Predictions: Game of Thrones SN6 E9 – ‘Battle of the Bastards’

Tonight’s upcoming episode of Game of Thrones is bound to be intense. As the episode’s name suggests, we will witness the ultimate battle between Jon Snow’s army and the Bolton army. With perhaps a surprise from a House you may have forgotten exists: House Reed.

Jon Snow’s army is really small in comparison to the Bolton army. They are outmanned even taking into account the giant Wun Wun. Bolton’s men are trained to use the phalanx formation —think Spartan formation with shields and long spears. We see Tormund and other wildlings have no idea how to counteract this strategic method of fighting once they reach the front line, since Wildlings attack in a surge of strength. That’s just the front line though. It’s followed by lines and lines of archers, pikemen, and mounted soldiers. Despite these odds, we know Sansa wrote to a House. House Reed swore fealty to House Stark thousands of years ago when the Starks were Kings in the North. If you recall when Robb Stark’s army was heading South, the crannogmen of the House Reed were instructed to protect the Neck from the Lannisters. They did not help Stannis during his battle on Winterfell, nor did they swear fealty to House Bolton. Therefore, we can assume they remain loyal to House Stark. When Lord Howland Reed finally meets Jon he’ll tell Jon who his parents are, since Howland was with Eddard the day they saved Lyanna Stark.

Skatronixxx received a hot little tip that a main character will die. Who could this character be? It’s likely to be Ramsay Bolton himself. In the preview of tonight’s episode we can hear a male character (presumably Jon Snow) say, “Thousands of men don’t need to die. Only one of us.” Jon wants to spare the lives of his men, because he knows the odds of winning are less against such a great force. The question is, will Ramsay take him up on this offer? Both Jon and Ramsay are seasoned fighters and strategists. While we can hope that Jon kills Ramsay in combat, we can also expect Ramsay to only agree to the fight if he believes himself to be superior in fighting skills.

In an interview on the 26th of May, 2016, with This Morning, actor Iwan Rheon who plays Ramsay Bolton gave what might’ve been a little clue about his character’s death.

Interviewer: “I mean however it happens, I think it should be pretty grizzly, shouldn’t it?”

Rheon: “Yeah I think he’s got it [a grizzly death] coming. I think he deserves it.”

On a side note, I for one will be sad to see such a talented actor leave the show. Iwan Rheon and Jack Gleeson, who played King Joffrey, were superb in their roles of much hated characters.

If Ramsay does die, it will be at a cost. Jon can’t die again, not so soon after being resurrected. Most likely it will be someone dear to House Stark. So who will it be? Ser Davos, Tormund, or Brienne all seem likely suspects.

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There are quite a few Northern Houses that might change their minds last minute and turn on the Boltons. I’m still holding out hope that Arya appears and stabs Ramsay, that would be epic. What are your predictions? Comment, share and like below, or tweet me @SohoDoll. And as always, “The North Remembers.”

Game Of Thrones SN6 E8 – ‘No One’

Welcome back Meereenese, to your weekly review of Game of Thrones. The episode I shall be recapping is episode 8 of season 6 — ‘No One.’ Let’s get started!

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Riverlands

While some of the Brotherhood Without Banners members are fooling around, Sandor finds them and brutally kills them with his axe. He continues searching for their leader, and ends up coming across Beric Dondarrion and Thoros of Myr, who found the remaining responsible men first. Sandor bargains with Beric and Thoros to be allowed to kill two of the men, which they finally allow him to do —but only by hanging them. Afterwards they sit around a campfire, and Beric and Thoros try to recruit Sandor to join the Brotherhood in heading North to fight the White Walkers, claiming that the Lord of Light gifted Sandor with such a talent for violence for a reason.

Riverrun

Brienne and Podrick arrive at Riverrun where the siege is taking place. Brienne tells Jaimie that she has come to recruit the Blackfish and the Tully army for Sansa to retake Winterfell. Jaimie points out that they are preoccupied at the moment with the siege, as the Blackfish refuses to surrender the castle. Brienne proposes that if the Blackfish surrenders the castle, then in return he will be allowed safe passage to lead the Tully army North. Jaimie agrees, giving Brienne till nightfall. When Brienne speaks to the Blackfish he says he cannot help Sansa’s cause, as he will never abandon his home. Brienne then asks Podrick to find a maester to send a raven back to Sansa, telling her that she has failed. In the meantime, Jaimie speaks to Edmure Tully and attempts to get him to cooperate with his demands. Jaimie threatens to kill every Tully, including Edmure and his newborn son, in order to be reunited with Cersei. Edmure finally agrees to help. The Tully soldiers lower the drawbridge, surrender the castle and capture the Blackfish as per Edmure’s orders. The Blackfish helps Brienne and Podrick escape, fighting off solders before dying. As Jaimie is informed that the Blackfish is dead, he sees Brienne and Podrick rowing away on the river. They gaze across the distance into each other’s eyes, before waving farewell (Tormund better watch out).

Meereen

Tyrion and Varys walk down to the docks, listening to the Red Priestesses preach about Daenerys being chosen by the Lord of Light. Tyrion bids Varys farewell, as Varys is leaving for Westeros in search of allies with boats. Varys  warns Tyrion to not trust the Red Priestesses. Later on, Tyrion settles down for a drink in the pyramid with Grey Worm and Missandei. He tries to teach them how to relax and make jokes, which eventually yields results, thanks to some wine. Just when Grey Worm starts smiling at Missandei, a fleet sent by the Masters arrives and attacks Meereen. Missandei warns Tyrion that they have come to reclaim their “property.” The Master’s fleet continues to bombard the city alight with fire, and Tyrion, Missandei and the Unsullied try to think of a plan of defence. A loud noise is heard outside the impenetrable pyramid, Drogon has touched down with Daenerys Stormborn.

King’s Landing

Qyburn informs Cersei that the Faith Militant has been allowed inside the Red Keep. She goes out her room to meet them, and they tell her that the High Sparrow wants to speak with her, which she refuses. They threaten violence if she disagrees, to which she replies, “I choose violence.” Gregor easily disposes of a Faith Militant member, so they back off for the time being. Later on, Cersei attends a royal announcement made by her son in the Throne Room. King Tommen announcnes that trial by combat will now be banished throughout the Seven Kingdoms as it is too violent. Qyburn reports back to Cersei about a certain rumour she had ordered him to investigate on. He tells her that it is “more, much more.” (Perhaps the High Sparrow has a secret lineage?)

Braavos

Lady Crane returns to her chambers after performing her Cersei routine, which is revamped with Arya’s critiques in mind. She finds Arya wounded and hiding in the corner, and helps stitch her wounds. Arya asks what happened to Bianca, the actress that wanted Lady Crane dead. Lady Crane answers that she mutilated Bianca’s face, so that no company would ever hire her. Lady Crane gives Arya milk of the poppy to sleep, but Arya wakes up later after hearing a loud crash in the room. She finds Lady Crane’s dead, twisted body with the Waif smiling proudly at her handiwork. Arya runs and jumps out the balcony onto the street below, with the Waif in close pursuit. She sprints down an alley, sliders under a cart, slips into a nearby men’s sauna and waits a bit before exiting. The Waif finds her again though, and Arya is forced to jump and tumbles down the steps of a market, with the Waif still coming at her. Arya clutches her bleeding stomach and proceeds down lonely alleys leaving a trail of blood on the walls as she goes, which the Waif follows. Arya leads her to an abandoned dark building, lit by one faint candle. She came prepared —Needle is in her hand, but the Waif also has a weapon. Arya cuts the candle, snuffing the light out. At the house of Black and White, Jaqen finds a bloodtrail and follows it to the source —the Waif’s face has joined the many faces on the wall. Jaqen turns around and tells Arya that she is finally No One, but Arya disagrees. She declares, “A girl is Arya Stark of Winterfell. And I’m going home.”

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What does the next episode look like? Watch the Season 6 – Episode 9 trailer below.

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Can I just say how relieved I am that Arya is alive and sorta well? I know there were a ton of theories out there about how Lady Crane was also a “No One,” but I wasn’t feeling it. It was pretty obvious with that smile from Jaqen at the end, that whatever his purpose was in training Arya he achieved it. Maybe the Many-Faced-God simply wanted her to be trained, and Jaqen achieved his goal? Just watch her infiltrate Winterfell, and kill Ramsay Bolton please. What was your favourite moment from this episode? Thoughts on the upcoming war? Comment, share and like below, or tweet me @SohoDoll. And as always, “Valar morghulis.”

Game Of Thrones SN6 E7 – ‘The Broken Man’

Welcome wildlings, to your weekly review of Game of Thrones. The episode I shall be recapping is episode 7 of season 6 — ‘The Broken Man.’ Let’s begin!

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Riverlands

Sandor Clegane is alive and swinging… at wood. He’s taking out his aggression, and defeat, by helping a small community of people build some sort of wooden monument to the Seven. The leader of the group, Brother Ray, who saved the Hound after mistaking him for dead, speaks to him frequently believing that the gods aren’t done with him yet. Later on, while chopping wood at a distance from the rest of the group, the Hound hears screaming in the direction of the people. He abandons his work and heads over, but he’s too late. The villagers have all been killed by the Brotherhood Without Banners, and Brother Ray has been hung from the wooden structure. Angry, Clegane ends his peaceful life, retrieves his axe and heads off seeking revenge.

King’s Landing

Queen Margaery and the High Sparrow have a talk about Margaery’s marriage duties. King Tommen really wants her back in the bed, but Margaery confesses to the High Sparrow that she just hasn’t felt the need in a long time. The High Sparrow states that she took sacred vows, and must fulfil her duties to him as a King by producing an heir to carry on the way of the Faith. The High Sparrow really is smarter than he lets on, he knows that Margaery is avoiding producing an heir as to protect her family. Before departing the room, the High Sparrow makes one last remark, a threat really, that Olenna Tyrell is in physical and spiritual danger unless she adopts the new way. Later on, Margaery meets with her grandmother, while Septa Unella stands watching, and advises her to leave King’s Landing. Olenna keeps refusing so  Margaery slips a piece of parchment in her sleeve, a drawing of their house sigil, after which she reluctantly agrees to leave. Cersei hears that Olenna is leaving and comes asking her to stay, that they need each other. Olenna tells Cersei that she has lost everything, all the control she once had, and advises her to leave King’s Landing while she still can.

Bear Island

Jon, Sansa, and Ser Davos meet with the Lady of Bear Island, ten-year-old Lyanna Mormont. Sansa tries to start the conversation with her by commenting on Lyanna’s name coming from Sansa’s beautiful aunt, but Lyanna quickly shuts down the conversation. She wants to be a strong warrior like her mother, who died fighting for Robb Stark. Jon tries to begin the next conversation by talking about how he served as steward for Lyanna’s uncle, Jeor Mormont, but that conversation is quickly ended too. Ser Davos ends up saving the day by commenting on how difficult is must be to have such a responsibility and burden thrust upon her. Lyanna quickly takes a liking to him, as he seems to truly understand her situation. She finally agrees to give her support to the cause, offering 62 men.

Deepwood Motte

Jon, Sansa, and Ser Davos meet with House Glover’s lord to urge them to join their cause. They are met with a resounding no, as the House only recently recovered Deepwood Motte from the Ironborn. They have to remain loyal to the Boltons, or suffer the consequences. Sansa tries to remind Robett Glover of their loyalty to House Stark, but Robett asks where House Stark was when his wife and brother were both slain, then dismisses them from Deepwood Motte.

The Gift

Jon, Sansa and Ser Davos meet with the wildling leaders who have settled into the Gift (the area south of the wall stretching from coast to coast). They request that the wildlings join their cause, to take back Winterfell, because when the dead come they will need all the Northern Houses to stop the Night King. If left under the control of the Boltons, then the North shall remain divided. Tormund agrees that Jon has his support, as does the giant Wun Wun, and eventually another leader. Later on, Jon and Sansa argue — Jon says they need to fight now, while Sansa disagrees saying they need more support. Sansa hastliy writes a letter to an unknown Northern House in the hopes of support, while Jon continues to break up fights between Wildlings and Northern men.

Sunspear

Yara and Theon make their last landfall at Sunspear, as they plan to head out the next day to Meereen to meet Daenerys before their uncle proposes his plan to her. Yara talks to Theon in a sisterly but stern fashion, advising him on how to get over what he’s suffered the past few years. She tells him to slit his wrists if he cannot go back to being Theon Greyjoy, but if he can change and pull himself together then be the Theon he once was. Theon agrees to live, and Yara goes off in the company of a lady she fancies leaving Theon to his thoughts and his drink.

Riverrun

Jaimie, Bronn and the Lannister army arrive at Riverrun to recapture the castle. They walk straight into the Frey camp as the Freys are novices at sieging  it seems. After watching the Freys repeatedly fail on their attempts of threatening the Blackfish with his nephew’s life, Jaimie announces he will now lead the siege. He orders trenches be dug, patrols set up, and Edmure Tully bathed and fed. Later on, Jaimie meets with the Blackfish on the drawbridge to negotiate. He soon discovers that the Blackfish would rather die than give up the cause, and they have enough supplies to stand a two-year siege. So long as the Blackfish lives, the cause is not dead.

Braavos

Arya discovers that a ship is sailing to Westeros the next day, and speaks to the captain, offering him two bags of coinage to pay for a cabin and passage. He agrees and she walks around Braavos, taking in her last day there. An old lady appears and calls out to her, but suddenly stabs Arya multiple times. It’s the waif, and she’s not in the mood to kill Arya quickly. Thankfully Arya knows a few moves of her own and head-butts the waif, before rolling over the ledge into the river below. The waif watches overhead, but sees no sign of Arya. Pleased with herself, the waif walks off. Arya surfaces on the steps of a street leading to the water, and clutches her stomach splattering blood onto the street. People watch her go by, but no one attempts to help.

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Your next episode of Game of Thrones will be SN6 E8, as previewed here.

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Hopefully we’ll see the Hound take on his brother. Don’t worry about Arya, she won’t die from a little boo-boo like Drogo. She’s too bad-ass, and Jaqen H’ghar did say that the girl has many talents. Fingers crossed regeneration is one of them. Hopefully the waif will get in trouble for not killing Arya quickly and painlessly. What are your thoughts on tonight’s episode? How do you think the Northern battle will turn out? Comment, like and share below, or tweet me @SohoDoll. And as always, “Stick ’em with the pointy end.”

Game of Thrones SN6 E6 – ‘Blood of My Blood’

Welcome my khalasar, to your weekly review of Game of Thrones. The episode I shall be recapping is episode 6 of season 6 —’Blood of My Blood.’ Let’s get started!

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The Frozen Forest

Meera is doing her best to pull Bran to safety through the Frozen Forest, but she is struggling with the burden. Bran continues to have visions, he even sees the Mad King in the past, and the wights in the present getting closer and closer to their location. Meera apologizes to Bran, seeing the wights surrounding them, but a mysterious hooded figure on horseback arrives and starts killing the wights. The man on horseback pulls Meera and Bran onto his horse and they flee. Later on as the cloaked figure prepares Bran a fresh hot cup of bloody rabbit, Bran asks him who he is. Pulling back his hood, he reveals himself to be Bran’s uncle, Benjen Stark. He reveals that the white walkers killed him, and he was transforming into one of them, but the Children of the Forest stopped the process by impaling him with dragonglass. The Three-Eyed Raven had called him to save Bran before dying. He tells Bran that he must learn to control his warging ability before the Night King arrives south.

Horn Hill

Sam, little Sam and Gilly arrive at Horn Hill, the seat of House Tarly. Upon arriving, Sam and Gilly are welcomed by Melessa, Sam’s mother, and Talla, Sam’s sister. Baby Sam and Gilly are similarly welcomed and settle in. They both meet Sam’s father, Randyll Tarly, and Sam’s brother, Dickon Tarly, at dinner later on. Sam had previously warned Gilly to not mention to his father that she is a wildling, but it manages to slip out in dinner. Randyll begins insulting Gilly for being a wildling, and insults Sam for his weight. Melessa having had enough of Randyll’s rudeness, excuses Talla, Gilly and herself from dinner. Later that night, Sam visits Gilly and tells her that he’s leaving, and steps out of her room. He bursts through the doors a few moments later, telling Gilly to pack her things because he’s taking her to the Citadel with him. On their way out Sam takes House Tarly’s Valyrian steel sword, Heartsbane.

Braavos

Arya scouts her target, Lady Crane,  a second time by watching her perform a play. She confirms her suspicions that the younger actress wants Lady Crane dead, when she spots her mouthing all the lines perfectly to a scene Lady Crane performs. While the play goes on, Arya sneaks backstage and poisons Lady Crane’s drinking flask. As she leaves the backstage area, the actors start piling in, Lady Crane being one of them. She spots Arya and they start conversing, but Arya leaves after a while. Lady Crane and her fellow actors are talking, and she begins to raise the poisoned flask to her mouth when suddenly Arya smashes it to the ground. Everyone stares at her, shocked at the outburst, but Arya wars Lady Crane that the younger actress wants her dead, and leaves. The Waif after watching all of this unfold returns to Jaqen H’ghar and asks to kill Arya because she failed. He agrees. Arya in the meantime retrieves Needle from the rock pile she had buried it in, and hides it by the side of her bed. The Waif might be up for the fight of her life.

King’s Landing

King Tommen and the High Sparrow talk about Queen Margaery’s walk of atonement that will soon take place. The High Sparrow gives Tommen permission to visit Margaery, who assures him everything will be better than before once she atones. Jaime and Mace Tyrell begin marching with the Tyrell army through King’s Landing to the Great Sept of Baelor to stop Margaery from walking. Jaime threatens the High Sparrow with the Tyrell army, unless he were to release Margaery and Loras. The High Sparrow declares that there will be no need for violence, as Margaery has atoned already by bringing another into the Faith of the Seven. King Tommen appears and gives a speech about uniting the Faith and the Crown. Later on in the throne room, Tommen relieves Jaime of his Kingsguard duties. Jaime speaks with Cersei, explaining how he has been given orders to overthrow the Blackfish, Brynden Tully, who has retaken Riverrun. Cersei advises Jaime to be the head of the Lannister army and crush their enemies.

The Twins

Lord Walder Frey is met by his sons Lothar Frey and Walder Rivers, who had one job: hold Riverrun. They failed. They defend their loss, saying that multiple Riverlords have risen against the Freys. The Brotherhood Without Banners are also raiding their supply camps (I think we might see Brienne dealing with them in a future episode, along with Jaime). Walder commands them to take the Tully stronghold back, infuriated that he should be humiliated this way. He then brings in Edmure Tully, the younger brother of Catelyn and Lysa, and orders that Edmure be used to help them take back Riverrun.

Dothraki Sea

Daenerys, mother of how-many-ships-do-I-need, discusses how she will cross the Narrow Sea and take her place on the Iron Throne. Daario tells her that she was born to conquer, not to sit on a throne all day. Noticing a gust of wind in the distance she believes to be caused by Drogon, she takes off riding, telling Daario to wait. Time flies by and a worried Daario tells the Dothraki he shall go look for her, but suddenly a shadow passes overhead. It blocks the sun, it makes Dothraki and horses alike anxious. It’s Drogon alright —with Daenerys riding him. She lands before the Mother of Mountains, and delivers a speech to the Dothraki, asking them all to be her blood riders. They cheer back, and she declares they will cross the Narrow Sea on wooden horses to conquer Westeros.

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I admit, this episode wasn’t as dramatic as the ones before for me, but tossing uncle Benjen back in this mix did warm things up (though I did see that coming). Also, who doesn’t like a good inspirational moment from Daenerys? I’m not quite sure how she managed to coax Drogon into letting her ride him, probably candy or sacrificing the horse she was riding, but it was pretty epic. What did you like or dislike? Like, share and comment below, or tweet me @SohoDoll. And as always, “The North remembers.”

Game of Thrones SN6 E5 – ‘The Door’

 

Valar morghulis my Lords and Ladies of Westeros and Essos. My name is Jessica, and the Game of Thrones episode I shall be recapping is episode 5 of season 6 — ‘The Door.’ Let’s begin!

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The Wall

Sansa receives a letter from Littlefinger (Lord Baelish) asking to meet her at Mole’s Town. She, accompanied by Brienne, goes there and confronts Littlefinger on how he left her with the monster Ramsay. Littlefinger claims he didn’t know that Ramsay was cruel, then begins to plead with Sansa to forgive him and spare his life. He explains how he had brought the Knights of the Vale to protect her, and reveals upon leaving that Brynden Tully (Sansa’s uncle), has recaptured Riverrun. After returning to Castle Black, Sansa along with Jon, Davos, Mellisandre, Brienne, Tormund and Edd plan how they will retake Winterfell. They come to the conclusion that it will take the support of all the small Northern Houses and the Tullys of Riverrun to defeat the united force of Boltons, Umbers and Karstarks. Before setting out on the quest with Jon, Davos, and Mellisandre, Sansa orders Brienne to travel to Riverrun to enlist Brynden’s help.

Vaes Dothrak

Before departing Vaes Dothrak to begin their journey to only-the seven-gods-knows-where, Jorah reveals his greyscale to Daenerys. He tells her that he loves her, and always will, then begins to depart but Daenerys orders him to stop. She then orders him to find a cure, wherever in the world it may be—find it, and then return to her. Daario and Daenerys then lead the Dothraki away.

Iron Islands

The title of King is up for grabs, so a Kingsmoot is under way. Yara makes her claim for the Salt Throne, promising an Iron Fleet for her people. Theon backs up her claim, silencing all the doubtful in the crowd. Suddenly Euron Greyjoy emerges from the crowd, and confesses to killing Balon Greyjoy for being a horrible king. He claims that if made King, he shall build an Iron Fleet, which he will use to seduce Daenerys Targaryen into marrying him. With that final note, the ironmen declare Euron the future king. While Euron undergoes the ritual, Yara and Theon commandeer ships and leave. Euron drowns during the ritual and we all hold are breath waiting to see if he’s alive when they lay him on the beach. He doesn’t breathe. He breathes. King Euron Greyjoy it is.

Braavos

Arya continues her training with the Waif, who keeps taunting her that she’ll never be one of them truly. Jaqen H’ghar gives Arya a history lesson about the Faceless Men, then announces that he is giving her another assignment, but if she fails she will not be given a third. Arya scouts her target, an actress who performs a play about the Lords and Ladies of Westeros. Much to Arya’s displeasure, the play mocks the events that happened —even poking fun at her father, Ned, and sister, Sansa. Upon returning to the House of Black and White, Arya asks too many questions to Jaqen, who reminds her that it is not the place of those who serve to question the Many Faced God.

Meereen

Varys and Tyrion need someone who will act as a role model and supporter of Daenerys while she is away. They end up choosing the red priestess Kinvara, who tells them that she believes Daenerys to be the chosen one of the Lord of Light. Varys questions her, saying that Mellisandre also foretold the same thing about Stannis Baratheon, but now he’s dead. Kinvara instantly shuts down the conversation by recounting the day Varys was castrated. She declares her loyal support to Daenerys and her confidence that Daenerys is the chosen one, before departing.

Cave of the Three-Eyed Raven

Bran and the Three-Eyed Raven watch a vision of the creation of the first White Walker. The Children of The Forest created them when they were at war with the First Men. After some time passes and everyone in the cave is sleeping, Bran decides to watch a vision by himself. He walks past an army of wights, and comes across the Night’s King who touches Bran, marking him. Bran wakes up and the Three-Eyed Raven warns everyone that they must leave because the Night’s King can now enter the cave due to the mark. The army of wights arrive with the White Walkers and the Children of The Forest try to hold them back to buy everyone else some time. The Three-Eyed Raven shows Bran one last vision: the day Eddard left for the Vale of Arryn. The wights and White Walkers begin invading the cave, and Meera cries out to Bran that they need Hodor’s help. Bran wargs into Hodor to carry him out of the cave while Summer sacrifices herself to protect them. The Children of The Forest all end up dying as they fight off the wights and the White Walkers. The Night’s King himself enters the cave and kills the Three-Eyed Raven. With only Hodor, Bran and Meera left, the trio arrive at a door that Hodor barely manages to open and shut in time before the wights arrive. Meera with no other option takes Bran away, yelling at Hodor to “hold the door” so that the wights cannot follow them. She repeatedly yells it at him to hold the door, whilst Hodor in Bran’s vision has a seizure. In the vision, Hodor starts saying “hold the door” whilst having the seizure, until he is left slurring “hodor.” Meera and Bran fade into the distance, as Hodor is killed by the wights.

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I’m not even going to bother pretending that I didn’t become teary-eyed at the ending of that episode. Do you think young Hodor knew he was going to die? Was there a need for Summer to die? That’s two direwolves in one season by the way. Anything else you liked/disliked? Like, share and comment below, or tweet me @sohodoll. And as Hodor once said, “Hold the door.”

Fast & Furious 8: Charlize Theron’s Bad Guy Revealed

When it comes to Bad-Ass Pedal-to-the-Metal Awesomeness, Charlize Theron is about to add to her credentials as the first official photo of the Oscar Winning actress’s Fast & Furious 8 role is revealed.

The image – revealed on Twitter – provides the first look at Theron’s Fast 8 villain Cipher, who will head-up the action franchise next band of bad guys, which will also include Game of Thrones actor Kristofer Hivju.

Straight Outta Compton (2015) Director F. Gary Gray will helm the first in a new Trilogy, with Fast & Furious mainstay Vin Diesel already confirming that the new films will lay groundwork for possible spin-offs.

With production already underway in Iceland, The Fast and The Furious 8 will soon be smashing into theaters April 14, 2017.

For all you Film News & Reviews, stick with @mitch_rated only on Skatronixxx

Game Of Thrones SN6 E4 – ‘Book of the Stranger’

Valar morghulis my friends. My name is Jessica and I’ll be recapping your episodes of Game of Thrones from now on, as our previous writer has been swooped away by a dragon. Just to give you a short background on myself: I’m a huge Game of Thrones fanatic, to the point that I founded my university’s own Game of Thrones Club. I’ve also read the A Song of Fire and Ice series from cover to cover, and am not so patiently awaiting the ending book(s).

The episode I shall be recapping is episode 4 of season 6 — “Book of the Stranger.” Rather than going character by character, I’ll be going place by place.

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The Wall

Jon decides that he wants to head South, which Edd dislikes after what previously happened at Hardhome. Jon and Edd are interrupted as Sansa, Podrick, and Brienne enter Castle Black. Jon and Sansa share a heart-warming hug , and then recount their journeys since the day they both left Winterfell. Sansa wants  Jon to help her take back Winterfell, their only true home, but after all the fighting at The Wall Jon says he can’t. Sansa declares that if he won’t help her, she will do it herself, as there will always be Houses in the north loyal to House Stark. Concurrently, Brienne finds Ser Davos and Melisandre and tells them that after Stannis admitted to using dark magic to assassinate his brother Renly, Brienne killed Stannis. Later on in the day the group enjoys a hot meal, while Tormund and Brienne share some #Torienne eye ogling moments. A letter arrives from Ramsay Bolton, now Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North. The letter boasts about how Ramsay has Rickon Stark in a dungeon and Shaggydog’s skin on the floor. He demands that Sansa be returned or else he and the Bolton army shall ride North to slaughter all the wildlings. He also threatens some other gruesome things towards Jon, Sansa and Rickon in classic Ramsay Bolton fashion. Jon finally agrees with Sansa, they must take back Winterfell, hooray! Hopefully, through a combination of wildlings and Northern Houses they will take Ramsay Bolton down and save Rickon.

Runestone 

Robin Arryn has grown since the last time we saw him in Season 5, unfortunately his archery skills have not. As we watch him practice, Littlefinger (a.k.a. Petyr Baelish) arrives with a pet falcon for Robin. The Lord of Runestone, Yohn Royce, begins asking Littlefinger how Sansa ended up married to Ramsay Bolton instead of getting to the Fingers for protection. Littlefinger replies that Bolton soldiers attacked them on their journey and kidnapped Sansa. He also implies that Yohn is guilty because he was the only other person to know where they were heading. Petyr manipulates Robin, who plays with the falcon, into considering executing Yohn unless Yohn swears his absolute loyalty —which he does. Littlefinger then tells Robin that Sansa escaped and is currently under protection at Castle Black, but she won’t be safe there unless she has help. Robin tells Yohn to command the knights of the Vale to protect his cousin. Anyone else feel a war brewing? Hopefully Ramsay Bolton is about to get sandwiched between an attack from the south and the north.

Meereen

Tyrion Lannister is quickly finding himself in hot water. He arranges a meeting with the slave masters of Astapor, Volantis and Yunkai, against Missandei and Grey Worm’s wishes, to discuss a deal. Tyrion proposes that all the cities, excluding Meereen, will have seven years to end slavery allowing them an easier transition opposed to abolishing it in a day. They will be compensated for losses, and the masters must stop their support of the Sons of the Harpy. Tyrion then leaves the masters with time to deliberate his offer, however he is met by former slaves of Meereen who disprove on any negotiation with the masters. The former slaves ask Grey Worm and Missandei their opinion, and they reluctantly side with Tyrion on the matter. They continue to ask when their Queen will return, but Tyrion can only assure them “soon.” While Tyrion sees the issue from a Westerosi-scholarly perspective, Grey Worm and Missandei see the issue from their first-hand experience with the masters; thus in private they warn him that the masters will try to use him and the situation to their benefit.

King’s Landing

Margaery finally makes some progress with the High Sparrow and gets to see her brother, Loras. Margaery sees an immobile Loras on the prison floor (I actually thought he was dead), and tells him to be strong. Meanwhile Cersei is told by Tommen that Margaery’s walk of atonement will happen soon. Cersei meets with Kevan Lannister and Olenna Tyrell at the small council chamber to plot how they will overthrow the High Sparrow before Margaery’s walk.

Iron Islands

Theon arrives at the Iron Islands to hear the news that his father Balon Greyjoy has died. Upon being reunited with his sister Yara he explains that he will support Yara’s claim at the Kingsmoot.

Winterfell

Osha, who was Rickon’s protector after fleeing Winterfell, is brought before Ramsay. While she attempts to seduce him in order to reach a knife, Ramsay tells her that Theon mentioned her using the same tactic to escape Theon. Osha quickly tries to stab him, but Ramsay stabs her in the neck.

Vaes Dothrak

Daario discovers that Jorah has greyscale upon arriving at Vaes Dothrak. The duo infiltrate the city, and wait for an opportunity. Meanwhile Daenerys becomes friends with a young Dosh Khaleen. When they go outside they encounter Jorah and Daario. Rather than sneaking out of the city, Daenerys comes up with a different plan. That night, Daenerys awaits judgement before all the great khals inside the temple. She accuses the khals of not being the leaders the Dothraki need, telling them that she instead will lead them. She begins tipping braziers and the whole temple is consumed in flames, the khals cannot escape because the door was barred by the young Dosh Khaleen. Daenerys emerges from the fiery temple, unburnt and naked. The thousands of Dothraki outside bow down before her. (Total bad-assery as usual, “Fire cannot kill a dragon.”)

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Well that’s a wrap! What are your thoughts on this episode? Anything you liked/disliked? Like, share, comment below or tweet me @sohodoll. And as always, “Winter is coming.”

Did You Miss The First 3 Episodes In Season 6 Of Game Of Thrones? I Got You Covered (SPOILERS)

I’d like to introduce myself here: my name is Liza and I’m a Game of Thrones fanatic. Much like Lady Melisandre, I too have red hair; so you can call me The Red Woman 2.0, or Liza, whichever works (but seriously, The Red Woman 2.0 is way cooler.)

Rather than go episode by episode, I’ll just recap by character(s), which will make things less confusing. It is known.

Cersei and Jaime Lannister

Source: winteriscoming.net

At the end of season 5, we saw Cersei do the now infamous Walk of Shame, while Jaime was in Dorne attempting to get their daughter Myrcella back to King’s Landing. Myrcella didn’t fare too well, having been kissed farewell from Ellaria, who had poisoned her lips (those Dornish folk are known for using poison as their weapon of choice.) As Jaime sailed away from Dorne, Myrcella forgave her Daddy/Uncle for the incestuous relationship with Cersei but their after school special was cut short when Myrcella started to feel the effects of the poison. In season 6, Cersei is waiting the return of Jaime and Myrcella but sees there is a gold coffin in the ship as it makes its way toward King’s Landing. Jaime and Cersei reunite and vow revenge to anyone who has taken what is theirs. Unfortunately, a sour King Tommen has refused to let his mother attend Myrcella’s funeral. Kids these days, am I right? After speaking with Daddy/Uncle Jaime, he agrees to see Cersei and she forgives him and promises to help him with his future Kingish endeavors; The High Sparrow is a big thorn in the Lannister family side, so that is his first (failed) mission. The Sparrow has a way with words and Tommen is so malleable, he agrees with whomever he is speaking to at the moment. He has a lot to learn! Their best asset at the moment is the Frankenstein-ish Mountain, who smashes heads in as easy as water flows from a faucet. I’m sure he’ll have much more screen time later in the season.

Varys and Tyrion Lannister

Source: winteriscoming.net

These two need a spin-off show! With that said, Tyrion and Varys are stranded in Meereen when the entire fleet of ships were destroyed. The masters have taken back the slaves are things aren’t looking up now that the Mother of Dragons has disappeared. Tyrion, a lover of dragon history, finds out that the two remaining dragons haven’t eaten since Khaleesi left; history states that if dragons are not let out to roam freely, they will eventually die off. Tyrion, the drunk and the brave, goes under the pyramid to release the dragons. Because they didn’t eat him and allowed him to touch them, rumors are circulating that perhaps Tyrion has some Targaryen blood. Time will tell.

Khaleesi – Daenerys Targaryen

Source: hollywoodreporter.com

Having been found by Dothraki soldiers at the end of the season 5 finale, she is tied up and made to walk back to their home; they treated her poorly and made sexual comments, thinking she didn’t understand the Dothraki tongue. When she meets up with a Khal, she explains who she is, however her ten-word title doesn’t help because she is a widow. According to Dothraki law, all Khal widows must stay together and live out their lives serving others. Khaleesi, unaware, made herself a bit busy after Khal Drogo died, saving cities and slaves, and all that jazz. Now she must be judged on what her future will be; I don’t see her dying so chances are she will live and somehow be found by Daario and Jorah, who also need their own spin-off.

Bran Stark

Source: idigitaltimes.com

Disabled Bran is seen in the cave with the Three Eyed Raven, going back and forth between the past and now with his greensight. Every time something good is about to happen, the raven removes Bran, to his dismay. In the latest episode, we saw a young Ned and a young Howland Reed fight the greatest swordsman there ever was, Sir Arthur Dayne. The Tower of Joy, where Ned supposedly finds his sister Lyanna, is in the background. After Dayne is taken down, we hear a female scream and Ned runs up the stairs. Bran screams out to him, “Father!” and young Ned turns around. Did he hear Bran or was he just making sure no one was after him? Next episode we’ll hopefully see the conclusion of what really happened in The Tower of Joy.

Ramsay Bolton (Snow)

Source: businessinsider.com

Ramsay, who is fighting for first place for “Most Hated Man” with Joffrey, lost his best men trying to find escapees Sansa and Theon. His father, Roose Bolton made clear he hoped that his wife, Lady Walda, would have a boy- which she did. Ramsay, never the one to be threatened, killed his father unexpectedly and told everyone he was poisoned by his enemies. He then called for Lady Walda and Baby Bolton, who were then led to a cage full of hungry, angry dogs. I think you know what happens next.

With the threat of his father and a true born Bolton out of the way, Ramsay takes control of Winterfell and speaks to Lord Umber, who has brought him a present: Asha, Baby Rickon (who is now much older and is probably in college by now) along with a very dead Shaggydog.

Sansa Stark, Theon Greyjoy, Brienne of Tarth, and Podrick Payne

Source: winteriscoming.net

Theon and Sansa run from Winterfell and the men sent to retrieve them by Ramsay but fail short and are surrounded; just when you thought it was over, Brienne and Podrick come in and kick some Bolton House booty. Brienne vows to be Sansa’s shield and all was right with the world, except it’s wasn’t. Theon decides to leave to go back to the Iron Islands, where he’s from. For the first time, you actually see emotion toward Theon from Sansa as he leaves. Brienne, Podrick, and Sansa then begin their journey to Castle Black, where they know Jon Snow is Lord Commander.

The Iron Islands

Source: christiantoday.com

Yara, Theon’s sister, and Balon, his father, fight about Yara trying to save Theon. An old and battered Balon then storms off, literally into a storm, walking on a very rickety bridge. He is met by his younger brother, Euron, who says it’s time for some new blood on the island- so he pushes Balon off the bridge. I can’t say the man didn’t deserve it but I’m excited to see where this will go. Yara assumes she is now the Lady of the Iron Islands but first, book readers will remember Greyjoy’s practice what is called a Kingsmoot. So, like Yara, we will have to wait to see how this goes.

Arya Stark

Source: express.co.uk

A blind Arya is left to beg for money on the streets, while waiting for the “Waif” to come for her daily fight. After several beatings, Arya finally becomes a girl with no name and is gifted her eyesight back. Not a lot was revealed yet on Arya’s end, but I hope the story gets more airtime as she is one of my favorite characters.

Jon Snow

Source: wetpaint.com

The season 5 finale ended with a stabbed, and mostly dead Jon Snow. Viewers were left to wonder whether he was still alive, officially dead, or would be given a reprieve by Lady Melisandre (who, by the way, is much older than she looks. When she removes her red, glowing necklace, her true form shows the body of an ancient woman.)

Source: thegrumpyfish.com

Ser Davos Seaworth, normally not a believer in the Lady Melisandre’s magic, asks her to try to bring him back. Her faith was destroyed once Stannis was killed in battle; she feels like everything she saw in her flames was a lie. She is depressed and has no confidence in her abilities but tries anyway. Initially, nothing happened and so, one by one, Davos, Lady Melisandre, and a few of Jon’s brother friends left. And then of course he started to breathe. Davos and Jon speak, explaining to each other what happened (Friggin’ Olly stabbed him, Melisandre brought him back, the Mets lost – all that jazz.)

Thankfully, and very satisfyingly, we see Olly along with Ser Alliser Thorne hanging on the top of the deck, with a few others who were apart of the ambush. Jon angrily cuts the rope with his sword and hands over his Lord Commander coat to Dolorous Edd as he walks off and says that his watch is over.

Source: avclub.com

And so is this recap. Did you see the episodes? What are your thoughts? Are you as excited about The Tower of Joy and the Kingsmoot as I am? Let me know on Twitter @LizaWrites19.

Final Fantasy XV Animated Film Revealed

Fans were treated to the first reveal of Square Enix’s Final Fantasy XV feature length film at the companies seminal game series uncovering last night.

The animated film titled Final Fantasy XV: Kingsglaive, will feature the talents of Game of Thrones stars Lena Heady as Princess Luna and Sean Bean as King Regis, with Breaking Bad mainstay Aaron Paul lending his voice to soldier Nyx.

Alongside the fan event, Square Enix released the following synopsis of the upcoming film:

“The magical kingdom of Lucis is home to the hallowed Crystal, but the menacing empire of Niflheim will stop at nothing to make it theirs. War has raged between the two for as long as most can remember.

King Regis of Lucis commands an elite force of soldiers dubbed the Kingsglaive. Wielding their king’s magic, Nyx Ulric and his fellow glaives stand before the crown city of Insomnia, fighting to stay the inexorable advance of Niflheim’s imperial army.

Before the overwhelming military might of the empire, King Regis can only salvage his kingdom by accepting an ultimatum—he must cede all lands outside the crown city, and see his son, Prince Noctis, wed to Lady Lunafreya, the former princess of Tenebrae now captive of Niflheim.

As the war of wills rages, the machinations of Niflheim transform Insomnia into an awe-inspiring battleground, pulling Nyx into a struggle for the very survival of the kingdom.”

Kingsglaive won’t be released in theatres but will be available to download and stream worldwide via Sony Pictures Home Entertainment sometime this year.

For all your Final-Fantasy-Movie-News, stick with @mitch_rated only on Skatronixxx

‘Vikings’ Star Lands The Lead In NBC’s ‘Taken’

One of NBC’s more curious Pilots this season is the Taken prequel show based on the popular revenge-action series starring Liam Neeson. With the network placing a straight-to-season order, the series has quickly found its leading man.

Variety recently broke the news that Vikings star Clive Standen will play Bryan Mills – the role made popular by Neeson – in the prequel series set before the Taken trilogy. The series will however be a modern-day interpretation calling into question its relation to its cinematic forbearers and whether it will rely on continuity and characters from the preceding films.

Alex Carey (Homeland) will serve as Showrunner and write the series following Mills as he develops and hones his particular-set-of-skills. While The West Wing and Game of Thrones Director Alex Graves is on board to helm the pilot.

Expect the threat-heavy telephone call trailer any day now.

For all your Particular-Set-Of-Skills-News, stick with @mitch_rated only on Skatronixxx