What I’m Watching: Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones: Season 3, Episode 3 “Walk of Punishment” (B+)

Though he’s having some trouble succeeding in gaining relevant power, it’s truly great to see Tyrion try to reassert himself, defiantly dragging chairs and having layered conversations with people who purport not to take himself seriously. The surprising success of his savior and new protege was an entertaining diversion, and it’s an important reminder to see just what the perks of being close to the throne are. Another Lannister showed an unexpected compassion for someone else, and that was Jaime, who stepped in to save Brienne from an unfortunate fate without much in it for him. I suspect they’ll soon becomes allies even if the possibility of true friendship isn’t likely. Losing his hand was a painful punishment, but I think he’ll still be a competent swordsman more talented than most men without it. Theon’s fortune seems to be changing, though he’s having a rough time of it on the way there. I’m sure that Daenerys has something up her sleeve and that purchasing Missandei as part of her deal might be helpful in not handing over one of her precious dragons. Her associate is hardly as creepy as the kind of beings she had to contend with last season, but it would still be sweet to see her take her revenge after all of the terrible things said about her in a language she didn’t understand. Maybe Davos will be able to convince Stannis that he has been hypnotized into uselessness by Melisandre with her gone, returning one more contender to this regal match.