Defending The Walking Dead Season 7: A Fan's Perspective

Many fans have expressed dissatisfaction with Season 7 of The Walking Dead, citing issues such as character focus, pacing, and the shocking loss of beloved characters. In this article, I will explore why I found this season to be both compelling and necessary for the progression of the series.

Admiration for the Show's Flexibility

One of the aspects I adored about Season 7 was its deviation from the usual narrative structure. Instead of centering solely on a single group, the show took a more expansive approach, highlighting the struggles of multiple factions such as The Sanctuary, The Kingdom, The Hilltop, and Alexandria. The inclusion of diverse storylines provided a richer tapestry that showcased the varied responses and coping mechanisms of different characters to the post-apocalyptic world. For instance, The Sanctuary group represented a well-organized society, while The Kingdom exhibited chaos and instability.

How This Diversion Enriched the Story: The show's ability to explore the experiences of various groups contributed to an in-depth and nuanced portrayal of the apocalypse. Viewers could observe how different leadership styles and governance approaches affected their members. This diversity in portrayals humanized the characters and challenged the audience to empathize with a variety of perspectives.

Appreciation for the Subtlety of Character Development

Season 7 offered deep dives into character development across the board. Eugene was quite a study in cowardice, as his actions revealed his fearfulness and reliance on others. Conversely, Rick Grimes' leadership underwent a fascinating journey, where his strengths and weaknesses were on full display. This complexity brought more depth to the characters and made them more relatable and believable.

Eugene and Rick's Developments: Eugene's character arc added another layer of realism, showing how fear and survival instincts could shape even the most seemingly stable individuals. Rick's leadership experiments demonstrated the difficulty of keeping a group together during chaotic times, as he struggled to balance trust and authority.

Engagement with Supporting Characters

The show managed to keep lesser-known characters engaging and interesting. Dwight and Simon’s portrayals as members of the Saviors group were particularly noteworthy. Dwight's transformation from an unknown figure to a complex character provided intrigue, while Simon brought a comedic flair to the antagonistic role. This contrast between the darker elements and the lighter moments helped maintain a balance in the narrative.

Dwight and Simon’s Contributions: Dwight's character development was compelling, as his journey showed the complexities of adhering to ideals while navigating a dangerous world. Simon, as a funny yet threatening antagonist, offered a unique dynamic that provided constant engagement. Their interactions added depth to the story while keeping viewers invested in the Saviors' faction.

A Painful but Necessary Season

One of the most difficult yet essential aspects of Season 7 was the loss of characters that were central to the fan experience. Glenn and Abraham’s deaths, as shocking as they were, were vivid reminders of the harsh realities of the post-apocalyptic world. While these events were undoubtedly heartbreaking, they were also crucial for transforming the characters and propelling the storyline forward. These losses allowed the remaining characters to redefine themselves and face new challenges.

The Importance of Character Loss: The deaths of Glenn and Abraham were necessary for the series to evolve. It was clear that their characters had reached their natural endpoints, and their departure served to refresh the narrative. For viewers who felt the pain of these losses, it’s worth remembering that these death scenes were part of the broader narrative that aims to depict the gritty realities of survival.

Final Thoughts on Why Season 7 Was Not Without Merit

While The Walking Dead Season 7 may not have been the most exceptional season in the series, it was far from the worst. The show dealt with difficult but necessary themes and provided character moments that made the series stand out. The season's slow-paced episodes were sometimes necessary for the series to build tension and give characters room to grow. Even the presence of non-consistent storylines, like that of the Scavengers, offered varied and entertaining episodes.

Conclusion: Despite the criticisms, I believe Season 7 was a pivotal moment in the show's history. It showcased a level of depth and honesty that is characteristic of the best episodes of The Walking Dead. For those who may have missed the season, I encourage them to give it another chance, as it may provide a new perspective on the series' evolution and the struggles of human resilience in a post-apocalyptic world.