The Walking Dead returns on Sunday, February 9 with “After,” its first new episode since the fall finale, “Too Far Gone,” on December 1. The episode is written by Robert Kirkman and directed by Greg Nicotero. The episode picks up almost exactly where the last episode left off.
The group is scattered after the Governor’s attack, and the attack is seen to have deep ramifications both physically and emotionally for the characters in this episode. Rick’s (Andrew Lincoln) final words to Carl (Chandler Riggs) in the last episode were “Don’t look back.”
The episode actually has some wonderful echoes from the past seasons. The characters have to come to terms with being thrust back out into this harsh new world. They no longer have the safety and comfort of their walls or each other. It looks like it will take some time before the characters are reunited – if they even are reunited... Look for the continuation of the themes we saw in the fall – what does it take to survive in this world, and what does it ultimately do to you?
As always there is some heart-stopping walker action and some of the best makeup artistry on television – or film for that matter! You can look forward to some amazing Michonne (Danai Gurira) sword action and finally a glimpse into her past. Chocolate pudding will be an important element in one scene, and Carl gets an unexpected visitor. There’s also one scene that is very close to a scene in the original comic.
Are you excited for the return of The Walking Dead? Who are you most anxious to see? Any speculations based on the promos and photos released so far? While we can “tease” what’s coming up on Sunday, I can’t confirm or deny any speculations... But do let me know your thoughts in the comments below!