1. The Show's Finally Cutting Loose
What struck me about series two was just how sombre it was. Mind you, that was probably intentional; whilst the premise of zombies is obviously fantastical, it was clear that this world was one grounded in reality. You got the feeling that this world was not dissimilar to our own, that our world would buckle in a similar fashion when subjugated to these supernatural strains. As such, realism was key- when violence did raise its head, it was often committed as a last possible resort. Whilst badasses such as Daryl were still present and correct, they were only roused into action when pushed into a corner. Shane shot Otis to save Carl, Ricks bar-battle was a result of intolerable threats and finally, Rick stabbed Shane for the good of the group. I understand that this mood was obviously integral to the show, but sometimes it became so overbearing that it slowed the pace down considerably, resulting in long periods of time spent wistfully looking into the middle distance. Yet with a new season coming up it appears that a new tone has been set. Finally, TWD will attempt to have its violent cake and eat it. Dont believe me? Lets look at whos being introduced (or re-introduced) into the main cast. First of all, we have the Governor- anybody whos at all familiar with the graphic novel will know that he is utterly psychotic in ways far beyond any character introduced thus far. The fact that he sports a massive bowie knife only further confirms that this man is a coiled spring of violence. Secondly theres Michonne, who recently sliced her way through the trailer sporting nought but a katana and two zombies as bling. Last but not least theres Merle, and what he sports on his stump is key to the tone of the new series. We all know that much like Daryl, Merle is a highly capable outdoorsman. Therefore, one wouldve thought that when he lost his hand, he would chose to sport something practical- a pair of scissors perhaps, or a tool to hold things with. But instead, Merle chose a knife-club, which after acid-spitting flamethrower was probably the most violent thing one could ever hope to put on a stump. The message is clear; there will be blood, of the shoot-first-ask-questions-later variety. Theres going to be more violence, more action, and far more kinetic thrill. This can only be a good thing.