Weekly Comic Book Review

By Robert Kirkman (Writer), Charlie Adlard (Pencils & Inks), and Cliff Rathburn (Gray Tones)

Some Thoughts Before The Review: It’s hard to believe that the “Fear the Hunters” arc ends with The Walking Dead #66. While it’s been really entertaining, I had initially expected it to run for longer than five issues considering how hard it was teased and pushed by Image prior to its launch a few months back.

The Story: Rick and his group deal with the hunters. Meanwhile, Dale accepts his fate and prepares for what’s next.

What’s Good: I really didn’t expect Robert Kirkman to pull the trigger on the hunter situation quite like he does right at the start of the latest issue of The Walking Dead. It’s a ballsy move that really pays off because there’s something undeniably effective and satisfying about bringing a true sense of finality (as far as it can exist in an ongoing series anyways) to the end of an arc. The grim scene that opens The Walking Dead #66 is visually restrained, yet it manages to be incredibly brutal regardless.

Now I don’t believe a comic ever has to call to mind another form of entertainment, but, that said, if done right, a string of cinematic panels can really add a lot to the visual presentation. Charlie Adlard’s and Cliff Rathburn’s execution of the opening scene is a prime example of cinematic style done right. By focusing on the aftermath and emotional reactions (which are strong throughout the book) as opposed to the actual violence that takes place, the artists make the scene pack far more of an emotional punch than a dose of ultra-violence ever could.

The Walking Dead #66 starts off with quite a bang, but the rest of the book is strong as well thanks to Kirkman’s dedication to his characters. Dale’s bittersweet scenes are well written and really bring home the sense that the characters have gone through a whole hell of a lot together. In addition, Rick’s dialogue that closes out the book highlights the emotional burden placed on someone when survival is a concern each and every day.

What’s Not So Good: This is a minor complaint, but The Walking Dead #66 ends a lot faster than most Walking Dead books. That said, Adlard and Rathburn use splash pages and large panels more than they usually do in an effective way so it’s totally understandable. Just be prepared for a quick read when you sit down with the latest chapter of Kirkman’s zombie series.

Conclusion: Harsh, yet effective, The Walking Dead #66 brings the “Fear the Hunters” arc to a satisfying close.

Grade: B+

-Kyle Posluszny