​For the most part, the villains present in the world of the AMC series, The Walking Dead, have always skirted with the true darkness that resides within the human soul. For instance, the Governor tried to keep his cool and his humanity tied to notions of family, always keeping him this side shy of true evil. Gareth and his merry band of cannibals still exhibited fear and tried to explain to others their genesis, as did Dawn through her desperate attempts to control that which is uncontrollable. Heck, even the Wolves still had their humanity and best of all… the same goes for Negan. Who despite losing his way and presenting himself as an ugly villain, has slowly found his worth and his way back into the light after doing great harm. 
 
Simply because this series, to that point, wasn’t keen on exploring how evil a person could become if they let this world complete consume them and it makes sense as to why. For starters, that can lead to some supremely scary moments, the kind as dark if not darker than what happened when Negan unleashed his fury in the opening of season seven and of course… this is a television show and going too far, is something that can alienate viewers and drive them away. As evidenced by that very same ugly moment. But the potential for a villain that in essence, has renounced their humanity and civility in the name of greater goals, in their mind, was too much for Angela Kang and her crack room of writers to resist, and well… that prompted them to go all out in season nine and introduce a villain that was lost and ruthless and consumed by pure evil in Alpha, the leader of the mysterious and terrifying Whisperers. 
 
Which brought forth some powerful storytelling, the kind that really did explore what motivates a person to turn their back on that which we try to maintain and save daily, and just how cruel and twisted that kind of person can become when there is no accountability and rules to abide by. And truly the centerpiece and genesis of that exploration, got underway in season nine’s penultimate episode, ‘The Calm Before’. For this is really when Alpha became fed up with the people that were surrounding her people and her pet walkers, and that in turn motivated her to bring months of tensions to a head by demonstrating to everyone in the Alexandria Alliance as to what they were capable of and what would happen if they kept pressing, and well… what came next from that decision… was the stuff of legend.

​Since we watched Alpha transform before our eyes from a slouching disrespectful nightmare into something akin to a southern belle during the signing of the charter event. Making it clear how cunning and intelligent and in touch she was with people and their habits, and how little respect she had for her opponent. For she feared no one, to the point where she was fine with just walking around in the Kingdom without giving it a second thought. Which of course, isn’t exactly cruel evil personified, but that is the kind of stuff that is the foundation for pure evil, since it takes a twisted kind of person to walk amongst their prey in such a cocky and bold manner, and besides… it wasn’t long before the point behind taking part in such a disguise and act was made apparent.
 
Because she and her people were quick to strike and kidnap and round up innocent lives to murder and resurrect, so that their undead skulls could be gently placed atop pikes to send a message as to what she was capable of and how easily she could get to anyone at any time, and her choice in age ranges for her victims, also hammered home how far she was willing to go, as did her choice to leave Siddiq alive so he could tell the tale. All of which informed us at long last that those who truly lost themselves to the world of the dead, were beyond terrifying. They were evil personified and devoid of any emotion or humanity; and to be feared. Because a person that has that level of disrespect for people and community, is indeed dangerous, and this act would lead to great pain and suffering, thanks to Alpha’s enduring cruelty and desire to impact her fury on the world she hated so. 
 
All of which made for one bleak tale, one that once again leaves you stunned and in silence at the horrible sights before you. Because seeing Enid, Tara and young Henry chomping and snarling without their bodies is just awful and it is up there with Negan’s big moment and Carol’s tough decision in ‘The Grove’, but much like those scenes… it is necessary and sensible. Since it rallied our heroes to fight like never before, no matter the cost and it of course… started the grand discussion that has been hanging heavy over the series since that moment. In that… are we worth saving? Especially when we are capable of that kind of unfettered evil and cruelty and that’s why this is one of the best episodes this series has to offer, and now that we’ve reflected upon this ugly journey, the time has come to end this retrospective on a high note. With a look back at a tale that pondered upon a positive notion. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains minor spoilers for the motion picture, ‘The Menu’.
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We are living in supremely fascinating times. For the world has reached a point where people are simply saying, enough is enough when it comes to old standbys and processes that have been tolerated for far too long, and that’s bringing about all kinds of unique unrest at every level of our world. Because not only are we seeing mass protests in the streets that demand change and the end of the old norms… but even everyday folks are striking back against problems that are simply stifling at this point. Take for instance, retail and the customer service industry. For this is a part of our world that is constantly beat down and abused by entitled consumers that have nothing better to do with their time than invent ideas of how they should be treated, and well… that abuse is now being exposed.
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For these workers are posting the extremes these buffoons will go to have their way on social media, giving rise to exposure at last and healthy protest to a problem that has persisted for ages on end. A move that has brought forth some results, since public shaming of the most extreme Karen’s and Chad’s has led to consequences for some of them. But thankfully, that is as far as those particular protests have gone, but it does leave us wondering… if by chance this is going to boil over at some point and someone involved in that kind of altercation might snap and take things too far. But while we hope that never happens, that kind of pondering does indeed ignite imaginations and allow for the creative mind to wander, and it just so happens that a brand-new motion picture explores such possibilities in fascinating detail in The Menu.

A feat that this move accomplishes, by taking us on a special journey. For this is a story that whisks us away to an exclusive dining resort known as Hawthorn. Which rests atop its own unique island in the Pacific Northwest and in this place, culinary wonders are achieved. For renowned Chef Julian Slowik creates only the finest and most unique dining experience for his guests, who just so happen to pay $1,250 a pop to eat in this environment… but get their money’s worth. For Julian has assembled the finest support staff to help him create foods that take one’s breath away and well, on this particular night… a special dinner is about to take place. One that will allow for Chef to repay the discourtesy of the elite and of the rotten customer in general, much to the chagrin of a woman named Margot, who was a last-minute addition to the carefully curated guest list, and has no ill will within her.

Which is a plot that brings forth… all kinds of twist and turns and stunning moments that we will not be spoiling here. Because you need to experience them firsthand. But it is important to point out that Chef’s special dinner is grounded deeply in notions of revenge and a desire to bring forth payback for years of strife in the industry he loves… because that is the stuff that truly makes this a poignant motion picture. One that seizes upon the current zeitgeist and explores in detail how spoiled the consumer has become and how hard that has made life for the people that are supposed to serve them with a smile. Giving rise to fine commentary on how everyone needs to endeavor to treat those in this industry far better so that no one does slip to the dark point that Chef does in this tale.
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But all commentary aside, make no mistake about it, this a movie grounded in elements of horror. Because in order to exact revenge and teach lessons, ugly things have to happen and ugly things most certainly do and that… adds to the wonder of this film. Because it allows for some creative moments to take place from a horror perspective since Chef makes use of food and food themed elements to make these customers pay and that brings forth some memorable and shocking visuals, the kind that are stunningly original in nature and oddly… never overpower the viewer with raw fear. Courtesy of another unexpected surprise in this tale… it’s humor. Because believe it or not, this is a story that makes heavy use of comedic elements to keep it light and never overwhelming. 

All of which, is the perfect recipe for a delectably demented motion picture. One that captivates and enthralls with its mysteries and surprises, and never takes itself too seriously and also… features some magnificent acting. For Ralph Fiennes delivers a powerhouse performance as the tortured Chef Julian Slowik, and he is counterbalanced wonderfully by Anya-Taylor Joy’s turn as the out of place Margot. Not to mention John Leguizamo steals every scene he’s in this story and well, this is simply a must-see movie when all is said and done. Because it’s just so rare to encounter a dark humor horror film that offers this level of intelligence and creativity, and the best news of all, is that you can devour this unique experience right now since The Menu is now in theaters.  

​It is definitely safe to say, that the arrival of the Saviors and the events of ‘All Out War’ in the AMC series, The Walking Dead, was quite the polarizing time for the fans. Because it brought forth a pair of controversial and painful ends for some beloved characters and it of course… put our heroes in a dark place. Where we saw them submit to Negan’s wishes out of fear of death by bludgeoning, and when they finally decided to fight back, it cost them so much. Because more lives were lost, and more suffering took place and that was in fact, a lot for an audience to process. Because that is a dark and ugly place to go and, in many ways, this plot thread brought forth some understandable frustrations about the direction the characters were heading toward.
 
After all, this is the end of the world we’re talking about here, where walking death surrounds everyone and this is what people are choosing to do? Fight one another and add to the pile of the dead that already roam about this broken and struggling world? But they did, and a lot of folks were frustrated and unsure of where this was all going and sadly… it took another dark moment to establish that. In fact, it took the death of another important and beloved character to give this story arc gravity and help other characters grow in the midst of this chaos and that made ‘Honor’ another incredible episode from this series, and truly… the best that season eight had to offer. Which might not seem like the case, since it featured the exit of Carl Grimes, but bear with this writer for a moment.
 
Because hey, totally understand how this made everyone mad. After all, Carl had grown into a proud adult at this point in the series. For he was able to watch over his sister and was able to fight alongside his father and he was shockingly, a true badass during this story arc. Even going so far as to try and kill Negan himself at one point, garnering the man’s respect and informing all of us that Carl leaving the house now, meant bad things for bad people. So, to see this badass kid, waste away from a zombie bite that came to fruition via a desperate moment to save another life, was indeed a great source of frustration and ire. For it seemed cruel, especially after the death of Glenn and Abraham and so many others during this arc, but it was in fact… an important and critical moment to the story. 

​One that moved us to tears and featured Chandler Riggs’ finest work on the series, since he sold the pain and the suffering that comes with the devastation of a walker bite. But what mattered more, is that his final moments in this life and in this series, surrounded by his adopted mother and his beloved father, actually allowed for him to teach his furious and somewhat vengeful father at this particular point in the story, some great lessons. The kind that ironically addressed the concerns of the audience. For Carl came to realize what all of us did at this point. That needless war in a time of crisis like this, was downright stupid.
 
That instead, this was our chance to come back as a species and accomplish wonders and rebuild in a way we never had before. And more importantly, this was our chance… to do things right. To stop the endless anger and fighting that dominated the world before. Wherein mercy over wrath could prevail and understanding and kindness could permeate the day and that is… a beautiful message to find within this tale. One that would eventually be taken to heart by Rick, whom did his best to end this fight in a peaceful and merciful manner. Which is why, this episode is indeed one of the best that the series has to offer.
 
For it is another brave and bold tale that takes extreme measures to send over a powerful message. One that really did ground itself in hope, and the belief that we can be better, we can be saved and while the outcome of how that message is expressed is oft lamented, it is perhaps the most realistic way to hammer it home. For loss often teaches us some powerful lessons in life, the kind that stick with us to honor those we bid farewell to. And now that we’ve reached the end of another dark and emotional tale, the time has come to look at a tough story once again. One that finally informed us after nine seasons… what truly happens to a person that embraces this dark world and what horrors they would be capable of. Until next time.

​For the most part, horror stories have a tendency to only go so far when it comes to the scares, they present us with, and it makes sense as to why. For while horror is indeed dark and ugly and twisted… it is still at its core, entertainment. The kind that we should walk away from safely, from a mental perspective and holding back, helps to achieve that. In fact, it helps the experience further since it allows for the imagination to run wild when a moment comes just this side of truly terrifying us. But once in a while… crossing the line is essential for a horror story. Because without letting loose and truly terrifying us, certain moments won’t have the proper gravity, nor can the story move to its next destination and well… that particular storytelling choice is top of mind today for our grand discussion regarding the best episodes that The Walking Dead to offer… because we are going to spotlight a tale that meets those criteria.
 
Because back in October of 2016, all of us were huddled around our television sets to find out the ultimate fate of who died at the hands of Negan’s bat, thanks to the epic season six cliffhanger that was sent our way and well… it turned out that not only did ‘The Day Wil Come That You Won’t Be’ answer that question… but it truly went to the darkest places imaginable. For this is a story that really for the first time ever in the history of the series, explored the cruelty of man in this kind of situation, and just how far some would be willing to go to consolidate power in a bold new chapter in the world’s wild history and well… let’s be honest, none of us were prepared for the sheer savagery that this episode put on display.
 
For this is a story that really crossed every possible line here. First by showing us the gruesome deaths of Abraham Ford and Glenn Rhee in stunning detail, to the point where little was left but pulp and Negan’s fury and unsettling one liners and if that wasn’t enough, if that wasn’t a hard line to cross… the show went even further. By forcing Rick to suffer greatly as Negan worked to bend him to his will. All of which left us squirming in our seats and in tears for some, and once this long and winding nightmare came to its close, we were all left in stunned silence or holding friends and loved ones near, over the dark twist this series took, and let’s be honest… these were storytelling decisions that had an INCREDIBLE impact on the fan base. 

​Because this was the kind of brutal story that honestly turned off some members of the audience. In fact, the watch party for this episode that this writer attended was full of sobs from one close friend over Abraham’s fate, and our very own Assistant Editor-in-Chief, Shae… stormed out of the room after what happened to Glenn. She also vowed to never watch the show again and held to that promise through and through, to this very day in fact. Which speaks volumes to how hard this episode went and how impactful it was and how it truly scared us to our core. Because this was just not the kind of terror we expected to endure. Not from a series where the good guys always found a way to win regardless of the odds that were against them, and where hope was their desire to bring to this broken world.
 
Which in turn begs an important question. In that, how then, does that kind of response and brutality, and outright line crossing… make this the best the series has to offer? Well, the answer to that is simple… because like it or not, this story was brave. It really took some hard risks and really leaned into horror like the show never had before and in doing so, told a stunning tale. One that really made it clear how ugly this world had become. Not to mention, it was crucial to the future for some characters. Since Rick would not become a unifying leader until after this and the events of ‘All Out War’. Plus, this brought forth new allies and it made Maggie the leader she is and set forth a redemption arc for Negan that no one ever thought he would be capable of.
 
So, whether or not you stand by this episode, or despise it because of the dark decisions it made… one cannot deny its impact on the audience and the story. Nor can we deny its bravery. Because it takes serious guts to craft a story this powerful and this devastating and still put a season of stories behind it. But the creative team did just that, and the cast sold every horrifying moment for certain, with Jeffrey Dean Morgan turning in some of his finest work as an actor in this episode, and that bravery and that boldness… makes it one of the best this series has to offer. Because it was unlike anything the show had ever put forth and it changed the course of the series in a powerful and moving manner and well… now that we’ve reached the end of this of this harrowing journey, it is time to turn our attention to another bleak tale… one that taught everyone what they were actually fighting for. Until next time.

Well... this is it fans of The Walking Dead. The end is nigh. For in a few short days, we hearty fans will gather around our televisions to bid farewell to one of the most epic television shows to ever hit the airwaves. It will be an emotional evening for sure. One full of incredible moments and likely tears for the fallen (for those who don’t survive) and tears in general as we say goodbye to a show that has been in our lives for twelve years now and well… the good news is that AMC is celebrating the end of this iconic series in style.
 
For The Walking Dead Live: The Finale Event will provide us with a bevy of programs to properly celebrate this landmark episode. Including a red-carpet event and a very special episode of Talking Dead, bookended around the series finale of this beloved show and well, here are all the details on this epic event, to help us steel our nerves and to help us plan ahead for this grand and incredible finale.
 
‘AMC Networks will celebrate the epic conclusion of its global hit series The Walking Dead with The Walking Dead Live: The Finale Event, airing Sunday, November 20 beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET on AMC and via the AMC linear feed on AMC+.  Live from The Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles, viewers can join Talking Dead host Chris Hardwick as he kicks off The Finale Event with a special pre-show from the red carpet featuring interviews with several of The Walking Dead cast. Following the series finale episode,  Hardwick will host a supersized after-show that will dive deep into the series’ last episode and season, look back at some of the most iconic moments from the show, interview cast and special guests, preview what’s to come from the forthcoming spin-offs in the expanding Walking Dead Universe, and much more. 
 
The Walking Dead: The Finale Event details below: 
 
THE WALKING DEAD: RED CARPET LIVE - Sunday, November 20 at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT on AMC;  
AMC+ Subscribers can view live via the AMC linear feed at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT
Hosted by Hardwick, this live pre-show will showcase a mix of The Walking Dead cast arrivals on the red carpet, a look back at some of The Walking Dead’s greatest moments, and teasers to the highly anticipated series finale.
 
THE WALKING DEAD SERIES FINALE - Sunday, November 20 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on AMC; 
AMC+ Subscribers can view via the AMC linear feed at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT
Sit back and enjoy the series final episode of The Walking Dead, written by Corey Reed and Jim Barnes, and directed by Greg Nicotero, as our survivors rush to save Judith's life, search for their kids, and fight for their future.
 
TALKING DEAD: THE WALKING DEAD FINALE - Sunday, November 20 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on AMC; AMC+ Subscribers can view via the AMC linear feed at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT
An engaging live Talking Dead post-show where host Chris Hardwick will bring out the The Walking Dead cast and special guest appearances to discuss fan favorite moments along with all that’s to come in The Walking Dead Universe.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula: Titans’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular aspect of horror that isn’t discussed enough, is how much it actually manages to permeate our everyday lives. Because it really is with us in every way imaginable, from when a noise in the dark evokes thoughts of the potential arrival of a famous monster, to simply tuning into prime-time television… horror is indeed everywhere and what’s funny, is that it has always been with us, even when it was ‘unpopular.’ Courtesy of comics and books and board games, believe it or not. For Dungeons & Dragons is a game that features a bevy of horror characters and horror themed elements, and that’s precisely why the Boulet Brothers opted to explore its legacy during this week’s episode of The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula: Titans.
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For ‘Dungeons and Drag Queens Two: Into the Underdark’ is an episode that put D&D and its hints of horror on the center stage by way of the Titans, but not before a little drama was resolved. After all, Abhora unleashed their fury upon the group last week, leaving all of us to wonder how everyone would handle that kind of vitriol this week and well… they called it to the carpet and demanded better of Abhora and Abhora listened and worked to be a better competitor and once that was handled… it was onto one epic competition. One where a game of Tug of War over a pit of gore and grossness would serve as this week’s Fright Feat and also help decide who would get the better scripts for what was to come regarding this D&D themed battle. 

Because in addition to suiting up as various characters from the world of D&D for the floor show, the expectation was that a little acting would come into play this week via some filmed skits that would truly bring these costumes to life and help the Boulet Brothers learn a little more about each of them and well… this segment produced some fascinating results. For it really made it clear that Melissa and HoSo, and Koco, had some hardcore acting chops. Whereas Victoria… struggled mightily when it came to memorizing lines. Plus, it was also a chance to see how the Titans would do in a team setting, and all of this helped to inform Drac and Swan of a great deal regarding how each of them would handle on stage work and well, once the skits were done and the floor show was over… judgment arrived. 

Wherein HoSo and Koco received super high marks. For they really did create some compelling characters through and through and stole scenes left and right. Whereas Victoria and Erika, found themselves in bottom looks this week. In part because the costumes just didn’t quite pop and felt a little too by the numbers for a show of this caliber and of course… because of their performances on screen. Because Victoria dropping lines left and right just wasn’t going to cut it and Erika’s low energy this week was of concern as well and that led to yet another tough decision for judges’ panel. Simply because… the talent is there and saying goodbye to people that deserve a second chance is never, ever easy. 

As to who that was, well you know the drill. Same goes for who won. So instead, let’s talk about the fact, that once again, the Boulet Brothers took the time to educate the audience. Because we don’t think of D&D as a standard horror story or a gateway to the genre, but it is. Because it doth feature gore and ghouls and monsters untold. And it is quite cool that the Boulet Brothers took the time to point out its relevance to the genre and its importance to our own journey and relationship with horror and to also… let everyone hardcore nerd out in this tale. Because come on, they went to a Renaissance Faire, they did full on LARPing and it doesn’t get much nerdier and geekier than that, and it will be interesting to see what other lessons and delightfully geeky moments await us as this wondrous competition continues along. Until next time.  

For the most part, heroes in storytelling are rarely corrupted by evil and it makes sense as to why. In large part, because we expect our heroes to be the moral compass of the story. The person or persons that always err on the side of what’s right and what’s just, which is designed to inspire us to do the same. Plus, it also relates to keeping a true division between good and evil, so that the age-old fight between the two can play out and when good emerges triumphant, our spirits soar, and we can return to our day feeling better about the nature of the universe. But above all, going this route in storytelling, is really about escapism when all is said and done, because real heroes in the everyday world, are nothing like the ones we see on the small or silver screen.
 
Because in reality, they are as flawed as the rest of us. For they have doubts about their quest as anyone would since insecurity and worry often permeates our minds. Not to mention, sometimes the heroes we praise, especially those that fight in bloody wars… do things that they aren’t proud of sometimes. And take part in campaigns that are savage and ugly and leave behind both physical and mental scars. Yet… to paraphrase King Ezekiel, they smile. They find a way to go on in some form or fashion because THAT is what real heroes do, and they genuinely weigh the gravity of the grey that they operate within and ponder on how to reconcile it, and that is why the next episode in our journey through the best of what The Walking Dead has to offer is of note.
 
For ‘Not Tomorrow Yet’ is a story that operates in the grey and put our heroes in a different place for certain. Because up until this episode, they did everything they could… to not fight. They tried peace, they tried reasoning and negotiation and above all… they only resorted to killing when it was absolutely necessary. Because that’s what Hollywood heroes should do, because that’s what we have come to expect of them. But here, they are starving, and they know that they can use their skills to do something to put food in their bellies and give Alexandria agency and power, and that’s… an amazing angle to take in this story. Since it makes our heroes, impure to a certain degree since they have never committed to an act such as this and that made the assault on the compound, equally as harrowing.

​After all, we had to watch sweet baby Glenn, reconcile the fact that he had to kill for food and safety instead of taking the high moral ground he and the group oft stood by, and that wasn’t easy for him or for us to watch and it was just incredible… to see these good people make this active choice and do things that heroes sometimes do in the regular world and see that put on screen. For it challenged these characters like never before, changed dynamics relationship wise and led to some incredibly uncomfortable moments during that assault on the Savior compound. But… it was either the Saviors or starvation and that reality also opened up some commentary on modern man and just how civilized we truly are, all of which gave us a lot to ponder upon. 
 
But what matters more here, is that this was a story unlike any other in this universe. Because it really showed us what these folks are capable of as warriors, and how formidable they could be when put on the offensive and it also showed us what heroes are willing to live with in the name of something greater. Because that was how they sold it to one another, that this was a noble cause that helped so many by sacrificing so few and that’s powerful stuff for certain. All of which is sold by some stunning performances in this tale. Since everyone brings their A-game to the table in this story to really hammer home the difficulties that come with operating in the grey and how hard it is to look in the mirror when you take part in acts that won’t feel so noble in days to come.
 
Not to mention, this is also a supremely important episode regarding the direction and future of the franchise. Because this is the story that garnered Negan’s attention regarding the good people of Alexandria, which absolutely influenced one of the darkest moments ever to be seen in this series. All of which makes this a brilliant tale for certain. One that seemed to be nothing more than a one off back in the day, but would turn out to be the starting point for a lot of dark storytelling and tough times for the heroes, the kind that would force them to stay in the grey for some time, and now that we’ve reached the end of this particular tale, the time has come to turn our attention to that aforementioned darkness. Which would change the landscape of this series, for all time. Until next time.   

​One common trope that pops up often in zombie themed storytelling… is comfort and safety. Because regardless of how many zombies are roaming the world in that story, and no matter what kind of dangers the heroes face… they are always comfortable. Especially when it seems as though their luck has run out. For instance, they might find a food stash that will sustain them for ages on end when they’re starving, or a water supply at their absolute thirstiest. Or they happen to find the perfect place to set up safely. Such as a mall or an isolated community that is tucked away from the horror and it makes sense as to why this trope persists. For that offers the audience and the characters some sense of hope, so that the story never overwhelms. 
 
But thankfully, not every single zombie story holds to that notion, and those are the best zombie stories out there. For they are the ones that truly scare us and leave us worried for the health of the heroes we connect with, and sometimes… those same stories make use of that trope to lull us into a sense of comfort and stability before robbing us of that. It’s something that George Romero was a master of regarding his Dead saga and surprisingly, The Walking Dead is another zombie story that made a point to remove that sense of sense of safety in its later seasons. To truly challenge the characters and the audience like never before and perhaps the finest example of how impactful and powerful this can be… would be the season five episode, ‘Them’.
 
For this is a story that is quite frankly, bleak. After all, Tyreese was lost at this point, as was Beth Greene and everyone was simply trying to make their way to Washington D.C. to try and find some sense of safety and hope, only to find none. In fact, all that awaited them on the road was desolation. Because every time we expected them to find a river, they found mud. When we expected them to find shelter, they only found more trees and the living dead and when we thought food might show, they ended up having to eat wild dog to have something in their bellies and it really doesn’t get much darker or hopeless than that and well… that’s the perfect way to shatter the norm and to also terrify the audience.

​Because this is the kind of story that features so many intimate and oddly realistic moments, that it manages to prey on our own primal fears about our world. Some of which came to life in recent years thanks to the pandemic, since we saw supply chains struggle and saw supplies run out and, in that moment, we weren’t sure what we would do or how we would survive if it all dried up. Which is echoed on screen here and that is damn scary, and it also moves us and fills us with worry for our heroes. For they are weak here and desperate, and there are genuine moments that one has to wonder if they will reach their destination or collapse and end and return again, since that is the new nature of this world.
 
But thankfully, the show didn’t go that dark, since that would have meant children suffering and a devastation that we haven’t really experienced since Romero’s Night of the Living Dead. But it definitely takes us to the brink, and it doesn’t hurt that the entire cast sells the suffering here. For you feel their hunger thanks to their performances and thirst alongside them and you too, struggle with Rick’s words and are desperate for hope. Which we do get in the very end, which some might see as a cop-out or the true return of that trope. But that’s not the case. Because all they do… is survive, and it takes a little while before they find shelter and safety, with worry in their hearts and well, all of that makes this a brilliant episode for certain.
 
Because this is what horror is all about. Preying upon our deepest fears, really pushing the envelope or explorations on the human condition like never before, and the story is fully enhanced by the grief that Sasha and Daryl carry here for the fallen and it is… everything this story needed. So that our heroes had to earn what comes next and earn their humanity back and that is why this episode is hands down the finest that season five had to offer. For it is quite brave and powerful, and now that we’ve reached the end of this harrowing journey, it’s time to turn our attention to season six’s best episode. One that challenged these characters in a vastly different manner. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season one finale of ‘Interview with the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. This article also covers discussions of domestic abuse and violence, which may be triggering to some individuals.
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An unreliable narrator is someone who tells a story that you can’t trust. Throughout the entire series, Louis has often not been the most truthful in his retelling of his own story. In fact, he not only has been unreliable between the story he first told Daniel, but in this one now. Omitting many details that might be pertinent to the story, changing the entire narrative from the first time to now, and going so far as to lose his temper when Daniel pushes the wrong topics. Louis isn’t perfect, by any means, yet it makes the audience question his integrity. Has Louis been truthful? The first time he talked to Daniel, he was calling Lestat a lot of things. Outright belittling the vampire that turned him. Lestat was below him, intimidated by him, and not even worth his time. Yet, this time, Lestat was his abuser, the love of his life, his whole world.

Which is interesting, because Louis has been living with another vampire this entire time. Rashid isn’t who either of them say he is. He’s been with Louis since before Daniel met him the first time. Rashid is really Armand, a much older vampire. He has apparently supported Louis and his desire to share his story. Or has he? Their relationship has been very cold, and business like with Louis acting as though Rashid is more of an employee than anything else. Meanwhile, Armand has seemed nothing but loyal and worshipful. But their most recent moment together begs the question of their relationship being completely consensual or has Louis gone from one abusive relationship to another?

Of course, the show offers its own brand of romance. Louis and Lestat are in love, even if it is one sided. Louis can’t help but fall for Lestat all over again, quick to forget the beating that took him months and years to recover from. Claudia isn’t going to fall for any of Lestat’s tricks, that doesn’t mean she won’t put Louis in a position that brings him to question her own morality. It’s a plan that has to work, and in this case, Louis is just another pawn in her plan. She cleverly used Antoinette against Lestat, knowing full well he has her as a spy. Claudia orchestrates the entire thing brilliantly, including Lestat’s death. Not even Louis knew the whole plan. In the end, Louis can’t go through with burning Lestat. He’ll do everything else, but he won’t burn Lestat’s body. He even fights Claudia to prove his point.

While this has been a great series that shines light on abusive relationships, it also points out a blaring stereotype in the portrayal of gay relationships. Relationships between two men in media are often portrayed in a negative light. Manipulative, shallow, and physically violent. In this case, all of the above. Yes, it fits the story that is being told, but it also shines an unflattering light on LGBTQ+ relationships. However, since 26% of gay men and 37% of bisexual men experience violence in some form in their relationships, bringing awareness to these relationships and offering helpful resources is the most important thing. That doesn’t mean negative media portrayals help. In fact, it can help further homophobia. It’s most important to note that this is a work of fiction, yet it can mirror some people’s reality. Abusers are monsters. While this show is fun to dissect and talk about, it’s important to never blame the victim.

This show has already been granted a second season or rather, a part 2. It’ll be interesting to see what other changes this show is going to make. As it stands, all the changes that have been made have only added to the depths of the story and make it much better. The added commentary on racial inequality throughout the 20th century has added more to the story than previously seen. This diverse cast is a much-needed upgrade that also brings more depth to the story and offers a break from the typical whitewashing of supernatural based shows. Overall, it’s a wonderful adaptation that opens the door for some conversations that desperately need to take place.

Well done.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 1123 of ‘The Walking Dead’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There comes a point in our lives, when we realize that the path, we are on… is no longer sustainable. For it has in fact, brought us great strife and if we don’t do something about that in the here and the in the now… then misery will endlessly surround us. And when that epiphany comes, we tend to find inspiration to… do something drastic with our lives. It could be quitting the toxic job that has us down, standing up to those that are keeping us in a tough place or outright just hitting the reset button on our lives and starting over, regardless of the collateral damage that may cause because that is simply what needs to be done for us to find agency and freedom, and happiness.

Or in more extreme cases, in places we know little about for instance… people having that similar epiphany are ready to do something more drastic. For their toxic path involves an oppressive regime, one that must be toppled for them to ever have a chance at what they want... so they fight. They rise up and battle that despot/monster and sacrifice whatever they must for a better life for their family, their children and themselves. If anything, that moment when we realize we need to fight in some capacity is top of mind today, simply because it was the focus of the good people of Alexandria in the penultimate episode of The Walking Dead. For when we caught up with everyone in ‘Family’, they had simply had enough. 

Enough of Governor Pamela Milton’s nonsense and cruelty and outright desire to control everyone and everything under the guise of safety and that prompted everyone to prepare for battle. Which is why they loaded up the train and made their way back to the Commonwealth. To fight and put an end to the fear and give everyone a better tomorrow where they would never worry about such matters again and oddly enough, the train ride back, gave everyone a chance… to reflect on their journey and the ups and downs it has brought them. Which in turn allowed for some to find forgiveness after all this time, such as Negan and hope took root in others… such as Judith Grimes as they barreled toward an epic battle, one that thankfully was going to be joined by strong allies in the heart of the Commonwealth.

For after Mercer hid Eugene away and played the ruse, he quietly worked to assemble a massive coalition of the willing within the Commonwealth’s own walls while Yumiko and Max stirred discontent amongst the populace, to try and bring Pamela’s end to a quick and quiet resolution with minimal loss of life. But sadly, few of them were prepared for the reality that Pamela was quietly thinking ahead and using her strong distrust of anyone without the last name Milton to build up her own plans for tomorrow. Part of which involved keeping a close eye on Mercer and anyone else she was suspicious of through promises of power for the weak, and through, a horrifying plan that hammered home just how much power and control she actually yields.

Because the swarm/herd that Aaron and his lot were caught up within kept getting bigger and oddly enough, the people they thought were searching for them in the herd, never once came close enough to finding them. That’s because… they were leading this herd into other herds and they in turn were moving that super herd toward the Commonwealth, all so that Pamela could use another lockdown to garner control, and unfortunately her plan came with consequences. The kind that saw the group be split up and saw Lydia have a chunk taken out of her arm. Putting her in the position to lose her arm and weakly try to heal without medical attention and the dead surrounding her, and that wasn’t the only problem that came forth from Pamela’s twisted machinations.
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For as the lockdown began to get underway, she quickly had Mercer arrested, despite the threat lurking at their walls. Simply because she needed to maintain that illusion of control and as for our other heroes… well… she was ready for the fight. Because the Alexandria Alliance arrived back in the Commonwealth through the tunnels beneath Union Station and walked right into a trap. One that saw a fierce and costly firefight take place. The kind where Pamela herself, put a bullet into young Judith, a horrifying move that reminded us of just how evil and twisted a person she truly is. But thankfully, the shock of that cruel moment, and the skill of these fighters allowed for everyone to escape onto the street and face the other horrific consequence of Pamela’s ignorance.

In that, while the battle raged on in the city, the dead reached the outer perimeter and since no one was thinning the herd, the bevy of variants that were hiding within its mix went into action and climbed the walls and managed to open up the gate. Which in turn brought forth a horrifying set of visuals, that served as a beautiful homage to George A. Romero’s Day of the Dead. Where the gates opened and the dead just meandered in, and just like that… the walking dead were within the Commonwealth’s walls, and all were able to see the horror of the variant in the midst of the chaos on the streets. The kind that saw our heroes overwhelmed by living death and desperate to save a life at a time where bloodshed ruled the day. 

All of which, is the perfect way to set the stage for the final episode in this powerful and sweeping journey. For everything is now on the line. Since our heroes are surrounded by a massive herd filled with variant walkers and Judith is gravely wounded and barely hanging on and the future… of the Commonwealth and our heroes and all of humanity, hangs in the balance. Courtesy of one powerful tale. One that truly raised the stakes to their absolute highest for this series, featured redemption and scared the living daylights out of us and well… just like that, we are now faced with the toughest wait for all when it comes to this series. For only one episode remains in this, eleven season, twelve-year journey and it is definitely safe to say that what comes next… will wow us like never before and leave us in utter tears as we say goodbye to a series that has moved us in ways, we never thought possible. Until next time.