Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 7 Review: The Gift

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Well, the moment we've all been waiting for finally took place; Daenerys and Tyrion came face to face!

I've got to say, Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 7 was easily one of my favorite installments of the season so far. Not just because of that meeting, but the chat between Lady Olenna and the High Sparrow, the start of Cersei's downfall and Samwell/Gilly's big moment.

Theon/Reek proved (yet again) to be a major disappointment, but help's on the way either from Brienne, Jon, Stannis or possibly all three. Hang in there Sansa; stay strong.

Things kicked off at Castle Black this week. I'm hoping Jon rounds up the wildlings quickly and meets up with Stannis' forces to take Castle Black. Will he come across some White Walkers first? I mean, why else would Sam give Jon the Dragonglass?

The moment Maester Aemon appeared looking more fragile than ever, I knew he wasn't long for this world. Sam is such a loyal guy, it was important he remained at Aemon's side until the end and read his eulogy.

At the wall, a dozen Lord Commanders came and went during his years of service, but he was always there to counsel them. He was the blood of the dragon, but now his fire has gone out. And now his watch is ended.

Samwell

We didn't need to hear Sam was losing all his friends to know he was in trouble. The musical score was a dead giveaway. Sure, he took a beating this week, but if anything more serious happened to Sam we would be devastated. There are so few genuinely good people on this show, we can't afford to lose Sam. I was pleased that he and Gilly finally made love. Does the fact she asked him to care for little Sam worry you?

Yes Theon/Reek is damaged beyond belief, but what a coward. I admit, for a second there I thought he was going to light that candle and help Sansa. Unfortunately, he continued to disappoint and betrayed her. Wasn't it sad that the old woman paid the ultimate price?

Ramsay's smile makes me sick to my stomach, but he slipped and let Sansa know Jon is now Lord Commander. Will she somehow get word to her brother? Part of me wants Jon to arrive and save her, the other part want Sansa to kill Ramsay herself. The bottom line is, I don't want to see her victimized anymore.

Old stubborn Stannis ignored Ser Davos and though his troops were freezing to death he decided to march on to Winterfell. Again, I'm hoping Jon meets up with Stannis to take Winterfell, but will that take place next week?

Lady Olenna's meeting with the High Sparrow was intense.

Lady Olenna: You there, where would I find the High Septon or High Sparrow or whatever bloody fool name he's got?
High Sparrow: It's not a good a name as Queen of Thorns I'll admit.
Lady Olenna: You should have the decency to stand when you speak to a lady.
High Sparrow: You should have the decency to kneel before the Gods.
Lady Olenna: Don't spar with me little fellow.

I love how straight forward Lady Olenna is, but after learning he's after Cersei as well will she realize the High Sparrow is truly out for justice? Does he have a hidden agenda and will Lady Olenna and Littlefinger manage to expose it?

Speaking of Cersei, isn't it amazing after everything she's done we still feel for her when she talks of doing anything for her children. Of course, those moments are few and far between. Most of the time, she's just plain evil as she reminded us during her visit with Queen Margaery.

Now that the High Sparrow has had her arrested, are we witnessing the start of her downfall? There's also the chance she, Littlefinger and Lady Olenna will join forces to bring the Faith Militant down. The enemy of my enemy is my friend and all that jazz.

In Dorne, Jaime met with his niece/daughter Myrcella and things did not go well. I wasn't surprised she'd fallen for Trystane Martell and wanted to stay, but it was interesting the attack by the Sand Snakes went over her head. These Lannister kids are so ridiculously naive. Prince Doran seems pretty level-headed, but will they come to an understanding?

Bronn's Sand Snake seduction scene was great. I kept wondering why he was so lucid when the girl's blades were supposed to be poisoned. By giving him the antidote, doesn't Bronn now owe her one? It should be interesting to see how things play out.

The highlight of this week's episode, was Daenerys and Tyrion finally meeting.

Daenerys: Get him out of my sight.
Jorah: Khaleesi please, I just need a moment of your time. I brought you a gift.
Tyrion: It's true, he has.
Daenerys: Who are you?
Tyrion: I am the gift. It's a pleasure to meet you, your grace. My name is Tyrion Lannister.

That was a moment years in the making! We've all been waiting for Dany's storyline to connect with rest of our main characters. Tonight, began what felt like the start of some kind of resolution for Dany. If there are only a couple more season's left, this reunion marks the beginning of the end in a way. That one missing puzzle piece finally fitting into place.

Unfortunately, the big conversation between these two beloved characters will have to wait until next week. Still, for a season that's been a real slow burn compared to the others this was a massive moment.

Daenerys has lost her most trusted advisors and Daario has led her to make poor choices in the past. Does he really expect her to slaughter all the masters the day of the game? I'm sure Dany will quickly realize Tyrion is wise and will begin to heed his advice.

What did you think of "The Gift"? Are you excited Dany and Tyrion finally met? Did you feel bad for Cersei at all? Will Jon join Stannis to retake Winterfell? Your turn ladies and gents, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

NOTE: Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 8 is titled “Hardhome” and airs on Sunday, May 31.

The Gift Review

Editor Rating: 4.7 / 5.0
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User Rating:

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 (110 Votes)
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Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 7 Quotes

Lady Olenna: You there, where would I find the High Septon or High Sparrow or whatever bloody fool name he's got?
High Sparrow: It's not a good a name as Queen of Thorns I'll admit.
Lady Olenna: You should have the decency to stand when you speak to a lady.
High Sparrow: You should have the decency to kneel before the Gods.
Lady Olenna: Don't spar with me little fellow.

At the wall, a dozen Lord Commanders came and went during his years of service, but he was always there to counsel them. He was the blood of the dragon, but now his fire has gone out. And now his watch is ended.

Samwell