Warning: This review contains SPOILERS for The Walking Dead: Dead City Season 2, Episode 3. While this latest installment may not have resonated with me as strongly as previous episodes, I wouldn’t categorize it as poor. The preceding episode was packed with thrilling action and showcased walkers in unprecedented ways—turning them into cannonballs that obliterated New Babylon’s ferry. Following Negan’s decision to spare Hershel, the formidable Dama ruthlessly executed Victor. In the season opener, we witnessed glimpses of the old Negan, portrayed by Jeffrey Dean Morgan, staging a performance to unite the various factions in New York City.
These compelling events contributed to a robust introduction to the season, yet Episode 3 falls short in delivering similar levels of excitement and jaw-dropping surprises. This week’s pacing felt somewhat lethargic, with moments dragging throughout the hour. Despite this, there were several entertaining sequences, particularly a notable scene featuring walkers in Central Park. More importantly, this episode served as a profound character study of Hershel, unveiling the complexities of the young survivor, played by Logan Kim.
Dead City Season 2 Utilizes Iconic Locations in New York City
The Series Exploits New York’s Unique Setting
Before delving into Hershel’s storyline, I must highlight my favorite sequence from this episode. One of the most captivating aspects of Dead City is witnessing how the city’s iconic landmarks have transformed in the wake of the zombie apocalypse. In Episode 3, the remaining members of the New Babylon Federation must traverse Central Park to reach a secure boathouse and evade the menacing Croat. This journey introduces them to significant dangers.
Central Park is portrayed with lush vegetation overgrown from neglect and teeming with walkers, leading to a suspenseful encounter where survivors navigate through tall grasses surrounded by the undead. This scene brought to mind the thrilling velociraptor sequence from The Lost World: Jurassic Park. Whether the series intended it as an homage to the beloved franchise is uncertain, but the tension built as walkers picked off group members one at a time was undeniably reminiscent of classic suspense.
Additionally, we encounter a group that has been residing in Central Park for an extended period. While there was potential for an exciting narrative arc surrounding this community, the show opted for a more subdued, naturalistic portrayal, which unfortunately resulted in a lack of excitement during their scenes.
Hershel’s Relationship with the Dama Uncovered Through Flashbacks
Maggie & Negan’s Reunion Looms Closer After a Key Moment
Episode 3 excels at illuminating Hershel’s internal struggles, despite its slow pacing that makes it less engaging than others. The significance of this character exploration, however, justifies the episode’s more measured approach as we reach the midpoint of Season 2. Viewers are reminded that Hershel spent time with the Dama before his eventual reunion with Maggie. It’s evident that the relationship between them is strained, compounded by her overwhelming fixation on Negan.
The traumatic memory of Negan murdering Steven Yeun’s Glenn lingers for Maggie, overshadowing her relationship with her son. Hershel’s feelings of neglect become apparent as the show highlights his bond with the Dama, who acknowledges his artistic spirit while he was in captivity. This nurturing relationship allowed Hershel to feel valued at a time when Maggie’s obsession with Negan leaves little room for her son’s emotional needs.
Intriguingly, the episode progresses to reveal how Hershel discovers Ginny’s plan involving a gun, hinting at secrets that could impact the narrative significantly. The emotional weight of the flashbacks shows Hershel’s dual role as a potential agent for the Dama, indicating complex developments ahead. This foreshadowing not only intensifies the anticipation of a reunion between Maggie and Negan but also adds layers to Hershel’s character arc.
New episodes of The Walking Dead: Dead City Season 2 air weekly on AMC and AMC+ every Sunday.