Television audiences have been safe from walkers for several months, but of course, the zombies are always hungry, always sure to pop back up.
AMC’s series “The Walking Dead” popped back onto screens this October, with the new season offering plenty of suspense, character changes, drama and reasons to yell at the screen.
This Sunday marked the third episode of this season, which kicked off with the reminder that our main group of characters are still not completely safe in one place, that shelter is always fought for. One of them, Lori, is now very pregnant, which begs the question: just how fast can one run from a zombie with a full bun in the oven?
Perhaps the other characters wondered the same concept, and Rick––a character whose change is immensely interesting to watch–– is now a harsh leader and decides the group will enter a nearby prison.
On the positive, it’s gated and secure, with supplies and stability.
On the other hand, the characters could literally be locked up with zombies.
This leads the audience to extremely thrilling and dangerous treks with characters into the winding, dark and deep prison walls. There’s nothing viewers can do but scream when something moves in the light of a character’s flashlight and honestly, these sequences have been some of the most suspenseful TV moments I’ve ever seen. Who knows what--or who--is in the nooks and crannies?
Moral dilemmas and drama mingle again as characters’ relationships highlight with moments touching and saddening, cutting the zombie tension. These moments show more of the new attitudes of the group, adding depth to the story. One of the most startling character changes has been that of Carl, Rick’s young son. He was the boy who, in previous seasons, retained innocence and trust, but is now hardened, like his father, unwavering and rebellious.
Speaking of characters, we do get to see more of the mysterious figure, who we learn to know is named Michonne, from the finale of last season, who has been caring for Andrea after she was separated from Rick’s now-prison-living group. In fact, episode 3 was all about their journey –– which begins with the crash of a helicopter –– and the reunion with season one’s now single-handed character Merle.
The episode introduces a new personality, who goes by the nickname “The Governor,” and the gated community he leads over. He’s revealed to be not quite what he seems, which I found an interesting reflection between his leadership and Rick’s leadership.
This season started off with drama, introductions, and some serious thrills. There’s plenty of explaining left to do, but of course I’m going to be watching eagerly every Sunday.
Grade: B+
To email reporter: mob5349@psu.edu
