House Of The Dragon

The Targaryens have an inheritance problem

Long before Game of Thrones, the Targaryen family sits at the centre of power in Westeros. King Viserys wants to settle the question of succession, but the people around him have competing loyalties and ambitions. A decision about the family is also a decision about the realm.

Ryan Condal and George R.R. Martin's prequel draws on Martin's Fire & Blood. Paddy Considine gives Viserys warmth and uncertainty; Matt Smith brings a much less containable energy to Prince Daemon. Emma D'Arcy and Olivia Cooke play the adult Rhaenyra and Alicent, following the younger portrayals by Milly Alcock and Emily Carey.

I recently rewatched the first two seasons before watching the third. It is good and developing well, with strong performances and plenty of interest in the family politics. I am noticing more questionable writing and character choices, but those reservations have not outweighed the enjoyment.

Read my updated review for that balance of enthusiasm and caution. Rome and Succession offer other compelling versions of private relationships becoming public power struggles.