Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews

Walking Dead #62

Walking Dead #62
Image Comics
Kirkman, Adlard & Rathburn

Walking Dead sees some big changes in this month’s installment. The most obvious part of this issue is right on the cover. Walking Dead now has arcs and it’s printed right there on the cover. The banner tells a lot about the contents as the main group of characters is hunted and this issue doesn’t tease that at all, but dives right into it. It’s a very good issue because it opens up a couple of good subplots, it has some humor, some zombies, all with the backdrop of something major. It’s a very good issue.

The standard practice for this series has been to have the story continue issue to issue with eight issues bundled together for the trade paperbacks. With the major exception being the end of the prison battle I can’t really pinpoint an arc officially “ending”. However, this issue takes the bold step by stating on the cover that this issue is part one of five in the “Fear the Hunters” arc. In some ways it takes a little of the uniqueness away from the book, but it is very inviting to a newer reader. In the end, if this trick gets more people on board then it’s a good thing.

The issue deals with the fallout of the death of the boys. Dale is upset and withdraws. Carl freaks out that the stronger members are carrying this old man and wasting time protecting him. This development is excellent because it shows just how Rick’s actions are affecting his son. If Carl survives the long haul he is going to make a great, albeit angry, leader.

During the night, Andrea spots someone in the woods checking them out. Because it is night they don’t pursue. As a result, one of the main members gets into some big trouble at the end of the issue. We have no idea who is following them or what they want but they are true hunters they way they sit and wait and are looking to pick them off one by one.

The issue is packed with goodness. First of all, there a couple of scenes of humor from unusual sources like Michonne. The spots where there is something to laugh at it is usually immediately followed up with something that is not, but isolated instances of a minor chuckle were welcome.

Secondly, the issue matches off a potential new couple. It’s Michonne who seems to take a liking to someone. Nothing is acted on but it was interesting to see her confide in Rick the situation and seek out his council. Though, I always kind of saw them as a natural couple because of their leadership abilities, but it seems I was wrong.

The art is at the top of its game again. Whether it’s a tender moment between Maggie and Glenn or the crew cutting up some zombies the whole issue captures the character’s emotions like few comic books ever do.

Kirkman hasn’t made it a secret that the book is heading towards some characters dying. This issue shows exactly how vulnerable the main group is. However, the main crew has some capable warriors among them so I’m thinking this is going to be a great battle before it’s all said and done. If you are new to this comic, don’t be afraid. This issue is as good as any to pick up, check out and get hooked on.

4.5 out of 5 geek goggles