In the penultimate episdoe of The Walking Dead: Dead City season 2, ''Novi Dan Novi Pocetak" (which is Croatian for "New Day, New Beginning"), Maggie strikes up an interesting connection with the Croat in her pursuit of Hershel, who ran away last week. Meanwhile, Negan embarks on a quest to find supplies.
This episode is strong. It delves into different aspects of our two central characters; after all these years, we're still seeing different sides to them. Let's start with Maggie, who learns from the Croat that Hershel may have made his way to a safe room atop one of Manhattan's many skyscrapers. The Croat doesn't have much choice in the matter; Maggie threatens to torture him to get what she wants. Ultimately taking his advice, the two journey to the summit of the tower, traversing the Croat's myriad booby traps.
The time Maggie and the Croat spend together is actually very poignant in a way I wasn't expecting. The two chat about their pasts, specifically their relationships with family. As they make their way up flights of stairs, their conversation gets deeper, and Maggie's fear of heights begins to set in. This episode really hones in on Maggie's fear of heights; I may be wrong, but she's never seemed to be this frightened of heights. She doesn't just tremble, but freezes and experiences panic attacks. Cohan's performance is chilling.
There's one scene in particular when Maggie is crossing a creaky glass bridge to another building and she freezes completely. For a character as strong and badass as Maggie, it's fascinating to see her in this position of weakness, so close to giving up. So too is it great to see the Croat, an eccentric 'mad scientist,' this vulnerable. This storyline was a lot of fun, both emotionally and in terms of the action sequences. It culminates with Maggie locating Hershel (in a different building) and finding him under the protection of The Dama, who's revealed to be alive!
Negan tries to save Ginny
We've seen a lot of hallucinations throughout the history of The Walking Dead. Pretty much every main character has experienced them at some point, and they usually provide a way for the show to dive into their psyches. In this episode, it's Negan's turn.
When he enters a hospital in search of medical supplies for Ginny, he encounters child walkers for one of the first times in Walking Dead history. It's a heavy moment; child walkers simply don't appear often in the franchise. For them to be introduced in a Negan-centric storyline seems fitting. Despite all his horrid acts over the years, Negan draws the line at children.
The situation Negan finds himself in reminds him of years gone; specifically, the myriad journeys he had to make to find cancer treatment for his wife Lucille. This mission means something to Negan. It's a chance for him, in his head, to make it right. To save someone.
After bashing his head, Negan begins to suffer from hallucinations, causing him to visualize his late wife, Lucille. He talks to her, lamenting that he wasn't a worthy husband. I loved this scene. It's introspective for Negan, something we rarely see. Plus, having a cameo from Hilarie Burton Morgan was a very welcome treat.
Ultimately, Negan finds supplies. he knows how to use them thanks to his time caring for Lucille. However, his job isn't done. There are people out for his blood, but with Ginny in such a precarious state, he can do nothing but remain where he is.
Verdict
With the Dama revealed to be alive and still having a hold on Hershel, coupled with Negan remaining by Ginny's side amid an attack, the show has set up an epic conclusion to the season. This episode in particular had plenty of surprises, namely Hilarie Burton Morgan's cameo as Lucille and the shocking arrival of child walkers. All in all, it had a bit of everything, and I really enjoyed it!
Episode Grade: B
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