Says dumb
The scene undoes multiple seasons of Jaime moving away from Cersei, and it does so in the space of one conversation. The character deserves a better reason.
Why did Jaime leave Brienne and return to Cersei?
Game of Thrones: Season 8
Game of Thrones: Season 8 (2019)
At 1:11:40S8 E4
Verdict: Guilty. 74% of viewers say this is dumb. Top defense: Jaime never fully broke from Cersei, and his arc was always about being pulled back to her.
Guilty
74% dumb26% explained
2,100 votes
Dumbness rating
7.8/ 10(2,100 ratings)Out of characterDropped thread
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What happens in this scene
After fighting alongside Brienne at Winterfell and beginning a relationship with her, Jaime leaves her and rides to King's Landing. The decision reverses seasons of character development.
The tone toggle also switches the reviews below. Contains spoilers for this scene only.
Reviews 3
Says explained
Jaime's relationship with Cersei was always at the core of his story. It is tragic but consistent for him to return to her at the end.
Says dumb
I did not mind the ending, but this scene is too fast. A few more minutes of his struggle would have made it land.
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Actually, it’s explained
Jaime never fully broke from Cersei, and his arc was always about being pulled back to her.
- DumbScenesStaff11 months ago
Jaime never fully broke from Cersei, and his arc was always about being pulled back to her.
- canon_keeperFounding Critic #3Supporter6 months ago
He is shown choosing Cersei over everyone for eight seasons. The relapse is tragic, not out of nowhere.
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Quick Fix
Fixes are written by people. The smallest change, in 200 characters or fewer, that would have fixed the scene. AI is used only for duplicate detection, length and moderation.
Plant it earlier
Before he leaves, show Jaime visibly shaken by news of Cersei's plan and Brienne asking him to stay. His leaving is then a choice, not a switch.
Would this fix it?90% say yes
harbor_lightsFounding Critic #58Supporter4 months ago
A newer idea
Add a line
Brienne says 'You are not who she thinks you are.' Jaime answers 'I am exactly who she thinks I am.'
Would this fix it?71% say yes
script_doctor_samSupporter2 months ago
Suggest a fix
Also asked as
- Why did Jaime go back to Cersei after Winterfell?
- Is Jaime's return to King's Landing out of character?