Keeping AMC’s The Walking Dead fresh is all about balance
By Adam Carlson
The Walking Dead television show may be based on the comic book series, but it is the little changes from the source material that keeps the program fresh.
AMC has to be very proud of the success of The Walking Dead. Taking a gamble on a television show about zombies has paid off in a big way for the network, as it has become the most popular show on tv.
Much of that has to do with the great source material from the comic book series. Robert Kirkman’s graphic novels have established a great universe full of interesting characters to draw from. However, making a fresh and unique show isn’t so simple.
A writer at the start, Scott M. Gimple fell in love with the source material for the show and wanted to create that experience for fans on television. However, Robert Kirkman had a vision to give both tv watchers and comic readers something new to enjoy. This led to fun discussions according to Comicbook.com:
"“I was always wanting to hew as close to the comics as possible, and Robert was wanting to deviate to provide the readers with a new experience.”"
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After giving in to Robert Kirkman and seeing how the small changes were done, Gimple is now on board with the unique feel. He still wants to deliver the same kind of emotional feelings and sense of excitement from the comics, but knows that the road to get there can take a couple of side roads every now and then.
"“Over the years, I integrated it with my own thinking, as long as we fulfill the spirit of the comic story. We are looking to generate the same emotions and have a very direct interpretation of moments in the book — even if it’s completely different — but still achieving the comic story. That’s what I’ve followed all these years, and at the end of Season 6, it’s very much in line with that.”"
The inclusion of new characters, situations, and stories has made The Walking Dead such a fun show for everyone. Not only do comic readers get a different look at something they love, but people who don’t read the comics can enjoy a unique story like they have never seen before.
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The Walking Dead will return for season 7 this October and will continue telling the story of the survivors attempting to thrive at the Alexandria Safe-Zone. Hopefully, Kirkman and Gimple have some more surprises and fun nods to the comics coming up to keep the show fresh and fun for everyone.