Why the Walking Dead Directors Chose to End on a Cliffhanger

After the recent The Walking Dead episode, many fans are left wondering why the directors chose to end things on a cliffhanger. The answer lies in both a strategic decision and a character development choice. Let's delve into the reasons behind this controversial ending and explore why some fans are calling for a different approach.

Strategic Decision to Keep Viewers Engaged

The Walking Dead directors made a conscious decision to end on a cliffhanger with the intention of maintaining suspense and ensuring that viewers return to watch the next episode. This is not a unique tactic; it's a common practice used in countless TV shows to keep audiences hooked. Scott Gimple, the episode writer and producer, explained that the real climax of the season's arc was Rick realizing his mistake and accepting his defeat. This was a necessary move to bring Rick down, giving him a substantial loss that would shape the story moving forward.

Character Development and Emotional Impact

Character development is a crucial aspect of storytelling, and the ending serves this purpose. Rick's realization and the death itself were not about creating shock or confusion; rather, they were about Rick's emotional journey. Gimple wanted to ensure that Rick's confidence was shattered, much like Negan had shattered it earlier in the season. This pathos was intended to make audiences empathize with Rick's struggles and the weight of his decisions. However, the use of a cliffhanger made fans wait for resolution, which may not have been the best method.

Alternatives to the Cliffhanger

Scott Gimple himself suggests that he could have achieved his goal without resorting to a cliffhanger. The suffering endured by Rick was already evident; adding a cliffhanger didn't necessarily enhance the emotional impact. Gimple pointed to the Star Trek: The Next Generation cliffhanger, where the audience learned that Captain Picard had become the Locutus of Borg. That was a powerful cliffhanger because it was used sparingly and provided clarity, not confusion. The Walking Dead cliffhanger, on the other hand, left fans spinning theories without significant resolution.

Common Criticisms and Viewpoints

Many fans have criticized the show, citing its predictability and the similarities to Game of Thrones. Some argue that the show has become too focused on shocking kills and incorporating genre tropes like soap operas. While Gimple's intentions were undoubtedly good, the method of achieving his goals via a cliffhanger may not have been the best.

It's important to note that The Walking Dead is part of a broader zombie genre, and fans have come to expect certain elements. However, some viewers feel that the cliffhanger is outdated and disrespectful to their intelligence and patience. Viewers may continue to tune in out of habit or out of love for the characters, but the decision raises questions about how to engage an audience effectively in a modern, fast-paced media landscape.

A Call for Better Storytelling

In conclusion, while the cliffhanger serves a strategic purpose, it may not be the best method for achieving the desired emotional impact. Fans demand better storytelling that respects their intelligence and maintains their interest through meaningful character development and engaging plot twists. The Walking Dead team, and writers like Scott Gimple, need to consider alternative methods to keep audiences engaged without relying on overused cliffhangers. Only then can they truly deliver a show worthy of its devoted fanbase.