1. Beside the Dying Fire Season 2, Episode 13
Season finales are supposed to be exciting, larger than any other episode, and nicely set things up for the next season. The season two finale was no exception, and it is without a doubt the best finale in The Walking Deads three season run. In the episode before, Carls fatal gunshot towards zombie Shane attracted an enormous herd of walkers nearby. As they descend upon Hershels land the episode ends. This episode begins right where it left off, setting up for an explosive climax that fires on all cylinders. The first half of the episode is essentially the siege on the farm. The show embraced its horror and popcorn style entertainment as all of the main characters geared up and drove around for some vehicular zombie slaughter. In the process, the barn burns down, providing an epic background to the intense battle in which every character gets their moment to shine. There are plenty of cheer-worthy moments, from Hershels infinite shotgun ammo to Daryl becoming Carols knight in shining motorcycle as he swoops in to save her. At the end of the battle, the group is separated, and they finally leave Hershels farm, something that many viewers have wanted to happen for a majority of the season. While the first half of the episode thoroughly delivered on the action front, the second half of the episode delivered on the character beats and shocking reveals. Three key reveals were presented in this half, the first being what Jenner whispered to Rick at the end of season 1. He dropped the revelation that everyone is infected, and that they will turn into a walker no matter how they die. This is a considerably huge game changer, and the outlook on life just got a whole lot bleaker. The next reveal is more for the comic fans. The hooded stranger with the katana and two walkers in chains that saves Andrea from certain doom is none other than Michonne, the most popular and recognizable character in the comics. If thats not enough to get fans of the show and comic frothing at the mouths we come to the final and biggest reveal of the episode. As the remaining group of survivors huddle around a small dying fire, Rick asserts the beginning of his heavy handed leadership to ensure that the entire group survives. His character has taken a turn, perhaps affected by his murder of Shane, but as we pan over them and into the darkness, a large prison looms in the distance, expertly setting up for season 3 and promising fans to deliver the most famous storyline of The Walking Dead. So there you have it folks, a list of the top ten episodes of The Walking Dead. I hope you have enjoyed this list as much as I enjoyed writing it. This is by no means a definitive list, and I am well aware that some may disagree with my picks. If there is another episode you feel should get a mention, feel free to sound off on the comments below.