Review: ‘House of the Dragon’ is worthy prequel to ‘Game of Thrones’

“House of the Dragon,” the prequel series to “Game of Thrones,” has a rather large path to walk in — the latter’s final season notwithstanding.

Following up on one of the most popular series in HBO history, this series may not have a great honeymoon period. Thankfully, from the looks of initial episodes, it succeeds. While “Thrones” focused primarily on the politics in control of the Iron Throne in the battle for power at King’s Landing and the Seven Realms through the various kingdoms throughout, “House” is content — for now — to play among the Targaryens, the Realms’ dragon masters, 172 years in the past.

Based on the George R.R. Martin prequel novel, “Fire & Blood,” the Targaryens offer plenty of fodder for exploration as not only the future of the throne, as foretold by Targaryen prophecy is explored, but the patriarchal hierarchy of the Seven Realms receives an extended glance as the gore and grime of this fantasy is told more or less through the eyes of the one who would be queen: Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen (Milly Alcock).

‘House of Dragon’ ponders the patriarchy

Fathered by King Viserys Targaryen (Paddy Considine), Rhaenyra possesses wit, political savvy, intelligence and when appropriate a sense of ruthlessness. She’d make the perfect ruler, except for that one thing — what she possesses in other areas, she lacks physically. While her father and others in his court admire her, she’s constantly reminded that she’s the wrong gender.

Things suddenly change when her mother dies during childbirth and the baby boy she carried to term eventually dies.That leaves Viserys without a male heir and a choice — naming his daughter or brother Daemon (Matt Smith) to succeed him. The problem: Daemon is a hot mess — selfish, vile, self-absorbed and perpetually at odds with the king, his advisers and those who populate his court.

His behavior forces Viserys to go against tradition and he names Rhaenyra his rightful heir, courting all sorts of trouble in the process.

‘Game of Thrones’ prequel follows template

In some respects, “Dragon” follows the template created by its predecessor in that much of the fun is derived from watching the royal machinations over time. Who can Viserys trust with his life? His kingdom? His secrets?

The answer just might be no one as we watch assorted characters with familiar familial names from just as recognizable lands attempt to gain favor.

In the process, we’re treated to more than a few characters who leave a lasting impression. Alcock’s Rhaenyra may elicit comparisons to “Thrones” Arya Stark. Hers, however, is a more intelligent kind of strength, which Alcock brings out slowly, but gloriously.

Matt Smith, known for his portrayal of Dr. Who, plays Daemon as if he wants to munch on live mammals. He’s sinister, but possesses the intelligence that makes him dangerous. It’s a performance to be relished as “Dragon” unfolds because he’s having plenty of fun playing at being bad.

Where that leads remains to be seen, but there’s little doubt “House of the Dragon” is worth the investment of time.

George M. Thomas dabbles in movies and television for the Beacon Journal. Reach him at gthomas@thebeaconjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @ByGeorgeThomas

Details

Show: “House of the Dragon”

Cast: Paddy Considine, Milly Alcock, Rhys Ifans, Matt Smith

Watch: 9 p.m. Sundays on HBO; stream on HBO Max

Rated: TV-MA

Grade: B

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Review: 'House of the Dragon' revisits HBO classic series