Cassie’s Image Comics Review: THE WALKING DEAD #99

The Alexandria Safe-Zone is dealing with the death of one of their own, while Rick struggles to find a solution to deal with gang leader Negan. Through their friend’s death, the others are able to deal with their own inner demons, make peace with each other and finally settle on a plan to protect themselves and their community.

It’s almost here! We’re almost to issue #100! My hopes are that we’re not all hyping this issue up to the point where when we finally read it it’s a massive disappointment. Conversely, I’m concerned it’ll be so amazing that every issue after will pale in comparison.

This issue is all about the calm before the storm. Things are discussed, plans are set, deaths are mourned and there is a whole lot of character development. Thankfully it’s not just mindless talking where nothing happens but discussing things like feelings, but rather some actual forward momentum. First and foremost is the Rick/Andrea situation, which after much indecision is moving in the right direction. The same can be said for Rosita, who takes this opportunity to make peace with the relationships she’s damaged through the series. Funerals: bringing people together since forever.

After Maggie’s revelation in the last issue, things have gotten a little tense. Glenn wants to move them to the Hilltop, which he believes is a much safer place for himself and his family. Maggie, who can’t seem to make a decision one way or the other, thinks they should move for their own good but is reticent to leave Rick and the others (their extended family). If anything, the first half of this issue is all about stasis and indecision. It’s not until the end that people begin to stop stalling and move forward.

The character to grow most in this issue is unsurprisingly, Carl, who has proven himself to be completely adjusted to this horrifying new world. In this issue, he tells Rick they should stop using phrases like “good night” and “have a nice day” when such things are no longer possible. Rather, such comments should be removed from the human vocabulary. Besides a sense that Carl is a giant pessimist, we also get a sense that he is more aware of the world and the way it’s changed. He’s the face of a new generation, those who grew up during the zombie scourge.

In addition to emotional growth, Sophia and Carl finally seem to be physically growing. A few issues back I couldn’t help but notice that they both looked so little despite several years having gone by since the world was thrown into the midst of a zombie apocalypse. Considering the time spent at the farm, the prison, and the Safe Zone, a minimum of two years has to have gone by and these kids have not aged a day. That is until this issue.

Only three more weeks Walking Dead fans, then the storm will finally be here.

Story: Robert Kirkman
Art: Charlie Adlard
Cover: Charlie Adlard
32 Pages/FC
$2.99
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