Game of Thrones: Book of the Stranger (2016)
Season 6, Episode 4
10/10
A page turner that is a must acquaintence
22 March 2018
Came to 'Game of Thrones' fairly late in the game and due to being so busy the binge-watching was gradual. Have found myself truly loving the show, very quickly becoming one of my favourites. It totally lives up to the hype and not only does it do the brilliant source material justice (a rarity in television) it is on its own merits one of the finest, most addictive and consistently compelling shows in recent years and quality-wise it puts a lot of films in recent years to shame.

"Book of the Stranger" is one of the best episodes of Season 6, which settled much quicker and more consistently than Season 5 generally, and a standout of the latter seasons, an episode that has everything that makes 'Game of Thrones' as great as it is and what it's all about. It is one of the most acclaimed episodes of the season, have also seen fans and critics cite it as one of the best 'Game of Thrones' episodes, and can totally see why on all counts. Never thought that another Season 6 episode could outdo the brilliant "Home", "Book of the Stranger" may have just managed that.

While the whole story is tremendously absorbing with a lot of passion, sensitivity and emotional wallop, every 'Game of Thrones' episode has at least one standout scene even the weaker ones. "Book of the Stranger" has three, the Jon and Sansa reunion, Daenerys' conquering and the scene between Brienne, Davos and Melisandre. All three among the season's best scenes.

Anything with Tyrion is awesome and also found the letter scene pretty harrowing with it showing how much a monster Ramsay is. The whole episode is packed with reunions, alliances and forward momentum in both story and characterisation, with plenty of surprises and emotion.

'Game of Thrones' has always been consistent in the high quality of the acting. Particularly outstanding performances being from Emilia Clarke and Peter Dinklage.

Visually, "Book of the Stranger" looks amazing, as one would expect for 'Game of Thrones'. The scenery is throughout spectacular, the sets are hugely atmospheric and beautiful on the eyes with a real meticulous eye for detail and the costumes suit the characters to a tee. The make-up is beautifully done. As well the cinematography and editing, which are cinematic quality as well.

One cannot talk about "Book of the Stranger" without mentioning the thematically, orchestrally and atmospherically multi-layered music scoring and the unforgettable main theme. Again, worthy of a high-budget fantasy/action/drama film. The end scoring is especially powerful.

The writing is thought-provoking and very rich in layers with plenty of passion and sensitivity.

In conclusion, fantastic episode and a must watch. And this is coming from a genuine viewer who has not given every episode a 10 (have actually given my fair share of 8s and 9s) and has been honest in her opinions. 10/10 Bethany Cox
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