Game of Thrones S01 E09

Nasty, nasty! Episode 09 breaks the rules of Season 1.

WARNING:

*********Spoilers Ahead*********

Holy Smoking Christmas! Last night, I would have liked to been alongside a Game of Thrones fan who hadn't read the series, watching their reaction in the last 5 mins. Check this guy out! He's gone viral!

Yes, Ned's dead, baby. In an absolutely stunning twist to non-readers of ASOIAF, our main protagonist lost his head to his own sword. I didn't realize the significance of using Ice for the beheading until I watched the show, considering Ned lopped off poor Will's head at the very start of the season. The scene was suitably horrific and shocking, even moreso when you realize Ned's daughters are helplessly looking on. Damn that Joffrey!

There were other great moments. Marvellous shots of the Twins, a great portrayal of slimebag Walder Frey by David Bradley, Jon receives Longclaw from Commander Mormont, we meet a lost Targaryen. The Dany story arc goes bonkers with more happening in this episode than the previous eight episodes combined. Jamie is captured by Robb, Tyrion meets Shae and relates the story of his lost love, Tysha, to her and Bronn during a drinking game. Tyrion heads to battle with some great advice from Bronn to "stay low".

Yet, you could be easily forgiven for forgotting all this upon watching the show's stunning climax. In a very Braveheart moment, we watch Ice descend in slo-mo, followed by the sound of cleaving flesh. The next shot is of poor Arya's face buried in Yoren's chest while he holds her, as frightened birds fly off into the sky. They nailed it. Ned gets "Iced".

Next week is the final episode of Season One. It's been a very fast ride, with the crest of the building wave near the end. Bring on a Clash of Kings!