“A Rotten Foundation for Epic Fantasy”: Critics Weigh In on the Series “House of the Dragon”
Explore expert reviews and insights on HBO Max’s highly anticipated Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon. Discover what makes this epic fantasy series both captivating and controversial.
Critical opinions are divided.
On August 21, HBO Max premiered “House of the Dragon,” the eagerly awaited prequel to “Game of Thrones.” The first season features 10 episodes, with critics receiving early access to the first six. Reviews have started appearing in international media, and Metacritic has begun compiling ratings. Currently, the series holds a score of 68 out of 100 based on 25 reviews.
The initial episodes have been praised for outstanding acting performances, detailed set designs, and their resemblance to “Game of Thrones.” However, critics have expressed concerns about shallow character development and overt attempts to outdo the original series in gore and fan service. Here are some selected critic perspectives.
“Thanks to excellent directing and cinematography, combined with a well-crafted script that blends political intrigue with family drama and delivers impressive, cunning twists, along with stellar performances from both established actors and well-chosen newcomers, the series emerges as substantial and gripping enough to keep audiences engaged for many seasons to come.”
– Chicago Sun-Times
“House of the Dragon closely mirrors ‘Game of Thrones’ and proves that the original series’ formula still works. Watching British actors calmly discuss political matters in intricately designed rooms remains thrilling, even if the experience feels somewhat safe and overly familiar.”
– TV Guide
“If the creators can resist the temptation to simply replicate ‘Game of Thrones,’ this could become a strong spin-off—much like ‘Better Call Saul’ was for ‘Breaking Bad.’ So far, everything looks ambitious, visually stunning, and intriguing.”
– i
“Nothing in the early episodes signals a potential masterpiece. There are structural flaws, derivative elements, and a hollow feeling when the audience is meant to connect with the characters.
The creators played it too safe. Between attempts to depict the horrors on civilization’s fringes and Ramin Djawadi’s elegant score, there’s a glaring eagerness to match the original series. Visually, it could have been stronger. Still, overall, it’s not bad.”
– Time
“It seems the creators prioritized fan service above all else. The series offers more dragons, bloodshed, shocking murders, and lavish historical reconstruction. However, crafting scenes where characters sound authentic took a backseat.
Director Miguel Sapochnik and composer Ramin Djawadi succeeded in making the new series look like ‘Game of Thrones,’ but inside, it feels as empty and fragile as the kingdom proudly built by Viserys. It’s a rotten foundation for epic fantasy.”
– Slant Magazine
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