Timekeeper

My second 10, after "Baelor". I will say this right at the start. HBO has gone beyond the impossible and brought AGoT to life. I squealed at the NW's wagon leaving KL, and glimpses of Rorge, Biter and Jaqen. "WHY? WHY KEEP HIM HOODED? WRY!?" Tears were tearfully shed during the King in the North and Drogo's death scenes, and the aftermath of the funeral pyre. Season two is truly born out of fire and blood. Who knew Pycelle was so limber? I could do without Roz, but it's nice to see that Varys and LF aren't the only players who know the rules of the game. Either that, or Pycelle must have lead weights sewn into the seams of his robes, the way he struggles. Jon's night ride and Mormont's morning after were stunning. The Old Bear's monologue during the setting out from Castle Black is a wonderful prelude to the Great Ranging. Season two will be explosive. The only improvements I could see to up the tension, have the khalasar try to rescue Dany from the fire, or cluster more tightly around her for the final scene. Having them that spread out when Jorah steps up makes them look like they're all asleep and not gazing in abject wonder at the first living dragons in 200 years. Second, move King in the North to the penultimate scene, as it should be. It gives the entire episode to build up to fruition. Other than those, I commend D&D for their vision, Alan for his direction, and GRRM for this world we came to love in the first place. Mother of Dragons! King in the North!

A solid 9 for astonishing adaptation to the small screen. Arya's first kill and lack of Tysha's story keep me from giving it that perfect 10. Very much loved the blend of exposition and action with the scenes. Drogo's fight especially was a very nice improvement. "Tell Lord Tywin, winter is coming for him. Twenty thousand strong, to find out if he really does shit gold." As soon as I heard the line, the only thing going through my mind was "damn, he did not just go there".