Oscar! Oscar! Oscar! If you haven’t seen THE RED SOWING yet, you don’t know who Oscar is, but he’s one of the VIPs of the penultimate episode of HOUSE OF THE DRAGON S2. THE RED SOWING may not be as shocking as some of those second-to-last episodes in GAME OF THRONES were, but it’s still a worthy inclusion in a list of some of the best episodes of this franchise so far.
The Targaryens have always thought themselves gods to a point – as what other house commands the respect and allegiance of the dragons? THE RED SOWING challenges this dynasty, having Rhaenyra rethink everything she has known of her family and their ancestors her entire life. This episode solidified my belief that Emma D’Arcy is my favorite actor in this series. Their performance as Rhaenyra brings so much vulnerability to the role, yet never wavering in the strength and braveness that a woman in power, such as Rhaenyra, needs to show.
THE RED SOWING also answers questions such as “Why do we keep revisiting these random characters who seemingly have nothing to do with the events of the show”? This was a complaint of mine in earlier episodes. In a show with an already vast cast, why were the creators introducing more people, especially those unrelated to the main warring families? We FINALLY know for sure how these pieces, ahem, characters, fit into the greater world-building.
If you’re “Team Black” THE RED SOWING will strengthen your resolve behind Queen Rhaenyra and her right to the Iron Throne. If you’re “Team Green”, you might be worried. Aegon is still badly injured, Aemond can only do so much, and Alicent seems to be on a journey of self-realization. Now if you’re team Daemond, I’ve got unfortunate news for you. Matt Smith still seems to be starring in a completely different TV show. With only one episode left this year, it’s time to get the band back together!
HOUSE OF THE DRAGON streams on Max and airs on HBO every Sunday night.
