Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘The Walking Dead: Dead City’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There are a great many storytelling elements that The Walking Dead Universe excels at. For instance, it is indeed a phenomenal horror story through and through, one that breathed new life into the living dead and made them arguably one of the most popular monsters in modern television history. Not to mention, it features rich writing and wonderful character development, and great actors to bring that to life. But one of the things it does best from a storytelling standpoint… is world-building. For we rarely have questions about what we are walking into from a danger or location perspective, because the show prepares us for all that, and if by chance we do have questions… it is only a matter of time before the show takes the time to answer them. 
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All of which allows for us to just immerse ourselves into the world of the dead and that allowed for The Walking Dead to truly paint a picture of what the world had become in the wake of a zombie invasion, and its sister series, Fear the Walking Dead, truly has done a fine job of exploring the struggles immediately following the end of the world and beyond, in a dynamic manner. Not to mention, Tales of the Walking Dead expanded our understanding of the impact of the end of the world further and of course The Walking Dead: World Beyond, did an incredible job of showing us a world where totalitarians had taken over and what life might look like under the rule of evil that presents itself as a hero. And thankfully, this proud tradition of establishing the world in question is being extended to the latest chapter in the saga, The Walking Dead: Dead City.

For ‘Who’s There?’ is a story that dug deep into the early rebuilding phase that part of the world is working toward, alongside what survival looks like in parts of the world that aren’t going to find salvation anytime soon, and that led to a fascinating tale. One that accomplished such feats by way of two key storylines, one of which… involved Ginny. For we caught up with her and Nina in this tale at their final destination in New Babylon, or New Hilltop perhaps. Wherein we came to learn that despite finding community and safety, and even a sense of peace and joy, which Nina expressed here in spades with her positive and chipper, and downright hopeful attitude, there was still fear… to be found. For this world has yet to truly find balance and evil still has a foothold and that really has put people in neutral and in a distrustful place, as evidenced by Ginny’s decision… to run. 

As for the second half of that world building, well that was handled by Maggie and Negan’s continued push deeper into the heart of Manhattan. Because that strange lady they met at the end of last week, had their stuff and the only way to retrieve it, was to follow her. Which brought about a fine understanding of how people have come to survive in a city filled to the brim with living death. Which as it turned out, revolved around the use of ziplines to avoid the dead on the streets and living on levels or areas with clear lines of sight, to offer warning and time to escape if the dead broke in. Which was fascinating to see and spoke to the wonder of human ingenuity for certain, since the group that lady belonged to did indeed have their lives and a chance at tomorrow in this abandoned wasteland of living death. 

But while it was amazing to world build and immerse ourselves in this universe as only this saga can, this was in many ways, a greatest hits episode of sorts. One that took the time to offer up those quality character moments we know and love, the kind that offer depth and understanding. Which was achieved several ways in this tale, one of which… involved Armstrong. Who, whilst in the Big Apple, opted to visit an old family member’s address and see if by chance they had managed to survive the end of everything this long. Which brought forth a silent and artful and oddly emotional sequence of events, wherein we learned about what family means to Armstrong and that his family was gone… and this was just powerful and fascinating to watch, and it was wonderfully bookended by way of the character depth we enjoyed regarding Negan. 
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Because he and Maggie’s new friends were also their captors for a time, because survival or no, trust is a premium in this world, and they had not earned that yet. So… they sat in their bathroom cell for a time and spoke with one another and that chat led to an understanding of the Croat and his lethal and twisted ways… and for the first time really, Negan and Maggie addressed what happened that fateful day in an honest and raw manner. Wherein Negan made it clear that the man he once was… was a construct of sorts. One designed to instill fear and awe and to take control of a situation as needed, when in reality, there was a man behind Lucille and that leather-clad façade. One that had to live with such actions and that gave Maggie the same insight we learned during ‘Here’s Negan’ and she even was able to understand how this back and forth worked, firsthand. 

For eventually… the Croat’s forces breached the perimeter of the safe space they were hiding within, and that meant evacuation was in order and sadly… since the Croat’s forces are as ruthless as him, there were losses and sorrow and a need for Negan… to be NEGAN. Which is why he took one of the Croat’s men hostage, and offered up some of that vintage vitriol and violence in front of the Croat’s lieutenants. To instill the very fear, he did into the heart of Maggie Rhee and her friends/family in ‘The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be’ and it did indeed work. For the message was sent, everyone was able to escape to their new fallback location and there was trust at last, and honesty, between Maggie and Negan and this group of intrepid survivors. But of course, there may be a cost… since Maggie and her deep trauma regarding Glenn’s loss left her scared of Negan once again after seeing his dark persona return, even if for the right reasons.

In the end however, this was just… a brilliant episode when all is said and done. Because it explored all of those elements in the course of under an hour and it did so in a manner so smooth and so engaging that you simply want more. More of this world, more of this new dynamic between two old frenemies and of course… now that we know what we need to know about the Croat… we want to see him pay. Pay for harming Maggie and pay for some serious crimes. But before we get there, we can celebrate this amazing tale. One that once again featured some amazing performances. For Gaius Charles (Armstrong) did an incredible job selling a range of emotions in utter silence, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Lauren Cohan are turning in some of their best work as Negan and Maggie, respectively, and that’s saying something. Since they stole scenes often in TWD, and well… now that we’ve reached the end of this chapter, the countdown is on until next Sunday, when we can finally enjoy more of this engaging and refreshing new chapter in The Walking Dead Universe. Until next time.  

It is definitely safe to say, that The Walking Dead Universe is doing quite well despite undergoing some major changes. For while the flagship series has said farewell, and the first spin-off is moving toward its own goodbye… interest in this franchise remains at an all-time high. For fans are still buzzing about the powerful and surprising exits that took place this season on Fear the Walking Dead, and The Walking Dead: Dead City, debuted to incredible numbers. Making it clear that the TWDU is here to stay and what’s wild… is that the buzz is only growing for what lies ahead.
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After all, we’re all dying to know how Rick and Michonne’s story will wrap up next year, and we are also eager to see how Fear sticks the landing and of course… we are as hungry as the dead to learn more about The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. Since we love that character and everything, we’ve heard about the series so far, has us intrigued, thanks to its unique setting and the fact that it features the return of Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon. And of course, to properly build anticipation, AMC has given us just enough to build that excitement… which is now going to grow. For earlier tonight, AMC released a sneak peek scene from Daryl Dixon and well… since you’re eager to enjoy a taste of things to come, here is that sneak peek and a synopsis of the series to prepare you for Daryl’s return, courtesy of AMC.

'In The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, Daryl (Norman Reedus) washes ashore in France and struggles to piece together how he got there and why. The series tracks his journey across a broken but resilient France as he hopes to find a way back home. As he makes the journey, though, the connections he forms along the way complicate his ultimate plan. The series stars Norman Reedus, Clémence Poésy, Adam Nagaitis, Anne Charrier, Eriq Ebouaney, Laika Blanc Francard, Romain Levi and Louis Puech Scigliuzzi and is executive produced by Scott M. Gimple, Showrunner David Zabel, Reedus, Greg Nicotero, Angela Kang, Brian Bockrath and Daniel Percival.'

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Unwelcome’.
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One particular question that has plagued mankind throughout its long and winding history… is what pushes people to embrace their inner darkness, and it makes sense as to why we continue to ask that question. In part because, we are born innocent and without an ounce of malice in our hearts, so it makes no sense that people would actively choose to harm others. Not to mention, the world we live in is filled with great beauty and kindness. The kind that should move anyone thinking of evil to tears and make them think twice about what they are about to do. Yet… darkness continues to exist in our world and people continue to hurt other people and we ask that question time and time again, even as our understanding of why has started to grow.
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Because modern science has started to reveal that trauma can be a factor in creating darkness within a person, since their inability to process rough emotions can push them to lash out and do bad things. Not to mention, childhood trauma and poor parenting and bad behaviors in that regard, can break a psyche and push it toward something sinister. But perhaps the most fascinating aspect of all, is how environment and a few bad days can push people to embrace darkness. But what makes us continue to question why, is that we simply don’t understand what specific moment someone’s breaking point could be or how a person finally comes to make the active choice to cause harm, and we don’t know how we prevent all that, and well… that is where fiction is quite helpful for certain. Since it can explore those possibilities and offer answers in a safe environment and well… it just so happens that a brand-new feature on Shudder, ponders upon the genesis of what makes good people go bad, and that makes Unwelcome, a fascinating story.

One that shows us… a couple attempting their best to avoid the darkness. For we are introduced to Jamie and Maya on their darkest day. Because shortly after coming to learn they are about to become parents, a rough encounter with some unsavory folks leads to a home invasion and a near loss of their lives. Which is why they are over the moon when Jamie’s aunt passes. Because she leaves them her cottage in Ireland, away from the hustle and bustle, and trouble of the city. Wherein they can heal and raise their little one in privacy and with hope for tomorrow and at first, it seems as though they have found their utopia and can move forward. But their introduction to the Whelan family and the discovery that their home is positioned close to a forest that harbors something mystical and ancient… and deadly…. is going to test their good nature and their desire to heal in ways they never thought possible. 

​Which really is… the perfect way to explore how people are moved to embrace darkness, and the why. Because what it all boils down to is that Jamie and Maya are put through utter hell in this story. For they are indeed good, everyday people, just trying to get by… but everywhere they go and everywhere they turn, someone or something is pushing them and harming them and working to take advantage of their good nature. And well… that can warp a person’s worldview, the trauma can ignite survival instincts and fury and when the moment is right… it can push a person to just say… enough. Enough with the rules, enough with the high road, what about me? Which leads to some powerfully dark moments in this already bleak story, the kind that informs us that the why is far simpler than we know and that really… to stop evil we need to be more supportive of everyone because one can only wonder what this couple would have become with a spark of hope in their hearts. 
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Of course, that is easier said than done since the world is indeed a place where apathy persists. But this movie isn’t here to fix that, it is just here to offer the answers we seek, and it accomplishes that and offers us so much more. Because the horror elements in this story are quite incredible to say the least, for there was mention that this couple have moved in near something fantastical and they are indeed neighbors with Red Caps. Which are creatures that are a variation of the Leprechaun, and they are… simply put… quite frightening. Because they are smarmy and slick little monsters that evoke childhood fears and move with a fierceness and ferocity that makes them utterly terrifying in this feature and they are the suppliers of all the gore we adore and definitely leave our skin crawling and add to the uniqueness of this motion picture. One that is also shot in a supremely fascinating manner.

As though we are moving through this story in a dream like state, or a fantasy story and that only adds to the brilliance of this tale. Since that is the perfect way to explore how Jamie and Maya’s worldview has changed following trauma and how desperately they are trying to hold onto the good in their hearts and well… all of these elements make this movie necessary viewing. Simply because it explores some fascinating topics about our world while offering up terrifying entertainment. Not to mention, it’s filled with fine acting, since Douglas Booth and (Jamie) and Hannah John-Kamen (Maya) sell their characters’ struggles with raw honesty and it also doesn’t hurt that Colm Meaney (Daddy Whelan) and Kristian Nairn (Eoin Whelan) are in this film as well, and steal every single scene they are in with the gravitas only they can provide, and well… the best news of all is that you can see this movie right now. For Unwelcome is streaming on Shudder and we hope you give it a look, because you can never go wrong with a story that offers intelligence and observation in a manner this engaging.

When we are growing up, there are certain things that we fear deeply. Some of those fears will stay with us for the rest of our lives because our first encounter with them is powerful and life-changing, while others… fade as we grow older. For instance, some people fear bugs as a kid, but don’t worry about them years later in adulthood and sometimes… there were elements of nature or scenarios that we deeply feared as kids… that we just forget about or get over as adults. Such as say… a fear of quicksand.
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Because we saw that stuff in movies and we saw people suffer and die from it in those stories and for a time, we worried about falling in it ourselves only to learn… that it was no big deal. But what if it was a big deal in our adult life? And how we would handle it if we encountered it and found ourselves stuck within it? Well, it just so happens that an upcoming feature on Shudder will explore just that, in Quicksand. A story where people will be surrounded by the worst case scenario that terrorized us as a seven-year-old and to properly inform us just how great a job this film will do of resurrecting an old fear, Shudder released a trailer, a synopsis, and some key art today for the film, to help us count down to the July 14th premiere of a movie, that will force us to sink our minds into an old haunt.

‘Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thrillers and the supernatural, released today the trailer for the new survival thriller Quicksand, the English-language Colombian film written by Matt Pitts (Westworld) and directed by Andrés Beltrán (Tarumama). The Shudder Original film will make its exclusive streaming debut Friday, July 14 on Shudder and will also be available to stream on AMC+.
 
In Quicksand, an American couple, on the brink of divorce, travel to Colombia for a work conference. While on a hike through the rainforest, a storm causes them to become trapped in a pit of quicksand. Unable to move, it becomes a struggle for survival as they battle the elements of the jungle and a venomous snake, in order to escape. Starring Carolina Gaitàn (Encanto) and Allan Hawco (Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan).

About Shudder
AMC Networks’ Shudder is a premium streaming video service, super-serving members with the best selection in genre entertainment, covering horror, thrillers and the supernatural. Shudder’s expanding library of film, TV series, and originals is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. For a 7-day, risk-free trial, visit www.shudder.com.
 
About AMC+  
AMC+ is the company’s new premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, with iconic series from the AMC Networks portfolio including Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Hell on Wheels, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Rectify, Portlandia, and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, This is Going to Hurt, Dark Winds, and the first two series in a new Anne Rice universe, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. With new movies released every Friday, AMC+ is the newest destination for exclusive film premieres direct from theaters all year long. AMC+ is available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, South Korea, and Spain and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 806 of ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that the AMC series, Fear the Walking Dead, has offered up some of the darkest and most terrifying zombie stories in years over the past few seasons. For it has explored the horrors of infrastructure breakdown via the end of the world, alongside explorations of what could happen when true mad men seize power and have every weapon at their disposal. Not to mention, the series has also explored what we become when the trauma mounts and is never resolved. All of which has made for some powerful and bleak storytelling, the kind that has seen these characters suffer and seen some of them fall along the way. Which begs quite the question… will this series ever find the semblance of hope that it once expressed a few seasons back?
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Well as it turns out, the answer to that question… is a resounding yes. For last night’s episode of the show took the time to offer us hope once again. By pondering upon how we come back from the darkness and find hope once again, and ‘All I See Is Red’ accomplished that feat… by putting Morgan Jones through one difficult journey. For this story picked up shortly after Mo and her fellow trainees left with anger in their hearts after Grace’s indignant passing and well… Morgan was slipping back into his old ways. For the train car was filled to the brim with notes regarding the world needing to be ‘Clear’ once again, and Morgan had broken out of the train car, and dropped an entire horde with his bare hands and his axe and had it not been for a quick smack to the head… he might not have stopped.

But Madison gave him that gentle nudge and tried to bring him back to the land of the living and a place where he could function and once, he was coherent again, he was able to resume his quest to find Mo, which ended in sorrow and worry. For the shipyard was in fact, empty, save for the dead and with that worry and fear in his heart… he once again returned to that dark place and once again slaughtered with impunity and once again… needed to be put in place to be functional. This time, with Daniel’s help, all so a large group could work together in saving the children. For the dead were too much for them to fight and they were retreating inland to find shelter and safety, and Mo thought it best… to find the old boathouse since it provided some protection and shelter. 

Which of course, pushed Morgan to follow her. Wherein he continued to struggle and battle his own demons, to the point where he almost hurt Mo, and had she not hurt him… he may have done serious damage to her and what was left of his psyche. But thankfully, her actions did stop him and gave her a chance to tie him up and think upon her next steps, which didn’t offer much in the way of options. Since the dead were everywhere and there was a chance she and her father would perish because of his actions. Because he couldn’t let his pain and his fear go and because he didn’t know how to reconcile it and, in many ways… Morgan found himself back where he started. Unable to act, unable to process a way forward and that is where this story offered up some hopeful and powerful lessons, regarding trauma. 

Because in order to properly heal from trauma, so much more goes into the process that just acknowledging we’ve experienced it. We have to make real peace with it and learn to live with the fact that it happened, and we need to learn the skills necessary to understand… that it will find us again and if we cannot do all of that, we will return to old habits, and be caught in a cycle of sorts. Where we endure periods of peace and periods of pain and well… Morgan hadn’t done that just yet. Hence this push to save his little girl in such a smothering and panicked manner. But some wise words from Madison, such as pointing out how we honor the dead and make peace with their passing, alongside a huge assist from her, helped Morgan to understand, how to complete his healing cycle.
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Which meant… the first step was… to let Mo go. Because she wanted to leave and she wanted to be part of P.A.D.R.E. and rebuild the world, and after a final confrontation with Shrike, wherein her own unresolved trauma cost her, her life, Morgan was ready to make that happen and end the conflict in general. Since the coordinates of carefully chosen rebuilding sites were in hand and everyone could go and restart the world. So… Morgan told her to go. To forge her own path and find her own way and that he would let it happen no problem and well… that beautiful moment and Morgan’s growth, combined with a disdain for the conflict in front of everyone that never seemed to end, was enough for everyone to put down arms and ponder upon a truly better tomorrow. One where those supplies could be used to make a real sanctuary on the island and where healing could begin for so many. 

Of course, that wouldn’t necessarily happen just on the island. Because there was more loss to be suffered in this story, since Sherry and Dwight lost Finch to the infection after all, and the wake of his death and the ugly times they had dealt with since coming together at the Sanctuary, prompted a parting of the ways to heal in the manner they each needed to. Not to mention, Morgan decided, the time was right to return to the Alexandria Safe Zone. To check on his old friends and right a wrong, and show his daughter a different life than the one she’d known. Because she realized her desire to leave was grounded out of fear over her father’s uncontrollable actions, and his healing showed her that maybe… sticking around would be worthwhile. And that brought them to Eastman’s old property to bury Grace, reflect and restart the journey that Morgan started ages ago, the right way. With family in hand and with a radio broadcasting to an old friend named Rick Grimes… to hopefully guide one another to that better tomorrow. Which makes this Lennie James' farewell episode and well, plain and  simple, he deserves a round of applause for turning in so many years of powerful and moving performances, and for helping to guide two shows in two key ways. By putting Rick on the right path toward his family, and for bringing Madison and so many others back from the brink, and for leaving us in quite the hopeful manner via hopeful ending.

One that still featured a vague cliffhanger regarding Alicia Clark, and a potential blast from the past, but was hopeful none the less. Because for the first time in ages, we saw people working toward something better here. Unity, community, healing, all things that Morgan wanted to accomplish ages ago when everyone lost so much back then. All because everyone finally came to realize that this wasn’t life, it was surviving and that if we want to move forward in life, we need to heal, put in the work to build what we need and work just as hard to maintain it, and it was wonderful to see everyone come together with that understanding and do the right thing for a change and start to work toward a better world again. A world that works and a world that offers the support to a broken humanity, that they offered to one another here, and it will be fascinating to see where that cliffhanger takes us, and what the new world is going to look like when the show returns for its final episodes. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘The Walking Dead: Dead City’.
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When we last settled in to discuss The Walking Dead, we outright said farewell. For after eleven seasons and hours upon hours of incredible and moving, and sometimes terrifying stories… this saga came to a close… in a shockingly uplifting manner. Shocking simply because zombie themed stories rarely end with any sense of happiness or hope since all of mankind and society is devastated by living death, but ‘Rest in Peace’ truly did offer something uplifting and worthwhile, all by informing us that mankind was a species worth saving and by showing us a world where people could come together. In fact, there was even some semblance of peace and resolution between two arch enemies whose dark path was forged by a moment of cruelty, since Maggie Rhee took the time to finally confront Negan about the dark day they met.
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All of which brought forth a real sense of joy and hope for tomorrow for this grand universe, and that feeling remained when it was announced that three incredible spin-offs were heading our way, for they simply had to offer something joyous and worthwhile in this dark world. But as it turns out, the new chapters in this universe are going to offer lessons as realistic as what we found in the final season of TWD, as evidenced by the new chapter in this universe that made its debut on AMC last night. For The Walking Dead: Dead City, is a story that propels us a few years past the finale to inform us… that beautiful times and perfect days forever… just aren’t possible, even after we’ve had an uplifting awakening or found peace. For ‘Old Acquaintances’ reintroduced us to Maggie Rhee during a supremely dark time in her life. 

For when we caught up with her, here, she was… broken really. For a man named the Croat invaded Hilltop and raided its supplies and he also felt the need to take Hershel with him, all in the name of leverage and well… that put Maggie on the road, with newfound determination to bring her son home. Unfortunately, however, she quickly came to discover that the Croat’s main base of operations just so happened to be the Island of Manhattan. A place that was cut off from the world when the dead began to walk since it was quickly overrun and well… in order to rescue her son and ensure their chances of survival and a quick entry and exit from a city of the dead… she knew she needed help, and that meant… contacting an old acquaintance. One that had the ruthless know how and mindset to pull off this kind of dangerous rescue mission and of course… could help her navigate dealing with this man. Simply because, the Croat was once a Savior and well… a reluctant agreement from Negan, brought this duo to the Big (and very dead) Apple. 

But while that plot is indeed a perfect setup for the adventure ahead, and provides us with some stunning visuals, it is the journey that Negan and Maggie go on emotionally that matters most here. For it really does take the time to explore how the world is indeed an up and down place, where we don’t always have control … courtesy of fate and people. And how we respond to that is key, since it will determine if we keep fighting and keep trying to hold onto the good, we have found in this world, or if we let the darkness win and, in many ways, Maggie and Negan exhibit both sides of that equation in this tale. With Negan handling the darker stuff, since well… he has obviously fallen on tough times post-finale and still finds himself fighting his past and his own demons and is bouncing about the world trying to find some semblance of peace. 

Whereas Maggie… really does seem to be trying to fight the good fight and do what’s right in this world and teach evil a lesson in the process. So that the world can be filled with good, and so people can find a better way and that makes for a fascinating series premiere. One that is genuinely intimate and powerful and holds a wondrous flame to the franchise in all the right ways. But what matters more, is that it sets the stage for an equally as incredible exploration regarding whether or not redemption is in the cards for Negan and whether Maggie can hang onto her ideals. Which is a question, if you will, that also speaks to the nature of life and the ebbs and flows and different chapters we go through. Making this a highly intelligent series that should deeply explore such matters in an equally as intimate matter, which is quite incredible… as is the setting and structure of the story.

Because we would be foolish to not talk about the amazing world-building present in this story. After all, zombie themed storytelling rarely explores what the collapse of everything looks like in the big cities, or it glosses over it and/or ignores the aftermath altogether. Even though fans have always wanted to see that and well… this is the story that finally grants that wish and plunges us into the heart of a real city of dead. To the point where New York City gives off some wondrous Land of the Dead vibes while also giving us horrors untold. Such as a sea of walkers moving about the city, alongside ones that fall from the sky in a desperate attempt to satiate their unending hunger. Which leads to some horrifying moments for certain, the kind where a real sense of danger permeates the story since we don’t know what to expect in Manhattan, just that its full of death and clearly a handful of survivors and that too… adds to the wonder of this new chapter in the saga.

For now… we get to see what survival in a city filled with walking death looks like, and how the enduring human spirit adapted to such difficult conditions. Plus, we are obviously going to get to know the Croat and his men, and we are also going to learn a lot it seems about the newly formed New Babylon. A city that prides itself on its moral center and we will receive that education courtesy of Armstrong, a lawman from this new nation that is so determined to bring Negan to justice that he followed the duo onto the island at great cost. Since the threat of the dead cost him deputies, and well… all of those elements manage to add a touch of hope to this story in some form or fashion. Since it reminds us that humanity is still there out and still finding a way forward. Granted it may not be perfect, but it is a sign of our worthiness and who knows… perhaps this story, and having Maggie and Negan overcome and endure, will offer up a hopeful road map on how we move forward from those surprise dark times.

If anything, this is just… an incredible series premiere. One that not only does an incredible job of reintroducing us to the world of The Walking Dead, but it perfectly opens up this world like never before. But above all, we were reunited with two characters that we do indeed love. For Maggie Rhee has always been a fan favorite because of her good heart and no-nonsense attitude, and her quest here has us rooting for her every step of the way, and of course… we get more Negan. The man we love to hate and hate to love because there is a good heart behind that broken exterior, and we are of course, hoping for his true redemption at last and well, the fine acting of Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, combined with the amazing setup of this story, definitely leaves us as hungry as a walker for more. So, we can see how this incredible journey to Manhattan plays out in the weeks to come. Until next time.

It really is quite the amazing time to be a fan of The Walking Dead Universe. Simply because, we are entering a bold new era in the franchise. Wherein the constraints of the comic books are removed from the core characters’ future adventures, allowing for each of them go places and do things they’ve never done before and the possibilities when it comes to that… are endless. Since it will allow for dynamic new character growth and offer us stunning new visuals and locations. And of course… it allows for the franchise to try new things and surprise us along the way, and the best news of all… is that we are very close to getting our first real taste of what this new chapter in the TWD Universe is going to be like.
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For Sunday will bring forth the debut of The Walking Dead: Dead City, a new chapter in the saga that reunites Negan and Maggie Rhee with one another and the fans. And well… since we’ve seen this new series in advance, and since there is a huge buzz surrounding the potential of this series, and raw curiosity surrounding whether or not it will be a worthy successor to the flagship series… we here at NTG thought it would be worthwhile to discuss the show in a spoiler-free manner. So, we can inform you… of why this is indeed an amazing chapter in the franchise’s illustrious history and why you should absolutely watch it. Which in large part, is related to the fascinating plot that this series sends our way. 

Because this is a story where Maggie Rhee is dealing with quite the horrifying problem. In that, her beloved son, Hershel, has been abducted by a mysterious man known only as the Croat. And well, in order to get her baby boy back safe and sound, she will need to venture to New York City to find him, and in order to properly survive an isle of the dead… she will need the help of someone that can help her make the hard calls and decisions needed to survive. Specifically, Negan, and well… those elements alone are a big reason to tune into this show, because of how those two parted ways in the series finale of The Walking Dead, and because of what they learned about one another during that final season. Since that rightfully brings forth fascinating conflict between two old enemies.

But the series offers so much more to the audience. For starters, it offers up something that even the legendary George A. Romero struggled to bring to life, a genuine, in-depth look at a major metropolitan center infested with living death. Granted, yes, Fear the Walking Dead’s first season also offered up some of this, but it really focused heavily on the people over Los Angeles. So here… we get to see what Manhattan looks like years after it was cut off from the world at the peak of infection and that makes for some amazing visuals and the true treat of finally seeing a big budget, city of the dead. Where walkers are as common on the streets as hot dog vendors and that brings new life to the franchise and the wonder of going to Manhattan doesn’t end there.

Since we are also privy to learning about how people continue to survive atop an island of living death, and there are… some surprises along the way. The kind that will stun you and leave your jaw on the floor because this is… the boldest and bravest entry in The Walking Dead Universe to date. One that genuinely tries new things with both the story and its characters since Maggie and Negan are in fascinating chapters in their lives and well… all of those elements make this an absolute must-watch for certain. Because everything about this series is refreshing and engaging and at times… downright terrifying. For the dead are a real threat in this story, and the cruelty of the Croat is no joke.

Not to mention, the acting in this story is top notch as well. With Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Lauren Cohan leading the charge in this story since they bring new layers to Negan and Maggie, and all of the elements combine to create one incredible series. One that offers the right balance of scares and drama and is quite epic in nature. Courtesy of Manhattan and its visuals, and the walking dead, and well… we only have to wait but a few days to enjoy this wondrous new chapter in the saga. For Sunday, June 18, 2023, at 9:00 p.m. EST, The Walking Dead: Dead City, will make its debut, and we here at NTG cannot wait to geek out about this amazing new chapter

Perhaps one of the best benefits of having the world begin to get back to normal after the madness that was 2020, is the sheer fact that nerdy events are beginning to pop up with more frequency. For conventions and festivals are back, and drawing healthy crowds and networks are studios are taking part in publicity events that truly make their fan bases happy. For once again, immersive experiences are popping up in our world, the kind that help the fans lose themselves in their favorite franchises, and it just so happens that The Walking Dead Universe is about to host a big one in the Big Apple no less.

For Wednesday, June 14th, will see The Walking Dead: Dead City invade New York City in order to promote the series premiere of this Maggie and Negan-centric series, and well… what they have planned is quite epic in nature. Since you’ll find the dead present at a multitude of NYC landmarks, wherein you can snap a selfie with a Walker and possibly leave with a giveaway or take advantage of a hot deal, and potentially grab a hot slice of that world famous, New York style pizza. And well, since you’re curious about this event is going to play out, and what treats await you in the transformed City of the Dead, here are all the details you need regarding this immersive event… courtesy of AMC. 

'AMC Networks announced today The Walking Dead Universe takeover in New York City on Wednesday, June 14 ahead of the highly anticipated premiere of The Walking Dead: Dead City, set in a post-apocalyptic Manhattan, on Sunday, June 18 at 9:00pm ET on AMC and AMC+. For the takeover, AMC is partnering with iconic NYC establishments, including Katz’s Deli, H&H Bagels, Joe’s Pizza, the New York Hot Dog King Cart, and more. Each location will feature merchandise giveaways and the show’s iconic Walkers, along with treats from the NYC staples.
 
The Walking Dead Universe New York City takeover details and timing are as follows:
 

• Dead City x The New Yorker Coffee Cart (8:00 – 11:00 AM; 33rd Street & 7th Avenue)

• The Walking Dead: Dead City coffee cart and coffee giveaway with custom New Yorker-designed cartoon sleeves for customers during designated time window.

 

• H&H Bagels Upper West Side (9:00 – 11:00 AM; 526 Columbus Ave)
  
• Limited-Time-Offer Bagel Sandwich to be offered June 14-18 at all 3 NYC locations: UWS, UES, Moynihan Train Hall
  
• Walker Wake-Up: Bacon, egg and cheese on customer’s choice of bagel with “Dead City Hot Walker Sauce”
  
• LTO bagel sandwich and premium giveaway for first 200 customers at UWS location during designated window of time

 

• Joe’s Pizza Times Square (12:00 - 2:00 PM; 1435 Broadway)

• 2-slice + premium giveaway for first 200 customers at Times Square location during designated window of time

 

• The New York Hot Dog King Cart (12:00 - 2:00 PM; by The Metropolitan Museum of Art; 82nd Street and 5th Avenue)

• Hot Dog + premium giveaway for first 200 customers during designated window of time

 

• Verizon Flagship Store- Bryant Park (12:30-1:30 PM; 125 W 42nd Street)
  
• The experience will include giveaways for all who stop in during the hour of the activation – The Walking Dead: Dead City tote bags and keychains, as well as AMC+ branded misters.

 

• Katz’s Deli (3:00 - 5:00 PM; 205 E Houston St)
  
• Half pastrami sandwich and 4 oz. coleslaw + premium for first 200 customers during designated window of time.

About The Walking Dead: Dead City
The Walking Dead: Dead City follows the popular Maggie (Lauren Cohan) and Negan (Jeffery Dean Morgan) characters traveling into a post-apocalyptic Manhattan, long ago cut off from the mainland. The crumbling city is filled with the dead and denizens who have made New York City their own world full of anarchy, danger, beauty, and terror.
 
The series also stars Gaius Charles and Željko Ivanek, amongst others. Eli Jorné, who has been a writer and co-executive producer on The Walking Dead for multiple seasons serves as showrunner and executive producer on the series, which is overseen by Scott M. Gimple, chief content officer of The Walking Dead Universe. Cohan and Morgan also serve as executive producers, along with Brian Bockrath.
 
About AMC Networks Inc. 
AMC Networks (Nasdaq: AMCX) is a global entertainment company known for its popular and critically-acclaimed content. Its brands include targeted streaming services AMC+, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, ALLBLK, and the newest addition to its targeted streaming portfolio, the anime-focused HIDIVE streaming service, in addition to AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios), IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv and IFC Films. AMC Studios, the Company’s in-house studio, production and distribution operation, is behind some of the biggest titles and brands known to a global audience, including The Walking Dead, the Anne Rice catalog and the Agatha Christie library.  The Company also operates AMC Networks International, its international programming business, and 25/7 Media, its production services business.'

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Brooklyn 45’. This article also contains discussions regarding suicide and self-harm. Which may be triggering to some individuals.
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For the most part, horror stories that are eager to examine the human condition or society as a whole, tend to stick to one particular examination in their storytelling and understandably so. After all, sometimes trying to do too much in a story, can force the movie or the show, or the book, to lose focus and in essence… go off on tangents. Not to mention, going all out and examining all the things, could also dilute the examinations in question, and provide the viewer with half formed thoughts on important topics. But above all, it is usually done for the benefit of the viewer. So, they don’t feel overwhelmed, as though they’re in the midst of an intense and powerful lecture on the worst parts of mankind. 
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Which in turn begs the question… is it possible to pack a horror movie full of multiple threads of commentary? As it turns out… it is. Provided of course a few key things come into play. Specifically, through the script. For if the writer takes the time to properly figure out how weave the commentary and observations into a story in a manner that is thoughtful and organic, then there is a good chance… a genuinely powerful and thought-provoking horror film can come to life and believe it or not… there is a brand-new horror film on Shudder that pulls off that particular feat. For Brooklyn 45 is a horror tale that examines not only the underlying racism and xenophobia present in American society to this day, but it also examines the destructive power of trauma and how America as a nation, tends to treat its veterans as second-class citizens.

Which is a lot to examine, but it is all handled seamlessly here, courtesy of a brilliant script from writer/director Ted Geoghegan, that offers up a masterful plot in which to hide all of those elements. For in this story, we are transported to a brownstone in New York City during December of 1945, wherein a group of old friends/war veterans have reunited during the season to comfort a former commanding officer. Only to learn that on this night, he is eager to do more than just reminisce about days gone by and the glory of victory. On this night, he’s desperate to communicate with the spirit of his late wife, to learn about the exact reason why she took her own life. And his decision to dig deep into the past, is not only going to resurrect old ghosts, but old demons and new ones amongst the group as well. 

That just so happens, to be the perfect plot to segue into all of those elements. Since the initial surprise of Lieutenant Colonel Clive ‘Hock’ Hockstetter’s desire to commune with the spirit of his wife, and the decisions he makes concurrent to that desire… lead to the heartbreaking examination regarding trauma and its impact upon the human mind and psyche and how damaging it can be without support. Not to mention, that too speaks to how we treat our veterans, since there’s no care available for Hock to process the passing of his wife. Just silence and a thank you for fighting the Germans and that leads to some powerful and horrifying moments for certain… the kind that transform into the other commentary threads in question.  
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Because once it becomes clear, just how deeply Hock has sunk them into the spirit world, the fear that is present over the horrors everyone else faced in fighting the Germans and the Nazi regime, bubble to the surface and just like that… we come to learn a great deal about the duality of American ideals and how fear and a lack of understanding of the nature of the world, and its peoples, creates the racism and xenophobia we still deal with today. Which leads to some sobering moments for certain, the kind that feel ripped from the headlines of everyday news and truly leave us pondering upon the nature of American Exceptionalism and its relevance in the world, since it seems to close us off from other cultures. A move that genuinely creates fear and distrust when we should be embracing the wonder of the world. 

However, while it is incredible to watch a film that has this much to say, in many ways those elements make it seem as though this isn’t a horror story at all, and more of a deep look at the flaws in America. But there are scares to be found here as well, the kind that are genuinely creepy and horrifying, and downright impactful. Not to mention, the whole story is sold via some incredible acting. For the ensemble gathered here truly bring the concepts in question to life, and the fear, and well, in the end, this is a horror feature you absolutely need to see. For not only is it eerie and unsettling, but it is incredibly intelligent and leaves us with plenty to think about. For it is bold in its storytelling and does everything it can to prove that horror stories can in fact, load us up on impactful commentary and thoughts and still entertain us along the way, and all it takes… is a little care, and a lot of bravery, to tell a unique story that uses the human condition as the foundation to terrify us.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 805 of ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There is something quite fascinating going on from a storytelling perspective when it comes to the AMC series, Fear the Walking Dead. In that, suddenly the show is taking the time to explore some unique concepts that The Walking Dead Universe tends to not dive into all that often. For instance, last week’s episode explored in great detail, the long-term negative impact of unresolved trauma as a result of grief from loss. Not to mention, that episode showcased just how we come back from that level of trauma and that really was something quite incredible. Since horror rarely tends to explore how we heal, it oft explores the horrors of the pain we experience, and well… what makes this fascinating… is the sheer fact that the series is deeply interested and invested in examining more concepts in that vein, as evidenced by last night’s episode.
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For the bite that Grace endured at the end of ‘King County’, allowed for ‘More Time Than You Know’, to examine the fragility of life. How we tend to take every single second we have with those we love for granted, and how we struggle to process and accept death. Even though it is our biological purpose and endgame through and through… and it explored such thoughts… by having the crew race toward saving Grace. For Morgan truly believed that if they could get Grace to the train and have her spend a little time with June, they could utilize June’s knowledge of bites to save Grace and give her precious time to enjoy moments with her family. So that when the time was right, in their eyes… she could pass peacefully and happily and all could properly process her ending and the beautiful final moments they spent together.

A concept that well, mirrored everyday life. For we too often believe that we will soak up every precious moment and every joyous smile and embrace, when the final days of a loved one are coming. Only for us to learn… that everyday life doesn’t always allow for that. For other factors can distract us from what is special, and the universe will happily take someone from us without warning or understanding and that… is what Morgan and Mo really dealt with in this tale. Because Shrike’s forces were of course on their tail and there were no deals to be made, despite Morgan’s best efforts to make one happen. Which led to a panicked push to do a bevy of things that Grace was asking for as the infection that living death brings was raging through her veins, and that too… was chaotic in nature. Simply because no one could agree on how best to honor Grace.

For Morgan wanted to do everything she wanted, which was to move them to a nearby relay station where she said she had something special waiting for everyone. Whereas Mo wanted to get Grace to the train and get June by her side to give her the bite treatment and well… that conflict between father and daughter, allowed for the both of them, to miss out on special moments. Granted, that’s no easy task when guns and outright brainwashed soldiers are in hot pursuit, but even still… there was time. Time to really reflect on the journey they had all endured, and what it meant to be reunited in this moment. But alas, it was all about figuring out the right agenda and well, once they were separated, Mo had a chance to follow her own, and took Grace through the land of the dead and Shrike’s future soldiers to get her into that train and work with June via the radio to finally set up the gear to save the day and keep her mother alive just that much longer. 

Which of course, once again mirrored life, and how we process death and fear it and desperately try to process the ugly stuff over the stuff that matters. Those memories and those moments that fill our heart with more than the sorrow that is at the forefront of our mind. But alas, it takes time and wisdom to often learn that, to accept the reality that we all perish and leave behind memories and legacy and sadly… Mo’s first taste of real loss, brought about great darkness in this tale. Since the radiation didn’t work. A sobering reality that could also cost Finch his life since he made it to relay station with his folks, wherein they found Grace’s little oasis of family life to give him comfort while his own bite infection raged. But that aside, the failure of the ‘cure’ meant that Grace perished in this tale, and sadly returned from the void of death as the monstrous nightmare that now plagued this world. Bringing forth real trouble and fear for Mo and of course… a tough moment for Morgan when he had to put down the husk that remained of his love.  
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Not to mention, the trauma and pain that Mo endured in seeing this kind of reality about the world, was utilized and weaponized by Shrike. Who did everything to motivate her to use it for progress, such as having her and the trainees clear out the many, many members of the living dead that meandered about the docks where the supplies that Shrike wanted resided. A move that put Mo in danger of losing her own life, in the name of traumatic pursuits, something her father struggled mightily with, especially since the dangers inherent to this mission were enough to keep a small army at bay, and well… that sets the stage for an ugly midseason finale. One where an ailing father, who must process his own fresh trauma about the death of his love, also must figure out how to save his daughter before her own fury and pain gets the better of her. 

But while we wait to see how that all plays out, we can celebrate one powerful and intelligent tale. Because truly, everything that Mo and Morgan did here, and even to a lesser extent, Dwight, and Sherry… painfully reflected our world. Where we all struggle to process the reality that sometimes a terminal illness will soon claim the life of someone we love, and we spend more time worrying about their salvation then we do the spiritual salvation we can provide them and ourselves with, through making amends or strengthening a bond. So we can find the haunted beauty that comes with death and a life well lived. Not to mention, this episode beautifully encapsulated the pain and the fury we feel when a life that matters deeply to us, is removed from this world under circumstances we don’t agree with or care for. Making this a fascinating examination of own relationship with death, whilst pointing out that in the world of The Walking Dead, little has changed when it comes to the power of human life, when the moment allows for it. 

However, while that was fascinating to learn, we do need to take a moment today and offer up a round of applause to Karen David. Who turned in a phenomenal and moving final performance here as Grace Mukherjee. For she truly moved us every single second she was on the screen and sold the fading light in Grace’s eyes and even left us in an uncomfortable and terrified place with her inspired work as a Walker. Plus, she deserves accolades for turning in four years of wondrous performances on the show, and she will definitely be missed, and we thank her for everything she’s done on the show, and for taking the time to discuss her final episode with us as well. And now, that we’ve reached the end of this incredible and sorrowful journey, all we can do now is wonder how the mid-season finale is going to play out. Since clearly, the future, as represented by Mo and her friends… is in danger. Courtesy of a broken soul that is determined to heal through hollow pursuits. Until next time.

To learn more about Grace’s farewell from ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and ‘The Walking Dead’ Universe, check out our interview with Karen David.