I don't disagree with the sentiment here, but this show has virtually no zombie killing. They're basically a non-factor, except for when the plot calls for it. It's so lazy and hackneyed I can't even believe it. If they need a zombie, one magically appears. Otherwise, they're nowhere to be found -- ever.
I think this is actually a good indictment of the more shaky parts. In these cases, the zombies feel more like a plot contrivance in these last few episodes rather than an inescapable threat that the characters have to deal with (the zombie herd from S02 opening) or even something they've brought upon themselves (the zombies in the barn or going to the high school to get needed medical supplies.)
Daryl just fell down a cliff and impaled himself on a crossbow bolt? Perfect time for zombies to show up. It's like they set a trap with Sophia's doll.
The well zombie was another contrivance, and a stupid one at that. Probably the single dumbest thing I've seen in this show.
There's a difference between using zombies sparingly (which would be fine) and hardly even using them at all (which is dumb).
Let me raise a question: What is this show about? I mean that on a thematic level.
Presumably, it's about survival. But the group is in no danger at all right now -- none! The only threat they face whatsoever is the notion that they're wearing out their welcome with Herschel. But even that isn't really a big deal, since they haven't had to really deal with any kind of threat since the herd in the premiere, and even that seemed like a cursory threat at best.
Another great point.
Ostensibly, the story is about the human dynamic in a changed world where social graces have been altered and the strongest elements of humanity, good and bad, are exposed at their most raw.
But I think this is a pretty hard sell to general audiences. There is a reason why this genre has always been niche, and I think that's the reason why the show is turning out the way it is.
I don't think this is a show for genre fans, or even people seeking progressive TV.
They market the show based on the ever present threat of zombies. But then you tune in and it's Glenn trying to forge a relationship with Maggie and Shane pining for Lori and Andrea being a whiny bitch because she gother gun taken away.
And all of this is happening in a world where you can't drive to the mall to shop for clothes or fill up at the local gas station. The world around the characters should be adding a sense of immediacy to these things. When they first arrived at the farm, I was cool with them finally resting and not asking too many questions. And maybe only a little time has passed for the group, but it's been a month and a half for the rest of us.
I don't think this show is about anything. It's just wasting my time. There has been so little story this season I can hardly believe it -- hell, you can sum up the plot in about two sentences.
I think this show is sub par at best, and I don't think it's going to improve any time soon. I hope I'm wrong, though.
A few pages back, I said I liked this season more than the first. Since then, I've sort of expanded my view to where I can see what people are saying and I no longer consider their views invalid (thanks for challenging me on the show, those of you who disagreed with me. I always appreciate when people force me to 'check myself' a bit.)
I think, seeing how it's played out so far, I still want to reserve judgement until I'm able to watch it with someone in a block of episodes and see if it views better that way.
I think it's okay to say 'the show plays better in blocks.' People should be allowed to enjoy it however they want. But I also think its fair and accurate to point out that the show is still weekly TV and isn't exactly delivering on that promise.