Episode 1
Okay I have read the books this time around, so I know what to expect. But this episode felt a little too light story wise, especially for the premiere. They set up GREAT things to happen next week, but it was a little too dull.
-More missed opportunities with the Hound and Sansa. With only 9 episodes left, when are they going to hear from this guy?!?
-Interesting stuff with Jon Snow, but I was dying for him to meet the Wildlings. Looks like that's next week though. Same with Robb Stark. Interesting set up with Theone, but again the fun stuff starts next week.
-Bran Stark also a slow storyline, other than finally introducing his wolf dreams. Did they show the Freys at all or did I miss them?
- Dany and her dragons, can't complain here because it's accurate to the book, her story moves in slow motion til a certain point.
- We finally meet Stannis, but if you didn't read the books, you might have missed who he was completely. Poor introduction, more about Melissandre, also a poor introduction.
-Zero Arya? Her journey is one of my favorite things. Hope she gets most of an episode dedicated to her.
Okay the good stuff
- Little Finger vs. Cersei. I don't remember this at all from the books and really enjoyed seeing this. It's a clever scene and planting of some seeds for later.
- Joffrey vs. Cersei. Also don't remember this from the books, so this is new. Curious to see where they are going with this.
- Tyrion arrives, great intro with Cersei.
-Robb's wolf, much better than last season.
Overall it was okay. Curious what non-book readers think. With only 9 episodes left, I hope they pick up the pace because lots of important things need to take place.