The Walking Dead: Episode 1 Days Gone by and Solid Introductions: A Television Episode Review

Director: Frank Darabont.

Writer: Robert Kirkmann.

This is a review of the AMC's first episode of their original series "The Walking Dead." This episode is showing or has shown October 31st, depending on your time zone and this first episode was just over sixty minutes. Being introduced were Sheriff Rick Grimes along with Grime's best friend and law enforcement partner Shane. This was a mostly horrifying and sympathetic episode, but there were flaws. The use of the unbelievable shamblers and some questionable musical choices takes away some enjoyment from the viewing; however, if the series continues with the use of fast pacing, interesting characterizations along with twists and turns, then this will be one of the best television mini-series of the year!

A quick breakdown of the plot involves a shootout between local sheriffs and some escaping criminals. Then, the series moves ahead several weeks, with character and Sheriff Grimes waking up alone, in a deserted hospital. Here Grimes discovers that his life has changed, with his wife and child now missing. Luckily there are other survivors and Grimes finds a brief respite before heading up to the major metropolitan city, Atlanta, via horseback. The ending will not be revealed, but think multitudes of zombies versus one man.

One element that is amazing is how the AMC has made this project look like a big budget enterprise! There are hundreds of abandoned vehicles in some shots, entire highways are closed down and used, and the numbers of zombies in the show are incredibly numerous (some CGI enhancement). The acting from the main characters is on par with other mini-series and the characterizations are well developed. Grimes gets an in-depth back story, along with a fellow neighbour. Yet, some criticisms still persist.

A couple flaws involve some overly soft musical selections. Remember filmmakers, this is a zombie apocalypse, not a theatrical performance of the "The Nutcracker." The soundtrack could easily have used some rock and roll, or heavier musical choices. Also, using shamblers who walk 2 to 3 kms/hour is an odd choice, but we have been to this unbelievable place before. Finally, comparisons can be made between the opening of the favourite 28 Days Later and this production. Similarities include Grimes waking in an abandoned hospital after a coma, which is similar to Jim (Cillian Murphy) waking from a bike courier accident, in the aforementioned. Also, "God forgive us" is scrawled along one wall, much like on Jim's parent's suicide note. Grimes also finds himself in a deserted city, until his first exciting encounter with the undead. This is exactly how 28 Days Later also begins. Other comparisons can be made, but fans need to remember that Robert Kirkmann's comic debuted in 2003 - the same year as 28 Days Later.

Horror viewers are strongly encouraged to watch "Days Gone Bye" tonight, or whenever it is available, as this is quality television. Hopefully with the resurgence of fan interest in the undead, interesting television mini-series, like this series, will continue to be made. Those looking forward to the premiere can look at a new trailer for the entire first season of "The Walking Dead" below.

Overall: 7 out of 10 (-1 for music, -1 for shamblers, -1 for shortness)

A new trailer for Season 1 is here:

Season 1 Trailer Released October 30th