Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews

Walking Dead #137Walking Dead #137
Image Comics
Kirkman, Adlard, Gaudiano & Rathburn

Walking Dead delivers another compelling, if not suspenseful read. It also is a slightly uncomfortable read. The comic book stays focused on the drama within the community as opposed to the regular threats of zombies or outsiders looking to harm the primary group. The comic is nicely paced and definitely provides a ton of entertainment. You may not find the material the most appropriate, but what else do you expect from this comic book?

The small revolution within the community sees some major traction in just a few panels as Maggie finds herself fighting for her life. However, these scenes are small in number and leave a lot to be desired in terms of resolution. I would have thought this would have been the cliffhanger rather than the one the book uses.

This portion of the review contains some spoilers as it deals with Carl and his new lady friend, Lydia. Lydia begins to clam-up during the questioning sessions and this might be the result of the prison she's in, but it could also be because Carl has become friends with her. She kind of knows nothing is going to happen to her now. Maggie decides to set her free, but in the care of Carl. This is an odd move and what it produces is two of more uncomfortable moments in this book's history. I won't reveal one of them, but the book ends with the presumption of sex between the two. Kids having sex isn't something I was expecting here.

Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle ReviewsThe book definitely delivers some shocking moments. The question is whether these are too gimmicky or if they have relevance to the plot. However, you look at these scenes, they make this comic memorable. This book focuses on just two plots and doesn't waste random panels on items happening outside of the immediate circle of Maggie. This makes the comic book a better read. The book isn't terribly friendly to a new reader as you don't get much action nor do you get much background on the fight that got Carl into trouble in the first place.

The artwork is good but it goes above and beyond when it matters most. The final couple of pages are as detailed as they possibly could be and that brings a whole new level to the word, "icky." Overall the artwork is good but nothing noteworthy except for the ending.

Walking Dead is one of the better comics on the stands today. There is rarely a bad issue. This comic moves two plots forward, one of them could be a game-changer. The book moves along at a good pace despite the lack of action. The comic book dives into some risky areas at the end and might shock the reader a little bit. Overall, this was an entertaining read as always.

4 out of 5 Geek Goggles