The much-hyped The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live debuts on AMC on today, Feb.25, heralding the return of two of the series’ most beloved characters. While this news should excite fans, in a Walking Dead universe inundated with content, even a sequel series focused on the franchise’s most iconic couple – Rick and Michonne – is a little underwhelming.
In Season 9 of The Walking Dead, which aired in November 2018, Rick (Andrew Lincoln), the series’ primary protagonist, made his final regular appearance. After seeming to sacrifice himself to save his community, Rick was spirited away by his enigmatic ally, Jadis (Pollyanna McIntosh), to the Civic Republic, a sprawling civilization ruled by a military junta known as the CRM. Following suit, his wife, Michonne (Danai Gurira), departed in the subsequent season in search of him.
Speculations about Rick’s permanent departure from the franchise were proven wrong. Not only was he alive, but his final appearance on The Walking Dead was swiftly followed by news of his story continuing in a series of films. However, numerous factors, including scheduling conflicts, COVID delays, and a shift towards streaming, delayed these films’ development.
Surprisingly, Rick’s absence from the flagship series invigorated it in its final seasons. While his and Michonne’s absence was felt, the show’s ongoing success somewhat diminished the fervor for their story.
Initially conceived as a film project, The Ones Who Live unfolds as a limited-run 6-episode series. Yet, its pacing suggests it wasn’t originally intended as such. The series kicks off with a cinematic nod to the comic series, setting high stakes, but loses momentum as it delves into contextualizing the narrative.
Set six years after Rick’s rescue, the story sees him trapped in the Civic Republic, repeatedly attempting to escape and reunite with his family and community. His attempts are thwarted by CRM soldiers. While shedding light on CRM’s past appearances, the series struggles to introduce significant new world-building, leaving their motivations ambiguous. Watch the opening minutes below:
REELated:
Lincoln’s portrayal of Rick in The Ones Who Live initially feels detached, a departure from the character’s previous intensity. Gone is the fiery Rick we knew from Alexandria. However, Gurira seamlessly slips back into Michonne’s persona, her journey appearing more compelling initially.
When Rick and Michonne finally reunite, it’s likely to be a pivotal and emotional moment for both characters and fans alike. Given their enduring bond and the challenges they’ve faced separately, their reunion may symbolize hope, resilience, and the strength of their connection amidst the chaos of the post-apocalyptic world.
As for the true goals behind the Civic Republic’s actions, there’s likely a complex web of motives at play. The Civic Republic appears to operate under a strict and authoritarian regime, with a focus on control, order, and expansion. Their actions may be driven by a desire for power, security, and the preservation of their way of life. However, there may also be hidden agendas, conflicting interests, and secrets yet to be revealed that shed light on the true nature of their intentions.
The addition of new characters and communities in this miniseries opens up exciting possibilities for storytelling and world-building. Each character brings their own experiences, motivations, and dynamics to the table, enriching the narrative tapestry of the Walking Dead universe. Exploring these new characters and communities can add depth, diversity, and fresh perspectives to the series, keeping audiences engaged and invested in the evolving storyline.
Overall, the reunion of Rick and Michonne, the exploration of the Civic Republic’s goals, and the introduction of new characters and communities set the stage for an intriguing and compelling narrative in the Walking Dead sequel miniseries. Fans can anticipate an exciting journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations as the story unfolds.
By the third episode, the pace quickens, and central conflicts emerge. Yet, viewers must endure slow, cumbersome installments initially. For dedicated fans craving closure, the series may suffice, but it feels less imperative after the successes of Dead City and Daryl Dixon.
Bottom Line: While The Ones Who Live offers a reunion for Rick and Michonne, it falls slightly short of delivering the exceptional storytelling expected from The Walking Dead franchise. But we have a feeling it will pick up. So it’s a REEL STREAM.
For other streaming news, click here.
Follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram
