‘The Walking Dead’ season 7, episode 7 video: Michonne says goodbye to the past
In watching the sneak peek below for Sunday night’s new episode of “The Walking Dead,” it may be easy for one to wonder why in the world AMC would want to release this in advance. It’s reasonably quiet, not exactly stuffed full of content, and it features Michonne whispering to herself while followed by two walkers. Eventually, she turns around, pulls out her sword, and murders them without a significant amount of thought or effort.
The real meaning of this scene comes in what it represents: Michonne proving that she is unafraid, as opposed to having symbolic manifestations of bravery around her. During the earlier days of the zombie apocalypse, she felt the need to have the chained-up walkers as protection. It was a symbol of her toughness, but it also represented a deeper vulnerability of what life would be without them. In killing these two in particular, Michonne is further showing that she doesn’t need anyone or anything to pave her own path. Any person she allows into her life, such as Rick Grimes, is a product of her own choice.
As for the whistling? It’s almost like she is taking the power back from Negan, and not allowing his attempts at subtle intimidating to get the best of her. She claims this particular tic for herself, kills the walkers as though it is akin to her living and breathing, and then goes about her day. This preview is a testament to the character’s evolution, and the performance of Danai Gurira over the years as this character works to become the best, strongest version of herself.
Now, let’s hope that Sunday’s episode begins to make clear what Michonne’s role could be in an escalating battle between the Saviors and the members of Alexandria. Much of Sunday’s episode will be focused on the Sanctuary, and with Carl Grimes heading in that direction, there’s a tangible reason to be fearful of what comes next for him.
Want more discussion on Sunday’s “The Walking Dead”? If you head over here, you can see specifically some further news on Carol. (Photo: AMC.)