Issue 149, which can be purchased here, is a pivotal moment in The Walking Dead due to the events that occurred since issue 144. These circumstances have shown that the Whisperers are dangerous and will kill. The 4 communities are angrier and upset with both the situation and leaders and Rick is on the brink of losing his leadership position. This issue provides the start to a solution that will mitigate some of these problems as Rick begins to make arrangements to militarizes the 4 communities. Issue 149 is the start of a new era in The Walking Dead.
The Good:
The last few issues of The Walking Dead have been debating the best possible way to address the anger that the communities have towards the Whisperers. As a result of these debates Rick has turned to Negan for advice. Negan’s conversation with Rick shows him the difference between his people and the Whisperers by establishing an “Us versus Them” mentality. Negan further goes on to use himself as an example of having people who hated him yet remained loyal to him as he provided security for them, much what Rick needs to do. Rick is learning how people are angry and scared and want to feel safe and if he wants to remain in power he has to make them feel safe again. Negan’s character truly opens up Rick’s thinking process and allows him to come up with a solution of militarizing and training the 4 communities. It will allow the people to feel safe as they have an army, it will show that Rick is tough when dealing with foreign threats and it will give the people in the communities a chances to seek justice for their lost ones. This course of action is a perfect lead into the milestone 150th issue of The Walking Dead as the characters and the 4 communities go through another change.
The Bad:
The comic was a solid issue with only the cover giving a certain impression to what the issue was going to amount to. The cover features Rick sitting in a chair and Negan over his shoulder giving the impression of a 1st in command and a 2nd in command, thus implying that Negan would be freed. Rather than being freed his mind was explored for advice, good and important advice, but was a slight let down based upon the cover of the comic.
The verdict:
Issue 149 is a great issue that provides for an excellent lead into the 150th landmark issue of The Walking Dead. The issue took an unexpected route as Rick sought Negan’s advice in dealing with the Whisperers. Ultimately Negan’s advice leads Rick to making a war like military decision which we have not seen in over 30 issues. The Walking Dead issue 149 sets the stage for a new era in The Walking Dead comics. Issue 149 is a must buy issue if you are planning on reading issue 150.
