Game of Thrones has been one of the most popular and critically acclaimed television series of all time. However, its seventh season, which aired in 2017, left many fans feeling disappointed and dissatisfied. Despite its grand scale and high production values, the season suffered from several shortcomings that ultimately diminished its impact.
One of the main issues with the seventh season was its pacing. Previous of Game of Thrones had been known for their meticulous storytelling and patience in building up the narrative. However, the seventh season attempted to condense a significant amount of plot into just seven , resulting in a rushed and uneven storyline. Important character developments and significant plot points were glossed over or completely omitted, leaving audiences confused and unsatisfied.
Moreover, the writing in the seventh season seemed to lack the depth and complexity that made Game of Thrones so compelling. The dialogue became increasingly simplistic, with characters often resorting to simplistic one-liners and plot-driven exposition. This shift in writing style diminished the nuanced and morally ambiguous nature of the series and made it feel more like a generic fantasy show rather than the intricate political drama it once was.
Another major flaw of the seventh season was its reliance on unrealistic and convenient plot developments. One of the strengths of previous seasons was their unpredictability and willingness to subvert expectations. However, in the seventh season, characters seemed to constantly find themselves in implausible situations only to miraculously escape unscathed. This reliance on cheap thrills and plot armor undermined the stakes and made the narrative feel contrived.
Furthermore, the character arcs in the seventh season felt rushed and lacking in depth. Many beloved characters who had undergone years of development suddenly became one-dimensional or acted out of character. Moments that should have been emotionally impactful lacked the necessary buildup and felt forced, leaving viewers feeling disconnected from the story. This shallow treatment of character arcs was a disservice to both the audience and the actors who had invested so much time and effort into their respective roles.
Lastly, the seventh season suffered from a lack of meaningful consequences. Game of Thrones had built a reputation for its willingness to kill off major characters and its exploration of the brutal realities of power. However, in the seventh season, characters who should have faced severe repercussions for their actions were let off the hook, undermining the previously established rules of the show’s universe. This lack of consequence diminished the stakes and made the conflicts feel less impactful.
In conclusion, the seventh season of Game of Thrones was a big disappointment for many fans. Its rush pacing, simplistic writing, convenient plot developments, shallow character arcs, and lack of meaningful consequences all contributed to its diminished quality. While the production values and visual spectacle remained impressive, these elements alone were not enough to save the season from its overall weaknesses. Hopefully, the final season of Game of Thrones will address these issues and provide a satisfying conclusion to this beloved and once-masterful series.