IR TV Review: HOUSE OF THE DRAGON - EPISODE 4 [HBO-S3]

The essence of power revels usually in the tempering of secrets and the mitigating of rage. Rhaenyra (Emma D'Arcy) wants to understand the context of the palace but having the right respect versus those who just want to line their pockets is a fine line. The title Queen Of Bastards is subjugated even by one of her own dragon fliers because he sees this just as a means to an end. Meanwhile on the other side, a Hightower is willing to make the harder choice and cause lifelong damage. That action, seen in the final minutes on Episode 4 (and is likely the moment that redefines another character, does play to the real power: the willingness to do anything to win.

Daemon (Matt Smith) is capitulating to Rhaenyra but he knows it is just a matter of time. His two stops play to more his wavering doubts despite the omen of the witch. Alicent (Olivia Cooke) just wants to be free. She is not a nihilist and yet she knows eventually everything she does will lead to ruin. The ruined king Eragorn has the most interesting trials and his intention speaks to both his spoiled nature and his losses despite his want to retain power. This is a battle for the least empathetic. Rhaenyra wants to be loved but realizes that this might involve subjugation. But such is the need for her empire B

By Tim Wassberg