Just watched episode 3 and definitely a major step up. I think this show has been torn apart for some good reasons and so reasons that make 0 sense. It doesn’t have to be a masterpiece or a disaster. What it is is a good show with amazing cinematography and set design and an awesome look at middle earth. Sure the writing can be strange compared to the Peter Jackson films and some of the creative liberties are questionable but I think comparing it to the Peter Jackson films is a dishonor to the series. Of course I want a perfect show but I would rather have a good or ok show of middle earth than none at all. Just my opinion I am interested in seeing how my feelings change as the season goes on for better or for worse. Definitely give it a chance!