Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon review standout story, breathtaking scenery

Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon, Louis Puech Scigliuzzi as Laurent - The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon _ Season 1 - Photo Credit: Emmanuel Guimier/AMC
Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon, Louis Puech Scigliuzzi as Laurent - The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon _ Season 1 - Photo Credit: Emmanuel Guimier/AMC /
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The wait for the release of the highly anticipated Walking Dead spinoff, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, is almost over. The series premieres on AMC and AMC+ on Sunday, September 10, at 9 p.m. ET.  AMC’s review embargo has lifted, and I am very excited to share my thoughts.  Below is my non-spoiler review of the first episode of the Daryl Dixon series “L’âme Perdue.”

Daryl Dixon
Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon – The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon _ Season 1 – Photo Credit: Emmanuel Guimier/AMC /

The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon spinoff focuses on Daryl, played by Norman Reedus, who has likened the series’s creative process to art.

This statement is proven true by the fantastic backdrop of France, where the series is filmed. Viewers are given breathtaking views of the mountains and terrain Daryl must navigate. I can’t say enough about the cinematography, which has captured the landscape showcasing the outbreak in France with believable accuracy. The score lends itself to a French feeling, adding to the elements that make this series stand out within TWDU. The series also reveals the tragic devastation of the familiar landmarks France is famous for.

Reedus has said that this series is set apart in overall look and tone and has gushed about the size and scope, which in episode one proves true.

The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon episode 1

The first episode sets things up for viewers to follow Daryl on his primary mission, returning to his family in the US. This episode shows his arrival in France and what his next steps are. Daryl, always a man of few words, is able to say so much without so many words.  Although Daryl hasn’t been much of a world traveler, he, as a survivor, quickly acclimates to his surroundings, even though there is a language barrier.

Reedus has the opportunity to shine in this series as he is not over shadowed by other characters.

Louis Puech Scigliuzzi as Laurent – The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon _ Season 1 – Photo Credit: Emmanuel Guimier/AMC
Louis Puech Scigliuzzi as Laurent – The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon _ Season 1 – Photo Credit: Emmanuel Guimier/AMC /

Laurent (Louis Puech Scigliuzzi) has a great introduction, and we learn much about him in this episode. I can’t give it away, but Laurent will say something to Daryl that touched my heart and made me audibly gasp. 

Clémence Poésy portrays Isabelle as a soft-spoken nun who is very strong. She will be one character that will be interesting to learn more about.

Many other characters are introduced in this episode; some you will love, others you will hate.

Overall, this episode served as an excellent opening to the series, highlighting many integral aspects that will drive the story forward. The first episode features vital character development, great action scenes, a bit of gore, and fantastic new walkers.

Don’t miss The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon on AMC and AMC+ on September 10.

dark. Next. Will there be a season 12 of The Walking Dead?

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