Following a week of anxiety induced by Thank You, AMC’s The Walking Dead let the dust settle some with the episode Here’s Not Here focusing on the backstory of Morgan. Before his epic cameo in the season 5’s premiere, No Sanctuary, we last saw him in Season 3, episode 12, Clear, and was not the man we first met or know today. Displaying how he has gained a new mentality, the ninety minute special features a monologue with Eastman, portrayed by the brilliant John Carroll Lynch.
- Lennie James as Morgan Jones – The Walking Dead _ Season 6, Episode 4 – Photo Credit: Gene Page/AMC
Experiencing post traumatic stress, Morgan passes his time by killing anything in front of him, walkers and the living. He stumbles across a cabin occupied by a man named Eastman, and his goat, Tabitha. Having a background in psychology, it takes Eastman quite a few tries to crack through Morgan. Always maintaining his peaceful mentality, he eventually gives Morgan an ultimatum to stay or go. Finally giving in, Morgan agrees to stay and learn the art of Aikido and peace. After a few weeks, Morgan does have a moment of slipping back when a walker from his recent past emerges. Eastman steps in to save him and is unfortunately bitten. After a proper burial, Morgan walks out of the cage that is his own mind and sets forth on his new journey.
- Lennie James as Morgan Jones and John Carroll Lynch as Eastman – The Walking Dead _ Season 6, Episode 4 – Photo Credit: Gene Page/AMC
Lennie James and John Carroll Lynch put their all into this episode, battling the natural elements of mosquitos and 100% humidity in 106 degree heat. Lynch jumped in with both feet, learning Aikido and a long script in just five days. He had a demeanor about him that was so natural and pure, it was hard not to sympathize and share his pain. James had to have an idea of the new version of his character and work with what he could, as Here’s Not Here was shot last out of the eight episodes throughout season 6’s first half. His internal struggle on the show was heartfelt, and reminded the fans that he owed them this story since his epic return. Written by Scott Gimple, both actors had beautiful dialogue and a story to match.
- Lennie James as Morgan Jones and John Carroll Lynch as Eastman – The Walking Dead _ Season 6, Episode 4 – Photo Credit: Gene Page/AMC
Following the drama of Thank You, this was a hard episode for many fans to swallow. Some expressed their disappointment and continue to argue their opinion on the whereabouts of Glenn. The reality is simply this – it is The Walking Dead. Along with the chaos and brutality, there is a story and character development involved that the creators go above and beyond to bring into existence. Living vicariously through these characters, there has always been a pattern of a major conflict that we had to wait to conclude for a sufficient amount of time.
After Merle’s disappearance in Season 1, episode 3, Tell it to the Frogs, he did not officially appear again until Season 3. Sofia was gone the entire first half of the second season, and lets not forget the short lived return of Beth. It is in these moments where the most dramatic scenes feel that much more real, making us experience what the characters may be feeling. Hopefully fans will not have to wait that long, but it is best to continue to have patience. As for Season 6, episode 4, well done to all involved; it was a pleasant calm before the storm. CrypticRock gives Here’s Not Here 5 out of 5 stars.
- Eli the Goat – The Walking Dead _ Season 6, Episode 4 – Photo Credit: Gene Page/AMC
){kind=link}
No comment