Why Horn Hill Looks More Impressive Than Highgarden in Game of Thrones

The visual differences between Horn Hill, the ancestral seat of House Tarly, and Highgarden, the seat of House Tyrell, in seasons 6 and 7 of Game of Thrones, can be attributed to several factors. This article delves into the architectural design, cinematography, character contexts, and production decisions that contribute to these distinct appearances.

Location and Architecture

Broadly speaking, Horn Hill is depicted as a rugged, castle-like structure situated on a hill, which lends it a strong and imposing appearance. Its design closely resembles traditional medieval castles with stone walls and towers. In contrast, Highgarden is designed to reflect the beauty and opulence of the Tyrells, featuring expansive gardens and an open, airy layout. These architectural styles significantly influence the castle's overall aesthetic, making Horn Hill appear more striking and powerful.

Cinematography and Lighting

The cinematography in Game of Thrones plays a crucial role in how locations are perceived. Horn Hill’s scenes may have utilized darker, more dramatic lighting to emphasize its imposing nature. This tonal choice helps viewers understand the importance of the place within the narrative. In contrast, Highgarden scenes often showcase bright, vibrant colors that highlight its beauty but might come off as less intense or memorable due to their overwhelming brightness and opulence.

Character and Story Context

Horn Hill is often introduced in a context that emphasizes the Tarly family's heritage and character, particularly that of Samwell Tarly. This focus on family and legacy makes Horn Hill feel more significant and well-developed in the narrative. Highgarden, while undoubtedly beautiful, is presented more as a backdrop for political maneuvering and intrigue, especially during the conflict with the Lannisters. The character of Margaery Tyrell's use of a Disney-princess image in the show is a deliberate power play that aligns with the overall tone of the series.

Production Design Choices

The production team made specific design choices to evoke certain feelings and themes associated with each house. Horn Hill’s design may have been intended to create a sense of strength and resilience, while Highgarden’s aesthetic represents wealth and beauty. This choice reflects the broader themes of the series: in a world filled with turmoil and power struggles, an imposing fortress like Horn Hill stands out as a symbol of resistance and survival.

Production Principles and Budget Allocation

A key principle in Game of Thrones and many television shows and movies is the "longer on-screen time, more resources" rule. Highgarden appears in only two scenes in one chapter, while Horn Hill features in two or three chapters with more scenes. As fans of the "A Song of Ice and Fire" world, we know that Highgarden is more important than Horn Hill in the lore. However, as producers, rational budget allocation is crucial. Allocating more resources to Highgarden aligns with this principle, ensuring that viewers are impressed by the castle's opulence and grandeur.

Other Examples of the Principle

Other examples of this principle in Game of Thrones include:

The Valyrian Script

The letter written in Valyrian script by Talisa Maegyr is an interesting example. Although Valyrians have a different written system, it is unknown for one second, making the development of a comprehensive script not cost-effective. The use of Latin script with an odd medieval style allows the show to acknowledge the Valyrian language without investing resources in a competing system.

Rhaegar Targaryen

There was a significant buildup for Rhaegar Targaryen in six seasons, with many characters and viewers imagining a grand, epic portrayal of him. However, when Rhaegar finally appears in a flashback scene in the seventh season, it is a disappointing moment. The decision not to use a big-name actor like Henry Cavill or Chris Hemsworth for such a short scene was a practical budget choice.

Conclusion

The visual impact of Horn Hill and Highgarden in Game of Thrones is a reflection of the show’s narrative, production choices, and budgeting principles. While Horn Hill may appear more impressive due to its rugged strength and architectural design, Highgarden's opulence and beauty are equally significant in the context of the series. Understanding these factors provides a deeper insight into the world of Westeros as portrayed in the beloved series.