Rating: 8.8
In true Game of Thrones style, 'The Storm' provides a calming review of the seasons events, while setting up the wars to come next season.
Although some viewers will be disappointed by the lack of excitement compared to what they've grown used to in a finale, I think it actually represents a positive change for the show - to learn from the best show on TV isn't a bad idea. If you view this episode with that point of view, you will be able to enjoy it as it was intended. With some refreshing zombie action and visual effects which borrow from classic undead interpretations (rising from beneath the ground), this episode continues its trend of utilising old school scares to thrilling effect. It feels somewhat reminiscent of 'The Distance' from season six, making use of the concept of the physical environment playing a role in the apocalypse.
Other than the stunning visuals, the production (in terms of writing and intelligent storyline plotting) has improved remarkably. With usually overlooked aspects taking precedence, like remembering the past by having our survivors take shelter in the Sanctuary, or showing the progression of Carol's character as she opts not to kill any more kids...These are important moments which make evident the vast improvement in character building and world building this season has accomplished. Carol has had a lot of great moments over the years, but this felt like her rebirth, with an absolute masterclass in acting. On the whole, season nine has achieved the impossible - TWD feels like a coherent show worth watching again. Kudos to Angela Kang for pulling off one of the greatest, most unexpected comebacks in TV history.
Writing - 5 Stars Story - 4 Stars Character Development - 5 Stars Action - 4 Stars
In true Game of Thrones style, 'The Storm' provides a calming review of the seasons events, while setting up the wars to come next season.
Although some viewers will be disappointed by the lack of excitement compared to what they've grown used to in a finale, I think it actually represents a positive change for the show - to learn from the best show on TV isn't a bad idea. If you view this episode with that point of view, you will be able to enjoy it as it was intended. With some refreshing zombie action and visual effects which borrow from classic undead interpretations (rising from beneath the ground), this episode continues its trend of utilising old school scares to thrilling effect. It feels somewhat reminiscent of 'The Distance' from season six, making use of the concept of the physical environment playing a role in the apocalypse.
Other than the stunning visuals, the production (in terms of writing and intelligent storyline plotting) has improved remarkably. With usually overlooked aspects taking precedence, like remembering the past by having our survivors take shelter in the Sanctuary, or showing the progression of Carol's character as she opts not to kill any more kids...These are important moments which make evident the vast improvement in character building and world building this season has accomplished. Carol has had a lot of great moments over the years, but this felt like her rebirth, with an absolute masterclass in acting. On the whole, season nine has achieved the impossible - TWD feels like a coherent show worth watching again. Kudos to Angela Kang for pulling off one of the greatest, most unexpected comebacks in TV history.
Writing - 5 Stars Story - 4 Stars Character Development - 5 Stars Action - 4 Stars