Why Game of Thrones’ Last Episode Was Not the Perfect Conclusion
Why Game of Thrones’ Last Episode Was Not the Perfect Conclusion
Game of Thrones, one of the most anticipated and heavily hyped series in recent TV history, concluded with a finale that left many fans feeling unsatisfied. The last episode of season 8, in particular, has been widely criticized for its abrupt and confusing conclusion. While some argue that the last episode, or indeed the entire season 8, was subpar, the issue extends beyond a single episode to the show’s overall narrative structure and the decision-making of its creators. This analysis will delve into the reasons why the finale was not the perfect ending, exploring the flaws in planning and execution, and the impact on the show’s legacy.
Subpar Finale: A Common Complaint
The final episode of Game of Thrones, airing on May 13, 2019, was not met with universal acclaim. Many viewers felt that the conclusion was lacking in coherence and emotional depth, leaving many loose ends unresolved. Critics argued that Game of Thrones chose a path that sacrificed narrative logic for spectacle, resulting in a finale that was entertaining but also frustratingly disjointed.
One of the most frequently cited criticisms is the portrayal of Jon Snow as the Night King. This ending was met with numerous questions and conflicts, such as how Jon, who was supposedly immune to the White Walkers, could be defeated by them. The lack of clear explanations for key plot points, combined with inconsistent character behavior, contributed to the sense that the story had been rushed to conclude in a way that felt unsatisfying.
The Role of Showrunners
The unsatisfactory nature of the finale cannot be fully divorced from the decision-making and authorship of the show’s creators. David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, the lead showrunners, have been heavily criticized for their approach to the show’s conclusion. Some fans believe that these creators washed their hands off the project prematurely, similar to Pontius Pilate, choosing not to be directly involved in the final episodes' writing and production.
Many viewers and critics argue that the showrunners should have taken more responsibility for the final installment. By distancing themselves, they allowed the network, HBO, to dictate the terms of what constituted a “proper” ending to such a critically acclaimed series. This lack of oversight from Benioff and Weiss was seen as a major oversight that impeded the narrative coherence and grace that the show often achieved in its earlier seasons.
HBO’s Role in the Process
HBO, the network responsible for Game of Thrones, has also been criticized for its role in the final season. The network agreed to go along with the showrunners’ plan, prioritizing their vision without fully considering the potential impact on the fans and the show’s legacy. This partnership led to a finale that was often praised for its visual spectacle but criticized for its narrative complexity and emotional depth.
The last episode’s reliance on CGI and the introduction of previously unestablished characters, such as the Night King’s victims, further undermined the narrative integrity of the show. These elements, while impressive in their special effects, failed to provide the emotional payoff that HBO and the showrunners seemed to be aiming for. The final sequence of Jon facing off against the Night King, while visually stunning, was criticized for its over-reliance on spectacle at the expense of character development and story continuity.
Concluding Thoughts on the Unsatisfactory Finale
The conclusion of Game of Thrones remains a point of contention among fans and critics alike. While the use of spectacle and overarching themes of honor and loyalty were widely praised, the final episode's lack of narrative cohesiveness and emotional depth has left a sour taste.
The criticisms surrounding the finale are multifaceted, touching on issues of pacing, character consistency, and the role of both the showrunners and HBO in the production. The end of a show that promised so much—ratings, critical acclaim, and a deep, immersive narrative—was ultimately a letdown for many. However, it is also a reminder of the complexity of closing a decades-long narrative and the challenges that come with setting such high expectations.