“Valar Morghulis” (Season 2 / Episode 10 / Season Finale)

Last week’s huge epic battle in King’s Landing saw some of the best moments ever in the show, so anticipation for the Game of Thrones final chapter had a lot to live up to and thankfully it did. In what was another ridiculously busy episode, we saw action taking place all over the map with contrasting circumstances.

Firstly, it was brilliant to see Tyrion still alive, even if he looks like the victim of a samurai attack. He’s at an all-time low and once again Peter Dinklage stepped up to the plate and gave a remarkable performance in what was an unusual manner for the popular dwarf. Unfortunately, King git-face aka Joffrey is still alive but at least Sansa is free, well free-ish anyway.

Jon Snow’s story has stalled a little of late since his capture, but what a way to end things with the King Neptune of the zombie world walking through the mountains. This was a truly breathtaking sight, the horror and fear were at an all time high as the horseman slowly turned towards the camera. After watching The Walking Dead finale a few months ago the image of that wondering hoard was still fresh in my mind as I saw this battalion of the undead stumble through the snow, I wonder if it’s the same group that’s walked all the way from Atlanta to Westeros?

I punched the air the moment those three awesome dragons burnt that Richard O’brien look-a-like to the ground, Dany’s journey in Qarth has finally come to an end and she’s managed to bag one hell of a loot. I was slightly disappointed not to see anything more from the mysterious female with the mask  but there was a lot going on in this episode so you can’t complain for not seeing every character.

As for Winterfell? Well, here’s an interesting question – who burnt it down? Most likely it’s the men from Pyke but surely they wouldn’t have been granted safe passage after setting that fire. Like poor Maester Luwin, Theon is surely entering his final days. He’s no doubt on his way to camp Stark; will Robb kill the misguided Greyjoy as he says or will he still see a friend?

There are a fair old loose ends in Westeros but let’s not forget this is an ongoing saga with plenty of differing events to keep you entertained. This has been a solid, triumphant season filled with intense action, quality dialogue and moments of sheer terror.

9/10

Scene of the Episode – Tyrion’s tears – a stellar performance from one of the best actors on TV today, Peter Dinklage has taken over the headlining slot in those show with complete ease, he deserves every accolade that is sure to flood his way.

Reviewed by Rich Jepson, cult TV enthusiast and author of 24: Terrorism Through Television.