Rick and the reunited group are locked in a train car waiting for imminent death by the hand of the people of Terminus. Meanwhile, Carol and Tyreese get closer and closer to the compound.

After too long of a break (it felt that way), The Walking Dead returned last night with a bang. Much of last season jumped around, building up to everyone’s convergence on the horror that was Terminus. Many complained there wasn’t a pay-off. This episode really puts all of that in context, paying off and wrapping up not only the Terminus storyline, but also setting up what’s to come.

But, even through all of the explosions, and stabbings, and amazing action and special fx, the episode does what The Walking Dead does best, shed a light onto humanity. Through it all, the episode in flashbacks, showed us how Terminus came to be, and had us question if they were all that evil. It’s incredibly effective, and done masterfully here.

The episode really had it all, kicking off the season with an explosion. It kicked up a gear that many complained hasn’t been present for a while (though I disagree on that). It also shifted the characters in amazing way showing more depth to Rick, Carol, and Tyreese.

If this episode is any indication, get ready for one hell of a season. I can’t recommend this episode enough. Just an amazing start.

Overall rating: 9.5