Is 'The Walking Dead' Worth Watching in 2022?

When I discuss 'The Walking Dead' with people, I often come across those who have never watched it, citing a lack of interest in zombies or zombie shows. However, it's important to note that the show is far more than just zombies. In my opinion, 'The Walking Dead' is one of the best shows ever created. It explores themes, characters, and relationships that go far beyond the undead undead creatures that make it famous.

The Show's Strengths

I would highly recommend giving 'The Walking Dead' a try. While zombies play a significant role, the show delves into the complexities of human behavior, survival, and perseverance. This is where the true brilliance of the series lies. That being said, seasons 1 to 3 are considered to be the most engaging episodes of the series. It's during these initial seasons that the setting and character development are at their best, without resorting to clichés.

The Decline of Quality

Unfortunately, things take a downturn in the later seasons. The show fails to provide closure, leaving viewers feeling frustrated and unsatisfied. There is a consistent plotline that predominantly revolves around a group of survivors moving from place to place, only to face the threat of zombies or other human survivors. This often leads to the loss of characters, a recurring theme that becomes predictable over time. The character development also becomes repetitive, with characters becoming more violent and cold as the series progresses. This predictable pattern eventually loses its appeal, as the show starts relying on the same plot devices repeatedly.

Seasons 8 and 9: A Lack of Direction

Seasons 8 and 9 are particularly criticized for their lack of direction. In these later seasons, the show loses its way and fails to connect with the audience. The story becomes disjointed, and the epic saga turns into a series of disconnected events. Moreover, the ending, which I gather from reviews and rumors, is unsatisfying and merely serves to set up a spin-off series. This approach diminishes the overall value and enjoyment of the show.

Two Major Criticisms

Two main criticisms are often leveled against 'The Walking Dead': it's a massive commitment to watch it in its entirety, and its quality has significantly declined over the years. The show's popularity was a testament to its initial success, but that success has since dwindled. The creators, seemingly desperate for more content, continue to milk the show for all it's worth, without investing proper time and effort into story arcs and character development.

In Conclusion

Given the above points, my recommendation is clear: while the first few seasons of 'The Walking Dead' are worth the watch, it's not advisable to continue through the entire series. The decline in quality, lack of closure, and repetitive storylines make it a show that is better appreciated in moderation. For those who have already invested considerable time into the show, it might be best to draw a line and move on to new content that offers a more satisfying viewing experience.

Enjoy the ride with 'The Walking Dead' while it's still engaging, but don't waste your time on an endless and ultimately unsatisfying journey.