The Walking Dead #128 Review

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Alexandria, Charlie Adlard, Image Comics, Negan, Rick Grimes, Robert Kirkman, Stefano Gaudiano, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #128, The Walking Dead #128 Review, Zombies

The Walking Dead #128

Review by Paul Bowler

The war between the Saviors and the Hilltop communities is over. Negan was defeated and imprisoned. Two years have now passed, Rick and his fellow survivors have rebuilt Alexandria, transforming it into a well protected, self-sustaining community, where Negan is still held captive in a secure cell. Rick has made a good recovery since his leg was broken, although he still walks with a stick, and Carl wants to learn to become a Blacksmith and move to the Hilltop. Now, as Rick and Eugene tour some of Alexandria’s facilities, a new group of survivors, led by a woman called Magna, have been welcomed into their community and begin to settle in. Outwardly, everything seems fine, but can these newcomers really be trusted?

After the conclusion of All Out War, last issue saw events jump forward two years as we rejoined Rick and the other survivors after they had rebuilt Alexandria, Rick even wears a very basic prosthesis on his missing hand now, and the community he has established seems to be thriving. The majority of The Walking Dead #128 centres around how well Alexandria is doing, especially with the addition of a mill and bakery, even Rick is bowled over by the irony that bread could soon become a more valuable commodity to his community than even bullets.

I really like this change in pace that Robert Kirkman has introduced to the series. Its good to see Rick and his friends doing so well now, however, this is The Walking Dead, so I wouldn’t expect things to stay too idyllic for long. Kirkman gives us breathing room to catch up with some of the characters, including Eugene, although his relationship with Rosita doesn’t seem to be in a good place right now. The time has come for Rick to decide if he will let Carl go and live at the Hilltop and train to become a Blacksmith. This is a great scene, it’s possibly one of the hardest decisions Rick’s ever had to make, the moment is also incredibly poignant, and gives you a real sense of just how much time has passed and how much the characters have evolved.

Negan is still confined, he doesn’t seem in a good way, physically or mentally, however, as we know, he can never be underestimated. The most interesting aspect of The Walking Dead #128 is Magna and her new group of survivors, who were rescued last issue. The scenes where Andrea is questioning Magna are very interesting, as she tries to glean what she can about the new arrivals, and find out how they managed to survive for so long. Magna’s story actually turns out to be highly insightful, perhaps even a very familiar one. Obviously its very early days for these new characters, we still have a lot to learn about them, and it will be interesting to see how things work out. Obviously they will have to earn the trust of Rick’s community. However, the thing I really like about Magna and her friends is how they perceive the set up in Alexandria, it all seems a little too good to be true to them, and their suspicions certainly leave us with much to ponder over.

The Walking Dead #128 continues to build on events following All Out War, and this issue looks great as well. Charlie Adlard’s art is excellent, there is a lot of story to cram into this issue, and I thought that the characters were all really well defined, the detail lavished on every scene is exceptional, and Stefano Gaudiano’s inks also enhance the atmosphere perfectly – especially as the issue builds towards its conclusion. We also get some brief, but exciting Zombie action, when an uncharted region of countryside is explored.

While it may be a slower paced issue, The Walking Dead #128 certainly seems to be setting the groundwork for big things to come. There are plenty of new developments in the lives of the survivors, the new characters are really interesting, and I expect that it won’t be long before events in Alexandria begin to kick off.

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The Walking Dead #126 Review

Tags

All Out War, Charlie Adlard, Image Comics, Michonne, Negan, Rick Grimes, Robert Kirkman, Stefano Gaudiano, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #126, The Walking Dead #126 review

 

The Walking Dead #126

Review by Paul Bowler

Rick and his allies managed to repel Negan and his forces, but the Saviors’ contaminated weapons have done their work. The Hilltop survivors suddenly become ill and begin to die. Rick was also wounded and his friends expect the worst. Negan believes he has won, so when the Saviors return to the Hilltop they are surprised when a healthy Rick is there to meets them. Rick offers to negotiate an alliance, one that will establish a safe zone between their communities and establish a barter system. Negan seems ready to contemplate the error of his ways, but just as they seem close to reaching an agreement, Rick attacks and cuts Negan’s throat.

All Out War has been six months and eleven issues in the making, now Robert Kirkman finally delivers the showdown we’ve all been waiting for, as Rick takes on Negan in this final battle in the conflict between the Hilltop communities and the Saviors. Having dealt Negan a potentially life-threatening injury, Rick says he will allow their doctor to save him, so long as the Saviors agree to surrender and let them take Negan prisoner. Down, but not out, Negan is not going to give up without a fight, and savagely attacks Rick.

With both sides now poised to strike, Dwight orders the Saviors to hold back and let Negan and Rick fight it out themselves. Ever since Dwight first joined Rick’s alliance, working secretly against Negan’s camp, his true loyalty to Rick’s cause has been dubious to say the least. Having shot Rick with his crossbow in The Walking Dead #123 there has been a big question mark hanging over the character. Now we know the crossbow bolt he uses wasn’t infected with Zombie matter, and his actions here in The Walking Dead #126 are instrumental in brining an end to the bloodshed.

In a completely unexpected move, the aftermath of the battle yields some a very surprising outcome. Those expecting Negan to meet a gruesome end might be disappointed. Indeed, the readers feeling might mirror the reaction of Andrea, Maggie, and Carl, when they discover what Rick intends to do next.

Robert Kirkman invests these scenes with some wonderfully structured moments of calm contemplation and reasoning. The way Rick manages to get his point across to Andrea, Maggie, and even Carl at the end is a brilliant piece of writing by Kirkman, and the dialogue here will have you hanging on every word.

The Walking Dead #126 marks a major turning point in the lives of these characters. Big changes are on the way, the war is over, now Rick’s vision of uniting the Hilltop communities can begin to take shape at last as they finally stand together against the Zombie apocalypse in the hope of making a better world.

Charlie Adlard’s art throughout All Out War has been some of the best this series has ever seen. This storyline has been stunningly illustrated by Adlard, with his incredible attention to detail, the characters and their environments, he has captured every nuance of this dark, and brutal storyline. Stefano Gaudiano’s inks have also been excellent, brining added depth and atmosphere to every issue, and I’m really glad that he will be staying on after this arc. Cliff Rathburn’s brilliant tones bring so much to each issue and Rus Wooton’s lettering is some of the very best in the industry.

While the fight between Negan and Rick is as violent as we might’ve expected, this bone crunching slugfest quickly becomes just one part in a collage of violence as we see Michonne, Ezekiel, and Jesus locked in battle with the rest of the Saviors. By the time the dust has settles on the battlefield, Lucile has a new master, and Rick and his friends are left to pick up the pieces of their lives. Robert Kirkman has done such a fantastic job with All Out War, every issue has been building up to this defining moment for the series, the characters have also been through so much, and its going to be fascinating to see how things pan out now the war is over.

The scene where Rick addressed everyone at the Hilltop is another highlight of this issue. His rousing speech offers us some insight into what to expect next. I also particularly enjoyed the short scene between Rick and Michonne towards the end of the issue as they discussed the future. It’s a great little moment for the characters and it also illustrates the impact this war has had on their lives and the new paths it has forged for them.

The Walking Dead #126 closes out the All Out War storyline in a way that few could have expected. Once the no-holds-barred final battle gives way to the rallying speeches, moralizing, and soul searching, this issue quickly builds towards its climatic final scenes when everyone notices Carl has suddenly gone missing. From that moment we know exactly where he’s gone and what he intends to do next.

This final scene, and the way Rick handles the situation, is riveting. In only a few pages it becomes clear why Michonne said that she has learned not to question him. Rick’s “knack” for leadership together with his sound judgment has united the Hilltop communities, they will work together to build a better future, but it is these closing moments, where his compassion and reasoning as a father makes his son see reason, that shows us just how great a leader Rick has become. The Walking Dead #126 is the issue that changes everything, and as for Negan, well, Rick’s parting words make it clear that Negan’s fate will be far from pleasant.

The Walking Dead #126 brings the epic 12 part All Out War story arc to a close, and it has proved to be a fitting celebration for the 10th Anniversary of Robert Kirkman’s and Charlie Adlard’s brilliant Image Comics series. This monster event has torn through the lives of everyone involved as Rick Grimes and the survivors had to fight for survival in a conflict that ultimately brought about Negan’s downfall and subsequently united the Hilltop communities. All Out War has been a terrific storyline, I’ve enjoyed following all the twists and turns of the plot, and I think Robert Kirkman, Charlie Adlard, and Stefano Gaudiano have done a fantastic job in delivering this story arc, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for the double sized issue #127 and beyond.

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The Walking Dead #124 Review

Tags

All Out War, Charlie Adlard, Dwight, Image Comics, Michonne, Negan, Rck Grimes, Robert Kirkman, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #124, TWD, Walkers, Zombies

The Walking Dead #124

Review by Paul Bowler

(Contains Spoilers)

Even though Eugene believes Dwight is playing both sides, there are others who also want to rebel against Negan. They join forces with Eugene and his friends and help them escape from the Saviors base. Negan and the Saviors have attacked the Hilltop, only to discover Rick’s people are better prepared than expected. However, the Saviors have developed a nasty strategy, contaminating their weapons to spread the Zombie infection. In the midst of the deadly battle, Dwight aims his crossbow at Rick, and shoots him in the abdomen…

Robert Kirkman keeps building the tension in The Walking Dead #124 as Rick and survivors are left reeling from the Saviors horrific attack. The shocking cliff-hanger ending to The Walking Dead #123 saw Rick wounded by a crossbow bolt fired by Dwight. Even though it was Negan who gave the order, Dwight still obeyed, so it would seem that Eugene was probably right about Dwight after all. Negan knows his victory is now assured; anyone wounded by the Saviors will soon develop the fever and become Walkers, even Rick…

The Walking Dead #124 shifts the focus momentarily back to Eugene and the others as they escape in a small van. With fatigue setting in, they decided to find somewhere to rest for the night; unfortunately they also run into some Walkers. To make matters even worse they find that one of Negan’s snipers is also in the area.

Then we are flung right into the thick of the action back at the Hilltop where Rick and his forces are trying to regroup while the Saviors press home their advantage. Fortunately Ezekiel and Michonne have set up an ingenious way to catch Negan and the Saviors off guard, soon the tables are turned, and Negan’s forces have to retreat.

Part Ten of All Out War is one of the best yet, the action doesn’t let up for a moment. Jesus is quick to help protect Rick after he is wounded, while Ezekiel and Michonne also play a crucial role in repelling the Saviors, and later Michonne and Jesus work together to try and clear out some of the Walkers attracted by noise of the battle. As the wounded at the Hilltop begin to suffer from the deadly effects caused by the Saviors infected weapons, developing terrible fevers, the full horror of what is actually happening begins to sink in.

So, it certainly looks like Rick’s days are numbered. If the crossbow bolt was indeed covered in infected Zombie matter, it’s only a matter of time before Rick succumbs to the inevitable and becomes a Walker – although he has yet to develop any symptoms like the rest who have been injured. It’s almost unthinkable to contemplate, that such a pivotal character like Rick could be killed off, but as we all know anything can happen in The Walking Dead and no one is ever truly safe. I must admit I’ve had my doubts about Dwight right from the start, ever since he decided to help Rick’s alliance fight Negan. So, has Dwight really betrayed Rick, it seems he was he lying all along, or is there a chance he could he still play a part in bringing about Negan’s downfall? Either way, Robert Kirkman has certainly kept us guessing about this scarred faced character. As Dwight sat beside Negan at the campfire in this issue, while Negan gloated about how he plans to end this conflict, I couldn’t help wondering if there might be a few more surprises in store for us as far as Dwight is concerned.

The art by Charlie Adlard is as excellent as ever in The Walking Dead #124 I really liked the scenes where Eugene and the others were driving through the darkened streets and the Walkers surrounded their van. Adlard’s art depicted this nightmarish moment perfectly, with the Zombies caught in the headlights, as they began shambling towards the van. Stefano Gaudiano’s inks also really enhance this scene, making it even more menacing. The way the sniper is dealt with added another surprise twist, illustrating just how cut throat life has become in the Zombie Apocalypse, when the hunter suddenly becomes the hunted.

All Out War has featured some nasty scenes, and the battle at the Hilltop is no exception. It’s brutal in its intensity, with no quarter given or taken on either side. This is page turning stuff and will keep you on the edge of your seat, even after the dust has settled and we take in the full extent of the damage this attack has wrought on the Hilltop – a hauntingly bleak vista of desolation created by Charlie Adlard that is so eerie you’d swear you could almost hear a gentle breeze caressing the wreckage as the undead stagger aimlessly through the ruined landscape.

The Walking Dead #124 is another really good issue. All Out War has been a really exciting storyline, its certainly taken the series in a new direction, and events look set to continue building towards a suitably epic and blood soaked finale.

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The Walking Dead #122 Review

Tags

All Out War, Charlie Adlard, Ezekiel, Image Comics, Michonne, Negan, Rick Grimes, Robert Kirkman, Stefano Gaudiano, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #122, Zombies

The Walking Dead #122

Review by Paul Bowler

[Contains Spoilers]

Negan and the Saviors launched a devastating attack on Alexandria. Only the arrival of Maggie and the reinforcements from the Hilltop managed to force Negan and his forces to retreat. With the town in ruins, Negan is confident this battle has just won him the war. Dr Denise Cloyd manages to save Heath’s life after his leg was blown off by a grenade, despite being bitten by a Zombie (Holly); her valiant effort to treat her boyfriend’s injuries comes at the price of her own life. Once Denise’s funeral is over Rick and the survivors leave Alexandria behind and head for the Hilltop, where they will join forces with Maggie and wait for Negan to make his next move. Amidst all the confusion during the Saviors attack on Alexandria, Eugene and his crew were captured by Negan, and now the Saviours leader is prepared to do whatever it takes to force Eugene into making ammunition for them – threatening to kill his friends and torture him if he refuses to comply.

The incredibly tense and poignant aftermath of this battle still resonates strongly, as Rick had to decide what to do next, while Heath sat with Denise at her bedside waiting for her to finally succumbs to her injuries and die; but he was unable to bring himself to act before Denise “turned” and Michonne stepped in to finish what he could not.

The Walking Dead #122 sees Negan leaving Eugene’s cell, after the Saviors leader confronted his prisoner last issue, having made it clear in no uncertain terms by getting up close and personal with Eugene in the most vile, and degrading, way imaginable, that he would take great pleasure in torturing and mutilating Eugene and his friends if they refused to help the Saviors manufacture and restock their supplies of ammunition. Robert Kirkman continues to allow the suspense to build within the walls of the Saviors base, after Dwight visits Eugene in his cell when Negan has gone. What follows is a nail bitingly tense exchange that readdresses the characters motives and loyalties, one that also inadvertently leads to the discovery of an unexpected ally.

The tone shifts markedly afterwards, with Rick and the survivors adjusting to their new home at the Hilltop. I really like how Kirkman manages to feature so many characters over the course of this issue, allowing us a greater insight into their lives, and the toll that the war is taking on them. There are some wonderful scenes during these quieter moments at the Hilltop: Andrea watches over Rick while he rests as she guards the perimeter wall, Maggie seeks advice on her new role as leader of the hilltop community from Brianna, we lean a lot more about Jesus, including his real name, and I loved the scene where Michonne pretends to be asleep while Ezekiel explained how his grief affected him. Rick also introduces himself to Earl Sutton the following day, it’s a great little scene, and it will be interesting to see what the blacksmith makes to help Rick out.

The art by Charlie Adlard is as solid as ever, with some great attention to detail. There are some very emotional scenes over the course of this issue, and the characters expressions covey their emotions perfectly. Stefano Gaudiano’s inks also give an added depth and texture to Adlard’s work as well. The moonlight view of the Hilltop looks peaceful, yet eerily haunting, the level of detail in the scene where Ezekiel’s people finally arrive at the Hilltop is stunning, illustrating the vivid contrast between this sanctuary and the stark reality of the Zombie apocalypse just outside the gates, while the lull in the action makes these somewhat introspective moments between the character seem even more intimate and personal than ever before.

Just when you think Negan couldn’t sink any lower, or get any more twisted, he manages to turn your stomach again and goes and does just that! Robert Kirkman has created such a loathsome and despicable character in Negan that you never quite know what he will come up with next. While he may be deranged, this foul-mouthed psychopath has devised a new, and utterly ingenious way  to use the Walkers infection to his advantage, even going to far as to give his beloved baseball bat Lucile a gruesome upgrade that will make her kiss even deadlier.

The eighth chapter of All Out War is a brilliant character driven issue as the survivors regroup at the Hilltop. Now that all their forces are united Rick and his allies begin to plan their next move, while Negan prepares to strike back in the most horrible way imaginable. The Walking Dead #122 will have you on the edge of your seat, especially during the closing moments, and it will leave you eagerly awaiting the next issue.

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The Walking Dead #120 Review

Tags

All Out War, Charlie Adlard, Michonne, Negan, Rick Grimes, Robert Kirkman, Stefano Gaudiano, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #120

The Walking Dead #120

Review by Paul Bowler

Negan arrives outside the gates of Alexandria to negotiate a treaty with Rick and the other communities. He also releases his prisoner, Holly, to show Rick he is being sincere. However, once Rick lets her inside Alexandria they are horrified to find that Holly has been turned into a Walker after she attacks Denise. Seizing the element of surprise, the Saviors being their attack, and start lobbing grenades over the walls…

Robert Kirkman hardly gives us a moment to recover from last issues flesh ripping cliff-hanger, before All Out War reaches a whole new level of explosive action in The Walking Dead #120 as the Saviors launch a devastating attack on Alexandria. Negan’s twisted ploy, turning Holly into a Zombie and using her against her friends like this, is truly horrifying. The Saviors attack is ruthlessly efficient, with Negan’s men using grenades to inflict terrible casualties on Rick’s people, destroying buildings, and sending everyone diving for cover. What’s more, even though Denise was bitten by Holly, she refuses to let Rick amputate her arm, as her boyfriend Heath had been seriously injured and she needs both her arms to save him.

All Out War is certainly beginning to live up to its name. The pace of this issue never lets up for a moment, with explosions going off all around them, Rick and his people have to quickly regroup and plan a counter attack. Jesus is soon right in the think of the action, instinctively doing whatever it takes to fight back. Meanwhile, outside the walls of Alexandria, the question surrounding Dwight’s allegiance to Rick’s alliance is finally answered.

Charlie Adlard’s art for this action packed issue is superb, buildings get blown up, horrific injuries are suffered, and things take a dramatic twist when another major character is wounded. Steafano Gaudiano’s inks also bring added intensity to the carnage.

However, as Negan gloats outside, an unexpected turn of events force the Saviors to retreat, giving Rick and the survivors the chance they need to regroup and get their wounded to safety. In the aftermath of the battle, Rick discovers the hilltop community has a new leader, while outside Negan prepares to turn his retreat into a victory…

The Walking Dead #120 is a really exciting issue, things are not looking good for Rick and the survivors, with Negan and the Saviors ready to press home their advantage, All Out War is really beginning to hit its stride.

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The Walking Dead #119 Review

Tags

All Out War, Charlie Adlard, Ezekiel, Image Comics, Michonne, Negan, Rick Grimes, Robert Kirkman, Steafano Gaudiano, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #119

The Walking Dead #119

Review by Paul Bowler

Having punched Gregory for siding with Negan, Maggie then got the rest of the Hilltop community to rally together and support Rick’s war against the Saviors. However, when a raid on one of the Saviors outposts goes wrong, casualties are high, and Ezekiel would have been killed by Walkers if not for Shiva’s sacrifice. Rick returns to Alexandria, where he leans about the terrible losses Ezekiel’s group suffered. Knowing Negan will be planning a counterattack, Rick calls a meeting, but the arrival of Negan and the Saviors at the gates gives them little time to prepare. However, Negan just wants to talk to Rick, and he even releases Holly to show he is willing to negotiate…

The Walking Dead #119 picks up the pace as Robert Kirkman serves up a dramatic mix of character moments and action. Ezekiel is still reeling from the terrible loss his group suffered last issue; he blames himself for the slaughter, as well as Shiva’s fate, believing he cannot be a leader anymore. I think Kirkman has done a fantastic job in developing Ezekiel’s character over the last few issues, as well as his relationship with Michonne, and it is her no nonsense approach to reminding him about his responsibilities that really hits home this issue. We also see Arron as he tries to come to terms with Eric’s death, and there is a great scene where Carl still tries to act tough even though he is really pleased to see that his father has returned safely.

Charlie Adlard’s art is as good as ever, he perfectly conveys the characters emotions, striking just the right balance between suspense and the grim reality of the zombie apocalypse, with inker Steafano Gaudiano enriching the depth and tone of Adlard’s art. The Walking Dead #119 races towards a dramatic confrontation between Rick and Negan, with tension running high on both sides, and the closing moments provide a shocking cliff-hanger.

Any doubts about this All Out War storyline being padded out more than necessary are soon quelled after reading this issue. Kirkman continues to keep things moving along at a brisk pace, there is some great character development, and the brilliant finale scenes prove that this war is about to get a whole lot nastier before it’s over.

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The Walking Dead #118 Review

Tags

Charlie Adlard, Ezekiel, Image Comics, Maggie, Michionne, Negan, Rick Grimes, Robert Kirkman, Stefano Gaudiano, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #118, Walkers, Zombies

The Walking Dead #118

Review by Paul Bowler

Having won the first battle, Rick sets his sights on the Saviors’ supply outposts, while Negan and his forces try to fight back against the Walkers that have surrounded their base. Even though their prisoner, Holy, doesn’t quite provide Negan with the advantage over Rick that he expected, Negan still kills one of his own men for trying to rape her. Now as Rick and his allies attack the Saviors outposts, Maggie confronts Gregory and the deserters back at the Hilltop, while Ezekiel must battle on alone to survive a horde of ravenous Walkers…

The Walking Dead #118 sees a marked change in pace as Robert Kirkman shifts the emphasis back to some of the secondary characters, with Maggie and Ezekiel taking centre stage for most of this issue.

I particularly liked the scene where Maggie stood up to Gregory and the other deserters who abandoned Rick during the first battle against the Saviors. All the pent up rage and fury that Maggie has bottled up since her husband was killed by Negan in issue #100 rips through Gregory’s feeble lies and excuses like a machete through a Zombies putrefied skull. The way Maggie deals with Gregory and then addresses the rest of the Hilltop community is a great moment, and one which may ultimately prove crucial in maintaining the alliance Rick has fought so hard to build.

We also get a great interlude between Michonne and Carl, where he admits how scared he is as well, but the real highlight of this issue is the scene where Ezekiel recounts how a raid on one of the Saviors outposts went horribly wrong, leaving him alone and fighting for his life as the Walkers closed in. It is here, in this quiet moment were Ezekiel tells Michonne what happened, that Robert Kirkman explores the character in even greater detail then ever before. We are now so used to Ezekiel’s regal persona as leader of the Kingdom; it is something of a shock to see him admit to being so afraid and desperate. Now having seen first hand the harsh reality of this war, the terrifying events that Ezekiel has just endured makes the telling of his story all the more tragic.

Charlie Adlard’s art really hammers home the emotional impact these events have had on the characters, as matters unfold with growing intensity, before Maggie decks Gregory and Ezekiel tells Michonne how he escaped the Zombies. The Walking Dead also benefits immensely from the addition of Stefano Gaudiano’s work on inking Adlard‘s art, brining an added intensity to the issue which really heightens the drama. Although not the most action packed issue of All Out War, The Walking Dead #118 does however give Kirkman the chance to focus on some great character development for Maggie and Ezekiel, which together with Adlard and Guadiano’s exceptional work, delivers a highly entertaining, and thought provoking issue.

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The Walking Dead #117 Review

Tags

All Out War, Charlie Adlard, Ezekiel, Image Comics, Michonne, Negan, Rick Grimes, Robert Kirkman, Stefano Gaudiano, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #117, Walkers, Zombies

The Walking Dead #117

Review by Paul Bowler

The first battle of Rick’s war is over. While Rick’s plan left the Savoirs trapped inside their own base, surrounded by Walkers attracted by the gunfire, Holly bravely sacrificed herself to breach the Savoirs defences, and was then taken captive by Negan.

It was great to see Rick and his allies using the Walkers to their own advantage last issue, effectively pinning the Savoirs inside their compound, but Negan isn’t going to give up without a fight, as The Walking Dead #117 clearly illustrates just how resourceful and cunning the Savoirs leader can be when he’s backed into a corner like this. At first Negan thinks he has captured Andrea, someone who he can use to break Rick’s spirit, but Holly reveals she was with Abraham as she tells Negan and Dwight why she drove the truck herself to smash the gates and let the Walkers in.

As Rick and the others regroup, Robert Kirkman uses this interlude to show what effect Holly’s sacrifice has had on the others, while Michonne, Ezekiel, and Shiva deal with some more Walkers. Rick then asks Michonne to return with a group to their community to help Andrea and Carl, just in case Negan manages to strike at them before they can return. Michonne agrees, even though she is unsure that they should be dividing their forces at this time, while Ezekiel will remain with Rick’s group and help take out the rest of the Savoirs outposts.

The art by Charlie Adlard is excellent, there are some outstanding pages featuring the Walkers attacking Negan and his men as they try and beat back the undead horde, where they soon find themselves outnumbered and have to quickly retreat inside. It was a good move to bring inker Stefano Gaudiono to The Walking Dead for All Out War, his inks bring an added clarity and shade to the bleak environments, and the Zombies look even more menacing.

Robert Kirkman continues to show us more sides to Negan’s character. The Saviors leader delivers an expletive laden rant when his attempt to clear a path through the Walkers fails, knowing the urgency to get out and strike back is now crucial to their survival, Negan orders his people to figure out a way to attack the Zombies from a distance. What follows is a scene where Negan discover that one of his men, David, is about to assault Holly. Appalled by what nearly happened Negan’s justice is swift, and ruthless, as he punishes David for defying the rules.  It becomes clear that Negan is looking at the bigger picture here, at how they will all have to work together when the war is over, and that sinking to such inhuman levels is completely unacceptable, even for him. While the Saviors leader remains highly unpredictable, Negan’s twisted logic indicates that he is not an adversary to be underestimated.

The Walking Dead #117 sees Rick preparing to divide his forces between dealing with the Savoirs outposts and protecting Andrea and the others, as she is sure to be the focus of any counter attack launched by Negan. Whether this is a good move or not remains to be seen, Rick could be spreading his forces too thin, and that could very well give the Saviors the opening they need to strike back when they least expect it.

This third part of All Out War has certainly seen no let up in the action, Robert Kirkman continues to build the suspense, and the art by Charlie Adlard and Stefano Gaudiano delivers some spectacular scenes where the zombies attack in force. The Walking Dead #17 is another really good issue, battle lines have been drawn, and with both sides are preparing to make their next move, All Out War is shaping up to be an epic event.

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The Walking Dead #116 Review

Tags

All Out War, Ezekiel, Image Comics, Jesus, Michonne, Negan, Rick Grimes, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #116, Walkers, Zombies

The Walking Dead #116

Review by Paul Bowler

 

Rick has led the combined forces of Alexandria, Hilltop, and the Kingdom to the Saviors base where they confront Negan. While Rick wants to avoid going to war, Negan refuses to agree to his terms, and reveals that he also has a secret ally: Gregory, the Hilltop leader, who then orders his people to return to their homes.

The second part of All Out War begins with Rick having to face up to Gregory’s betrayal, as The Walking Dead #116 explodes into action when Gregory seriously underestimates how many of his people are amongst Rick’s forces. Rick gives Negan one last chance to surrender, before launching a devastating attack on the Savoir’s base, with Rick, Jesus, and Ezekiel leading their forces in the attack, using the busses for cover as they avoid Negan’s snipers.

All the noise attracts hordes of Walkers to the Savoirs base, exactly as Rick intended, and with Dwight secretly helping inside the fortress, it looks as if Negan and his forces are outgunned and about to be overrun by Walkers as well. The key to Rick’s plan is for him to drive a truck into the gates to let the Walkers into the Savoir’s camp, while Ezekiel and Jeseus lead the retreat back into their territory. However, Holly has other ideas, and isn’t prepared to let Rick take such a risk as he is too important to the new alliance. Determined to get revenge for Abraham’s death herself, she knees Rick in the stomach, and then takes the truck and crashes it into the gates.

The Walkers pour in through the gates as Holly staggers from the wreckage of the truck. She is almost killed by a Walker, but Negan isn’t about to let her get off that lightly, and smashes the Zombies skull in with Lucile and takes Holly prisoner. After they regroup, Ezekiel and Jeseus discuss what happened with Michonne, just as Rick suddenly returns, informing them all that there is no time for celebration, and that the war has only just begun.

Robert Kirkman has taken his time setting up these events, but The Walking Dead #116 finally kicks into high gear, as Rick leads his new alliance against Negan and the Saviors to unleash the opening salvo in All Out War’s first big skirmish. What a battle it is, although Gregory’s betrayal doesn’t really impact that much on Rick’s forces, but when Negan refuses to back down the bullets quickly start to fly and the Walkers begin to close in. I think it’s very clever how Rick uses the undead as a weapon against Negan like this, but his plan hit’s a snag when Holly intervenes and takes the truck herself and drives it into the gates.

Charlie Adlard’s art on The Walking Dead #116 is excellent, this issue is really dynamic and action packed, and its great to see huge numbers of Walkers attacking, and it seems ages since we’ve seen this many in one issue. For this storyline, Stefano Gaudiano joins the art team. Gaudiano’s inks bring an added level of sharpness and depth to Charlie Adlard’s pencils, and this action packed issue really benefits as a result.

The Walking Dead #116 is a great issue, with some really exciting action sequences, lots of zombies, and with the addition of Stefano Gaudiano’s ink, it look like All Out War is going to be one hell of a ride.

The Walking Dead #115 Review

Tags

10th Anniversary, All Out War, Carl Grimes, Charlie Adlard, Ezekiel, Image Comics, Michonne, Negan, Rick Grimes, Robert Kirkman, The Saviors, The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead #115

The Walking Dead #115

Review By Paul Bowler

 

The Walking Dead #115 is the beginning of the 12 part All Out War story arc to celebrate the 10^th Anniversary of  Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard’s epic comic book series. This monster event will tear through the lives of everyone as All Out War breaks out in The Walking Dead #115, the first chapter of a storyline that will see Rick Grimes and his group of survivors fighting for their lives in a conflict involving all factions of the Walking Dead universe: The Saviors, The Hilltop, and The Kingdom.

With the help of Jesus and Ezekiel’s troops, Negan and the Saviors were driven out of Alexandria. Now the battle lines have been drawn, sides have been chosen, the Kingdom and the Hilltop communities are united with Rick’s fellow survivors. Together they prepare to go to war with the Saviors and bring Negan’s reign of terror to an end…

The Walking Dead #115 beings with moments of quiet reflection as Rick wakes early, the responsibility of the war he is about to start weighing heavily on his mind. Andrea reassures Rick that he has made the right choice, and that no matter what it takes to win this war, she knows the outcome will be worth it. Meanwhile, Ezekiel and Michonne have spent the night together, although neither are willing to commit to anything just yet. Whether anything will come of their relationship remains to be seen, however, Michonne does believe their time together may have the potential to “mean” something more eventually.

With everyone working flat out to prepare for the attack on the Saviors, Rick, Jesus, and Ezekiel get ready to move out, but before they leave Rick stands up and addresses everyone. Rick knows that everybody has put their lives on the line by supporting him in his fight against Negan, he thanks them all before they set out, saying how he believes the dark path they are about to take will lead them to a better place in the end.

Andrea, who is still recovering after fighting one of Negan’s men in the Bell Tower, is staying in Alexandria with Carl. Before he goes, Rick entrusts Carl with more responsibility, seeing as he did so well at organising the people on the wall after Rick’s failed attempt to kill the Saviors Leader backfired and left them easy targets for Negan’s snipers. Rick and the others board the trucks and drive to the Saviors base, where Rick issues his demands as Negan looks on. Rick offers Negan a chance to surrender peacefully or face the consequence, but Negan has a very different plan, and a surprise of his own waiting for them.

All Out War gets under way as Rick and his new allies embark on their mission to deal with Negan once and for all. The Walking Dead #115 opens with a brooding sense of anticipation, as Robert Kirkman shows us how Rick manages to face up to his own doubts and rally his forces in the build up to the confrontation with Negan. Kirkman includes some great scenes between Rick and Andrea, and there is a nice moment between Rick and Carl before he leaves for the battle.

We also discover that Ezekiel stayed over at Michonne’s, not that surprising really, as the chemistry between them has bee simmering ever since they first met. Its going to be interesting to see how their relationship develops over the course of All Out War, and I expect if they are going to live together, then Ezekiel’s pet tiger, Shiva, is going to have to be housetrained!

Negan is as vile as ever, delivering a foul mouthed diatribe at Rick from his vantage point above the Zombie infested barricade of the Saviors base, yes we do get to see some Zombies this issue as well! Of course no one seriously expects that Negan will give in to Rick’s demands, even though he is faced with the combined might of the hilltop communities, Negan has got a counter proposal that manages to keep him one step ahead of his enemies.

Charlie Adlard’s art on The Walking Dead is as excellent as ever, there are some great full page scenes crowded with characters, and the attention to detail is quite remarkable given how much the cast has grown recently. As The Walking Dead is now going bi-weekly during Al Out War, Adlard is assisted by Stefano Gaudiano’s inks, which  brings an added depth to the grey tones.

Along with the standard cover, The Walking Dead #115 has been released with a series of 10 individual connecting covers, each marked B-K, while cover O was a special NY Comic-Con- exclusive  that was only available at the show. Each cover draws on the major events over the last ten years of The Walking Dead comic series, and collectively they certainly get these 10^th anniversary celebrations of to an impressive start.

The Walking Dead #115 if a confident opening to All Out War. The Battle is about to begin, all the major players are in position, and if the closing moments of this issue are anything to go by, the carnage is about to be epic.