HOUSE OF THE DRAGON – this much anticipated prequel to Game of Thrones takes place 172 years before the original series. It’s chock full of recognizable actors – Matt Smith (Prince Philip in The Crown), Graham McTavish and Bill Paterson (Dougal & Ned Gowan in Outlander) and Eva Best (Dr. Eleanor O’Hara in Nurse Jackie). Naturally, it’s pretty much the same format, characters and turmoil as its predecessor. I especially liked the way the two series were linked together in the first episode when a prophecy is revealed foretelling the coming of the white walkers and the requisite union of fire and ice in order to prevent the total destruction of humanity. I was expecting much more dragon action since apparently there are 14 in this era of the Targaryen reign. Always my favorite characters, I was disappointed at their lack of screen time. The peeps are somewhat divided on the show so far. Kelly said it was too brutally violent and graphic for her to continue watching. I didn’t see any difference between this and the original. Van liked it a lot and is already a fan. The rest of the peeps are on the fence until more episodes air. Cheers! Boyfriends – 1; Girlfriends – 0.