Following the
fallout from the recent events that have taken place between the
residents of the prison and Woodbury, this week’s episode slows
down the pace and acts as the calm before the inevitable storm.
However, just
because there is less action, doesn’t diminish how important and
intriguing this episode proves to be thanks to a fine script from
Angela Kang and steady direction from the show’s resident effects
genius Greg Nicotero.
The focus is
on Andrea as she tries to build a bridge between the two communities
and not allow any perceived loyalty to affect her mission for peace.
The episode also sees battle lines drawn between the two camps and
their leaders and various people being forced to choose a side.
It is
testament to the quality of the writing for this season that an
episode like this can remain so utterly gripping. Characters that
have been allowed to grow are making decisions of real consequence
and dealing with issues that have been carefully laid out during the
course of the season.
Laurie Holden
is allowed to come into her own during the episode as Andrea tries to
act as a peacemaker. She is conflicted between her old friendships
with Rick and the group in the prison and her new allegiance to The
Governor and the citizens of Woodbury. It is an excellent performance
that fully conveys the difficult position she is in. There is also
impressive work from David Morrissey as The Governor begins to
manipulate and orchestrate his grand plan. Finally, there is an
impressive turn from Scott Wilson as Hershel who shares key scenes
with Michael Rooker’s Merle and Andrew Lincoln, who’s Rick needs
the push from the wise old head to reassert his leadership on the
group.
To emphasise
the confidence that has been inherent during this run, the episode
concludes with a haunting singsong showcasing a zombie-surrounded
prison that perfectly encapsulates the mood of the episode.
It’s
not the all out action of previous episodes but is still essential
and captivating television nevertheless.
Review by Jonathan Gray
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