Tavern Cellar

The Walking Dead: Who Are You Now? – Time Jump, Teenage Judith, and a Whole New World of Weird (Season 9, Episode 6)

Originally aired: November 11, 2018. 5.40 million viewers tuned in to see what happened after Rick’s “death” and the bridge explosion. Written by Eddie Guzelian and directed by Larry Teng.

Alexandria: The Next Generation (and a Few New Faces):

“Who Are You Now?” takes a giant leap forward in time, skipping ahead six years after the events of the previous episode. The communities have evolved, new challenges have emerged, and the next generation of survivors is stepping up to fill the void left by Rick Grimes.

Key Plot Points:

• Judith Grimes: The Sheriff in Pigtails: Remember little Judith, the baby who survived the prison, the farm, and countless other near-death experiences? Well, she’s all grown up now (sort of). She’s a fierce and compassionate young leader who’s taken on the mantle of protecting Alexandria. She’s got her dad’s hat, Michonne’s katana, and a whole lot of sass. Judith Grimes: the kid who’s got more guts than a walker buffet.
• New Kids on the Block: Magna and the Gang: A group of new survivors, led by the tough-talking Magna, stumbles upon Alexandria. They’re wary of strangers (and who can blame them?), but Judith, with her wisdom beyond her years, sees the good in them and vouches for them. They’re eventually allowed to join the community, but their integration is not without its challenges. The new survivors: they’re like the exchange students of the apocalypse, trying to navigate a whole new world (and maybe a few social faux pas).!
• Michonne’s Reign: The Queen of Walls (and Secrets): Michonne, who’s now the leader of Alexandria, is more cautious and guarded than ever. She’s hesitant to trust outsiders, and she’s implemented stricter rules and security measures to protect the community. Her scars, both physical and emotional, hint at a traumatic event that occurred during the time jump, adding a layer of mystery to her character. Michonne: the leader who’s learned that trust is a dangerous game.
• Carol’s Fiery Justice: “Don’t Mess with the Queen (or Her Kid)”: Carol, who’s now married to King Ezekiel and raising Henry (the former Kingdom prince), shows that she’s still the same badass we all know and love. When a group of bandits called the Highwaymen threaten the Kingdom’s trade routes, Carol doesn’t hesitate to take action. She infiltrates their camp, gains their trust, and then burns them alive (yikes!). Carol Peletier: the woman who can bake a cake and burn a bandit with the same smile.
• Daryl’s Walkabout: The Lone Wolf Returns: Daryl, who’s still grieving Rick’s presumed death, has chosen a life of solitude. He’s living in the woods, scavenging for supplies, and avoiding any contact with the communities. He’s a changed man, haunted by the past and unsure of his place in the new world. Daryl Dixon: the man who’s lost his way (and maybe his heart).!
• Maggie’s Missing: Where in the World is Maggie Greene?: It’s revealed that Maggie has left the Hilltop with her son, Hershel, to join a new and mysterious community. Her departure leaves a void in the leadership of the Hilltop, with Jesus struggling to fill her shoes and Tara stepping up as his second-in-command. Maggie Greene: the woman who’s always one step ahead (and maybe a little bit secretive).!

Themes and Meanings:

• Legacy: The Power of the Past: “Who Are You Now?” explores the theme of legacy and how the past shapes the present and the future. Judith’s leadership and her commitment to Rick’s vision of unity show that even though Rick is gone, his ideals and his influence live on. The Walking Dead: where the past is always present.
• Trust: The Foundation of Community (That’s Still Shaky): The introduction of Magna’s group and Michonne’s reluctance to trust them highlight the ongoing challenges of rebuilding trust in the apocalypse. The survivors have been betrayed and hurt before, and they’re hesitant to open their doors (and their hearts) to newcomers. Trust: it’s like a fragile flower in the apocalypse – easily crushed.
• Survival: The Moral Gray Areas: Carol’s brutal execution of the Highwaymen raises questions about the morality of her actions and the lengths that leaders have to go to in order to protect their communities. Is it okay to kill to prevent potential harm? Or does that make you no better than the villains you’re fighting against? The Walking Dead: where the line between good and evil is constantly being blurred.

Little Details You Might Have Missed:

• Judith’s conversations with the new survivors, where she shares stories about her father and his vision for the future, show her deep connection to his legacy and her determination to carry on his work. Judith Grimes: the keeper of her father’s flame.
• Michonne’s scar, which is prominently displayed in several scenes, suggests that she’s been through a traumatic experience during the time jump. It’s a mystery that adds a layer of intrigue to her character and her motivations. Michonne: the woman with a secret past.
• Carol’s burning of the Highwaymen is a symbolic act that represents her willingness to eliminate threats decisively and protect her family at all costs. It’s a reminder that Carol is not just a kind and caring mother figure; she’s also a fierce warrior who’s not afraid to get her hands dirty (or set things on fire). Carol Peletier: the woman who can bake a cake and burn a bandit with the same smile.

Stats and Stuff:

• Walker Kills: 5+ (Judith’s showing off her walker-slaying skills).
• Human Deaths: 6 (the Highwaymen learned the hard way not to mess with Carol).
• Survivor Count: Alexandria’s population is growing, but so are the challenges.

My Final Verdict:

“Who Are You Now?” is a pivotal episode that marks a new beginning for “The Walking Dead.” The time jump, the introduction of new characters, and the focus on the next generation of survivors all contribute to the fresh and exciting feel of the episode. But it also reminds us that the apocalypse is still a dangerous and unpredictable place, and the survivors are still facing challenges and conflicts that threaten to tear them apart. What did you think of the episode? Were you surprised by the time jump? Let’s discuss in the comments!