Game of Thrones' Author George R R Martin Unveils the All-Time Best Episode He Penned

Summary

George R.R. Martin reveals his favorite Game of Thrones episode that he wrote: "Blackwater" is his top pick, but he also likes "The Lion and the Rose."

"Blackwater" is widely acclaimed as one of the show's finest episodes, boasting intense action and significant character development. Serving as the inaugural major battle sequence depicted on Game of Thrones, it effectively laid the groundwork for future seasons' grandiose battle episodes.

George R.R. Martin, the acclaimed author of the ongoing A Song Ice and Fire fantasy saga, recently shared his favorite episode of the Game of Thrones series that he penned. Prior to his successful venture with HBO, Martin had experience in screenwriting through his work on The Twilight Zone. Among the episodes he wrote for Game of Thrones are "The Pointy End," "Blackwater," "The Bear and the Maiden Fair," and "The Lion and the Rose."

In response to an article by Vanity Fair, which named "Blackwater" as one of the "25 Perfect TV Episodes From the Last 25 Years," George R.R. Martin offered his thoughts on his website. Despite the episode's recognition, the author humbly expressed that he doesn't consider it perfect. However, he did reveal that "Blackwater" holds a special place in his heart as his favorite episode that he contributed to. Additionally, Martin also holds a great fondness for "The Lion and the Rose" from season 4. You can read Martin's full response below.

Why Blackwater Is A Perfect Games of Thrones Episode

Although I have never claimed to be flawless, I must admit that if the esteemed individuals at VANITY FAIR choose to assert otherwise, who am I to dispute? Although it should be clarified that they do not explicitly claim my perfection. Rather, they are referring to “Blackwater,” one of the episodes which I had the pleasure of writing for the renowned series known as GAME OF THRONES. (I had the privilege of scripting four episodes, to be exact. And indeed, among those, "Blackwater" holds a special place in my heart, although I must admit that "The Lion and the Rose" also turned out remarkably well, and it holds a sentimental value for me).

Originally aired on May 27, 2012, the Game of Thrones season 2 episode 9 titled "Blackwater" is widely recognized as one of the show's finest installments. Helmed by Neil Marshall, this episode brilliantly portrays the Battle of Blackwater Bay, wherein Tyrion Lannister, the acting Hand of the King, bravely leads the Lannister forces in their defense of King's Landing against a formidable naval invasion launched by Stannis Baratheon, who aspires to claim the Iron Throne for himself. Apart from its captivating action sequences and compelling character moments, this early episode also achieved several significant milestones for Game of Thrones.

The Battle of Blackwater Bay marked a significant turning point for the show as it introduced the prominent battle sequences that Game of Thrones would become renowned for, such as the infamous "Battle of the Bastards." Prior to "Blackwater," battles were merely mentioned or happened off-screen. However, by choosing to showcase a battle on-screen, this episode became the first to entirely take place in one location, intensifying the suspense without any reprieve. Furthermore, "Blackwater" is memorable for various moments, including Tyrion's strategic use of wildfire to annihilate the Baratheon fleet in a dazzling explosion, followed by a stirring speech that motivates the Lannister army to achieve victory.