I thought that the final two episodes of season 2 was some of the very finest television that I have ever seen.
The battle was depicted so well. It was sadly missing one key element from the book, but nonetheless the scene was magnificent.
I particularly liked the season finale too, the scene between Bran, Rickon, Hodor, Osha, and the dying Maester Luwin was very touching.
Likewise, the scene between Daenerys and Khal Drogo in the warlock tower was just absolutely awesome, and that was an added scene that was not in the books, in fact much of what occurred in the tower was not in the books. Pryat Pree’s demise via dragon flame was great, but it was presented differently in the book as well.
Overall the producers have done a startling job in bringing the books to life, however I am very glad that I read the books first.
Sometimes, liberties have to be taken for a successful visual representation with actual dialogue. Being too slavishly devoted to literally following the book can cause problems. Take, for example, The Shining. Great movie, veered from the book substantially because it had to in most instances, but sometimes alterations were made for pacing and visual interest. Great directors and actors make it work. There are plenty of examples of veering away from the book for apparently no good reason too, though. No vision, lack of skill, holding the book in poor regard, political agenda on the part of the script, direction and actors. That’s always disappointing. This series isn’t at all.
Loved those scenes too. I noticed that when Daenerys walked away from Drogo, he seemed to go into a trance. Was this just magic or was it his ghost?
Questions, questions, I ask so many questions. Hope I’m not driving you crazy :)