HOD follows the writing decline from 6th season of GOT. The characters are boring and predictable. GOT was complex with many plots and subplots that twisted and turned. HOD has one plot that plods along episode after episode. I gave it a 5 because the production value is great; the design, CGI dragons, wardrobe, etc. Are exceptional. The acting, writing and directing are subpar.

My final evaluating criteria is how many times I reach for my phone or tablet during the show because it has become tedious. Episode 6 was 8 times... not good.

I'm convinced that the high ratings are directly correlated with the success of the Kardashian's. Simple minds love simple things.