I didn't really like Sophia. But we also didn't get much of her character before she was killed off. There was nothing there to make me feel bad aside from her being a kid. I felt nothing for the character herself.
@@ericanight8359 it wasn't the death of her character that makes people cry imo. I think it is the pain of Carol that makes them cry as she was a character they had dove into a bit in season 1and 2. and then there is of course the fact she is a kid. it's shocking to see a show have a kid character die.
@@delconagher12 prison was great. It all really sucks when they came to Alexandria. Specifically after the Terminus incident. Then i started to like The Leftovers.
The Sophia reveal has always been my absolute favourite scene. You feel Carols pain. Carls friend is no more. Everyone looks defeated because Sophia being alive gave them hope. Then Mr Grimes steps up and does what no one thought he could. I remember watching this episode the night it aired and was speechless. Not only me but my wife and my kids - the walking dead was always family night. This show would bring us all together every week. I had tears in my eyes when I saw her come out of the barn. Amazing breakdown of this episode!
it was a family night thing for me too! i remember we started it a little late and didn’t actually see anything from the first few episodes like for a while i didn’t know who amy merle or what happened at the CDC but when we saw sofia come out of the barn i remember my older sister and i crying bc we all held on to the same hope that the group did. season two really got me into the show it was my favorite season
This breakdown was incredible. Really gave me a greater appreciation for the scene and allowed me to see so much detail that I had originally overlooked
I've been a superfan of this show since episode 1, and Shane's "why is it still coming " speech is still my favorite scene of the series...negans lineup is a close second. He should have won an award for that speech.
@@aliengranpa I also enjoyed the Negan introduction it was perfect, the Shane death was perfect, unique opinion (I loved the capture of the prison and the intro to Alexandria) also Rick final scene blowing the bridge up was perfect. Another one of my favourites is recent, Maggie killing the reapers in s11 was super damn perfect! Everything about it was amazing
Honestly, if TWD went on forever... I'd probably keep watching it. It doesn't even matter anymore how fast or slow paced the episodes are, I'm just so invested in the characters that I just want to know what they're doing and how they're doing, even if it might be the most mundane things. It could probably turn into a completely different show by removing all the horror aspects and I'd just be interested in keeping up with how the characters are dealing with their traumas and relationships as survivors in a post-apocalyptic world. The human element and drama of the show was always more interesting than the parts where they're killing or being killed by walkers.
I even watched the World Beyond and it was absolutely horrible, so I guess I would also watch the Walking Dead as long as it goes or as long as I live. There are some series so good that in the dark days it's all that you look forward to and it helps you survive another day. And if you are lucky and once you get better you watch it because they are those friends that you needed at your lowest, they were there for you, demanding nothing in return, helping get your mind of things. Yeah, the Walking Dead was like a friend I truly needed and I am loyal to those few friends I have.
@Kris jeez, things must have been rough. I’m 42 and I had one truly awful year in my life. I’ve been pretty lucky, and happy otherwise. Hope you’re ok.👍🏴
Season 2 was very much underrated. The scene where Shane caps Otis to save himself... And the scene in the saloon where Rick quick draws on those two shady guys, breaking his rule about killing the living for the first time. Even Hershel has an epiphany on what the new world was in that moment... To this day season 2 boasts some of the strongest scenes of the entire series.
I liked S.2 also, but to be honest it has a lot of time filler scenes of the sky/horizon/trees that go on way longer than needed, but it seems it was due to reduced budget of S.2.
Good pointing out Shane faltered on Sophia. He also faltered on killing Rick up close. In both cases, Rick took the shot. And it's actually a dynamic that repeats again much later, when another antagonist is talked down only to end up taken out by a possum attack.
I never noticed he actually faltered when she came out. I'm not sure why. He just seemed to not care much to me. I suppose that could have been my hate for him projecting into the scene.
@@ericanight8359 It's your irrational hate man. Shane was at his worst in season 2 but he still had some morality left because he could not bear to put down a girl.
People think Shane was right. But he never really was. He saw the world for what it was, but he forgot that he needed to fight for how things used to be. Had Shane killed Rick instead, the show would have followed a cutthroat group with no consideration for human life. They would have ended up like The Saviors, with Shane as a Negan. Rick nearly lost himself many times and for brief periods were glimpses of that, forced by unfortunate situations and tragedies. But it's the words of Dale, Herschel and others that lived on in Rick and the group to always back off from the brink of totally losing their humanity. I'm not sure Shane and the group would have even survived the war against The Governor. He would have tried to butcher everybody in Woodbury, either succeeding and destroying the groups potential greatest strength (people) or they would have died trying.
I started to watch TWD from the beginning.. my wife couldn't understand why l sat down every Sunday night to watch it.. halfway into this season..she finally started to watch it.. now she understands why.. one of the most heartbreaking scenes in history..
Ryan! I didn't think I would really give a crap about a breakdown of a season from so long ago, from a show I lost interest in a while ago, but you broke down the story beats and what made it so special and paid homage in a beautiful way. Phenomenal video essay Sir!
I have always thought of this last scene in a different way. You see, Hershel was protecting a lot o people that he personally knew from before. Shane, and all the others shooting, were simply killing monsters that meant nothing to them, but upon seeing Sophia they all hesitated killing her, leaving the feeling of hypocrisy to be solved by Rick.
“It’s not WHO will die but WHEN will they die” In addition, this also portray's the audience perspective of the show itself and how realistic TWD can try to be. The uproar of Glenn's death was realistic yet everyone wants to cling to that hope that death will not be there and if you're special or unique you shouldn't die. however, each and every character will die if TWD continues on. Maybe some might actually live till the end , but the reality is we're enjoying the characters and their developing moments in the show until their time comes. To be upset over a character death is not acknowledging what TWD is all about.
Still enjoying it after some serious ups and downs over the years. The final season has been solid and while I miss Rick and Carl the show HAS effectively moved on
Rick and Michonne will have their reunion with each other and everyone else. But I'd be lying if I said I didn't wish Carl was still here. The show would be even better if he was still there.
I’m still enjoying TWD as well. I always find it strange that when Gimple took over as the show-runner, he started out very strong and then the last two seasons he oversaw (seasons 7&8) were the weakest. I also have to say that ever since Angela Kang took over from Gimple, she hit seasons 9&10 out of the park. Season 9 is probably my favorite due to how freaking well they handled the Whisperers and you’re definitely right about season 11 being pretty damn solid. I’m just hoping like every other fan that Andrew Lincoln makes a return to the show even if he’s only in the final episode.
I fell out of the loop with the saviours but then when I caught up again I loved it. The time jump was jarring though and its central relationship with Karl and Rick was killed off. Still great at this point though.
@@jasonvoorhees310 AMC are crooks, they didn't wanna pay the Carl actor adult rates even though he was an adult then, so they killed off his character, bastards.
Season 2 is my all time favorite season from the show. It has been since the day it launched. It was the most grounded, in my opinion, because they were not yet the badasses they are now and I was really scared for a lot of the characters.
Season 2 (on the farm) gets panned by a lot of fans, but I think it's one of the best... How it's shot. Character building. Story development, everything was well done. The show really went downhill after Glen was killed off, even though it was how his character was written in the comics, he was killed because Darryl was being stupid. Never a big fan of the usual fan favorites like Carol and Darryl. Negan as played by Jeff whatshisname was a caricature of a "bad guy", but the show was still watchable at that point. It lost me completely after killing off Carl. I stopped watching it after that, even though I wasn't a big fan of Carl as a character, or Chandler Rigg's acting ability (or lack thereof).
This scene was what made me fall in love with Walking Dead. Shane always talking about who would step up and lead the group, and when it came down to it, NO ONE was prepared to do what had to be done. The steps Rick took before taking the shot, while everyone else was frozen in their spot, I'll never forget it.
For everything wrong with this show (for me, only seasons 7 and 8 fall into that category) it is still my favorite series, my favorite characters, my favorite world I’ve ever given my time to.
9 10 and 11 has almost killed it for me.. The 8 first I love but the last 3 has been so safe predictable and boring I'm just watching out of brand obligation This the 11b finale was one of the worst episodes of the show
I recall watching this episode live. It was incredible then and still incredible now. TWD gets a lot of flak for what it turned into in the later seasons, but I will die on the hill that this episode was the start of one of the golden ages of TV and that it's a show worth revisiting.
Rick was always right, even if it took a bit of time for the audience and group to realise it. He took responsibility of the group (and his family), even if they didn't think they needed it. This nearly broke him to bits over the seasons. The bit about this scene that always gets to me is Melissa Mcbrides acting and reaction. You can almost see her brain shutting down because of the horror of it.
Rick was a terrible leader and wrong pretty much all the time. He had to continually relearn the same lessons. The group DID need a central figure. I don't know that Rick should have been that figure.
@@guyjperson Yea he fked up many times but he laid himself on the line constantly in order to protect others. And did EVERYTHING to try and keep the humanity of the group. This worked in relation to other groups which lost theirs.
@@adriandenton6637 Absolutely. The overriding theme here is: Are we living if we choose to merely survive? And Rick repeatedly keeps the group *living* not merely surviving. Shane was always only about survival, and frankly that is not living, then you really are "Walking Dead."
I think Shane's speech was just that, all talk. He definitely showed the group the threshold of civilization but Rick made sure everyone take the plunge.
Shane was bang on about everything. It took Rick a wee bit longer to get there. A coupla seasons later no one would’ve batted an eyelid at Shane’s actions.
@@queens2nd2none yep, Shane just got it a lot earlier. Back then, no way Rick would’ve been able to leave Otis for Walker bait to save Carl back then, Rick even saving Randall, loads of different shit. Shane definitely was not just talking the talk. I’m watching S5 just now & Rick’s treating Alexandria the exact same way Shane treated Herschels farm
@@lyndsaycrawford To a certain Degree I agreed, thought the fact that Rick is like that in season 5 after evrything they have been trough, says a lot about his character if Shane was their leader at that point hypothetically he would be to uncivilized to even function in a setting like Alexandria and the hroup would probably be morally bankrupt, even thought Shane was right about the horrors of the world he would be too willing to let himself go for evil, and thus ultimatly dooming the group.
@@Kurtofon I don’t disagree & Shane did have issues & was a bit of a psychopath but that’s the kinda ppl that were ruling the world by then. Rick went through so much more than Shane to get there but that’s IS the way he needed to be. Rick kills Pete, technically for justice but more so cos he fancied his wife. That’s just like Shane with Lori. Rick wanted to take over Alexandria, he was morally bankrupt by the time he got there. Idk that Shane wouldn’t have kept the initial group safer. I doubt he would’ve saved anyone else along the way. That’s all speculation anyway. My initial point is, Shane was treated like a monster for doing exactly what Ricks doing 2-3 seasons later cos that’s how it had to be to survive.
I JUST rewatched the whole show and I'm currently on season 10 and I was so baffled by everyone online saying how bad season 2 is. For me it was the best season. Yeah, it was "slow", but in a show that's focusing on "what comes next" there HAS to be time spent on the little moments between these characters if we're supposed to care what happens to them and root for them to rebuild. I loved season 2. Great video!
Season 2 showed that it wasn't purely about survival. They could have happy moments in this new world. We got a touch of that in season 1, but it was rushed and didn't last as long. Though I think season 3 portrayed it the best. But season 2 was so important for setting things like character development up for later. Carl started trying to grow up, Carol finally could mentally pull away from Ed, Daryl REALLY became part of the group, Lori . . . well she's Lori, Rick learned what kind of leader he needed to be, the Greenes had a whole lot of learning to do in this season, Glenn matured a bit more, T-Dog didn't change to much but he did seem to start to care about the individuals more rather than just caring bc they're people. Season 2 set it up for all of them to really change into who they needed to be to survive for as long as possible.
I love the show, it waned a bit with terminus but then picked up again with negan. I think the only "hate" I have for season 2 is compared to the comics, it was on the farm too long. But understanding the real world reasons, it did a great job with what they were dealt.
Though slow, this was probably my favorite season, and completely agree the Sophia reveal kept me glued to the upcoming seasons. The slow season made it seem a bit more realistic, like I was watching a reality show, and this could actually happen. I felt like I was also looking for Sophia, then when she popped out of the barn, my heart exploded as if she were a lost family member!
Great. Now look what you've done. Inspired me to go back and finish the show after losing interest a few seasons ago. Thank you. Wonderful video as always!
To be honest: I always felt that season 2 was important (i liked this this season a lot and the barn moment with Sofia was shocking and defining). But to see my gut feeling put in words like this makes me happy. Great analysis.
I always find it fascinating that for all his talk of understanding this new world for what it is and how he can protect them, Shane couldn’t pull the trigger when it counted. It was really such crucial scene to show that Rick could be counted to step and do what’s necessary.
You have to keep in mind that it was his best friend that he was going to kill and It was not like Rick was really a threat so the way I see it is like the way the actor sees it which is Shane wanted rick to kill him to show him that it’s not like he thinks it is
If someone who you love has not done anything wrong to you, I would imagine it is hard to just kill them even if you want to so I don’t fault him for that
@@BioZombie77 You seem to misunderstand me. I’m talking about Shane unable to pull the trigger on zombie Sophia, which is what this video was addressing. Shane talked a big game about walkers were nothing but already dead and didn’t matter but he couldn’t end Sophia, it was Rick who did it.
This video was exciting for me! Please do more videos on the walking dead! Im a huge fan of your channel and love hearing you explain the details and complexity that go into some of the movies and series I love so much. Thanks!!
I so totally agree with you, Ryan! Season 2 was fantastic! I've been watching The Walking Dead from the beginning through its final season's episodes now. The best seasons of this series for me have been from the beginning all the way to season 5 when they got to Alexandria. But season 2 was the absolute best one overall. I really miss the original cast members from the beginning through to their arrival at Alexandria.
Still an immensely hard scene to watch. I’ve become a father to my own little girl since that episode and I can’t even imagine that. A pivotal moment in the Walking Dead, right up there with Glen’s execution.
This makes me miss the old walking dead, I feel like I watch it now because I've been invested for 11 seasons. But these older episodes were what got me!
Hey thank you for this. I've abandoned the show during or just after season 2 on probably four separate occasions now. Now that I'm aware of all of this, I'm going to give it another shot. I was felt like I was missing something
Amazing analysis!!! That scene really did change EVERYTHING. I cant believe this show is coming to an end man what a ride it’s been. The spin-offs will be fun but nothing will ever top the main show this whole story has been amazing as a whole even with a few slow episodes here and there throughout the seasons.
The first 2 seasons imo were the best & I didn't mind the prison. I've always said seasons 1,2&3 was when TWD was best. I recall the actor who played Dale wanted to be killed off due to the producers or whomever were being switched & honestly you can tell TWD has a different feel to it after Dale's death. I loved it best when it felt like they as a group were surviving on their own & together as a group. I actually stopped watching twd for a year after Glenn was killed off. Still can't believe they killed Glenn. I think they undervalued how many fans he had. I started watching again & caught up but yeah I don't like how it became more of big groups& not so much survival& "realistic". Ready to see how they explain what happened to Rick & of course when Rick comes back in the movies. My all the favorites were always Shane (because Rick basically just became Shane after killing Shane. Shane was the only one who was living in reality & was doing& acting how everyone eventually ended up realizing how& what they had to do). & Of course Glenn & Daryl.
Most ppl stopped watching altogether after Glenn. He was much more important on the show than the comic and killing him (and also Abraham at the same time) ended up being a huge mistake. Then of course dragging out the Saviors plot for far too long as well. TWD went a little overboard killing off its characters honestly, building them up just to wipe them off the board, then it learned that lesson too late and kept a lot of secondary characters around too long.
Man, I’ve argued with so many people over this. I’ve believed this was the best season/moment in the show for a long time, and so many people disagree. It’s so true though.
It really set up for the rest of the show. People don't realize crucial the early seasons are to the overall show until someone breaks it down like it was here. Personally, I never really thought about Sophia being such a turning point for the group. Yes, it was a big blow to them compared to characters that had been killed in season 1, but I never saw it as them finally starting to except this new world and trying to learn to change with it. I personally love seasons 1, 2 and 3. 4 is okay and 5 is when things turn to crap though..
I always find it strange that when Gimple took over as show-runner, he started out very strong and then the last two seasons he oversaw (seasons 7&8) were the weakest. I also have to say that ever since Angela Kang took over from Gimple, she hit seasons 9&10 out of the park. Season 9 is probably my favorite due to how freaking well they handled the Whisperers. As of right now season 11 has been pretty damn solid. I’m just hoping like every other fan that Andrew Lincoln makes a return to the show even if he’s only in the final episode.
Angela kang has had some highlights but she has effectively turned this show into a Drama instead of an action/horror/thriller they gave up trying to make new and organic plot points and it’s basically the walking dead/greys anatomy with a few shining moments here and there though gimple was stupid for killing off Carl he understood the story and made the story and it’s characters feel connected now when I watch the new episodes everything feels disjointed Season 9 with rocks episodes manage to capture the essence of what the walking dead is for 5 brief episodes but now the soundtrack has taken its toll and the worst tracks that try to capture a real moment starts playing and can mess what could’ve been a good scene up these last seasons have been a mixed bag and they pull things off but with the no guns arc and jus the way characters are now just aren’t what it used to be Scott gimple at least kept me on the edge of my seat and kept the script grounded and fresh he has made some stupid decisions but his choice of setting and music and cinematography and character building were some of the best to ever happen on the walking dead
I think Seasons 1-3 and a half were amazing. I slowly lost interest after the Governor arc. Terminus could have been amazing if they stretched it out a bit and didnt blow it all up in 1 episode. After that each episode started becoming awful, like the characters all talked like they were reciting a poem or something. Like nobody talks like that!
A GREAT video! The Walking Dead has been such a huge part of my wife's and I's life on Sundays for 11 seasons! It's bitter sweet that it's coming to an end, and looking forward to Fear and the spin offs!
And just to think, this was the first of a many heart breaking moments. And I think when Rick finally saw that with Shane, you do have to kill the living, that was the beginning of another milestone. And unfortunately it was just because of those milestones, the end of season 9 put me over the edge and I have yet to watch another episode. But with the season finale close approaching, I just may jump back into hostile territory and finish it out😱
We NEED more Walking Dead videos. Such a great show that really had a lot of potential, and I would say had some of the most 'oh S***' moments of any show i've ever seen, including GoT.
I haven't gone back and watched any of TWD a second time. Seeing all of that, after so much time has gone by and so much has happened to all of the characters.... That really was jarring. Great video!!!
I wonder what Lori would think of the life her daughter has. Judith was lucky enough to grow up in Alexandria for over 7 years, and now is experiencing life at the Commonwealth which is the closest our group has been to the old way of life
Thank you so much for making this video. The Walking Dead has had such a big influence on my life. Long story short I got sober in 2014 and I discovered The Walking Dead TV series and comic book series not too long after. When I started watching The Walking Dead I learned how to love myself again.. I’m also a firm believer that this is the best season of the show! PERIOD.
This was such a good review. Season 2 was my favorite season and the InShane episode was the best episode to me.Shane was ahead of his time. I became a huge fan during the 2nd season.
I loved this breakdown and totally agree with all of it. For me, I think both this and later episodes show how NO-ONE is safe, not even kids. As sad and heartbreaking as it is, I think it's good how TWD has never been afraid to do this and avoid the Hollywood cliche of keeping kids safe. They'll shoot kids, show them being ripped apart, mutilated, decapitated, raped etc. I know it was incredibly controversial when they killed Carl in Season 8 but I think it was actually really well down and just kept this running theme going, because otherwise we'd be wondering how it is that a character like his has stayed alive for so long.
Awesome review and brought a fresh perspective to this season. I'm caught up but had forgotten a lot of details about this season, even TBone!! Great video!
Great job. However I think season 2 was the best season of the show. We really got to know the characters. That season made the entire cast household names because you learned to care about each of them beyond seeing them run and shoot. Gradual and good story telling and the best payoff of any television show I've ever watched in one season. When Shane says "you're right man...that IS enough" it's almost musical and everything that comes after is perfection. People give the season a lot of grief but without it all, the show wouldn't have been the cultural phenomenon it became. I mean hell if they reveal Sophia any sooner and don't allow the audience to settle into the desperation of her absence, we wouldn't be talking about it nearly a decade later.
Absolutely. Season 2 was so important for the development of the show. It slowed down enough for us to really get introduced to the characters and we got to spend more time with each of them compared to season 1. There are definitely issues with it, but they were still working out the kinks and the show became better for it. I loved watching Carol and Daryl's bond start to form in this season. He really became part of the group and a lot of it was bc of Carol and Sophia. Part of him probably still intended to leave even tho he didn't have Merle anymore. And as much as I hate Shane, when everything slows down and he shoots the walker in the head that Hershel was holding onto it was just *chef's kiss* amazing. His little turn away and the way he walked so casually was awesome.
I've always thought that the best episodes of TWD were "Barnageddon", The Glade, and Clear. I'll take exception with "There's no little girl here..." Hershel was holding onto his love for his wife and people in his community. That was his way of keeping his humanity, while Shane was calling them "things". They destroyed all the "things" that came out of the barn, which they had no connection to, then out came Sofia, someone they loved, and turned their big empowering moment on it's head. I liked Season 2. It was slow but gave you time to struggle over all the issues that finally collided at The Barn. I think Shane was one of the best characters on a TV show ever.
Nah u still delusional and don’t get it .Shane know Rick was gone die and bring death to the group he now he have to act which it’s him or Rick he pushed Rick as u saw gave no choice and rick step it up and now what it takes to live .rip Shane true hero
Amazing presentation and explanation. You and your team did a wonderful job on this. Just seeing the evolution of these characters after this season is interesting. 👏🏻
Dammit this was a great breakdown! I was in absolute shock when she came walking out of that barn. I think once season 11 is over I’m gonna restart it probably up until the point Rick leaves because to me that’s the end. The show hasn’t been the same since
dang! just drop the mic... that such a good break down. I forgot how new, good and riveting it was back then. Strange where the show went since season 2, and how the real world we all live in has changed since that season. 10 years ...
This was a great video essay! I have always thought the show really STARTS with season 2. Despite its drawn out dialogue a times I think the dialogue brought up a lot of ideological differences, love it!
Wow. Ryan, this is why I keep coming back to your channel again and again (besides staying to watch Doug turn around at the end of every episode). I have never watched even one episode of the Walking Dead, but this analysis was compelling. My two favorite episodes of yours are now: this one and why Dr. Strange is the best MCU movie. Thank you for sharing your insights!
"Made it the show that it is today." Yeah, a show that should have been put down like a walker years ago. Amazing they stayed with it as long as they did, even as the viewers cratered.
I still watch all of the walking dead. It's a damn TV show ppl. It's not always going to be fast paced. If they just jumped to action scenes u would never get any back stories on characters or learn about characters. Ppl expect way to much from a TV show. It's not a movie that has to end in a hour or two. I have had episodes that I didn't like but never have I thought it was bad enough to give up on watching
I can imagine how different the show would be if Shane didn’t let his jealousy get control of him. He would have been at Ricks side through everything but Daryl wouldn’t have stuck around so long.
It's crazy to see how the show evolved. All 11 seasons are amazing. I love this show. I can't wait to see how they end it. Obviously sad, but I can re watch it whenever I want. And the early seasons are great, but I also love where the show is now. I just hope key characters make their way back into this world and back with the rest of the characters. Rick and Michonne basically. I feel like they will. And I also feel like the main show is ending, but this world and universe have more stories to tell with these characters we all love. So I think TWD continues through other shows on Amc+. Its alot cheaper for them to make these spinoffs and air them on Amc+ than to keep renewing TV contracts and Netflix contracts. So I think the end of this final season is really the beginning of TWD universe in a whole.
Such a wonderfully made video! You managed to pinpoint exactly why I love the show... it’s trash sometimes with some plot holes but the way it studies the human society and psychology, going deep into the consequences an apocalypse like that could have on all of us *chef kiss* I have yet to see the last season and your video made me even more impatient to catch up with it!!
TWD started out great, than turned into pure misery porn. Around season 8 the plot didn’t even make sense anymore. I simply filed for divorce and I never regretted my decision.
(Somewhat Spoilers) I stopped watching a couple episodes into Season 7 because my two favorite characters died in the season premiere. I've casually seen my family tune in on Sunday's and when I join them in watching for a couple of minutes, I feel as if I owe my past self for giving me an extra hour every weekend.
I’ve said for years that’s the most impactful scene and people debated me… so much realization poured over them and the actors all portrayed it very well… at first you hate Shane in that moment then you realize it too as an audience
It has had its ups and downs but I love it, should do spin-offs doing the same thing in other countries, there is more to the world than America, just saying
Couldn't agree more. This season, and specifically this episode I found the most confronting. It was also the epsiode where I agreed with Shane, and I beleive Rick finally understood what he would have to do. I think really, the next remaining seasons of this show are just Rick's journey to protect those under his care while trying not to become what Shane was, and ultimately crossing that line many many times. The casting for Shane honestly could not have been better.
I'm glad I stumbled onto this content. I actually stopped watching TWD near the end of season 2 because I was getting bored. Now I'll rewatch all of it.
I dropped off the show after season 4 or 5 (can’t remember exactly), but season 2 was always my favourite because of exactly this kind of thing. It was so much more about character turmoil and less about “rargh, bang, scary shooty zombie action blargh”, and Jon Berenthal carried a HUGE amount of that quite brilliantly. I recognise I’m in the minority with that opinion though
I love how you pointed out Shane's reaction to Sophia.. cause it's true. Even through his Rage in an attempt to hype out the crew to The Realization of their Current world. He too felt the emotional impact That Carol and the Group was going through, when they saw Sophia. It's like, he suddenly came to realize that what he was trying to convince The Group.. was actually true. And from that moment.. all resistance he had to the idea.. was gone. There was no going back.
I don't know anyone who thinks TWD season 2 is bad. Just the opposite. It has the best subtle tension of all seasons. You just don't know what will happen, who will die or who will live because it already moved so much from the comics at this point. Anything could happen. And I disagree that the writers should have shown that there are zombies in the barn. Who payed attention already knew it was hiding something.
I remember how big The Walking Dead became when Season 2 became a thing. I never watched Season 1 until the mid-season finale (episode 7, when Sophia died) of Season 2. The 2nd season was definitely amazing. Plus only the zombies were a threat at the time.
They say AMC is the best at the moment, But do you have an idea how well it would do? I just retired and set aside $83k to invest aggressively with mainly AMC and NIO. Kindly let me know your thoughts.
Dude you guys KILLED (no pun intended) this. Amazing breakdown. One of the best I’ve seen throughout all your breakdowns (Marvel included) and I stopped watching TWD a couples seasons ago. Amazing work, Ryan.
@@SinclairMoon lol it really wasnt. oh no, zombies are chasing us. oh no, now there are bad guys who are leaders of towns full of scum bags. oh no, zombies killed some people. rinse and repeat. shit was boring - just like EVERY other zombie show and movie before it. nothing ground breaking about it.
@@WHJeffB honestly I'd reccomend picking the show back up after season 8 if you are that way inclined, the show really got better in every way. My only criticism is that the cast is that big that several members don't do anything and don't have arcs, and that they seem reluctant to kill any of the core cast now, a lot of what some would call "plot armour" but I guess the show wouldn't be as compelling without some fan favs surviving
"There's no little girl here, this is death wearing the face of a child" damn i got goosebumps from that
True dat, and with one solid move Rick Grimes emerged.
And than they kept Judith...
.... that how judith become badass huh?
I agree, that was the perfect thing to say! Awesome breakdown
as a former zombie in recovery i take great offense to that statement
“It’s not WHO will die but WHEN will they die”
“The walking dead” isn’t referring to the zombies
This is the first time I think of it this way, the people are the walking dead....mindblown.
I remember reading about that speech in the comics, it was pretty important
yeah, Rick said it in the comics: "WE are the walking dead"
@@filipecardoso1706 I could of sworn he even said it in the show too.
@@SuperNathan777 He definitely did the night before they met Aaron i believe
I still remember the moment Sophia came out from the barn, saying "no" and shedding a few tears. So heartbreaking.
I didn't really like Sophia. But we also didn't get much of her character before she was killed off. There was nothing there to make me feel bad aside from her being a kid. I felt nothing for the character herself.
Glad i wasn’t the only one - so sad 😞
@@ericanight8359 it wasn't the death of her character that makes people cry imo. I think it is the pain of Carol that makes them cry as she was a character they had dove into a bit in season 1and 2. and then there is of course the fact she is a kid. it's shocking to see a show have a kid character die.
@@DenverStarkeyI suppose that makes sense. They really dont pull any punches with who they kill so kids aren't that surprising.
Still gets me on a rewatch.
I didn’t realize season 2 was frowned upon. Season 2 was one of my faves.
Same
Yeah it was still new so it passed. But the season in the prison was the worst.
Same here. Never understood why people thought it was boring.
@@delconagher12 prison was great. It all really sucks when they came to Alexandria. Specifically after the Terminus incident. Then i started to like The Leftovers.
My favorite part of season 2 is Hershel with his infinite ammo shotgun. Lol
The Sophia reveal has always been my absolute favourite scene. You feel Carols pain. Carls friend is no more. Everyone looks defeated because Sophia being alive gave them hope.
Then Mr Grimes steps up and does what no one thought he could. I remember watching this episode the night it aired and was speechless. Not only me but my wife and my kids - the walking dead was always family night. This show would bring us all together every week. I had tears in my eyes when I saw her come out of the barn.
Amazing breakdown of this episode!
it was a family night thing for me too! i remember we started it a little late and didn’t actually see anything from the first few episodes like for a while i didn’t know who amy merle or what happened at the CDC but when we saw sofia come out of the barn i remember my older sister and i crying bc we all held on to the same hope that the group did. season two really got me into the show it was my favorite season
This breakdown was incredible. Really gave me a greater appreciation for the scene and allowed me to see so much detail that I had originally overlooked
Sophia emerging from the barn is easily one of the most powerful moments I’ve ever seen in a show or film.
It really was a jaw-dropping moment.
I literally just saw it last night for the first time. Holy fuck I'm getting goosebumps typing about it
@@Pop_Shepski good for you! You're in for a really really long ride! I hope you stick with it!
@@kehnemdafriend The gang is about to encounter the Governor next episode
I've been a superfan of this show since episode 1, and Shane's "why is it still coming " speech is still my favorite scene of the series...negans lineup is a close second. He should have won an award for that speech.
Could not agree more! 10000%
My fav scene is probably when Rick goes rampage in 6x9
@@YT_FALLENX that's a good one too! "How many of you am I going to have to kill before you understand?"
Savage!
@@aliengranpa I also enjoyed the Negan introduction it was perfect, the Shane death was perfect, unique opinion (I loved the capture of the prison and the intro to Alexandria) also Rick final scene blowing the bridge up was perfect. Another one of my favourites is recent, Maggie killing the reapers in s11 was super damn perfect! Everything about it was amazing
@@YT_FALLENX yes! Me too! When everyone joins in to fight all the zombies, so powerful and intense!
Honestly, if TWD went on forever... I'd probably keep watching it. It doesn't even matter anymore how fast or slow paced the episodes are, I'm just so invested in the characters that I just want to know what they're doing and how they're doing, even if it might be the most mundane things. It could probably turn into a completely different show by removing all the horror aspects and I'd just be interested in keeping up with how the characters are dealing with their traumas and relationships as survivors in a post-apocalyptic world. The human element and drama of the show was always more interesting than the parts where they're killing or being killed by walkers.
I never want it to end.
Thats the way the books are intended to be i collected them for years then it lost a little too much steam for me
I agree, I feel the same.
I even watched the World Beyond and it was absolutely horrible, so I guess I would also watch the Walking Dead as long as it goes or as long as I live. There are some series so good that in the dark days it's all that you look forward to and it helps you survive another day. And if you are lucky and once you get better you watch it because they are those friends that you needed at your lowest, they were there for you, demanding nothing in return, helping get your mind of things. Yeah, the Walking Dead was like a friend I truly needed and I am loyal to those few friends I have.
@Kris jeez, things must have been rough. I’m 42 and I had one truly awful year in my life. I’ve been pretty lucky, and happy otherwise. Hope you’re ok.👍🏴
Season 2 was very much underrated.
The scene where Shane caps Otis to save himself...
And the scene in the saloon where Rick quick draws on those two shady guys, breaking his rule about killing the living for the first time. Even Hershel has an epiphany on what the new world was in that moment...
To this day season 2 boasts some of the strongest scenes of the entire series.
I liked S.2 also, but to be honest it has a lot of time filler scenes of the sky/horizon/trees that go on way longer than needed, but it seems it was due to reduced budget of S.2.
The Nebraska Scene
And Hershel’s unlimited ammunition scene. Love it.
Good pointing out Shane faltered on Sophia. He also faltered on killing Rick up close. In both cases, Rick took the shot. And it's actually a dynamic that repeats again much later, when another antagonist is talked down only to end up taken out by a possum attack.
I never noticed he actually faltered when she came out. I'm not sure why. He just seemed to not care much to me. I suppose that could have been my hate for him projecting into the scene.
@@ericanight8359 It's your irrational hate man. Shane was at his worst in season 2 but he still had some morality left because he could not bear to put down a girl.
@@lapplandkun9273 i mean to be honest in later seasons rick is worse than shane
People think Shane was right. But he never really was. He saw the world for what it was, but he forgot that he needed to fight for how things used to be.
Had Shane killed Rick instead, the show would have followed a cutthroat group with no consideration for human life. They would have ended up like The Saviors, with Shane as a Negan.
Rick nearly lost himself many times and for brief periods were glimpses of that, forced by unfortunate situations and tragedies. But it's the words of Dale, Herschel and others that lived on in Rick and the group to always back off from the brink of totally losing their humanity.
I'm not sure Shane and the group would have even survived the war against The Governor. He would have tried to butcher everybody in Woodbury, either succeeding and destroying the groups potential greatest strength (people) or they would have died trying.
@@Cthulhu013
Shane was right. He did what was needed and honestly I’d where most people end up.
I started to watch TWD from the beginning.. my wife couldn't understand why l sat down every Sunday night to watch it.. halfway into this season..she finally started to watch it.. now she understands why.. one of the most heartbreaking scenes in history..
Just one of them…Glenn’s was brutal and so was Hershel’s
Ryan! I didn't think I would really give a crap about a breakdown of a season from so long ago, from a show I lost interest in a while ago, but you broke down the story beats and what made it so special and paid homage in a beautiful way. Phenomenal video essay Sir!
I have always thought of this last scene in a different way. You see, Hershel was protecting a lot o people that he personally knew from before. Shane, and all the others shooting, were simply killing monsters that meant nothing to them, but upon seeing Sophia they all hesitated killing her, leaving the feeling of hypocrisy to be solved by Rick.
That's some deep true sh*t
“It’s not WHO will die but WHEN will they die”
In addition, this also portray's the audience perspective of the show itself and how realistic TWD can try to be. The uproar of Glenn's death was realistic yet everyone wants to cling to that hope that death will not be there and if you're special or unique you shouldn't die. however, each and every character will die if TWD continues on. Maybe some might actually live till the end , but the reality is we're enjoying the characters and their developing moments in the show until their time comes. To be upset over a character death is not acknowledging what TWD is all about.
Or how the writing is terrible when it can be. Stop trying to project "realism" into the TWD universe.
Still enjoying it after some serious ups and downs over the years. The final season has been solid and while I miss Rick and Carl the show HAS effectively moved on
Rick and Michonne will have their reunion with each other and everyone else. But I'd be lying if I said I didn't wish Carl was still here. The show would be even better if he was still there.
I’m still enjoying TWD as well. I always find it strange that when Gimple took over as the show-runner, he started out very strong and then the last two seasons he oversaw (seasons 7&8) were the weakest. I also have to say that ever since Angela Kang took over from Gimple, she hit seasons 9&10 out of the park. Season 9 is probably my favorite due to how freaking well they handled the Whisperers and you’re definitely right about season 11 being pretty damn solid. I’m just hoping like every other fan that Andrew Lincoln makes a return to the show even if he’s only in the final episode.
@@archangel5627 agree
I fell out of the loop with the saviours but then when I caught up again I loved it. The time jump was jarring though and its central relationship with Karl and Rick was killed off. Still great at this point though.
@@jasonvoorhees310 AMC are crooks, they didn't wanna pay the Carl actor adult rates even though he was an adult then, so they killed off his character, bastards.
Season 2 is my all time favorite season from the show. It has been since the day it launched.
It was the most grounded, in my opinion, because they were not yet the badasses they are now and I was really scared for a lot of the characters.
Season 2 (on the farm) gets panned by a lot of fans, but I think it's one of the best... How it's shot. Character building. Story development, everything was well done. The show really went downhill after Glen was killed off, even though it was how his character was written in the comics, he was killed because Darryl was being stupid. Never a big fan of the usual fan favorites like Carol and Darryl. Negan as played by Jeff whatshisname was a caricature of a "bad guy", but the show was still watchable at that point. It lost me completely after killing off Carl. I stopped watching it after that, even though I wasn't a big fan of Carl as a character, or Chandler Rigg's acting ability (or lack thereof).
@@WHJeffB It picked up with the whisperers and commonwealth story lines. The got it back on track and made the characters more interesting.
It’s my favorite season as well since my favorite character is Shane and it was his by far his best acting
Season 2 is where TWD really pivots from an ordinary show to an incredible phenomenon. It’s fantastic!
It is an amazing season for character development.
This scene was what made me fall in love with Walking Dead. Shane always talking about who would step up and lead the group, and when it came down to it, NO ONE was prepared to do what had to be done. The steps Rick took before taking the shot, while everyone else was frozen in their spot, I'll never forget it.
I haven’t watched that scene since it first aired. All these years later and it is still gut wrenching.
For everything wrong with this show (for me, only seasons 7 and 8 fall into that category) it is still my favorite series, my favorite characters, my favorite world I’ve ever given my time to.
💯
9 10 and 11 has almost killed it for me.. The 8 first I love but the last 3 has been so safe predictable and boring I'm just watching out of brand obligation
This the 11b finale was one of the worst episodes of the show
amen
@@mullaoslo to each their own! Your suffering is almost over lol
@@mullaoslo wut ? Really because according to critics and people's ( except you ) last three season was best seasons of twd.
I recall watching this episode live. It was incredible then and still incredible now. TWD gets a lot of flak for what it turned into in the later seasons, but I will die on the hill that this episode was the start of one of the golden ages of TV and that it's a show worth revisiting.
Rick was always right, even if it took a bit of time for the audience and group to realise it. He took responsibility of the group (and his family), even if they didn't think they needed it. This nearly broke him to bits over the seasons. The bit about this scene that always gets to me is Melissa Mcbrides acting and reaction. You can almost see her brain shutting down because of the horror of it.
Rick was a terrible leader and wrong pretty much all the time. He had to continually relearn the same lessons. The group DID need a central figure. I don't know that Rick should have been that figure.
@@guyjperson Yea he fked up many times but he laid himself on the line constantly in order to protect others. And did EVERYTHING to try and keep the humanity of the group. This worked in relation to other groups which lost theirs.
@@adriandenton6637 Absolutely. The overriding theme here is: Are we living if we choose to merely survive? And Rick repeatedly keeps the group *living* not merely surviving. Shane was always only about survival, and frankly that is not living, then you really are "Walking Dead."
If this actually happened in the real world and Rick was the leader, they all would have been dead halfway thru the first season.
@@dacash8195 💯
I think Shane's speech was just that, all talk. He definitely showed the group the threshold of civilization but Rick made sure everyone take the plunge.
Shane was bang on about everything. It took Rick a wee bit longer to get there. A coupla seasons later no one would’ve batted an eyelid at Shane’s actions.
All talk? This comment is ridiculous
@@queens2nd2none yep, Shane just got it a lot earlier. Back then, no way Rick would’ve been able to leave Otis for Walker bait to save Carl back then, Rick even saving Randall, loads of different shit. Shane definitely was not just talking the talk. I’m watching S5 just now & Rick’s treating Alexandria the exact same way Shane treated Herschels farm
@@lyndsaycrawford To a certain Degree I agreed, thought the fact that Rick is like that in season 5 after evrything they have been trough, says a lot about his character if Shane was their leader at that point hypothetically he would be to uncivilized to even function in a setting like Alexandria and the hroup would probably be morally bankrupt, even thought Shane was right about the horrors of the world he would be too willing to let himself go for evil, and thus ultimatly dooming the group.
@@Kurtofon I don’t disagree & Shane did have issues & was a bit of a psychopath but that’s the kinda ppl that were ruling the world by then. Rick went through so much more than Shane to get there but that’s IS the way he needed to be. Rick kills Pete, technically for justice but more so cos he fancied his wife. That’s just like Shane with Lori. Rick wanted to take over Alexandria, he was morally bankrupt by the time he got there. Idk that Shane wouldn’t have kept the initial group safer. I doubt he would’ve saved anyone else along the way. That’s all speculation anyway. My initial point is, Shane was treated like a monster for doing exactly what Ricks doing 2-3 seasons later cos that’s how it had to be to survive.
I JUST rewatched the whole show and I'm currently on season 10 and I was so baffled by everyone online saying how bad season 2 is. For me it was the best season. Yeah, it was "slow", but in a show that's focusing on "what comes next" there HAS to be time spent on the little moments between these characters if we're supposed to care what happens to them and root for them to rebuild. I loved season 2. Great video!
Season 2 showed that it wasn't purely about survival. They could have happy moments in this new world. We got a touch of that in season 1, but it was rushed and didn't last as long. Though I think season 3 portrayed it the best. But season 2 was so important for setting things like character development up for later. Carl started trying to grow up, Carol finally could mentally pull away from Ed, Daryl REALLY became part of the group, Lori . . . well she's Lori, Rick learned what kind of leader he needed to be, the Greenes had a whole lot of learning to do in this season, Glenn matured a bit more, T-Dog didn't change to much but he did seem to start to care about the individuals more rather than just caring bc they're people. Season 2 set it up for all of them to really change into who they needed to be to survive for as long as possible.
Season 10 is trash
I love the show, it waned a bit with terminus but then picked up again with negan. I think the only "hate" I have for season 2 is compared to the comics, it was on the farm too long. But understanding the real world reasons, it did a great job with what they were dealt.
Pretty weird I just started re-watching the series and I’m on season two right now. That scene made me tear up.
I nearly teared up just seeing it now. Just seeing Carol.
It broke my heart!!!
Though slow, this was probably my favorite season, and completely agree the Sophia reveal kept me glued to the upcoming seasons. The slow season made it seem a bit more realistic, like I was watching a reality show, and this could actually happen. I felt like I was also looking for Sophia, then when she popped out of the barn, my heart exploded as if she were a lost family member!
Great. Now look what you've done. Inspired me to go back and finish the show after losing interest a few seasons ago. Thank you. Wonderful video as always!
Sorta same, but I'm not sure how much further I'll get than last time. Season 7 was the last one I watched personally.
I was just thinking to start over because my wife never watched the show lol
This show has been and will always be a huge part of my life, bittersweet to see it coming to an end.
To be honest: I always felt that season 2 was important (i liked this this season a lot and the barn moment with Sofia was shocking and defining). But to see my gut feeling put in words like this makes me happy. Great analysis.
I always find it fascinating that for all his talk of understanding this new world for what it is and how he can protect them, Shane couldn’t pull the trigger when it counted. It was really such crucial scene to show that Rick could be counted to step and do what’s necessary.
You have to keep in mind that it was his best friend that he was going to kill and It was not like Rick was really a threat so the way I see it is like the way the actor sees it which is Shane wanted rick to kill him to show him that it’s not like he thinks it is
If someone who you love has not done anything wrong to you, I would imagine it is hard to just kill them even if you want to so I don’t fault him for that
@@BioZombie77 You seem to misunderstand me. I’m talking about Shane unable to pull the trigger on zombie Sophia, which is what this video was addressing. Shane talked a big game about walkers were nothing but already dead and didn’t matter but he couldn’t end Sophia, it was Rick who did it.
This video was exciting for me! Please do more videos on the walking dead! Im a huge fan of your channel and love hearing you explain the details and complexity that go into some of the movies and series I love so much. Thanks!!
I so totally agree with you, Ryan! Season 2 was fantastic! I've been watching The Walking Dead from the beginning through its final season's episodes now. The best seasons of this series for me have been from the beginning all the way to season 5 when they got to Alexandria. But season 2 was the absolute best one overall. I really miss the original cast members from the beginning through to their arrival at Alexandria.
Still an immensely hard scene to watch. I’ve become a father to my own little girl since that episode and I can’t even imagine that. A pivotal moment in the Walking Dead, right up there with Glen’s execution.
Man, that scene was heart breaking!
This makes me miss the old walking dead, I feel like I watch it now because I've been invested for 11 seasons. But these older episodes were what got me!
We are finally at the final season, gonna miss the show and the crew😵
A walking dead video? I'm really exited
I exited aswell.
Stage left lol...
So happy Ryan is covering TWD!! I love season 2. I still watch the series too
Single best episode of the entire series.
Hey thank you for this. I've abandoned the show during or just after season 2 on probably four separate occasions now. Now that I'm aware of all of this, I'm going to give it another shot. I was felt like I was missing something
I’ve always thought this was the best scene this show ever had. Great breakdown!
Amazing analysis!!! That scene really did change EVERYTHING. I cant believe this show is coming to an end man what a ride it’s been. The spin-offs will be fun but nothing will ever top the main show this whole story has been amazing as a whole even with a few slow episodes here and there throughout the seasons.
The first 2 seasons imo were the best & I didn't mind the prison. I've always said seasons 1,2&3 was when TWD was best. I recall the actor who played Dale wanted to be killed off due to the producers or whomever were being switched & honestly you can tell TWD has a different feel to it after Dale's death. I loved it best when it felt like they as a group were surviving on their own & together as a group. I actually stopped watching twd for a year after Glenn was killed off. Still can't believe they killed Glenn. I think they undervalued how many fans he had. I started watching again & caught up but yeah I don't like how it became more of big groups& not so much survival& "realistic". Ready to see how they explain what happened to Rick & of course when Rick comes back in the movies. My all the favorites were always Shane (because Rick basically just became Shane after killing Shane. Shane was the only one who was living in reality & was doing& acting how everyone eventually ended up realizing how& what they had to do). & Of course Glenn & Daryl.
Most ppl stopped watching altogether after Glenn. He was much more important on the show than the comic and killing him (and also Abraham at the same time) ended up being a huge mistake. Then of course dragging out the Saviors plot for far too long as well. TWD went a little overboard killing off its characters honestly, building them up just to wipe them off the board, then it learned that lesson too late and kept a lot of secondary characters around too long.
Man, I’ve argued with so many people over this. I’ve believed this was the best season/moment in the show for a long time, and so many people disagree. It’s so true though.
Shane.... he was HOTT!!!!
It really set up for the rest of the show. People don't realize crucial the early seasons are to the overall show until someone breaks it down like it was here. Personally, I never really thought about Sophia being such a turning point for the group. Yes, it was a big blow to them compared to characters that had been killed in season 1, but I never saw it as them finally starting to except this new world and trying to learn to change with it. I personally love seasons 1, 2 and 3. 4 is okay and 5 is when things turn to crap though..
I always find it strange that when Gimple took over as show-runner, he started out very strong and then the last two seasons he oversaw (seasons 7&8) were the weakest. I also have to say that ever since Angela Kang took over from Gimple, she hit seasons 9&10 out of the park. Season 9 is probably my favorite due to how freaking well they handled the Whisperers. As of right now season 11 has been pretty damn solid. I’m just hoping like every other fan that Andrew Lincoln makes a return to the show even if he’s only in the final episode.
Angela kang has had some highlights but she has effectively turned this show into a Drama instead of an action/horror/thriller they gave up trying to make new and organic plot points and it’s basically the walking dead/greys anatomy with a few shining moments here and there though gimple was stupid for killing off Carl he understood the story and made the story and it’s characters feel connected now when I watch the new episodes everything feels disjointed Season 9 with rocks episodes manage to capture the essence of what the walking dead is for 5 brief episodes but now the soundtrack has taken its toll and the worst tracks that try to capture a real moment starts playing and can mess what could’ve been a good scene up these last seasons have been a mixed bag and they pull things off but with the no guns arc and jus the way characters are now just aren’t what it used to be Scott gimple at least kept me on the edge of my seat and kept the script grounded and fresh he has made some stupid decisions but his choice of setting and music and cinematography and character building were some of the best to ever happen on the walking dead
@@localwarlord Carl wanted to be written out. In the comics, Carl survives and Rick is murdered by Pamela’s son.
@@PumpkinJuice69 the actor said they fired him
I agree 100%. It's my favorite scene from my favorite episode of the series, and it feels really strange that it came so early in the series.
I think Seasons 1-3 and a half were amazing. I slowly lost interest after the Governor arc. Terminus could have been amazing if they stretched it out a bit and didnt blow it all up in 1 episode. After that each episode started becoming awful, like the characters all talked like they were reciting a poem or something. Like nobody talks like that!
yup, lazy writing after that
You missed Negan. Big mistake.
A GREAT video! The Walking Dead has been such a huge part of my wife's and I's life on Sundays for 11 seasons!
It's bitter sweet that it's coming to an end, and looking forward to Fear and the spin offs!
And just to think, this was the first of a many heart breaking moments. And I think when Rick finally saw that with Shane, you do have to kill the living, that was the beginning of another milestone. And unfortunately it was just because of those milestones, the end of season 9 put me over the edge and I have yet to watch another episode. But with the season finale close approaching, I just may jump back into hostile territory and finish it out😱
Ryan back at it again with another perspective changing, convincing and captivating video. How do u do it, Lord Arey?🐐🐐🐐
We NEED more Walking Dead videos. Such a great show that really had a lot of potential, and I would say had some of the most 'oh S***' moments of any show i've ever seen, including GoT.
Incredible video, the ending as really well done.
I haven't gone back and watched any of TWD a second time. Seeing all of that, after so much time has gone by and so much has happened to all of the characters.... That really was jarring.
Great video!!!
Well done. You made the barn scene feel like a fresh wound even after all these years.
I wonder what Lori would think of the life her daughter has. Judith was lucky enough to grow up in Alexandria for over 7 years, and now is experiencing life at the Commonwealth which is the closest our group has been to the old way of life
Thank you so much for making this video. The Walking Dead has had such a big influence on my life. Long story short I got sober in 2014 and I discovered The Walking Dead TV series and comic book series not too long after. When I started watching The Walking Dead I learned how to love myself again.. I’m also a firm believer that this is the best season of the show! PERIOD.
This was such a good review. Season 2 was my favorite season and the InShane episode was the best episode to me.Shane was ahead of his time. I became a huge fan during the 2nd season.
This seriously was great! I could really get into you doing the whole series. Breakdown was awesome
I loved this breakdown and totally agree with all of it. For me, I think both this and later episodes show how NO-ONE is safe, not even kids. As sad and heartbreaking as it is, I think it's good how TWD has never been afraid to do this and avoid the Hollywood cliche of keeping kids safe. They'll shoot kids, show them being ripped apart, mutilated, decapitated, raped etc. I know it was incredibly controversial when they killed Carl in Season 8 but I think it was actually really well down and just kept this running theme going, because otherwise we'd be wondering how it is that a character like his has stayed alive for so long.
Awesome review and brought a fresh perspective to this season. I'm caught up but had forgotten a lot of details about this season, even TBone!! Great video!
Great job. However I think season 2 was the best season of the show. We really got to know the characters. That season made the entire cast household names because you learned to care about each of them beyond seeing them run and shoot. Gradual and good story telling and the best payoff of any television show I've ever watched in one season. When Shane says "you're right man...that IS enough" it's almost musical and everything that comes after is perfection. People give the season a lot of grief but without it all, the show wouldn't have been the cultural phenomenon it became. I mean hell if they reveal Sophia any sooner and don't allow the audience to settle into the desperation of her absence, we wouldn't be talking about it nearly a decade later.
Absolutely. Season 2 was so important for the development of the show. It slowed down enough for us to really get introduced to the characters and we got to spend more time with each of them compared to season 1. There are definitely issues with it, but they were still working out the kinks and the show became better for it. I loved watching Carol and Daryl's bond start to form in this season. He really became part of the group and a lot of it was bc of Carol and Sophia. Part of him probably still intended to leave even tho he didn't have Merle anymore. And as much as I hate Shane, when everything slows down and he shoots the walker in the head that Hershel was holding onto it was just *chef's kiss* amazing. His little turn away and the way he walked so casually was awesome.
This is the best analysis I've seen on this channel, and there have been some very good ones. Kudos.
I've always thought that the best episodes of TWD were "Barnageddon", The Glade, and Clear.
I'll take exception with "There's no little girl here..." Hershel was holding onto his love for his wife and people in his community. That was his way of keeping his humanity, while Shane was calling them "things". They destroyed all the "things" that came out of the barn, which they had no connection to, then out came Sofia, someone they loved, and turned their big empowering moment on it's head.
I liked Season 2. It was slow but gave you time to struggle over all the issues that finally collided at The Barn. I think Shane was one of the best characters on a TV show ever.
Thanks for the puppy palate cleanser at the end, it was much needed! 😄 great video!
If Shane didn't go instane and got to live he would have made a fearsome trio along with Rick & Daryl. Just like Iron Man, Cap & Thor!
Nah u still delusional and don’t get it .Shane know Rick was gone die and bring death to the group he now he have to act which it’s him or Rick he pushed Rick as u saw gave no choice and rick step it up and now what it takes to live .rip Shane true hero
Amazing presentation and explanation. You and your team did a wonderful job on this. Just seeing the evolution of these characters after this season is interesting. 👏🏻
The first season of the show was the best IMO. The show definitely had high points after season one but the first season was my favorite.
Same, but season 5 and 9 are extremely close for me
I don't know if it's the best but it is up there. It will be up there more fi it had more episodes. it's only 6 episodes.
The way Ryan narrate the crucial scene gave me goosebumps
Dammit this was a great breakdown! I was in absolute shock when she came walking out of that barn. I think once season 11 is over I’m gonna restart it probably up until the point Rick leaves because to me that’s the end. The show hasn’t been the same since
Well i still watch the show because of Daryl and Carol and also Maggie
dang! just drop the mic... that such a good break down. I forgot how new, good and riveting it was back then. Strange where the show went since season 2, and how the real world we all live in has changed since that season. 10 years ...
This was a great video essay! I have always thought the show really STARTS with season 2. Despite its drawn out dialogue a times I think the dialogue brought up a lot of ideological differences, love it!
Wow. Ryan, this is why I keep coming back to your channel again and again (besides staying to watch Doug turn around at the end of every episode). I have never watched even one episode of the Walking Dead, but this analysis was compelling. My two favorite episodes of yours are now: this one and why Dr. Strange is the best MCU movie. Thank you for sharing your insights!
"Made it the show that it is today." Yeah, a show that should have been put down like a walker years ago. Amazing they stayed with it as long as they did, even as the viewers cratered.
I still watch all of the walking dead. It's a damn TV show ppl. It's not always going to be fast paced. If they just jumped to action scenes u would never get any back stories on characters or learn about characters. Ppl expect way to much from a TV show. It's not a movie that has to end in a hour or two. I have had episodes that I didn't like but never have I thought it was bad enough to give up on watching
Great job breaking this down! Made me remember why I watched the show faithfully seasons 1-9ish!
I can imagine how different the show would be if Shane didn’t let his jealousy get control of him. He would have been at Ricks side through everything but Daryl wouldn’t have stuck around so long.
The moment Sophia walked out of that barn….damn. I forgot how jaw dropping that moment was.
Season 2 is easily my favourite season
S2 is my 2nd favorite season! I love actually seeing people giving this season love!
It's crazy to see how the show evolved. All 11 seasons are amazing. I love this show. I can't wait to see how they end it. Obviously sad, but I can re watch it whenever I want. And the early seasons are great, but I also love where the show is now. I just hope key characters make their way back into this world and back with the rest of the characters. Rick and Michonne basically. I feel like they will. And I also feel like the main show is ending, but this world and universe have more stories to tell with these characters we all love. So I think TWD continues through other shows on Amc+. Its alot cheaper for them to make these spinoffs and air them on Amc+ than to keep renewing TV contracts and Netflix contracts. So I think the end of this final season is really the beginning of TWD universe in a whole.
Such a wonderfully made video! You managed to pinpoint exactly why I love the show... it’s trash sometimes with some plot holes but the way it studies the human society and psychology, going deep into the consequences an apocalypse like that could have on all of us *chef kiss*
I have yet to see the last season and your video made me even more impatient to catch up with it!!
TWD started out great, than turned into pure misery porn.
Around season 8 the plot didn’t even make sense anymore. I simply filed for divorce and I never regretted my decision.
(Somewhat Spoilers) I stopped watching a couple episodes into Season 7 because my two favorite characters died in the season premiere. I've casually seen my family tune in on Sunday's and when I join them in watching for a couple of minutes, I feel as if I owe my past self for giving me an extra hour every weekend.
It did pick up again in series 10 with the whisperers. I understand cos the storylines were going in circles.
This was an awesome review Ryan! We’ll done! Really makes me want to go rewatch the show from the start again!
Btw keep doing Walking Dead videos who cares what anybody else thinks
I’ve said for years that’s the most impactful scene and people debated me… so much realization poured over them and the actors all portrayed it very well… at first you hate Shane in that moment then you realize it too as an audience
It has had its ups and downs but I love it, should do spin-offs doing the same thing in other countries, there is more to the world than America, just saying
Well there was Mexico, that’s ONE more country at least.
Couldn't agree more.
This season, and specifically this episode I found the most confronting. It was also the epsiode where I agreed with Shane, and I beleive Rick finally understood what he would have to do.
I think really, the next remaining seasons of this show are just Rick's journey to protect those under his care while trying not to become what Shane was, and ultimately crossing that line many many times. The casting for Shane honestly could not have been better.
That’s right
With Jon Bernthal, my man
The Punisher “WHOOOAAHHHHHHHH”
At the end of Season 2
That yell
That Trenchcoat
Those guns 😈 😎😎👏🏻👏🏻🥲😌
Only Ryan can get me to care about a show I haven’t cared to watch in 6 years.
I'm glad I stumbled onto this content. I actually stopped watching TWD near the end of season 2 because I was getting bored. Now I'll rewatch all of it.
I dropped off the show after season 4 or 5 (can’t remember exactly), but season 2 was always my favourite because of exactly this kind of thing. It was so much more about character turmoil and less about “rargh, bang, scary shooty zombie action blargh”, and Jon Berenthal carried a HUGE amount of that quite brilliantly. I recognise I’m in the minority with that opinion though
I love how you pointed out Shane's reaction to Sophia.. cause it's true. Even through his Rage in an attempt to hype out the crew to The Realization of their Current world. He too felt the emotional impact That Carol and the Group was going through, when they saw Sophia. It's like, he suddenly came to realize that what he was trying to convince The Group.. was actually true. And from that moment.. all resistance he had to the idea.. was gone.
There was no going back.
I don't know anyone who thinks TWD season 2 is bad. Just the opposite. It has the best subtle tension of all seasons. You just don't know what will happen, who will die or who will live because it already moved so much from the comics at this point. Anything could happen.
And I disagree that the writers should have shown that there are zombies in the barn. Who payed attention already knew it was hiding something.
I don't remember thinking it
was boring at all.
I remember how big The Walking Dead became when Season 2 became a thing.
I never watched Season 1 until the mid-season finale (episode 7, when Sophia died) of Season 2. The 2nd season was definitely amazing. Plus only the zombies were a threat at the time.
I still to this day wish we could of seen if Shane survived.
This video is incredible. Your analysis is impeccable. I applaud you.
They say AMC is the best at the moment, But do you have an idea how well it would do? I just retired and set aside $83k to invest aggressively with mainly AMC and NIO. Kindly let me know your thoughts.
I’m shocked when I talk to my neighbors and friends about NIO . No one knows anything.
AMC's best days are behind them in my opinion
Dude you guys KILLED (no pun intended) this. Amazing breakdown. One of the best I’ve seen throughout all your breakdowns (Marvel included) and I stopped watching TWD a couples seasons ago. Amazing work, Ryan.
Like it or not…this show was groundbreaking…imagine if it was on HBO or any other R rated cable series…great break down on this show also SC
it def wasnt. it was like every other zombie movie that came out before it and its dont nothing but dragged on for years.
@@JoshuaDay0550 it really was groundbreaking.
@@SinclairMoon lol it really wasnt. oh no, zombies are chasing us. oh no, now there are bad guys who are leaders of towns full of scum bags. oh no, zombies killed some people. rinse and repeat. shit was boring - just like EVERY other zombie show and movie before it. nothing ground breaking about it.
This breakdown is better than those on all the WD channels on YT. Thank you, Ryan.
The walking dead had so much potential but it fell off hard
Hard disagree.
It mishandled the saviour arc and all out war, but since Angela Khan has become showrunner its the best its ever been
Yea it definatly picked up again. It was going round in circles and killed off the central relationship of rick and karl.
@@The_winds_of_change Well, for those that hung in there (which I did not), I guess it was worth it.
@@WHJeffB honestly I'd reccomend picking the show back up after season 8 if you are that way inclined, the show really got better in every way.
My only criticism is that the cast is that big that several members don't do anything and don't have arcs, and that they seem reluctant to kill any of the core cast now, a lot of what some would call "plot armour" but I guess the show wouldn't be as compelling without some fan favs surviving
Once again an amazing breakdown, you have such a talent for the stuff