The climactic scenes in episode seven of “House of the Dragon” have sparked significant discussion among fans and critics alike, particularly due to the intense dragon rampage that unfolds. This pivotal moment not only highlights the escalating tensions in the series but also showcases the intricate work of the cinematography team behind the scenes.
In this episode, Rhaenyra Targaryen, portrayed by Emma D’Arcy, embarks on a mission to recruit dragonriders to bolster her forces against her stepfamily. The stakes are high, as she seeks individuals of Valyrian blood, the only ones capable of forming a bond with dragons. The narrative takes a dark turn when Rhaenyra invites a group of potential recruits to Dragonstone, where they are to attempt to claim the formidable dragon, Vermithor.
As the episode progresses, the situation spirals out of control. Rhaenyra’s vague instructions lead to chaos as Vermithor begins to attack, resulting in a gruesome scene filled with fire and bloodshed. The cinematographer for this episode, Vanja Černjul, described the dragon’s rampage as the “most Game of Thronesy scene” they filmed, reminiscent of the brutal medieval battles that characterized the earlier seasons of “Game of Thrones.”
Černjul shared that the scene was meticulously planned and storyboarded months in advance. This preparation allowed the visual effects team to create animations that would guide the directors in capturing the essence of the chaos. However, despite the extensive planning, the actual filming presented its own set of challenges. The use of practical effects, including fire, added an element of danger to the shoot.
The crew faced strict safety protocols, limiting stunt performers to only eight seconds of being on fire. This time constraint required quick and precise filming to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Černjul admitted that witnessing the stunt performers engulfed in flames was unsettling, even though they were professionals trained for such scenarios.
The episode also features a unique perspective, as part of the massacre scene is shot from the viewpoint of Hugh Hammer, a character who plays a crucial role in the unfolding drama. The decision to focus on Hugh’s experience during the chaos was intentional, aiming to immerse viewers in the character’s perilous situation. The cinematographer emphasized the importance of capturing both close and wide shots to convey the intensity of the moment while still providing context for the environment.
As the narrative shifts to Ulf White, another character seeking to claim a dragon, the filming continued on the same bluescreen stage. The crew adapted their approach for this segment, creating a raised platform to simulate the jetty leading into the dragon cave. Director Loni Peristere played a vital role in guiding the actors through the scenes, using a special audio system to communicate directly with them during filming.
Overall, Černjul expressed satisfaction with the final product, noting that while it wasn’t perfect, they came remarkably close to their original vision. The combination of practical effects, careful planning, and the dedication of the cast and crew resulted in a scene that resonates with the show’s legacy of epic storytelling.
As “House of the Dragon” continues to unfold, viewers can expect more thrilling moments and intricate character developments, all brought to life through the hard work of the talented team behind the camera.
Source: Business Insider
