Following the triumphant conclusion of The Walking Dead: Dead City, I eagerly anticipated Daryl Dixon’s next chapter post-main show. To my surprise, Daryl found himself thrust into uncharted French territory. I had the opportunity to dive into the first season of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, and the excitement continued at San Diego Comic Con when AMC unveiled its action-packed renewal for a second season.
Let’s dive straight into the breathtaking visuals of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. The production and cinematography truly excel in capturing the essence of the zombie outbreak in France. From the grandeur of the mountains and winding roads to the eerie transformation of iconic landmarks and the haunting beauty of rural landscapes, it’s as if you’re embarking on an epic adventure within an expansive open-world video game.
Another intriguing facet of the visual experience is the seamless integration of the entire French landscape into Daryl Dixon’s environment. Daryl, being in a foreign land, grapples with the linguistic and cultural differences that surround him. His inability to comprehend the entirety of France forces him to rely on either a translator or his own wits to navigate this unfamiliar terrain. Every step he takes, every interaction he has, becomes a puzzle to solve in his quest to find his way back home.
It’s worth noting that Daryl is not the sole American who has found themselves in France within the storyline. However, their paths to arriving in this foreign land diverged significantly from Daryl’s, adding an intriguing layer of complexity to the narrative.
Isabelle undeniably shines as one of the standout characters in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. At the behest of AMC, I must tread carefully around revealing too much about her major plot developments, but I can share that her character introduces viewers to the very origins of the outbreak in France through a poignant flashback scene. To put it frankly, Isabelle evolves into the show’s most compelling character, taking me on a journey from initially perceiving her as inconspicuous to gaining profound insight into the depth of her character and the reasons behind her actions. Her character arc is nothing short of riveting, and it adds an extra layer of intrigue to the series.
Daryl Dixon, on the other hand, undergoes remarkable character development in this series, allowing Norman Reedus to showcase a broader range in his acting abilities. This transformation is particularly notable because Daryl takes on the role of the main lead within an entirely new cast. His standout moments occur in episodes 2, 4, and 6. While it might appear as though he is being humanized for the more casual viewers, I found this evolution necessary to demonstrate how his character has evolved from his time in the main show.
Laurent is what happens when you throw in a Fear The Walking Dead story on another child. I find him to be very pointless and there is also one scene at the start of an unspecified episode that annoyed the shit out of me. I will only say that it involves a walker horde and him. I will let your imagination think of it. However, who his mother is for this story ties into the start of the apocalypse in France.
Setting aside those points, my chief criticisms of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon revolve around its disjointed storytelling. Following the initial episode, it becomes evident that there are issues with pacing, writing, and a noticeable shift in tone. The narrative loses its sense of direction, as if attempting to check off a laundry list of elements to cram into the storyline. Regrettably, this approach lacks the depth and substance needed to truly engage the audience.
Remember those variant walkers you saw on the main show? We do not get much of that here besides two major scenes. I would have thought what we saw at the end of World Beyond would play into Daryl Dixon and that was only half the truth. It does not help that the main villain is generic as hell.
The action is great. Especially towards the end of the season. I also cannot reveal what led Daryl to France, but I can say that he had a pit stop at Maine prior to the incident that led him there. I just wish that it did not take a long number of episodes to show this.
In conclusion, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon is a must-watch for dedicated fans looking to stay connected to the broader franchise. It certainly delivers on the fronts of action and suspense, providing the kind of gripping entertainment viewers have come to expect from the series. However, my only lament is the missed opportunity for a more captivating and robust storytelling narrative.
A greater emphasis on character depth and plot development could have elevated the series from being merely entertaining to truly engrossing. Nonetheless, for those invested in the world of The Walking Dead, it’s an essential addition to the canon.
Also, watch until the final scene of the season finale.
At Starrcast 2023, the wrestling world comes alive with a special touch of nostalgia as wrestlers from around the globe gather to share their cherished Chicago memories.
In a city where wrestling history has been etched into the very fabric of its culture, these athletes take the stage not just to showcase their incredible talents, but to pay homage to the iconic moments that have unfolded in this wrestling industry, which took place at the Hyatt Hotel over this past weekend.
Matt Cardona, formerly known as WWE’s Zack Ryder, told us that he lost his GCW title in Chicago, calling it the “Chicago Screwjob” as he never got a rematch. Beyond this, he has a passion for wrestling figure collecting and shared some of his plans to work with talent to bring these figures to life in the upcoming months.
“I like to see Demolition and now we’re making their figures of Marty Jannetty. So now it’s my turn to make the figures. So I get to go around these conventions and meet guys I grew up watching, or even guys like Nick Gage, who I hate, but I’ll make a figure of them and I’ll make money off them. So it’s fun to collect figures and to make figures,” he said.
Cardona is no stranger to social media as he was one of the first over a decade ago to use it for his advantage to broaden his awareness beyond the wrestling bubble.
“I mean, it’s smart, it’s free advertising, Twitter, X, whatever you want to call it, YouTube, Tik Tok, Instagram. It is all free advertising. Double edged sword. It’s free for everybody. How are you going to stand out from every other wrestler? I don’t know. Some things you just gotta throw at the wall. The Indie God thing, It was supposed to be a one night spoof. Just come out dressed as Indiana Jones one night. But I saw the match on social media and I realized that I got something here. And now I’m selling phone figures, hats, micro rollers, figures, and stickers. like I’m making so much money off something else, mostly a one night spoof. So you just have to capitalize and be aware of what your audience wants,” said Cardona.
As the wrestlers take a trip down memory lane, their stories provide a poignant reminder of the deep connection between the squared circle and the city that has played host to some of the most unforgettable moments in wrestling history. Starrcast 2023 is not just an event; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of wrestling in the Windy City.
AEW Superstar Will “Powerhouse” Hobbs, who had his match against Miro on AEW All Out this past weekend, told us at Starrcast that the fans are the best part of Chicago.
“Every time we come here, it’s a banger for me. just specially being in front of the Chicago crowd. I’ve said in a few interviews that the fans of Chicago let you know how they feel and they bring a different vibe,” he said, adding that one of his favorite hip hop artists is Ice Cube when asked about the 50th anniversary of the music genre.
AEW Superstar Skye Blue, who is a Chicago native, shared the same sentiment about the fans while also explaining that she has navigated the grueling 12-hour car rides and wrestled in venues practically within walking distance. Reflecting on her experiences, Skye Blue considers the worst scenario to be the unfortunate convergence of a flat tire and a traffic ticket on the very same day, a frustrating twist in the wrestling journey. Conversely, her best moments on the road are exemplified by the sheer simplicity of a quick five-minute drive to the show, where convenience reigns supreme, and she finds himself right at the heart of the action.
“I love Chicago. It’s very heartfelt to me that I get to represent Chicago for AEW. So I’m just very grateful that I get to say I’m from Chicago for AEW and I’ve done so many indies throughout Chicago,” she said.
Ricky Starks told us that he has a deep respect for the people of Chicago because they’ve treated him so nicely. Starks cited that the day before Starrcast, someone just stopped him to meet him and was so polite and kind and very encouraging.
“That’s the thing, fans are very encouraging for someone who kind of had to give himself his own encouragement when I was growing up. I had some fans come up to me and they recognized me on the street and they were very sweet people. And this was two years ago when I wasn’t on the All Out pay per view. And I vowed that the next year, I would be and I did. And now I’d vowed that I would do something bigger and better,” he said.
Also to note, WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett took the stage to talk about Chicago at Starrcast. When Jeff Jarrett took the stage at the Starrcast panel, the room buzzed with anticipation.
With a career spanning decades, Jarrett’s presence was a testament to his enduring legacy in the wrestling world. As he settled into his seat, fans and fellow wrestling enthusiasts hung on his every word. Jarrett delved into the storied chapters of his career, sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes and memorable encounters with some of the industry’s biggest names.
His charismatic storytelling, coupled with his passion for the sport, had the audience captivated, making his Starrcast appearance a truly unforgettable moment for all in attendance. It was a rare opportunity to hear firsthand from a wrestling icon whose contributions continue to shape the industry.
The excitement reaches a fever pitch as STARZ announces the long-awaited return of “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” with its third season set to debut on December 1.
Fans can mark their calendars for the thrilling journey ahead, as STARZ reveals tantalizing first-look photos that offer a glimpse into the riveting narrative. The highly anticipated new episodes of “Raising Kanan” will be available for streaming on the STARZ app and on-demand platforms, while also captivating audiences on linear television in the U.S., Canada, and internationally on the LIONSGATE+ premium streaming platform in the U.K. and Ireland.
In the heart of Southside Jamaica, Queens, the main character’s tumultuous journey resumes right where it left off after season two. The aftermath of the Mob’s relentless assault on Raquel, Marvin, and Lou-Lou reverberates through the narrative, leaving emotions high and the stakes even higher.
As the captivating drama unfolds, viewers can expect the introduction of new cast members who will further enrich the storyline. Wendell Pierce and Erika Woods take on the roles of “Snaps” and “Pop” Henry, while Grantham Coleman steps into the shoes of “Ronnie.” These fresh faces join the ensemble, adding depth to the already gripping ensemble.
Returning to the screen are familiar favorites, including the incomparable Patina Miller, reprising her role as “Raquel Thomas,” and MeKai Curtis, captivating audiences once more in the titular role of “Kanan Stark.” The engaging narrative promises to explore the intricate web of relationships and challenges that continue to shape the Thomas family’s destiny.
As anticipation builds, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” is gearing up for a new chapter filled with twists, turns, and unmissable moments. With the premiere date locked in, fans can look forward to being transported back into the vibrant and gritty world of Queens, where loyalties are tested, alliances shift, and the pursuit of power knows no bounds.
In the highly anticipated second season of Power Book IV: Force, there are no brakes on the thrilling ride that awaits.
Tommy Egan, now a hunted man, faces threats from both the Flynn family and the relentless police force, the stakes are higher than ever. His unexpected alliance with a key character from the previous season proves to be a perfect match, adding layers of intrigue to the unfolding narrative.
This season takes a creative turn by using social media as a covert tool for product promotion, showcasing the dealers’ inventive methods of spreading their message. However, the consequences that accompany this approach promise a gripping journey throughout the rest of the season.
The sibling rivalry between Jenard and Diamond escalates, adding an exciting dynamic to the storyline. Both characters undergo substantial development, especially Jenard, who transforms from a one-dimensional figure into a driven individual with a compelling motive.
The early mourning of Gloria and Liliana’s deaths leaves Vic grappling with grief. The impending impact on his family dynamics, especially considering Claudia’s apprehension about Tommy, adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding drama. The ominous threat to the Dahlia recipe intensifies the suspense.
Tommy’s quest for justice following Liliana’s death unravels a gripping mystery, introducing new characters that promise to play pivotal roles throughout the season. The narrative unfolds seamlessly, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Overall, the first episode of Power Book IV: Force’s second season not only meets but exceeds expectations. The core cast delivers exceptional performances, with every line and scene feeling remarkably natural and authentic. The episode leaves audiences eagerly expecting more, setting the stage for an exhilarating season ahead.
Leading pop culture lifestyle brand, Funko, Inc., is rewriting the rules of engagement with the introduction of “Pop! Yourself” – a captivating evolution of its iconic Pops! line.
This innovative offering empowers enthusiasts to transcend the boundaries of fandom by creating personalized Pops of themselves and their loved ones. Today marks the official online launch of Pop! Yourself on Funko.com, allowing fans to dive into a world of creative self-expression for $30.
Pop! Yourself represents a groundbreaking leap forward in the iconic Pops! line, enabling aficionados to curate a bespoke Pop!pleganger that resonates with their individuality. From friends and family to co-workers, the canvas for creativity is limitless.
As Funko fans worldwide revel in the excitement of Pop! Yourself, the company is poised to elevate the experience even further in 2024. Anticipating riveting collaborations with luminaries from the realms of entertainment, sports, and music, Funko is set to unfurl a captivating tapestry of customization possibilities. This intersection of personalization and popular culture promises to redefine the fan experience in ways previously unimagined.
In an era where individuality is celebrated, Pop! Yourself stands as a beacon of self-expression, seamlessly intertwining the worlds of collectibles and creativity. Funko’s unyielding commitment to innovation is on full display, offering enthusiasts a journey that transcends the ordinary and ushers in a new era of personalized pop culture connections.
We got a chance to preview this at San Diego Comic Con this past July. Read more about it here.
WWE Summerslam held its press conference after the show and we were able to go there to attend it.
WWE Summerslam held on the 5th of August was a great night as it took place in Detroit, Michigan and there were many fans in attendance, making it a great success.
The city of Detroit played host to a number of WWE dramas on Saturday night, as the ongoing storyline of The Bloodline took center stage once again for wrestling fans and the city served as the backdrop for many of the narratives for WWE Summerslam.
In a battle of “Tribal Combat,” Jey Uso challenged Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship as well as to be recognized as the “Tribal Chief.” The biggest question was how would Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso play a role?
There are also three additional belts at stake at WWE Summerslam, as Asuka is battling Charlotte Flair and Bianca Belair for the Women’s Championship, which Bianca won. However, Iyo Sky cashed in her Money in the Bank contract to win the championship for the first time. As for the World Heavyweight Championship, Finn Balor took on Seth “Freakin” Rollins, and Gunther defended his Intercontinental Championship against Drew McIntyre.
The event was attended by over 50,000 WWE fans from all over the world. In the early stages of WWE Summerslam, there were already activities for fans to take part in. C4 Energy was giving away its new product to attendees at the event, and it proved to be beneficial since the weather outside was extremely hot and humid. In addition to the activation held by Cricket Wireless, 2K Games was also there to offer fans the chance to play WWE 2K23 and cut promos as WWE superstars.
With their tremendous advertising investment in the Detroit market, WWE was able to leverage billboards, digital out-of-home advertising, and media displays all over the city, demonstrating a significant investment in this market.
When it came time for an epic match between Rhodes and Lesnar, both stars were more than ready to deliver. In order to prolong their wait until WrestleMania 40, WWE intends to keep Rhodes far from the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Despite Rhodes’ popularity, he remains the favorite to face Reigns in the main event of WWE Universe. There was a big surprise in the outcome of this match when Brock Lesnar decided to endorse Cody Rhodes, which was something no one anticipated would happen.
With its November series finale for The Walking Dead that wrapped up the network’s flagship zombie drama, On Friday, AMC returned to Hall H at the San Diego Comic-Con to preview episode two of the series. Trailers were shown at the event. The Walking Dead Universe Fan Watch Party in Hall H at Comic-Con was the place where all the highlights and reveals from The Walking Dead Universe came out, including the first look at The Walking Dead: Dead City as well as The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, Fear the Walking Dead, and The Walking Dead: Rick & Michonne. For this watch party, Hall H was full at capacity!
It has been announced that a Walking Dead spin-off starring Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Maggie and Negan, which premiered on July 23rd, has been renewed for season 2 by AMC. The Maggie and Negan Walking Dead spin-off also stars the returning Salim and Rick Grimes. There has been a huge growth in viewership for The Walking Dead since the first episode premiered in June, as it has been the #1 series premiere among all new and returning series on AMC+, including The Walking Dead, and the number of viewers has increased with each episode.
During the Comic-Con, AMC released the trailer for The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, revealing new footage from the series that finds Daryl (Reedus) marooned in France after getting separated from his crew. The two main characters, Genet (Anne Charrier) and Codron (Romain Levi), are trying to get ahold of “the American” messenger, who is meant to protect Laurent (Louis Puech Scigliuzzi), the survivor who is supposed to lead humanity back to life. In advance of Daryl Dixon’s premiere on AMC, it was announced that a second season has been renewed for the series. There was also a screening of the first 20 minutes of the episode that was shown to the attendees.
On Sunday, October 22nd, AMC announced that the final episode of Fear the Walking Dead will premiere: it will air on Sunday, October 22nd. The original Walking Dead spin-off is entering the final months of its eighth and final season, which kicks off with Madison Clark (Kim Dickens), Victor Strand (Colman Domingo), Luciana (Danay Garca), and Daniel Salazar (Rubén Blades), all of whom have a prominent part to play in the finale. The unexpected return of Troy is also a highlight of the preview.
The AMC network has released a short teaser video which reveals the first glimpse of the upcoming Rick and Michonne Walking Dead spin-off series that will be directed by Scott M. Gimple. As of 2024, AMC and AMC+ will debut The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live, a six-episode series that airs on AMC and AMC+.
There is a noticeable difference in atmosphere at this year’s San Diego Comic Con, because the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike had a dramatic impact on the show.
Nevertheless, passionate attendees did not let that stop them from attending San Diego Comic Con as there was something to do for everyone at the event. From after parties to meetups with film and television properties, there was something to suit everyone’s interests. In fact, there were many activations that I attended a short time before they opened to the public, including One of the most popular activations at San Diego Comic Con, AMC’s Immortal Universe, as many convention goers named this as their favorite activation. Here are just a few that I thought stood out to me out of all of them.
The party that was organized by XLE Productions was an all-out celebration of the 90’s. It was more than just the music, it was the aesthetics, presentation, and production that brought me back to the Saturday nights I spent watching Nickelodeon in the mid 90’s. Everything was included, even the orange couch. A spokesperson for the venue told us that 90’s nostalgia is a huge hit among millennials, and that they wanted to introduce it to the Gen Z audience born after 2000 who have never experienced this decade before.
From the same company, they also wanted to take advantage of the Barbie movie, which premiered just this week, and tap into the market. The Malibu Daydream Experience brought out the best in the Barbie brand and there were also photo sections where everyone could act out their scene and have fun as they did so. In addition, it is worth mentioning that this part was not connected to the Mattel brand in any way.
As part of San Diego Comic Con, Fandom usually hosts a party, but this year marked the brand’s first themed activation. To drive awareness around the dangers of youth vaping, Fandom created a ten foot metal monster inspired by classic Kaiju movies like Godzilla vs. The Smog Monster. Additionally, attendees were able to participate in various augmented reality experiences that brought the monster to life. Through engaging content from influencers, those watching the weekend’s events from home can also engage with the “Metallic Monster.” Also to note, there were local food businesses that were also there and it gave them a boost in sales and social media awareness.
Most people at Comic Con were unaware of this exhibit until they saw it, but Cozi TV celebrated 30 years of Roseanne during San Diego Comic-Con this year with The Lanford Lunch Box. In the first season of Roseanne, the diner from the series was introduced as the place where Roseanne and her sister Jackie worked as waitresses. Furthermore, over there, there was also a mini-carnival with a lot of games and puzzles to do, as well as a lot more activities.
