Overcoming adversity is the key to creating drama on The Walking Dead
By Adam Carlson
There have been some very bleak times during season 7 of The Walking Dead, but those low points create a great story for overcoming adversity going forward.
No fan likes to see their favorite characters put in horrible situations on The Walking Dead. However, season 7 of the hit AMC program has broken down nearly every survivor to their core and left them helpless.
But there is hope. During the midseason finale of season 7, Rick Grimes found the will to fight again and appears to be ready to rally the people of Alexandria and the surrounding communities to “Rise Up” and fight back against Negan and The Saviors.
Recently, The Walking Dead executive producer, director, and special effects guru Greg Nicotero spoke with Entertainment Weekly about bringing these characters from their lowest points to giving them hope once again.
"“The fact that people responded so positively, just to the embrace between Daryl and Rick, seeing those two characters and knowing that they will rise again out of the ashes of what Negan has done to them, is thrilling and is exciting, but you can’t get there unless you burn the place down first.”"
More from Undead Walking
- Walking Dead alum Jayson Warner Smith promotes new film, Chipper, watch it now
- Walking Dead actor Chandler Riggs filming new movie in Tampa Bay
- Why is there no season 12 of The Walking Dead?
- Will Morgan Jones find Rick Grimes in The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live spinoff?
- Watch Tales of TWD actress Jillian Bell in Prime Video’s Candy Cane Lane
Nicotero went on, talking about those dark moments. The scenes were these characters are stripped to their core and left powerless are so hard for fans to watch, but great things can come from these situations.
"“Listen, it’s grueling and it’s heartbreaking and, yeah, it is, sometimes, difficult to digest, but the result of that will be seeing a stronger Rick Grimes, a stronger bond, and a more focused and dedicated group.”"
For example, Rick Grimes got a little cocky in making his deal with The Hilltop to eliminate The Saviors. His ability to overpower and outgun their opponents to this point gave him too much confidence as a leader, and he will likely never underestimate his opponents after seeing the destruction it has caused.
Next: Can Rick be a strong leader once again?
Greg Nicotero directed 3 of the final 8 episodes of season 7, including the midseason premiere and season finale. The Walking Dead returns to AMC on Sunday, February 12, 2017 where Rick and the other survivors will battle for freedom.