ARGUABLY the biggest phenomenon in modern television in the last decade or so, TV series “Game of Thrones” (GOT) finally wrapped up its eight-year run with an 80-minute Series Finale Monday (Sunday in the United States). Based on the best-selling series of fantasy novels—“A Song of Ice and Fire”—by author George R. R. Martin, the live adaptation that premiered on HBO on April 17, 2011 had captured the imagination of fans from around the world.
Some of the things that drew viewers to the series were the intricate writing and worldbuilding, the complex lives of the characters, and the occasional (yet, somewhat regular) graphic displays of sex and violence. And fire-breathing dragons.
Unfortunately, the mainstream rise of “Game of Thrones” is not without hiccups. There are clips of drink containers left on set making it to the final edit, or the fact that the actual books, the source material for the TV show, are actually unfinished yet. Martin published book one in 1996. He plans to release a set of seven. Currently, he has yet to write and publish books six and seven.
Whether in form of praise, astonishment, jokes or harsh criticism, “Game of Thrones” has set social media on fire (Dracarys!). After its last episode ever, fans took to the internet to express either their dismay or delight—or both—regarding one of the most epic series created for television.
Of course, the SunStar Newsroom is not without its GOT fans. Here’s what some of us had to say:
“For television, producers managed to pull off all the elements of a good TV ending: stunning visuals, great acting, fast-paced plot (too fast, I might add), heart-wrenching moments (including political and moral cheese) and an unexpected turn of events. But as an avid fan of epic fantasy, I think the biggest problem with the final season is in its dialogue and its unfocused exposition of the motives of each character. For what it’s worth, “Game of Thrones” will remain in the god tier as one of the best TV series of all time. I guess they gave an unsatisfying ending to let us stay hungry for the prequel series. At least, HBO is focused at that.” — Joshua B. Solano, Social Media Specialist
“It wasn’t perfect (I still have questions and I felt like Jon Snow was a different person for two episodes), but this show got me to care about everyone, and that’s what makes it a great show. Not signing any dumb petitions anytime soon. I’m going to miss looking forward to Monday mornings.” — Mia A. Aznar, Business Editor
“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t one bit disappointed during the show’s last two seasons. It felt like we’ve been served the best entree already, but then to end the meal, we’re given just a half-scoop of ice cream for dessert. However, after watching the Series Finale for the second time, I think I finally grasped what the show was gunning for. It felt poignant; best word to describe the end. I think for a series like “Game of Thrones,” for better or for worse, it was—and has always been—about serving the unexpected.” — Luis A. Quibranza III, Lifestyle Editor
“At the start of Season 8, Episode 1 to 3, I was hyped at the thought of the White Walkers now marching to Winterfell. But it was a big disappointment when the Night King was defeated on the third episode, “The Long Night.” The show killed him easily in that episode and they wasted the whole buildup since Season 1 to Season 7. After Episode 3, the succeeding episodes weren’t so satisfying anymore.” — Enrico P. Santisas, Graphic Artist
“The final season was a visual spectacle but the story development fell short of my expectations. There was a disconnect between Seasons 1 to 6 and 7 to 8. I have a ton of questions that Seasons 7 and 8 failed to answer. But then Season 8 was also on a very tight schedule and [showrunners] Weiss and Benoit, who were left with little material to continue and end the most-followed story, did the best they could come up with. Still, “Game of Thrones” was a brilliant show and I can watch it 50 times over. Episode 3 of Season 8 was my most favorite, where Arya kills the Night King. The final episode left me shortchanged. ‘Huh? That’s it? What!? How did that happen?’ Unanswered questions aside, I remain a GOT fan. Thank you, HBO and everyone at GOT!” — Michelle P. So, Director for Network Newsrooms