The Evolution and Transformation of a Character: The Case of Morgan from The Walking Dead

Much like the ever-changing landscape of entertainment, characters in movies and games often go through significant transformations. One such character is Morgan from The Walking Dead. In the original show, Morgan was portrayed as a strong, resilient survivor who, despite a tragic loss, managed to maintain his resolve and integrity. However, when this character was reimagined for a remake, his development and impact left many viewers disappointed and frustrated.

The Original Morgan: A Badass Survivor

One of the standout episodes of The Walking Dead was when the character of Morgan, played by Michael Cudlitz, makes the journey from a hardened survivor to someone deeply affected by loss. In the first incarnation, Morgan was a complex and nuanced figure. Despite being traumatised by the loss of his wife and son, he retained a sense of duty and determination. His interactions with others were marked by a blend of toughness and vulnerability. His character arcs, like his journey to the farm, were powerful, resonating with fans.

The Transformation: A Philosophy and a Pissed-Off Version

However, in the remake, Morgan's character underwent a significant transformation for the worse. Following an encounter with someone he perceived to be a guide towards "the way of the stick," Morgan became an overbearing, whiny, and largely unlikable version of himself. This ‘new’ Morgan was someone who prioritized his personal philosophies at the cost of his relationships and, more alarmingly, his friends. The change was stark and unexpected, leading to a significant shift in audience perception.

The Impact on the Remake

The impact of this transformation was notable. In the remake, Morgan’s former positive qualities were replaced with what many would consider a flawed and uninteresting personality. What starts as an intriguing narrative of growth and resilience became a series of forgettable events. The character’s storyline became so bland that it was easily forgotten, an outcome that many find difficult to stomach. It's a testament to the original’s depth that the remake simply couldn't live up to it.

Reflection on the Remake's Audience

The question that arises is, what exactly changed? The remake aimed to cater to a new audience, perhaps younger or more modern viewers. However, it seems this change of focus didn’t translate into a more engaging or relatable character. The target audience’s needs may differ, but when a key character like Morgan is reimagined in a way that strips away his character’s core, the resulting product can be disappointing.

The Conclusion: Lessons in Character Development

The story of Morgan from The Walking Dead serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of character continuity and development. Successful adaptations and remakes need to respect the nuances and complexities of their source material. While Morgan’s transformation in the remake may appeal to certain viewers, it ultimately misses the mark on delivering a memorable and compelling story. For followers of The Walking Dead, the original characters remain an integral part of their beloved universe, and changes that diminish these aspects are often met with frustration.

Character development is not just about maintaining consistency; it’s about enhancing the narrative through evolution. Future reimaginings and adaptations should strive to build upon rather than dismantle the foundations laid by the original works.