[Warning: Spoilers Ahead]
Things are heating up in Westeros. The fourth episode of Game of Thrones’ final season, titled “The Last of the Starks”, was the most Shakespearian and nuanced of the season, harking back to the fiery dialogue, ominous treachery and ready-to-blow intensity that used to be the show’s bread and butter.
While the Night King and his army of deathly comrades seemed like the perfect final enemy, it was somewhat a relief to be reconnected to the very human, political problems and egos that have made the show so grounded in reality, despite its fantastical setting. By bidding farewell to Jon’s much loved dire-wolf Ghost and having one of Dany’s dragons killed, it seems like the show-runners, having gotten rid of the Night King, are attempting to slowly erase any magic elements of the show, bringing it back to the human vs. human conflict where it all began.
And what a conflict it is set to be. Cersei, wonderfully devious as ever, affirmed her position as one of the best TV villains in history by ordering the decapitation of Missandei, a much loved character and Dany’s most trusted aid. With Jon and co on their way to King’s landing, next week’s episode (which will be directed by Miguel Sapochnik, the creative force behind “Hardhome”, “The Battle of the Bastards” and, of course, “The Long Night”) is set to be one of the show’s most brutal and decisive to date. I am literally shaking in anticipation.
Have a look below at some of Twitter’s favourite reactions to last night’s episode, including overwhelming support for Ghost and Missandei, and a certain coffee cup that managed to sneak its way on set. Well played, GOT Twitter team.