So, you want to get your show noticed in 2022? Aim to be featured on the Tumblrs, Twitters, etc. Plan to have snappy dialogue delivered by attractive actors who somehow exist outside any boundaries or limitations. Make sure you have one or two jaw-dropping scenes, just enough to keep people's interest throughout the show's run.

This is not a condemnation. The creators are playing to the times which embraces short term returns over a long term payoff. It's everywhere, businesses, schools, healthcare, and so on. The script has been flipped: long term planning is now seen as naive and foolish. Why wouldn't you want to maximize profits now? Why wait?

But back to the show...it's visually impressive and the dragons are a highlight. Some settings adjustments were required for viewing the darker scenes, but that may be due to my TV. My first impression was noting how much the actors seemed to be "acting." It was like watching a local theater rehearsal with everyone wearing costumes and wigs and going over their lines.

I will admit here that I really wanted to like this show as I am a fan of fantasy and welcome new additions to a sparse selection.

Once I accepted the situation, even the ridiculous looking wigs on the Velaryons, I was able to get somewhat immersed in the stories. It helps that there are numerous online opportunities to fill in the gaps of information. There just isn't the depth of development that GOT had. Therefore, the Big Events didn't register as anything more than a typical jump scare. The scene in episode 8 would obviously be featured in multiple memes. And that was the point, grab the attention, then move on to the next Big Event. It's easier and more efficient than telling a story.

Not that this method doesn't allow for some shining moments. The King's performance in episode 8 and the introduction of Aemond were standouts. The time jumps were jarring but necessary to preserve the focus on shocking events. Therefore, the final's big event was less fulfilling story wise because I didn't "know" the character. The chase was exciting and well done, and this was a pivotal moment in the overall story. It just felt like another meme created moment.

I will tune in to the next season, however. According to the internet, this first season was a set up for the main story. Maybe the writers will allow some more character development? That is, if the executives allow it. So, if all that's available are crumbs of fantasy on TV, then I guess I'll dine on crumbs.