House of the Dragon has returned with its second season, and fans were greeted with a fresh surprise. The June 16 premiere of the Game of Thrones prequel series introduced a brand-new set of opening credits, a significant departure from the original HBO series, which maintained a consistent style throughout its eight seasons.
In Game of Thrones, while the locations in the opening credits varied by season, the overall aesthetic remained unchanged. However, House of the Dragon has opted for a new visual approach in its second season, though the iconic score by Ramin Djawadi remains. The new opening credits feature a detailed tapestry that tells the Targaryen family’s story, with blood flowing through the embroidery to highlight various locations, dragons, and the platinum white-haired dragon riders.
The credits also include the House of Targaryen symbol, a depiction of King’s Landing, and scenes from the first season. Among these scenes are key moments such as King Viserys (Paddy Considine) being chosen to inherit the Iron Throne over Rhaenys Targaryen (Eve Best), and a portrayal of younger Rhaenyra (Milly Alcock) standing across from an older Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy). The tragic death of Rhaenyra’s son Lucerys (Elliot Grihault), caused by Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) and his dragon Vhagar, is also depicted.
The main similarity between the new opening credits and those of the first season is the flowing blood. In the first season, the blood created the Targaryen family tree, whereas in the second season, it depicts scenes in a tapestry.
Season 2 of House of the Dragon delves into the Targaryen civil war detailed in George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood novel. The “Greens” sit on the Iron Throne, while the “Blacks” vie for it. The season picks up after the devastating events of the season 1 finale, where Rhaenyra’s son Lucerys and his dragon were killed. This loss ignites a war for Rhaenyra, who is already furious over her half-brother Aegon’s (Tom Glynn-Carney) wrongful ascension to the throne following King Viserys’ death.
Aegon is struggling in season 2, as Glynn-Carney mentioned at the New York City premiere. He was “thrown into the fray, headfirst, unable to swim” when he ascended the throne. However, this season marks the first time Aegon has a sense of purpose. Glynn-Carney noted that Aegon, who previously spent his days in a cycle of drinking and idleness, now has a reason to get out of bed. He is also trying to be a family man, or at least his version of one.
As for Aemond, Mitchell explained that the first season established the family’s world on a knife’s edge, and Aemond drew first blood, making him the most wanted man in the realm. In season two, viewers will see the consequences of his actions.
The premiere of House of the Dragon season 2 is now streaming on Max, with new episodes airing Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO. The new opening credits, with Ramin Djawadi’s score, set the tone for the episodes, showcasing the Targaryen family’s history through a beautifully detailed tapestry.
The new opening credits have been a topic of discussion among fans, as they mark a significant change from the first season. The detailed embroidery and flowing blood create a visually stunning introduction to each episode, highlighting the key locations and characters that play a crucial role in the Targaryen civil war.
The inclusion of scenes from the first season serves as a reminder of the events that have led to the current conflict. The depiction of King Viserys’ ascension to the throne, the portrayal of Rhaenyra at different stages of her life, and the tragic death of Lucerys all contribute to the rich tapestry of the Targaryen family’s story.
As the season progresses, viewers can expect to see the Targaryen family descend further into civil war. The “Greens” and the “Blacks” will continue to vie for control of the Iron Throne, with alliances and betrayals shaping the course of the conflict. The new opening credits set the stage for the drama and intrigue that will unfold in the episodes to come.
The return of House of the Dragon has been highly anticipated, and the new opening credits have added an extra layer of excitement for fans. The detailed tapestry and flowing blood create a visually captivating introduction to each episode, setting the tone for the epic battles and political maneuvering that lie ahead.
With the Targaryen civil war in full swing, viewers can expect a season filled with tension, drama, and unexpected twists. The new opening credits serve as a reminder of the rich history and complex relationships that define the Targaryen family, setting the stage for the epic conflict that will unfold in season 2.
