The Ones Who Live keeps the bar really high in terms of acting, storytelling, writing and plot progression. In her search for Rick, Michonne encounters allies and foes, but never gives up. Her heart on her sleeve, she has to make choices, and tragic consequences occur. Danai Gurira acted her ass off and continues to shine and to be one of the shining lights of TWD Universe. As she gets closer to Officer Friendly, she loses hope, but the destination is more than worth it. So many questions still. It's just the beginning. I can't wait to see where they bring the story in the upcoming episodes, but the solidity of the series so far is extremely encouraging.
28 Reviews
I Didn't Believe This Is Possible
vovakurtianyk3 March 2024
After such a powerful start to this new story that left me in disbelief and, sometimes, tears, I was sure they couldn't do any better than that.
I was sure that episode 2 would be slower and, overall, worse rated.
But boy, was I wrong.
This episode is on par with what was in ep. 1. Excellent character development that grow on you the minute they appear on the screen, powerful perfomances from the cast, a story that gallops with thunderbolt speed - this episode has it all.
To all those "professional journalists" who said that story was very slow in their reviews before the show was released - what is wrong with you? Consider changing you job, because it hurts to see such clueless people in a field where your opinion matters so much to viewers.
Before the show released, I was honestly afraid that it would be a bust. Luckily, there was no reason to be afraid. Yet another 10/10 episode. Bravo.
I was sure that episode 2 would be slower and, overall, worse rated.
But boy, was I wrong.
This episode is on par with what was in ep. 1. Excellent character development that grow on you the minute they appear on the screen, powerful perfomances from the cast, a story that gallops with thunderbolt speed - this episode has it all.
To all those "professional journalists" who said that story was very slow in their reviews before the show was released - what is wrong with you? Consider changing you job, because it hurts to see such clueless people in a field where your opinion matters so much to viewers.
Before the show released, I was honestly afraid that it would be a bust. Luckily, there was no reason to be afraid. Yet another 10/10 episode. Bravo.
I can't believe I'm saying this but
justdan20234 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
This spinoff turns out pretty good so far. I mean, I was still being careful after last episode which is great. But somehow, this episode takes it up to another notch in terms of writing quality, the plot progression, the side characters. Like for the first time since Fear, I actually manage to feel sympathy for the side characters. The writing crew ain't playing around this time.
And we have to talk about the acting too. Andy and Danai have been killing it seriously. Their anguish and joy are felt throughout the episode. The supporting actors have done a phenomenal job as well. However, speaking of which, it irritates me how new characters got killed off as soon as they were introduced, like please we want to see more of them.
Other than that, this episode is perfect. Hope the remaining episodes will keep it up.
And we have to talk about the acting too. Andy and Danai have been killing it seriously. Their anguish and joy are felt throughout the episode. The supporting actors have done a phenomenal job as well. However, speaking of which, it irritates me how new characters got killed off as soon as they were introduced, like please we want to see more of them.
Other than that, this episode is perfect. Hope the remaining episodes will keep it up.
"WHAT THE F ARE YOU DOING"
rxckne4 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
When it comes to subverting expectations, while TWD has done it before, it wouldn't be something I'd immediately link to TWD. To do it in a manner that isn't forced is also very difficult, but this show just did an EXCELLENT job of just that. If you told me all of Rick and Michonne's journey to reunite would be recapped in the first two episodes, I'd tell you that would be an awful idea. But with the way it was just pulled off, wow. As someone who's been a super fan of TWD but very indifferent towards a lot of the new material, I'm really happy that I loved this. And the PERFECT cherry on top was the twist at the end. Jadis being the antagonistic figure is a perfect decision. Some people weren't a huge fan of the garbage people in TWD szns 7-8 but personally I loved them, especially for Polly's performance. And there were flashes of that in the final scene and my god I couldn't be happier. She's a phenomenal actress and the stakes for this series just skyrocketed because of her role in the story. While I wasn't crazy about some of the aspects of the opening 20 minutes or so, the payoff to ep 2 was excellent. I'm really hoping Scott, Danai, and Andy can maintain the tension they've built as well as the prestige of the CRM without dipping too hard into plot armor, and other cliches that can potentially bring this down. But in terms of the main story, The One's Who Live has exceeded my expectations, again. NOW GIVE ANDY AND DANAI THEIR EMMY NOMS ALREADY.
One of the best episodes of tv i have ever seen.
magnusthegamer4 March 2024
Episode 2, "Gone," is a tragic story with some really wholesome and happy moments. I came into this episode thinking it would have a hard time holding up to the masterpiece that was episode 1, but my god was I wrong; this episode is just as good, if not better. This episode had a lot of heartbreaking moments that really made me tear up. It was awesome to see Michonne again after so long. I'm really glad that The Walking Dead isn't playing it safe anymore and is finally taking some risks. If every episode has this level of quality, we are in for one hell of a journey. I can't wait to see what they are going to do with the rest of the season.
This episode is a masterpiece.
enzogodofredo4 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
The first episode was so good that I feared the second one wouldn't live up to the first one. I was wrong. TWD TOWL episode two is even better. The cinematography and the acting are excellent, as never seen before in The Walking Dead. We have more than ten years of character development here. It feels like each episode is a high-budget movie. Both Andrew and Dana are giving excellent, if not perfect, performances. While I'm unsure what direction the story will take us, the stage has been set, which feels impossible to overcome. The stakes are higher than ever. TWD made us feel that fear we all felt while watching TWD for the first time in the early seasons, that old, nostalgic fear. Regarding side characters, while they didn't last that long, they were full of soul and history. We might have a television masterpiece if they can keep up this rhythm in the following episodes. 10/10.
Michonnes last stance
hiramthreets4 March 2024
Excellent episode about perserverance. Faith and courage goes a long way, i didn't want this episode to end, it was very cinematic for me as I was watching. Great build up, how can you not care about these characters in this second episode? The writing and acting from all involved had my heartbeating so fast. So far I'm all in for The Walking Dead The Ones Who Live. If we get this every week, this show will be a huge success just like The Walking Dead. Waiting patiently for the next episode. Give us more of this depth, character, action. And feelings And you will have a loyal viewer. Michonne 💙
Anotha banger
hthazel4 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Great episode almost matched my liking to the first episode but first episode slightly better. There was a lot of talking and nothing was really happening until those choppers just straight dropping gas bombs on them. Thats when it gets better from that point. Writing in this episode was awesome, lots of talking but still kept me interested. The producers are going to buff the arrow rocket launchers cause thats just unfair lol. RIP NAT and KBACH would've been hilarious if they kept him at least a couple more episodes. Next episode gonna be a anotha banger aswell, 1st episode and 2nd episode clear Season 10-11 on twd.
I miss you michonne
amine-20104 March 2024
Let me start saying that Three characters new characters NAT/AIDEN/BAILEY I was immediately in love with them , I don't know how , the acting, the performances, they're so great , NAT characters is just I wished was there from the beginning of TWD the acting of this actor is unbelievable.
As fan from the beginning, I feel that this show going to confirm season 2 but they're giving time for the viewers also respond from the creators and streaming so I have feelings that this show is preparing for something bigger, crazy and bloody , If every episode has this level of quality, we are in for one hell of a journey. I can't wait to see what they are going to do with the rest of the season.
The production is very higher ,stronger, beautiful also directing , every shot is amazing .
As fan from the beginning, I feel that this show going to confirm season 2 but they're giving time for the viewers also respond from the creators and streaming so I have feelings that this show is preparing for something bigger, crazy and bloody , If every episode has this level of quality, we are in for one hell of a journey. I can't wait to see what they are going to do with the rest of the season.
The production is very higher ,stronger, beautiful also directing , every shot is amazing .
"Gone" focuses on Michonne and Danai Gurira is once again incredible in the role, brilliant writing and direction, a spectacular hour of television
Holt3445 March 2024
Whilst the season premiere "Years" focused primarily on Rick Grimes, showing Michonne in dream sequences and in the final scene with her finding him in a great but unexpected scene, episode two "Gone" follows Michonne after her final episode in The Walking Dead where she saw caravans and a community moving to a different place but also the glimpse from the series finale.
The new cast and characters for this episode are; Matthew August Jeffers as Nat, Breeda Wool as Aiden, Andrew Bachelor as Bailey and Erin Anderson as Elle. These are all likable characters with each actor bringing good performances to the episode, with Michonne being the one at the front and center, it's just easy to see why you love her and Danai Gurira so much who portrays Michonne like no time have gone by.
The episode's premise: After Rick's sacrifice to save his group everyone believed he was gone apart from a couple of people who dedicated a long time to search for their friend.
This week's episode of TWD: The Ones Who Live "Gone" was directed by Bert & Bertie and written by Nana Nkweti & Channing Powell, the direction and visual storytelling were excellent, and the writing was incredible. Gimple is great at world building but honestly he can't really write realistic dialogue, here in this episode and these compelling writers, we get dialogue and conversations we don't want to end. Situations and scenes we don't want to end, all thanks to the writing and direction but also acting. Danai Gurira is such a compelling actress with large range, able to do different amounts of emotions throughout the episode whilst also having the charisma and the skill to lead an episode. Back to the direction and visual storytelling, Bert and Bertie contribute so much to these two episodes and I would have liked to see more of them on the show but I'm quite sure Michael Slovis will be terrific who'll direct the next two episodes (who have directed a few episodes of The Walking Dead and a couple of other well known shows).
The production design and art direction is terrific, so is the mise-en-scene and cinematography for the show. The increased budget makes for better production design and visual effects, overall making a better show in every department along with the actors. The episode is suspenseful from start to finish, the suspense hits high when the chlorine gas attack scene happens, making it terrifying and you truly sit on the edge of your seat throughout the rest of the episode. "Gone" is an episode of loss and of losing hope, like the episode before it. The episode is full of emotion and drama, with incredible acting and writing, along with some perfect direction from the Berts. With an episode like this, Danai Gurira have shown as expected that this is very much her show as much as Andrew Lincoln's, it's their and about the relationship between their characters. This was an incredible episode and I'm really looking forward to the next episode!
The new cast and characters for this episode are; Matthew August Jeffers as Nat, Breeda Wool as Aiden, Andrew Bachelor as Bailey and Erin Anderson as Elle. These are all likable characters with each actor bringing good performances to the episode, with Michonne being the one at the front and center, it's just easy to see why you love her and Danai Gurira so much who portrays Michonne like no time have gone by.
The episode's premise: After Rick's sacrifice to save his group everyone believed he was gone apart from a couple of people who dedicated a long time to search for their friend.
This week's episode of TWD: The Ones Who Live "Gone" was directed by Bert & Bertie and written by Nana Nkweti & Channing Powell, the direction and visual storytelling were excellent, and the writing was incredible. Gimple is great at world building but honestly he can't really write realistic dialogue, here in this episode and these compelling writers, we get dialogue and conversations we don't want to end. Situations and scenes we don't want to end, all thanks to the writing and direction but also acting. Danai Gurira is such a compelling actress with large range, able to do different amounts of emotions throughout the episode whilst also having the charisma and the skill to lead an episode. Back to the direction and visual storytelling, Bert and Bertie contribute so much to these two episodes and I would have liked to see more of them on the show but I'm quite sure Michael Slovis will be terrific who'll direct the next two episodes (who have directed a few episodes of The Walking Dead and a couple of other well known shows).
The production design and art direction is terrific, so is the mise-en-scene and cinematography for the show. The increased budget makes for better production design and visual effects, overall making a better show in every department along with the actors. The episode is suspenseful from start to finish, the suspense hits high when the chlorine gas attack scene happens, making it terrifying and you truly sit on the edge of your seat throughout the rest of the episode. "Gone" is an episode of loss and of losing hope, like the episode before it. The episode is full of emotion and drama, with incredible acting and writing, along with some perfect direction from the Berts. With an episode like this, Danai Gurira have shown as expected that this is very much her show as much as Andrew Lincoln's, it's their and about the relationship between their characters. This was an incredible episode and I'm really looking forward to the next episode!
Amazing episode,incredible score and lighting
mariavitoriair4 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Danai acting was top tier,would be surprised if she don't get an award for it
The pacing and the score was better than the last few seasons of the original show for sure
The side characters were actually likeable,nat is such a great person
Loved how michonne was shown not just as an amazing warrior that we know,but also as a friend, a mother and a wife,incredibly made by the way
The reunion between rick and michonne was everything i expected and more,you can see and feel the love,the yearning and also guilt
Judith being the first rick asked about just show us how rick did not change for good, he's still a family man, can't wait to see him finding out about his son.
Matthew Jeffers as Nat absolutely crushed it!
nativeeatswv5 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Warning spoilers:
Episode 2 "Gone" from start to finish is one of the best episodes of walking dead related or not especially Matthew Jeffers as Nat. His acting and back story is master class. I didn't know what to expect from this episode I thought it was going to go a lot different the only thing i disliked was I could see Nat being killed off from how everything was playing out but even his death was so well acted. I swear this kid should win an Emmy for this performance. He needs his own spin off!
Michonne and Rick of course killed it too. I hope Michonne takes out Jadis I see that coming for sure but again you never know....
Michonne and Rick of course killed it too. I hope Michonne takes out Jadis I see that coming for sure but again you never know....
Good, but the first episode was much better
InfamousText4 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I think that this episode was pretty good. The only real complaint that I have (and it is a large complaint) was that they introduced all of these side characters and gave them so much screen time to kill them all off in the same episode. Why? When the episode focused on Michonne, I think it was on par with the first episode. But only about half the episode focuses on her (and Rick), so the rest just felt like a waste of time. I really dont understand the walking dead's obsession with focusing on side characters that nobody likes or that will be killed off in the same episode. But like I said, the other half of the episode that focusses on her and Rick is very good. The ending scene with Jadis was also very intriguing so I am curious to see where that goes. But overall, id say this episode was a bit disappointing and it could have been much better/
More Potential Enshrouded by Soulless Writing & Direction
nooapatjas5 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
The second episode follows Michonne with a new batch of uninteresting characters who have nothing to do with the story other than give Michonne a reason to hate the villains.
Terrible expositionary dialogue. Another classic case of Gimple Speech, with most of it said by Nat who was otherwise a compelling character... who belongs in another story. We've been waiting for 5 years to see Rick. Give us Rick.
Generic use of generic TV OST music.
On the plus side, the production is great. The show looks better than TWD ever did. Costumes are fantastic and walkers look great as usual. Richonne ++++
Terrible expositionary dialogue. Another classic case of Gimple Speech, with most of it said by Nat who was otherwise a compelling character... who belongs in another story. We've been waiting for 5 years to see Rick. Give us Rick.
Generic use of generic TV OST music.
On the plus side, the production is great. The show looks better than TWD ever did. Costumes are fantastic and walkers look great as usual. Richonne ++++
TWD has pulled it off
tylerjwood8 March 2024
Granted this is a spin-off, but it's still TWD and the show has been in the gutters for years. Somehow, The Ones Who Live has pulled off the impossible and breathed new life into this stale franchise. The quality of the first two episodes are on par with some of the best episodes TWD has ever produced. I was worried that there woukd be a slump in the second episode but it really was as good as episode 1. From the acting, to the story, the progression and the way I have felt watching these past two episodes, its a return to form that rivals some of the classic episodes from seasons 1-5. Truly remarkable and a giant kudos to everyone involved. I truly care about The Walking Dead again and that makes me happy.
Where she's been and where we're going.
plode3 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
This long after Rick had been gone, and this long since TWD had it's peak years, even as a diehard fan you had to wonder if they could really do it. Suck you back in, achieve competent world-building, and provide new side characters that bring value to the story. Characters that after one episode you're upset to see die. So far so good. The first 10 minutes are spent giving you the necessary back story to know where Michonne has been and from there they turn towards the bigger picture. The migration scene gives you a glimpse into the mess that the outside world is in between cities, and how Michonne only moves on thanks to this small group. However, only Michonne and Nat survive. Nat swears to stay by Michonne and keep going. They achieve their goal of getting to where Rick was last known to be but find absolutely nothing.
Accepting that this may be too tall of a task, they decide to turn back. This brings us full circle to episode 1's ending and present day. There is something poetic about Rick and Michonne finding eachother as soon as they had both truly given up. The reunion was earlier in the show than I had expected, but it works. 6 years in the making and Andy and Danai did an amazing job bringing chemistry to the moment. Nat's death was true Walking Dead, achieved his purpose and died unexpectedly.
We now see where they want to go, Rick has no idea what to do other than to bring Michonne in and disguise her as a B until they can find a way to escape the CRM. As they did with Rick, this won't last long as Michonnes strength will be obvious. Where this story will be judged will be the quality of the escape and how it ends. The groundwork has been set, but a new problem has surfaced quickly. Jadis sees that Michonne has arrived and confronts Rick.
Rick is now juggling the loss of Okafor, the suspicion of Major General Beale and Thorne, and the coercion of Jadis all while Michonne's safety hangs in the balance. This story could still fall short of great, but they have produced something that has exceeded expectations so far. Based on that, it is hard not to be encouraged by where we are going, as it is settling up one for one heck of an escape. These characters deserved this story, and it is rewarding to see it finally unfold.
Is it next Sunday yet?
Accepting that this may be too tall of a task, they decide to turn back. This brings us full circle to episode 1's ending and present day. There is something poetic about Rick and Michonne finding eachother as soon as they had both truly given up. The reunion was earlier in the show than I had expected, but it works. 6 years in the making and Andy and Danai did an amazing job bringing chemistry to the moment. Nat's death was true Walking Dead, achieved his purpose and died unexpectedly.
We now see where they want to go, Rick has no idea what to do other than to bring Michonne in and disguise her as a B until they can find a way to escape the CRM. As they did with Rick, this won't last long as Michonnes strength will be obvious. Where this story will be judged will be the quality of the escape and how it ends. The groundwork has been set, but a new problem has surfaced quickly. Jadis sees that Michonne has arrived and confronts Rick.
Rick is now juggling the loss of Okafor, the suspicion of Major General Beale and Thorne, and the coercion of Jadis all while Michonne's safety hangs in the balance. This story could still fall short of great, but they have produced something that has exceeded expectations so far. Based on that, it is hard not to be encouraged by where we are going, as it is settling up one for one heck of an escape. These characters deserved this story, and it is rewarding to see it finally unfold.
Is it next Sunday yet?
Better
MamadNobari973 March 2024
This episode was more engaging, with better and more likable characters, and had more emotional weight to me. Even the same scene of them reuniting was more emotional to me than the last episode's (where I didn't really care much) for some reason.
I guess seeing Michonne desperately looking for Rick in this episode and what she goes through here was presented in a better way that made me care more.
This episode is surprisingly emotional too, and yeah, maybe they were trying too hard to be emotional and did it for the sake of shock value and an artificial way of making an emotional scene. But damn if it wasn't effective. I thought it was weird that in a one-hour episode, they still decided that all we needed to see from Michonne and that couple from season 10 or 11, was the interview she had with their leader. But after what happened in this episode, I'm sure this is way more engaging than whatever they would've shown as flashbacks. And it would be hypocritical of me to demand flashbacks when they can just show their journey and develop those characters through the story and not flashback, as I have said multiple times that I don't like flashbacks that much. Although technically it was still a flashback.
One thing this episode does a great job of is giving Michonne motivation and a reason to do what she did at the end of the last episode. We all know what this episode is gonna lead to, but we don't know why and how. So I think the reason they give Michonne to hate them this much is believable and warranted, and surprisingly personal and emotional. I liked it very much. I didn't think I would care about these new characters since we don't know much about them, but they did a good job of making you care in the span of a few minutes.
I also have to mention a criticism that I had from the last episode that this episode totally debunks and I probably didn't pay attention that much, so I stand corrected about that. It was about Michonne killing everyone with masks on, but only takes the mask off when it's Rick. It's way different here and I was wrong.
All in all, I thought this episode did a surprisingly good job of setting up conflicts (with the awful haircut lady), gave a good motivation and reason to Michonne, and instead of telling us why she is gonna hate all these people, they showed us and made us care. Usually TV shows drop the ball on their second episodes and not much happens and they're boring. But at least for me, this episode was better than the first one, had less nonsensical and laughable dialogue and writing choices, and overall did a better job of making me have an emotional attachment to the characters and care about them and what they're doing.
I guess seeing Michonne desperately looking for Rick in this episode and what she goes through here was presented in a better way that made me care more.
This episode is surprisingly emotional too, and yeah, maybe they were trying too hard to be emotional and did it for the sake of shock value and an artificial way of making an emotional scene. But damn if it wasn't effective. I thought it was weird that in a one-hour episode, they still decided that all we needed to see from Michonne and that couple from season 10 or 11, was the interview she had with their leader. But after what happened in this episode, I'm sure this is way more engaging than whatever they would've shown as flashbacks. And it would be hypocritical of me to demand flashbacks when they can just show their journey and develop those characters through the story and not flashback, as I have said multiple times that I don't like flashbacks that much. Although technically it was still a flashback.
One thing this episode does a great job of is giving Michonne motivation and a reason to do what she did at the end of the last episode. We all know what this episode is gonna lead to, but we don't know why and how. So I think the reason they give Michonne to hate them this much is believable and warranted, and surprisingly personal and emotional. I liked it very much. I didn't think I would care about these new characters since we don't know much about them, but they did a good job of making you care in the span of a few minutes.
I also have to mention a criticism that I had from the last episode that this episode totally debunks and I probably didn't pay attention that much, so I stand corrected about that. It was about Michonne killing everyone with masks on, but only takes the mask off when it's Rick. It's way different here and I was wrong.
All in all, I thought this episode did a surprisingly good job of setting up conflicts (with the awful haircut lady), gave a good motivation and reason to Michonne, and instead of telling us why she is gonna hate all these people, they showed us and made us care. Usually TV shows drop the ball on their second episodes and not much happens and they're boring. But at least for me, this episode was better than the first one, had less nonsensical and laughable dialogue and writing choices, and overall did a better job of making me have an emotional attachment to the characters and care about them and what they're doing.
Cool story bro
martymoves7 March 2024
First off, i've come to realise that almost everyone writing negative reviews is an absolute idiot. True story. (Except 1 person, made some very valid points I could not disagree with)
Do you not know what a "review" is? If all you have to say is based solely on comparison, then all you're giving is uneducated and ugly, bias laden narrative.
A review is of the subject matter and what is at hand. Not a constant bombardment of: "oh, but that had this in it" or "I didn't like that. Those people weren't as fun as the other people" waaah-aaaah!!! Give the baby its bottle.
If you are speaking in continuance, then its an unfinished topic. This is episodic. If you want to write a season/series review, wait until its over. If you can't appreciate what's in front of you and only want to complain that its something its not, Don't watch!
This episode shows us Michonne from more or less where we last saw her. New characters are introduced, and in true TWD fashion, we are gripped with emotion for certain characters (with some excellent delivery I might add, well done) and also in true TWD fashion, there is death.
To quote the great wrestler Sting (who also retired this night) "The only thing you know for sure, is that nothing is for sure". Truer words were never spoken. However I believe these exact words (perhaps rephrased) were literally spoken; by Robert Kirkman in an early Q&A in the comics several years... over a decade ago.
So if this is not keeping the authentic TWD fashion, I don't know what is.
I've seen people complaining that "this would never happen" or "its unrealistic and preposterous"... its the zombie apocalypse dude. Deal with it.
On a side note:
if you don't think that the government wouldn't have army bases set up, complete with choppers ready for battle, you're insane. Its already been happening the last 5 years. HOW'S THAT FOR IRONY!? These fools wouldn't survive Z. A. so their uneducated opinions have now officially and forever been rendered: Useless.
...
The long awaited reunion has arrived and the appreheniveness is only enhanced with the return of a familiar face. (Its not exactly a spoiler if I tell you whom. Unless you're so ignorant you don't pay attention to the opening credits. There's only 3 damn names!!!)
This is the monkey-wrench we have been awaiting and expecting. It makes me wonder if there truly will be a happy ending. I will definitely come back to this in the final episode. (That's called reference. Not comparison. Take notes here kids)
I was expecting this story to go a very different direction and it does feel like we are sucked a bit into TWD of old. But its new scenarios, new people, new obstacles to overcome.
I was however a little thrown off by the timeline. I realise there is a shift that occurs via a changeover (even though it *is* presented on screen) I was so caught up in what was going on that when it became "now" it felt as though it was juxtaposition and very little emphasis on change (or any for that matter) had occured during the alleged 5 year span of time.
This was a huge hinderance for me because NO separation was given between events, and it all seemed in sequence. You can't have an unexplained 5 year gap that ultimately resumes as though nothing had happened in-between.
Despite this, everything else seemed to go fairly well. Yes, they did not mince things and like the debut episode, kept it rolling. Again, I didn't even notice the time until it was over.
Another fantastic effort!
Also i'd be remiss if I didn't call out the fool crying this was a Michonne episode saying "we want Rick. We came for Rick". The series is about both characters. Please refrain from posting, commenting, or even watching at this point. You ARE The Walking Brain Dead!
Entertainment Value 9.5/10 Overall Rating 9.5/10
An excellent job on the editing except for that 1 instance that I can't ignore. Otherwise another fantastic effort and am excited to see where this goes.
Also happy that we get to see more of Lesley-Ann Brandt. She's been quite enjoyable in everything i've seen her in.
Do you not know what a "review" is? If all you have to say is based solely on comparison, then all you're giving is uneducated and ugly, bias laden narrative.
A review is of the subject matter and what is at hand. Not a constant bombardment of: "oh, but that had this in it" or "I didn't like that. Those people weren't as fun as the other people" waaah-aaaah!!! Give the baby its bottle.
If you are speaking in continuance, then its an unfinished topic. This is episodic. If you want to write a season/series review, wait until its over. If you can't appreciate what's in front of you and only want to complain that its something its not, Don't watch!
This episode shows us Michonne from more or less where we last saw her. New characters are introduced, and in true TWD fashion, we are gripped with emotion for certain characters (with some excellent delivery I might add, well done) and also in true TWD fashion, there is death.
To quote the great wrestler Sting (who also retired this night) "The only thing you know for sure, is that nothing is for sure". Truer words were never spoken. However I believe these exact words (perhaps rephrased) were literally spoken; by Robert Kirkman in an early Q&A in the comics several years... over a decade ago.
So if this is not keeping the authentic TWD fashion, I don't know what is.
I've seen people complaining that "this would never happen" or "its unrealistic and preposterous"... its the zombie apocalypse dude. Deal with it.
On a side note:
if you don't think that the government wouldn't have army bases set up, complete with choppers ready for battle, you're insane. Its already been happening the last 5 years. HOW'S THAT FOR IRONY!? These fools wouldn't survive Z. A. so their uneducated opinions have now officially and forever been rendered: Useless.
...
The long awaited reunion has arrived and the appreheniveness is only enhanced with the return of a familiar face. (Its not exactly a spoiler if I tell you whom. Unless you're so ignorant you don't pay attention to the opening credits. There's only 3 damn names!!!)
This is the monkey-wrench we have been awaiting and expecting. It makes me wonder if there truly will be a happy ending. I will definitely come back to this in the final episode. (That's called reference. Not comparison. Take notes here kids)
I was expecting this story to go a very different direction and it does feel like we are sucked a bit into TWD of old. But its new scenarios, new people, new obstacles to overcome.
I was however a little thrown off by the timeline. I realise there is a shift that occurs via a changeover (even though it *is* presented on screen) I was so caught up in what was going on that when it became "now" it felt as though it was juxtaposition and very little emphasis on change (or any for that matter) had occured during the alleged 5 year span of time.
This was a huge hinderance for me because NO separation was given between events, and it all seemed in sequence. You can't have an unexplained 5 year gap that ultimately resumes as though nothing had happened in-between.
Despite this, everything else seemed to go fairly well. Yes, they did not mince things and like the debut episode, kept it rolling. Again, I didn't even notice the time until it was over.
Another fantastic effort!
Also i'd be remiss if I didn't call out the fool crying this was a Michonne episode saying "we want Rick. We came for Rick". The series is about both characters. Please refrain from posting, commenting, or even watching at this point. You ARE The Walking Brain Dead!
Entertainment Value 9.5/10 Overall Rating 9.5/10
An excellent job on the editing except for that 1 instance that I can't ignore. Otherwise another fantastic effort and am excited to see where this goes.
Also happy that we get to see more of Lesley-Ann Brandt. She's been quite enjoyable in everything i've seen her in.
A good second episode. Here, the conflict's scale, the potential for a suspenseful narrative with characters inside the enemy's stronghold
fernandoschiavi17 May 2024
Six years after Rick's supposed death, Michonne helps Aiden and Bailey reunite with their massive caravan, but refuses to join it out of disgust over the caravan's rules and her determination to find Rick and go back to their children. Aiden, Bailey, and their friend Nat outfit Michonne for her journey and later come to her aid against a massive horde, having been inspired by Michonne to break away along with dozens of others. The group agrees to help Michonne in her search, but the CRM attacks with chlorine gas, killing everyone except for Michonne and Nat who are forced to spend a year recovering from the damage done to their lungs and throats. Pressing on to the location mentioned in the boat's log book, Michonne and Nat find an abandoned and destroyed safe zone and dozens of burned bodies.
Nat convinces Michonne to return to Alexandria, but to keep faith that Rick is still alive. On the way back, the two spot a CRM helicopter and attack it using Nat's explosives in retaliation for the death of their friends, only for Michonne to be reunited with Rick. Nat is killed by a surviving CRM soldier, who Rick then kills. As soldiers close in, Rick helps Michonne create a successful cover story for the CRM, promising that they will escape together. However, Rick is confronted by Jadis who had recognized Michonne and threatens him if they try to escape while Michonne desires to take down the CRM despite Rick's warnings that they will never get home if they try to.
Unlike the previous episode, what is presented here is a more linear narrative, not relying heavily on time jumps as a script device. This approach makes sense for telling Michonne's story, as not much time has passed since her departure from The Walking Dead (unlike Rick, whose absence spanned six years). The episode begins with Michonne introducing herself to the leader of the couple she saved in the tenth season of the main series. They are willing to help her in any way they can as a gesture of gratitude. Michonne joins their caravan to continue her search for Rick, creating an interesting dynamic with the new characters, especially with Nat.
The dramatic weight of this episode is commendable from the start. While the previous episode showed a broken Rick resigned to never finding his family again, Michonne's journey is marked by resilience and courage. Danai Gurira returns with a magnificent performance, conveying her character's uncertainty, fear, and hope with incredible realism. Her portrayal is further enhanced by the supporting cast, which is both the episode's greatest strength and a slight flaw. One of the most compelling aspects of Michonne's journey is the imminent danger posed by the largest horde ever seen in The Walking Dead universe. The group warns Michonne that the walkers are migrating north (exactly where she needs to go), making the trip a suicidal mission. Walkers have been sidelined for a while as the writers have focused more on political and social plots, often neglecting the primary threat of this universe. While balancing this is interesting to avoid genre saturation, The Ones Who Live seems to strike a good balance, featuring epic walker scenes like the flaming walkers in the first episode and the massive horde in this one, all while deepening the characters' development.
As the journey continues, we witness the CRM's (Civic Republic Military) cruelty and capabilities. World Beyond had already shown the ruthless massacre of Omaha and Campus Colony, and here we see another chemical attack on a smaller scale. This is perhaps the closest Michonne has come to death since The Walking Dead, with only her and Nat surviving while the entire caravan group is exterminated. The episode also mirrors the first one's time jump, placing Rick and Michonne at the same point in the story, showing the helicopter crash from Michonne and Nat's perspective. This alternate viewpoint significantly enhances the episode's montage, especially since it's done without cuts (unlike the previous episode). The long-awaited reunion between Rick and Michonne is finally realized, executed with natural performances by Andrew and Danai, complemented by a spectacular soundtrack -everything fans have hoped for, leaving no room for complaints about their reunion.
However, not everything is perfect for The Walking Dead fans. Despite the focus on Rick and Michonne, Nat's death feels like a hasty decision. The last time fans grew attached to new characters was during Rick's farewell episode with Magna's group. Nat's clever, peculiar, and sarcastic character is crucial for the story, making his dramatic and comedic interactions throughout the plot impactful, and his unfortunate loss in the episode's final act felt significant. Even the actors playing Aiden and Bailey do a good job, creating a bond with Michonne that resonates with viewers. Keeping Nat alive might have been more interesting, especially since he would have a strong motivation to help bring down the CRM after witnessing his group's massacre. Unfortunately, that won't happen. The final sequence's editing deserves applause, with Michonne observing the CRM's vast military power, symbolized by Nat's lighter - a possible foreshadowing of future events (especially with all the promotional material centered around fire). The episode's final scene marks Jadis's (Pollyanna McIntosh) return, warning Rick that any further escape attempts will endanger his family, establishing her as the first obstacle Rick and Michonne must overcome to return home. Strong emotions await in the upcoming episodes.
Like the premiere, the second episode of The Ones Who Live maintains an excellent pace, keeping the momentum throughout. The technical aspects (both cinematography and soundtrack) elevate the episode, giving it a more cinematic feel. The idea of Rick and Michonne transforming the CRM from within appears more attractive, complex, and political, although it deviates from the franchise's survival and horror roots. However, the final tone suggests the duo will confront everyone, especially with Jadis Stokes's return as a classic antagonist in this type of familiar TWD narrative. Nonetheless, the conflict's scale, the potential for a suspenseful narrative with characters inside the enemy's stronghold, and the couple's strong relationship as the dramatic front all provide a solid foundation for a great post-apocalyptic romance.
Nat convinces Michonne to return to Alexandria, but to keep faith that Rick is still alive. On the way back, the two spot a CRM helicopter and attack it using Nat's explosives in retaliation for the death of their friends, only for Michonne to be reunited with Rick. Nat is killed by a surviving CRM soldier, who Rick then kills. As soldiers close in, Rick helps Michonne create a successful cover story for the CRM, promising that they will escape together. However, Rick is confronted by Jadis who had recognized Michonne and threatens him if they try to escape while Michonne desires to take down the CRM despite Rick's warnings that they will never get home if they try to.
Unlike the previous episode, what is presented here is a more linear narrative, not relying heavily on time jumps as a script device. This approach makes sense for telling Michonne's story, as not much time has passed since her departure from The Walking Dead (unlike Rick, whose absence spanned six years). The episode begins with Michonne introducing herself to the leader of the couple she saved in the tenth season of the main series. They are willing to help her in any way they can as a gesture of gratitude. Michonne joins their caravan to continue her search for Rick, creating an interesting dynamic with the new characters, especially with Nat.
The dramatic weight of this episode is commendable from the start. While the previous episode showed a broken Rick resigned to never finding his family again, Michonne's journey is marked by resilience and courage. Danai Gurira returns with a magnificent performance, conveying her character's uncertainty, fear, and hope with incredible realism. Her portrayal is further enhanced by the supporting cast, which is both the episode's greatest strength and a slight flaw. One of the most compelling aspects of Michonne's journey is the imminent danger posed by the largest horde ever seen in The Walking Dead universe. The group warns Michonne that the walkers are migrating north (exactly where she needs to go), making the trip a suicidal mission. Walkers have been sidelined for a while as the writers have focused more on political and social plots, often neglecting the primary threat of this universe. While balancing this is interesting to avoid genre saturation, The Ones Who Live seems to strike a good balance, featuring epic walker scenes like the flaming walkers in the first episode and the massive horde in this one, all while deepening the characters' development.
As the journey continues, we witness the CRM's (Civic Republic Military) cruelty and capabilities. World Beyond had already shown the ruthless massacre of Omaha and Campus Colony, and here we see another chemical attack on a smaller scale. This is perhaps the closest Michonne has come to death since The Walking Dead, with only her and Nat surviving while the entire caravan group is exterminated. The episode also mirrors the first one's time jump, placing Rick and Michonne at the same point in the story, showing the helicopter crash from Michonne and Nat's perspective. This alternate viewpoint significantly enhances the episode's montage, especially since it's done without cuts (unlike the previous episode). The long-awaited reunion between Rick and Michonne is finally realized, executed with natural performances by Andrew and Danai, complemented by a spectacular soundtrack -everything fans have hoped for, leaving no room for complaints about their reunion.
However, not everything is perfect for The Walking Dead fans. Despite the focus on Rick and Michonne, Nat's death feels like a hasty decision. The last time fans grew attached to new characters was during Rick's farewell episode with Magna's group. Nat's clever, peculiar, and sarcastic character is crucial for the story, making his dramatic and comedic interactions throughout the plot impactful, and his unfortunate loss in the episode's final act felt significant. Even the actors playing Aiden and Bailey do a good job, creating a bond with Michonne that resonates with viewers. Keeping Nat alive might have been more interesting, especially since he would have a strong motivation to help bring down the CRM after witnessing his group's massacre. Unfortunately, that won't happen. The final sequence's editing deserves applause, with Michonne observing the CRM's vast military power, symbolized by Nat's lighter - a possible foreshadowing of future events (especially with all the promotional material centered around fire). The episode's final scene marks Jadis's (Pollyanna McIntosh) return, warning Rick that any further escape attempts will endanger his family, establishing her as the first obstacle Rick and Michonne must overcome to return home. Strong emotions await in the upcoming episodes.
Like the premiere, the second episode of The Ones Who Live maintains an excellent pace, keeping the momentum throughout. The technical aspects (both cinematography and soundtrack) elevate the episode, giving it a more cinematic feel. The idea of Rick and Michonne transforming the CRM from within appears more attractive, complex, and political, although it deviates from the franchise's survival and horror roots. However, the final tone suggests the duo will confront everyone, especially with Jadis Stokes's return as a classic antagonist in this type of familiar TWD narrative. Nonetheless, the conflict's scale, the potential for a suspenseful narrative with characters inside the enemy's stronghold, and the couple's strong relationship as the dramatic front all provide a solid foundation for a great post-apocalyptic romance.
Not Nat!!! He should have stayed
mhbjc10 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
What is going on in this? The zombies are ALL contained and out for the pickin's? No real threat here. It's out of character.
And how is an army 'hiding' in metropolitan New York City? Yes, I realize the show is make-believe. And I have watched the entire 11 seasons of TWD. I think the Commonwealth did a better job of having some way to include new blood.
On that note... I loved Nat. His story line should have continued and he should have been able to leave and make it to Alexandria. He added A LOT!! More than the writers could create. Like Darly brought a new dimension they didn't expect. How did they miss that? Very short sighted of them!
Michonne is the best here and the reason to stick with it. So I will.
And how is an army 'hiding' in metropolitan New York City? Yes, I realize the show is make-believe. And I have watched the entire 11 seasons of TWD. I think the Commonwealth did a better job of having some way to include new blood.
On that note... I loved Nat. His story line should have continued and he should have been able to leave and make it to Alexandria. He added A LOT!! More than the writers could create. Like Darly brought a new dimension they didn't expect. How did they miss that? Very short sighted of them!
Michonne is the best here and the reason to stick with it. So I will.
S1.E2 - Loved This Episode [9/10]
panagiotis199315 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
(S1. E2) My Live Reaction / Review for The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live Season 1 Episode 2 ''Gone''. The previous episode was good and I gave it a rating of 9/10. Let's see if this one is better or worse. So now we get to see what happened before Michonne met Rick? Interesting. She just lost her horse? Damn that's not good. I don't remember seeing that many walkers in one place before. What the hell? Why is this helicopter dropping bombs at them? Is it CRM? Probably. The dwarf is such a cool guy, I really like him. Finally Michonne finds Rick, we've been waiting for this moment for so long. The soldier shot Nat? I don't want him to die, this sucks. I hate the CRM. Michonne will have to go back with Rick and Rick has to pretend that he doesn't know her? That sucks. Jadis is threatening Rick and says that if he tries to escape with Michonne she will make sure that everybody Rick loves will die? Things just got really complicated. That sucks. Overall this episode was good and I enjoyed it. My rating is 9/10.
A bit too contrived for emotional impact
zathscorp13 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Matthew Jeffers did a great job in his role, but it felt like some of the lazy writing used in the past with the Walking Dead and it's spinoffs. Introduce characters for one episode and kill them off.
So the caravan has been safe all this time but a minor offshoot gets targeted by the copters? Why exactly?
Who happens to be in the first copter they run across after the attack? Oh it's Rick.
This might make sense if the show was ending in the next episode. But since it's not, I don't see what the rush was.
You just can't really get people to care about people making stupid decisions either.
So the caravan has been safe all this time but a minor offshoot gets targeted by the copters? Why exactly?
Who happens to be in the first copter they run across after the attack? Oh it's Rick.
This might make sense if the show was ending in the next episode. But since it's not, I don't see what the rush was.
You just can't really get people to care about people making stupid decisions either.
DeJa Vudoo
Rob-O-Cop4 March 2024
In which the show continues pretty much where it left off over 5 years ago for these characters and just last year for the humiliating finish to the original series.
Exactly the same pattern, - Group member meets new people, spend time bonding, get to know them a bit only to have them meet their demise, and so on. It never really leads anywhere and just acts as a time waster till the process repeats. It didn't go anywhere for 11 series and it's not going anywhere now. (edit - admission - I had only watched the first half of this when I wrote this bit, so I didn't know their 3 new characters weren't going to be 5th wheel Magna, Connie Yumiko and the "chubby guy no one can understand why he's even in the show" characters and limp along in the background for the season. But true to prediction, it played out exactly for formula).
5 Years to get it together to shoot this series and they've added nothing and learned nothing. This deserves to sink quickly.
The real kicker here is the total disconnect from logic that the premise has. Who are these people in a post apocalyptic world who not only have a fleet of helicopters and crack military able to respond far better than the pre Apocalyptic world, but they can keep their location completely hidden and act like authoritarian baddies, hunting down you and your loved ones to kill you should you escape, cos, why??? The concept is so preposterous it insults the viewer. How does something like this ever get green lit?
Audiences deserve more and expect better.
Exactly the same pattern, - Group member meets new people, spend time bonding, get to know them a bit only to have them meet their demise, and so on. It never really leads anywhere and just acts as a time waster till the process repeats. It didn't go anywhere for 11 series and it's not going anywhere now. (edit - admission - I had only watched the first half of this when I wrote this bit, so I didn't know their 3 new characters weren't going to be 5th wheel Magna, Connie Yumiko and the "chubby guy no one can understand why he's even in the show" characters and limp along in the background for the season. But true to prediction, it played out exactly for formula).
5 Years to get it together to shoot this series and they've added nothing and learned nothing. This deserves to sink quickly.
The real kicker here is the total disconnect from logic that the premise has. Who are these people in a post apocalyptic world who not only have a fleet of helicopters and crack military able to respond far better than the pre Apocalyptic world, but they can keep their location completely hidden and act like authoritarian baddies, hunting down you and your loved ones to kill you should you escape, cos, why??? The concept is so preposterous it insults the viewer. How does something like this ever get green lit?
Audiences deserve more and expect better.
It's okay, but only okay
matiasbockerman-030446 March 2024
I haven't watched Walking Dead more than seven seasons because IMDB scores are so bad in the last seasons: I may look at the whole series again and give the rest of the seasons a chance. I have also read the first book of the Governor Series, so I am pretty familiar with the Walking Dead universe.
I started watching this Spinoff series because IMDB scores are so high - based on the first episode - even though I don't fully understand why. The first episode was good, of course, but not the masterpiece I expected. I will definitely look again before the final review. This episode was visually stunning, acting was of top -notch and staging, costumes, directing and effects was first class.
But in a plot wise, this seems quite mediocre to me, and if you compare it to the first seasons of Walking Dead, this does not seem as exciting and interesting, and even the characters (even old and familiar one) seem a bit bland. Still, I don't mean this is bad, this is quite good for entertainment, but I'm still not sure if I look at this to the end.
My rate is seven.
I started watching this Spinoff series because IMDB scores are so high - based on the first episode - even though I don't fully understand why. The first episode was good, of course, but not the masterpiece I expected. I will definitely look again before the final review. This episode was visually stunning, acting was of top -notch and staging, costumes, directing and effects was first class.
But in a plot wise, this seems quite mediocre to me, and if you compare it to the first seasons of Walking Dead, this does not seem as exciting and interesting, and even the characters (even old and familiar one) seem a bit bland. Still, I don't mean this is bad, this is quite good for entertainment, but I'm still not sure if I look at this to the end.
My rate is seven.
Epiode 2
bobcobb3014 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Having Rick and Michonne reunite so quickly was such a bad idea. But that's not the big problem here. This episode was just really bad, painfully bad, because of how unlikable and annoying the group that Michonne was stuck with was. Hard to root for those guys, and actively rooted against them with the way they were.
The episode took what felt like four hours to go through. Now just don't make it so easy for Rick and Michonne to escape and give them some legitimate challenges along the way, but with only six episodes in this season I worry that might not be how the writers approach this thing.
The episode took what felt like four hours to go through. Now just don't make it so easy for Rick and Michonne to escape and give them some legitimate challenges along the way, but with only six episodes in this season I worry that might not be how the writers approach this thing.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
