Scott Gimple, the chief content officer of the popular television series “The Walking Dead,” recently clarified the timeline of Melissa McBride’s introduction to The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. Amidst discussions during the press conference at New York Comic Con, Gimple shed light on when the talented actress, known for her role as Carol Peletier, joined the cast.
“We were always building to getting to a second season that included Melissa,” he said.
Scott Gimple’s perspective is also aligned with Norman Reedus. Both Gimple and Reedus share the view that Melissa McBride wanted to be on the spinoff. Rather than having her from the show’s inception, they aimed to ensure that Carol’s entry into the series was well-crafted and meaningful, aligning with the character’s evolution and the narrative’s progression.
“She was on board for the first day. And the media says this, social media says that, I literally told the truth. She’s been here since day one,” said Norman Reedus.
Scott Gimple also reflected on the unique aspects of The Walking Dead and its early seasons compared to the different storytelling on Daryl Dixon. He discussed the show’s origins, highlighting the presence of a core group of characters in its initial stages. Gimple emphasized the significance of focusing on Daryl Dixon’s character and experiences as a means to establish the foundation of the series. This approach allowed for the introduction of Carol Peletier at a later point in the storyline of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, contributing to the show’s dynamic character development.
“I think it allows for richer storytelling and it just doesn’t rely on two characters that you already know, because then there are less places to go. I think it allowed Daryl to grow. And, you know, the thing I love about having Norman and Melissa as executive producers is they’re involved in their characters’ storytelling,” said Gimple.
Fans at New York Comic Con got to see the season 1 finale of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon three days prior to it airing on television. This choice was based on a keen understanding of the character’s significance and the desire to reacquaint viewers with her character’s return in a compelling way. Gimple emphasized the importance of showcasing Carol’s return as a pivotal moment in the show’s narrative, underlining the impact it had on the live audience and the overall storytelling.
“We did want to keep quiet about some things so we thought it’d be awesome if the audience gets that surprise. I mean, from being in that room today and having seen it before and knowing what was coming, it’s just so exciting,” said Gimple. “She has been one of my favorite characters since before I was working on the show.”
During a press invited conference at New York Comic Con for The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, Norman Reedus spoke candidly about the range of acting he has undertaken throughout this show compared to the main show when we asked him. Known for his iconic portrayal of Daryl Dixon in “The Walking Dead,” Reedus expressed his enthusiasm for embracing diverse characters and genres.
Norman Reedus, reflecting on expanding his range on his acting when we asked him, shared a glimpse into his thought process and motivation. As he discussed his enduring role as Daryl Dixon in “The Walking Dead,” he emphasized the personal and professional growth he has experienced over the years. Reedus candidly expressed his desire to evolve as an actor and explore new dimensions of character portrayal.
“I’m aging in real time and I’ve learned lots of lessons. I wanted to try to do something different. I spoke a lot about finding vulnerabilities in him (Daryl) and I don’t mind being the hero, I just don’t want to know that I am the hero,” said Reedus.
Reedus stressed the significance of working to earn character moments and commencing from a position of vulnerability. He aimed to genuinely capture Daryl Dixon’s challenging journey, where he grapples with both physical and emotional brokenness as he embarks on the next phase of his life. Additionally, Reedus underscored his intention to portray Daryl in a distinct manner, particularly in showcasing the character’s brighter moments, setting him apart from the main show.
“I wanted to earn the moments and I wanted to start low. And as he character, he’s broken when he gets there. He’s physically broken, and he’s finding himself again and becoming a man again in a different way.”
Norman Reedus opened up about a specific, pivotal moment in his acting career, which was the scenes he shared with Jeffrey Dean Morgan in Season 7, Episode “The Cell” of “The Walking Dead.” In these scenes, Reedus aimed to portray his character, Daryl Dixon, in a raw and unvarnished manner. He sought to strip Daryl down to his most vulnerable state, emphasizing the character’s brokenness and vulnerability. Reedus explained that the intention behind this approach was to create a compelling character arc in which Daryl could rebuild himself from the ground up, both emotionally and physically on The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon.
“We did it with Negan in The Cell. I remember being the guy down here and trying to fight my way back up and when Negan is like, ‘what’s your name?’ And I don’t say Negan. That’s like a “fuck yeah” moment, you know? I wanted to be stripped down starting from zero.”
This week’s episode of Power Book IV: Force delivered some unexpected twists and intriguing developments. It’s clear that Jenard is apprehensive about Shanti’s plans, having had his own bitter experience with similar schemes in the past. The tension is palpable, and it remains to be seen whether he will fully commit to her cause.
Vic’s decision to divulge his entire game plan to Claudia raised some eyebrows among viewers. Many questioned the wisdom of sharing such sensitive information, suggesting he should have kept it simple by acknowledging her previous attempt on his life. The stakes are high, and Vic’s trust in Claudia may come back to haunt him.
Diamond’s potential role as Leon’s stepfather adds a layer of complexity to the storyline. It’s a surprising twist, and fans are eager to see how this new dynamic will unfold.
Mireya’s genuine connection with Tommy has not gone unnoticed, and her loyalty to him is undeniable. Claudia, on the other hand, appears to have very little leverage and power in the grand scheme of things.
The intrigue surrounding Claudia’s fate continues to grow, with speculation that she might uncover Vic’s status as a snitch and use that information to her advantage with Tommy. The power dynamics are ever-shifting in this gripping narrative.
Holly’s unexpected return at the end of the episode was a memorable moment that evoked memories of her tumultuous history with Tommy. It’s a promising development for fans who have followed their complex relationship.
With Shanti, Vic, and Jenard now plotting against Tommy, the dynamics of the conflict have taken a fascinating turn. Shanti’s revelation of her master plan surprised many, and the suspense is building as viewers wonder whether Vic will indeed betray Tommy or if another unexpected twist awaits.
Diamond’s potential stepfather role adds a fresh dimension to his character, and his journey is one to watch closely. As for Shanti, her motives and long-term plans are shrouded in mystery, and it remains to be seen whether her ambitious plot will succeed or backfire spectacularly.
Claudia’s return to Jenard’s orbit was met with amusement by many, with the consensus being that her ambitions in the drug game are a risky endeavor given her lack of respect and trust in the streets. The episode leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next twists and turns in this thrilling Power saga.
“V/H/S/85” rises as the thrilling sixth entry in the beloved analog horror anthology. Within a franchise renowned for its innovative narratives and spine-tingling horrors, this newest installment not only lives up to its predecessors but forges a chilling trail of its own. Join me as we navigate its dark and gore-soaked passages, where storytelling and visceral horror take center stage.
First and foremost, “V/H/S/85” transports us back to the pulsating heart of the 1980s, an era characterized by mullets, neon hues, and the omnipresent cassette tapes. Initially, I harbored reservations when I learned of the film’s deep dive into ’80s nostalgia.
The fear of it succumbing to the oversaturation of nostalgia in modern entertainment, exemplified by hits like “Stranger Things” and “IT,” loomed large. However, my concerns were quickly quashed as the creators deliberately avoided the nostalgia trap. Instead, they forged a path that was brutal, unrelenting, and marked by a distinctly chaotic and violent tone.
What sets “V/H/S/85” apart are its exceptional segments, possibly the most unique in the entire franchise. Thanks to a cadre of top-notch writers and directors, each segment in this film is a cinematic knockout.
The movie comprises four technically separate segments, seamlessly interwoven with a wraparound story that binds them together, a classic trademark of the V/H/S series.
Director Mike Nelson kicks things off with ‘No Wake,’ immersing us in the heart of the ’80s. Nelson’s portrayal of the era’s visual aesthetics is nothing short of sublime, evoking the sensation of stumbling upon an old VHS tape at a friend’s house. This segment blends a classic horror trope with a captivating twist, etching its name in V/H/S history as the first two-parter, a testament to its wickedness.
Indie horror sensation Gigi Guerrero takes center stage with her segment, “God of Death.” Here, various employees and first responders at a news station grapple with what initially appears to be a catastrophic earthquake. However, as the narrative unfolds, a more sinister cause behind the devastation comes to light. Guerrero’s storytelling prowess shines, and the gore on display is both shocking and meticulously crafted.
Director Natasha Kermani helms ‘TKNOGD,’ a segment that’s essentially a one-actor show, brilliantly executed by its lead. Kermani’s cyberpunk tale delves into a woman’s seething disdain for the technological advances of the 1980s, particularly the rise of virtual reality. Her invocation of the ‘techno-god’ with her hatred takes viewers on a harrowing journey. The segment masterfully blends elements of a blackbox theater production with a retro 1980s twist. The lead actress’s performance is a tour de force, immersing viewers in the character’s seething anger.
The film enlists the talents of the dynamic duo, Scott Derrickson and C. Robert Cargill, known for their work on “Sinister” and “The Black Phone,” for their segment, ‘Dreamkill.’ Derrickson weaves a chilling, eerie, and ominous narrative, reminiscent of their previous collaborations. It’s a grim tale of violent murders with a supernatural twist that leaves audiences captivated and craving more.
Finally, the film is expertly wrapped up and interconnected through David Bruckner’s “Total Copy,” a wraparound segment that serves not only as a narrative but also as the adhesive binding all the individual segments together in classic V/H/S fashion. ‘Total Copy’ starts as an unusual science documentary, the kind one might stumble upon while aimlessly channel surfing late at night. Bruckner impeccably captures this peculiar vibe, making it my personal favorite in the franchise. It boasts startling special effects, solid acting, and an all-encompassing eerie story that weaves everything together seamlessly.
In conclusion, “V/H/S/85” takes audacious leaps and they pay off handsomely. Undoubtedly one of my favorites in the franchise, just trailing behind the very first film, “V/H/S 85” segments are a captivating maelstrom of chaos, teetering on the edge of madness in all the right ways. If you’re yearning for another dose of ’80s nostalgia, look elsewhere. But if you crave a relentless barrage of found footage frights delivered with audacious direction, gruesome gore, and inventive storytelling, “V/H/S/85” should be at the top of your must-watch list.
With its fearless approach to horror, it boldly secures its position as the second-best gem in the illustrious V/H/S franchise. Mark your calendars; the film arrives on Shudder on October 6th, ready to unleash its visceral and narrative brilliance upon the world.
This week’s installment of Power Book IV: Force has set fans abuzz with its riveting blend of suspense and emotional depth.
Jenard’s descent into turmoil continues to captivate, while Mireya’s unexpected connection with Tommy adds layers of intrigue. Tommy’s triumphant recovery of his stolen ride injects a thrilling twist, and the ominous fate of law enforcement in the Power universe looms large. Mireya’s swift decision to leave her past relationship for Tommy hints at the magnetic allure he possesses.
Conversely, Diamond and Jenard’s father appear on the periphery of the narrative, contributing little to the unfolding drama. The poignant demise of the Flynn family’s most loyal member, Crown Vic, showcases character growth amidst the high-stakes world they inhabit.
D Mac’s surprising romantic venture introduces a compelling facet to his character, unveiling a more vulnerable side beneath his calculated exterior. This bold shift not only deepens our understanding of D Mac but also raises questions about the potential impact on his criminal alliances and loyalties. It introduces an element of unpredictability, keeping viewers guessing about his future choices.
Vic and Claudia’s ruthless dismantling of the organization in a single night leaves a lasting impression, highlighting the cutthroat nature of their world. This development sets the stage for intense plot twists, as power dynamics within the criminal underworld undergo a seismic shift. Questions about the repercussions of their actions hint at potential challenges and retaliation in future episodes.
In contrast to the chaos, Diamond’s poignant closure with his father provides a touching and emotionally resonant moment. The actors’ powerful performances convey profound emotions, showcasing the series’ ability to balance intense action with heartfelt human connection.
The scene between Diamond and Jenard stands out, emphasizing the actors’ exceptional skills and the writers’ ability to craft compelling character interactions. Tommy’s decision to send D Mac on a mission injects suspense into the storyline, leaving us eager to see the repercussions of this risky move. Meanwhile, Vic’s involvement in precarious endeavors with the police introduces uncertainty, raising questions about potential consequences for his character and the broader narrative. These developments promise a thrilling and unpredictable future for the series, leaving viewers eagerly expecting what’s next.
In summary, I have hailed this episode as the series’ pinnacle, offering a mix of thrilling twists and emotional depth that ensures an exhilarating ride for viewers in the episodes to come.
In an era defined by escalating disparities between the privileged elite and the rest of society, “Dumb Money” thrusts us into the epicenter of a battle where underdogs boldly confront the one percenter.
Recalling the fervor of Occupy Wall Street, a movement that erupted over a decade ago against wealth inequality, the documentary draws parallels to the more recent GameStop Short Squeeze of Jan. 2021. A riveting narrative unfolds, inspired by “The Antisocial Network,” reimagining events from just over two and a half years ago.
The story kicks off in the summer of 2019, introducing Keith Gill, brilliantly portrayed by Paul Dano—a Chartered Financial Analyst and YouTuber. Gill passionately champions the undervalued GameStop stock on platforms like YouTube and Reddit, attracting a growing legion of everyday individuals. As the movement gains momentum, Wall Street’s titans grow increasingly uneasy. In the end, Gill and his cohort of investors achieve unprecedented success, leaving Wall Street’s elite reeling from substantial losses.
Paul Dano’s portrayal of Gill is exceptional, capturing the essence of a quirky yet savvy YouTuber and financial analyst. His performance adds depth to the intricate financial machinations beneath the surface. Supported by a stellar cast including Seth Rogen, Vincent D’Onofrio, Pete Davidson, America Ferrera, Sebastian Stan, Shailene Woodley, and Anthony Ramos, the ensemble contributes to the film’s formidable impact.
Director Craig Gillespie, known for his work on “Cruella,” maintains an engaging pace, translating the script into a visually captivating narrative. Despite the potentially intimidating financial jargon, the film ensures accessibility, breaking down complex concepts for a diverse audience.
“Dumb Money” promises an engaging experience for all, whether you’re a financial enthusiast looking to revisit a captivating chapter of history or someone intrigued by the real-life clash between financial giants and the underdogs.
Power Book IV: Force Season 2 has found its stride on its story and narrative as episode 3 masterfully blends emotional depth with the series’ signature action and violence.
We had the privilege of speaking with Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaudé, the director, who shared valuable insights into the intricate preparation required for such a large-scale episode and the experience of collaborating with this exceptional ensemble of actors.
The Knockturnal: How did you balance your directing skills for this episode?
Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaude: So for this episode to all three of I tell people, I feel like it’s like the inciting episode of like the whole season, you know, a lot of stuff really is kicked off and underway and I had a really good time, you know, shooting it and collaborating with the actors, especially like when actors have been characters for so long and just being able to like, you know, collaborate with them and get different options, different versions of the take and stuff like that.
I value the contributions of the actors and appreciate how their performances enhance the overall narrative. They often bring a lot to the table, complementing the story I’ve crafted. I genuinely enjoy being part of shows that offer a diverse range of elements and keep the episodes engaging. However, it’s essential to have moments of emotional depth to anchor the story. In this episode, we managed to strike a balance by delving into intricate family relationships while still keeping the plot dynamic.
The Knockturnal: What was the collaborative process like in developing the character arc for Jenard and crafting the pivotal moments that led to his descent in this episode?
Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaude: So a lot of it is birthed in the writers room. One of the first conversations that me and my writer, Terri Kopp, was just about the things that the characters were going through. And she explained to me that this episode was kind of where Jenard started slipping, you know, getting into stuff you shouldn’t be getting into. So we were really focused on that. And just the whole time in the episode, he is doing like this until he kind of crashes out at the end there. And that just sits like a whole other series of events in motion for later in the season and stuff like that. But again, a lot of that heavy lifting is done with the writers. Shout out to Kris Lofton, who plays Jenard, because, you know, he had to bring it and really be into those moments. I love that scene in the car with him and Lil K. You really just feel like that savage viciousness, that desperation out of him, which is really dope.
The Knockturnal: What were some of the challenging scenes for you as a director for this episode?
Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaude: In this episode, the most demanding aspects were the stunts we had to execute, particularly the Lamborghini chase sequence. Initially, it was a bit longer, but we encountered logistical challenges on the shooting day, including issues with the sun’s position, which necessitated a change in the shooting schedule. Coordinating the stunts was another complex aspect, as we had to conduct numerous practice runs with the stunt cars to ensure safety.
Additionally, we incorporated some innovative camera dollies, which were motorized and added a dynamic element to certain scenes, like the one where it felt like we were racing down the street. Another challenging scene was set in a torture chamber, requiring meticulous planning to determine the best materials, including silicone and others, for the fake hand to make it look convincing on camera, especially during moments when it needed to appear broken. These were some of the most demanding aspects of our work.
However, it’s worth noting that the actor’s ability to deliver their performances and hit their emotional marks was equally crucial to the success of the episode.
This week’s episode of Power Book IV: Force once again delivered its signature dose of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists. Death continues to cast its shadow over the series, as Chewy, the Doc, Lil K, and now Seamus have all met their untimely ends. It’s a testament to the show’s willingness to keep viewers on their toes, as no character, no matter how seemingly pivotal, is safe from the unpredictable narrative.
One standout element of the episode is the enigmatic character Mireya, who appears to be harboring secrets of her own. The writers seem to be setting the stage for a potential twist involving her, leaving viewers speculating about her true role and motivations.
Seamus, on the other hand, had potential for a more substantial role, and his abrupt demise at the hands of D. Mac felt somewhat unexpected and possibly premature. It appears the series is keen on distancing itself from its season 1 aftertaste, even if it means letting go of characters abruptly.
Jenard’s character has been a highlight this season, with the actor delivering a captivating performance as his character navigates increasingly unpredictable situations.
The Flynn storyline, while improving, still leaves room for further development. Walter’s fate seems precarious, and it’s likely he may meet his end soon, though some viewers might have hoped for a more drawn-out narrative.
As for Diamond, he appears to be a fish out of water in the treacherous streets of the series. His surprising lack of reaction to Tommy’s aggressive gesture leaves us wondering if there might be more to his character than meets the eye. The potential for friction between him and Tommy down the line adds an intriguing layer to the evolving dynamics of the show.
In sum, this episode continues to showcase the series’ knack for keeping its audience engaged through unexpected deaths, complex characters, and a narrative that leaves viewers hungry for more. Power Book IV: Force remains a rollercoaster of suspense and intrigue.
