The TV Show Dilemma: Would I Choose to Watch?
When it comes to television series, the question, 'if you had to choose, would you rather watch...?' can be a tricky one. In my case, I would have to unequivocally say, 'NEITHER.'
Why Not The Walking Dead?
The Walking Dead (hereafter referred to as TWD) has been a global sensation, capturing the attention of millions of viewers across the world. However, my personal experience with the series has been far from positive, especially since a particular storyline took a significant turn. So, why exactly did I dread the show so much?
The Carl Drama
The event that sealed my disdain for TWD was the storyline involving Carl Grimes. I must admit, I wasn't particularly attached to Carl to begin with; he was always a bit of an annoying, bratty kid to watch. While many fans would lament his departure, my frustration was rooted not in his death but in the lack of character development that followed.
Carl was introduced as an intriguing character who, despite his flaws, contributed to the plot and the emotional depth of the show. Yet, as the series progressed, his storyline became nothing more than a mere shell of what it once was. Much of his character development was stifled, and the narrative side of his story became less engaging, focusing instead on repetitive scenes of conflict and suffering.
Losing a Fanbase
The showrunners seemed to have forgotten that characters aren't just plot devices; they're integral to the viewer's experience. By prioritizing dramatic canon over character growth, they alienated fans like myself who had invested time and emotion into the narrative. When Carl's death may not have been the story's peak, it left a bitter taste in the minds of devoted fans who felt their attachment to the series was unreciprocated.
The Impact of Character Development
Character development is a critical component of any successful TV series. Without it, viewers can feel disconnected from the story, leading to a decline in viewership and a loss of emotional investment. In the case of TWD, the lack of meaningful character development, especially for main characters, led to a gradual erosion of fanbase.
For instance, the death of Carl was not just a plot point but a reminder of the show's failing to evolve its characters beyond one-dimensional stereotypes. His death did little to advance the narrative or provide closure; instead, it felt like a spiteful move to milk fan emotions for ratings. This is precisely why many fans view the show's decline in recent seasons.
Alternatives for TV Viewers
For viewers like myself, who have seen TV shows go from beloved to disappointing, the choice can be overwhelming. However, there are a variety of alternative shows that cater to different tastes and preferences. For those invested in character development and emotional arcs, series like 'Game of Thrones' or 'The Vampire Diaries' might be more appealing.
On the other hand, if you're looking for more straightforward storytelling that prioritizes plot and action, series like 'The Mandalorian' or 'Breaking Bad' might be more suitable. Ultimately, the key to choosing a TV show is finding one that resonates with your personal taste and needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, for me, The Walking Dead and its later seasons have become a test case of how a once-loved show can spiral into disappointment. While many fans still hold onto the series' early years with fondness, for me, the decline in character development and storytelling quality made it a non-starter. So, if you're considering picking up where TWD left off, it's worth reflecting on the importance of character growth and emotional investment in your choice of shows.
Remember, every viewer's experience is unique, and what resonates with one person might not with another. It's always a good idea to do your research and read reviews to find a show that fits your needs and preferences.