House of the Dragon Season 2, Episode 6 Review: The Quest for a Dragon Rider Highlights Crisis on Both Fronts
In the latest episode of House of the Dragon, much unfolds, yet everything seems to come full circle. Directed by Andrij Parekh, who also helmed the acclaimed “America Decides” episode of Succession, this installment aims to tie up existing storylines and revisit recurring characters. However, despite these efforts, the episode doesn’t quite deliver the game-changing moments one might expect.
Alicent’s Diminishing Influence
Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) now wields significant power, demonstrating a lack of diplomacy that further marginalizes Alicent (Olivia Cooke). Her role has been reduced to the point where she can barely contribute, and Aemond’s actions emphasize her diminished status. A particularly cutting line highlights this shift: “Have the indignities of your childhood not yet sufficiently been avenged?”
Though Alicent later receives some comforting news about her youngest son, Dareon, she reflects on the lack of kindness in her other children. Aegon remains covered in burns and claims to have no memory of the battle—whether this is the truth or a deceitful cover-up remains unclear.
Rhaenyra’s Search for a Dragonrider
Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) is unsettled by the council’s aggressive moves and decides to test the dragons herself. Ser Steffon’s (Anthony Flanagan) attempt ends tragically, with him being consumed by flames. Rhaenyra, with Mysaria’s (Sonoya Mizuno) assistance, explores internal divisions in an effort to address the growing crisis.
Daemon (Matt Smith) continues to struggle with his own issues, lost in nightmarish visions that have become more comical than menacing. His prolonged detachment remains a point of frustration.
This episode is rich with gestures, deception, anger, and betrayal as it attempts to consolidate numerous plot threads before the impending battle. Despite the effort to tie things together, the episode occasionally feels bogged down by its own complexity. The promise of new revelations in the next episode could shift this perception, but for now, the narrative is weighed down by its own breadth.
As Rhaenyra grapples with her son’s actions and Daemon’s continued absence, and Alicent faces public scorn, the episode ends on a note of anticipation. It suggests that there is still time to choose sides, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
House of the Dragon Season 2 releases new episodes every Monday morning on JioCinema.