The Walking Dead episode 916 review: Do you want to build a snowman?

Overall impression of TWD 916

It was a little surprising that AMC chose this episode to be the season finale. With the deaths and twists of episode 915, that feels like more of a finale than this installment did. However, there were quite a few takeaways from the season 9 finale which will have a lasting impact.

The fall of the Kingdom was something in the works for a while now. The fact it happened during one of the worst storms ever seen on the AMC drama, made for things fans have never seen before, like frozen walkers, lots of wind and snow, and ice.

But there was a lot of other takeaways from the episode as well. Negan risking his life for Judith and earning trust was a key part as was the splitting of the King and Queen. Plus, Ezekiel taking over the Hilltop seems like an interesting move, but one that makes sense.

It seems as though the survivors were able to cross the border created by the Whisperers undetected, but they may not be so lucky next time. Alpha and her group are more than ready for any conflict that comes their way, and as a leader, she is toughening herself up for whatever approaches.

There were some great effects with the wind, snow, ice, and frozen walkers as well as some really great acting from Melissa McBride as Carol and ‎Cassady McClincy as Lydia. There was a lot to like from this episode, but having it follow the events of episode 915 was a real challenge.

This episode would be better received if it were a regular season episode and not a finale, but the thought here is that it would either have to be a finale or a premiere. Getting it out of the way now will allow AMC to set a new tone when the show returns for season 10, so I think The Walking Dead made the right decision to make it the finale.

EPISODE GRADE: 7.9/10

What did you think of the season 9 finale of The Walking Dead? Did it satisfy your expectations or fall short of what you were hoping for? Let us know your thoughts on “The Storm” in the comments section.