Rating: ★★★☆☆

The Walking Dead: World Beyond, the latest spin-off series in the popular franchise, arrived with much anticipation, promising a fresh perspective on the post-apocalyptic world. Set in a different corner of the zombie-infested universe, this show aimed to explore the experiences of a group of young survivors. While it managed to capture some of the essence that made the original series captivating, it unfortunately fell short in delivering a consistently engaging narrative.

One of the strongest aspects of The Walking Dead: World Beyond is its young and diverse ensemble cast. The characters are relatable and well-developed, with unique personalities that add depth to the story. The central group of survivors, led by the intelligent and resourceful sisters Iris (Aliyah Royale) and Hope (Alexa Mansour), provide a solid foundation for the series. Their interactions and struggles to find their place in the world resonate with viewers, as they attempt to reconcile their desires for a normal life with the harsh realities of survival.

The series also shines in its production design and visual effects. The desolate landscapes and decayed environments are hauntingly beautiful, effectively capturing the desolation of the post-apocalyptic world. The zombies, or “empties” as they are referred to in the show, are convincingly gruesome and showcase the high production values associated with The Walking Dead franchise.

However, the major drawback of The Walking Dead: World Beyond lies in its pacing and storytelling. The first season suffers from a sluggish start, as the plot takes its time to gain momentum. This deliberate pacing may have been an attempt to build suspense, but it often feels like unnecessary filler. The constant flashbacks and detours into character backstories detract from the main storyline and disrupt the overall flow of the narrative.

Additionally, the writing occasionally feels contrived and lacks the tension and unpredictability that made the original series so captivating. The characters’ decision-making often feels forced, leading to situations that are more frustrating than genuinely suspenseful. The series teases some intriguing mysteries and world-building elements, but the execution often falls flat, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.

Despite its flaws, The Walking Dead: World Beyond manages to deliver a few standout moments and does succeed in expanding the universe of The Walking Dead. It touches upon interesting themes such as generational trauma and the moral complexities of survival in a world overrun by the undead. Furthermore, the final episodes of the season provide a glimmer of hope, suggesting that the show may find its footing in subsequent seasons.

In conclusion, The Walking Dead: World Beyond Season 1 is a mixed bag. While it introduces a new group of characters and offers a fresh perspective on the zombie apocalypse, it struggles with pacing issues and uneven storytelling. Fans of The Walking Dead universe may find enough to enjoy here, but it falls short of living up to the high standards set by its predecessors. With room for improvement, let’s hope that future seasons of The Walking Dead: World Beyond build upon the promising foundation established in the first season.