeat folk songs the whole night, Frey's musicians suddenly begin playing the dark opening tune to "The Rains of Castamere". Catelyn is visibly upset by this, but Robb and his pregnant wife Talisa are none the wiser. Suddenly, Walder stands up and calls for a toast to his new queen Talisa. He says he hasn't offered them "the hospitality they deserve". Catelyn looks at the eerily calm Roose, who uses his eyes to motion for her to look at his sleeve. She lifts up his sleeve to see he is wearing armor underneath, and she realizes he has betrayed them and the whole wedding was a trap. He gives her a shit-eating smirk before she abruptly slaps him and stands up, attempting to warn Robb, who is standing in the middle of the hall. She calls out to him, and he takes a second to notice her pleas for him, but it is far too late. Suddenly, one of Frey's grandsons pulls a dagger from under his clothes and sneaks up behind Talisa, stabbing her in the gut several times, and throwing her to the ground, letting her and her unborn son bleed out. Robb is shocked and appalled, but before he can react, the musicians and other Frey men on the balcony above stand up, firing several crossbow arrows his way, hitting him, Catelyn, and several Stark men. Roose Bolton has now vanished from sight, and Walder Frey now smirks evilly as he sees the carnage unfold before him. More Frey guards rush into the hall, and Arya Stark (who has just arrived at The Twins), is taken away by Sandor Clegane, who saves her from the massacre. However, Arya unfortunately sees Frey men slaughter several Stark men outside, as well as several archers slaughter Greywind while he is trying to break out of his pen. Catelyn, who is badly wounded, hides under a table as Frey men slay the rest of the Starks and Tullys left inside. She sees Frey's young wife, sitting terrified under a table, and grabs a dagger from a dead body. Robb, bleeding profusely, weeps over the corpse of his pregnant wife, and Frey stands up, signaling an end to the massacre, and the Freys stop killing, realizing only two Starks are left. Frey openly mocks Robb as he struggles to stand up, as he is in extreme pain from the crossbows stuck inside every part of his body. Catelyn rushes out from under the table, seizing Frey's wife and holding a knife to her throat. She uselessly pleads that she be taken hostage, and Robb be set free or she will kill Frey's wife. Frey simply says he will "get another", and Robb mumbles to his mother, who turns around, seeing her son pale and bloodied, standing amidst dozens of Frey men. Suddenly, the traitor Roose Bolton appears with a dagger, and whispers into Robb's ear "The Lannisters send their regards", before stabbing him through the chest, finally killing the "King Who Lost the North". Catelyn, now in utter shock and despair, cries out in agony as she slays Frey's young wife and sits there, dead silent for a few moments. Black Walder creeps up behind her, and slashes her throat. She is still despondent, and simply lets herself bleed out, and falls out of frame, before the screen cuts to black, and the credits roll with no musical accompaniment. At the beginning of the tenth and final episode, it shows the aftermath. The Frey soldiers destroy the Starks' entire encampment of soldiers, gruesomely murdering all of them via dismemberment, hanging, burning, etc. Robb's entire army is now completely destroyed, the very few survivors now on the run or held as hostages. As Arya and the Hound leave the horrific scene disguised as Frey bannermen, Arya sees the Frey soldiers commit one final act of desecration to Robb's body: they mutilate it by beheading Robb, as well as Greywind, and sewing the loyal direwolf's head onto Robb's arrow-riddled body, parading it around on horseback and mockingly crying out "Here comes the King of the North! King of the North! King of the North!" It's gut-wrenching to watch. This scene, collectively known as "The Red Wedding", is so brutally violent and utterly traumatizing and shocking (as it kills off some main heroes and beloved characters, and effectively ends a popular storyline in a very controversial way), that you can look up a slew of YouTube videos which are just people's horrified reactions to the scene. It's one of those scenes that leaves you speechless for like ten minutes, and leaves you obsessing over it for the rest of the day, or several days even. It's hard to swallow and accept, but it also shows why the series is so inventive, it breaks traditions and conventions, and completely throws you for a loop when it comes to where storylines will go and how they conclude, and which characters will live and which will die. Hopefully, we get some resolution in the fourth season, and hopefully Arya Stark gets some sweet revenge. (END OF SPOILERS)
(Images: Wikipedia)