This whole episode was far and away the best of the series, everything went together so well and was amazing.
One of (if not THE) most moving moments for me was Aemon Targaryen describing his 'trial' to Jon Snow. Aemon is just the 'blind' brother of the Night's Watch for so long, that it was shocking to see his face contort and grimace as he described knowing the Targareyn house was falling, the murder of his entire family, the overthrow of his royal house, etc. He's the last Targareyn in Westeros, and I feel for him.
I'm glad they focused on Arya & Ned during the execution at Baelor. That could have been a totally messed up thing, but they did it perfectly. From Ned & Arya locking eyes to Yoren nodding in agreement and pulling Arya away to the few seconds before Ned died. It was wildly tense and emotional and riveting. I simply cannot get enough of it. Perfectly, perfectly shot, timed, everything. From the swing of the sword to Arya's gasp and the flying birds. Killing me.
Although I hated her character in the book, I have to applaud Catelyn Stark. She learned from her mistake and this time made sure Robb got the right Lannister brother. I am excited for Jamie to play out now, because this is the time when he really gets his due as a character and grows, his time as a prisoner with the wolves. I almost shouted out in relief when the horses started bolting through the trees toward her, and her audible shriek of delight that her son still lived. As I said, this episode was
FUCKING REAL.
I wish Dany got more time this week. I assume that next episode will be all hers, and we know why.
Tyrion was the main player though, and his story telling of Tysha was fucking heart wrenching, and you could see it in his face. We met Shae for the first time, and I tell you, I'm already sick of her. Peter Dinklage is doing a great job so far! I watched this episode with PB's brother who knew nothing of the book, tv show, anything, and we were all laughing at Tyrion's witty comebacks and snarky one liners. oh Tyrion. what a great character.
random side notes:
Ugh, Walder Frey. Disgusting. Perfectly acted, however. Totally disgusting. Cool addition to the opening credits though, did anyone else notice that? The Twins get a 4 second glance and bridge over the Trident.
Bill Nighy is credited in this season as The Mad King and has yet to appear. Perhaps as a flashback of Jamie's? We've only got one episode left so it has to be.