The first episode of The Walking Dead was “Days Gone Bye”, originally broadcast on AMC on October 31, 2010. It introduced viewers to Rick Grimes, a sheriff’s deputy who awakens from a coma to a world overrun by the undead, setting the stage for a decade-long saga of survival, loss, and humanity in the face of apocalypse.
The Genesis of a Zombie Phenomenon: Inside “Days Gone Bye”
“Days Gone Bye” is more than just the opening chapter of a television series; it’s a masterclass in establishing atmosphere, character development, and the grim realities of a post-apocalyptic world. The episode masterfully blends suspense, horror, and human drama, drawing viewers in and setting the tone for the show’s signature blend of visceral action and emotional storytelling. Directed by Frank Darabont, who also wrote the episode, “Days Gone Bye” serves as a faithful, yet creatively adapted, introduction to Robert Kirkman’s groundbreaking comic book series.
The episode begins with Rick Grimes awakening in an abandoned hospital, disoriented and alone. He soon discovers the terrifying truth: the world has been ravaged by a zombie outbreak. This initial sequence is remarkably effective, relying heavily on visual storytelling and sound design to create a palpable sense of dread and isolation. As Rick ventures out, he encounters the “walkers”, as the zombies are called, and witnesses firsthand the brutal reality of the new world order.
One of the episode’s key strengths is its focus on Rick’s character. We see his shock, his fear, and his determination to find his wife, Lori, and his son, Carl. This emotional core provides a strong foundation for the series, grounding the fantastical elements in relatable human experiences. Rick’s interactions with Morgan Jones and his son, Duane, are particularly poignant, highlighting the importance of family and connection in a world where trust is a scarce commodity.
The episode culminates with Rick leaving Atlanta, driven by the hope of finding his loved ones. While “Days Gone Bye” contains moments of intense horror, it is ultimately a story about hope and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. It laid the groundwork for a series that would explore not just the dangers of the undead, but also the complexities of human nature and the moral dilemmas that arise when survival is the only priority.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about The Walking Dead’s First Episode
Here are some commonly asked questions to further explore the impact and significance of “Days Gone Bye.”
H3: Was “Days Gone Bye” Faithful to the Comic Book?
While “Days Gone Bye” follows the basic premise of the comic book’s beginning – Rick Grimes waking up in a zombie apocalypse – it also makes several significant changes. Some characters, like Morgan and Duane, are introduced earlier in the television series than in the comic. Furthermore, certain plot points and character arcs are altered or omitted altogether. However, the episode captures the essence of the comic’s tone and themes, offering a compelling adaptation while also paving the way for its own unique narrative path. The differences allowed the TV show to stand on its own, even for dedicated comic book fans.
H3: Who Directed and Wrote “Days Gone Bye”?
“Days Gone Bye” was directed and written by Frank Darabont. Darabont, known for his acclaimed adaptations of Stephen King novels such as The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile, brought a cinematic sensibility and a strong understanding of character to The Walking Dead. His involvement in the first season was crucial in establishing the show’s tone, style, and quality.
H3: What Happened to Morgan and Duane After “Days Gone Bye”?
Morgan and Duane Jones remained in their home in King County, Georgia, for some time after Rick’s departure. They continued to struggle with the challenges of survival, with Duane eventually being bitten by a walker while Morgan was distracted. Morgan’s grief and trauma significantly impacted his mental state, leading him down a dark path that would eventually intersect with Rick’s group again in later seasons. Their story highlights the devastating personal losses caused by the zombie outbreak.
H3: What Kind of Car Did Rick Drive in the First Episode?
Rick drove a Lincoln Town Car in the opening scene, a typical vehicle for a sheriff’s deputy at the time. This detail adds a layer of realism to the setting and underscores Rick’s former life before the apocalypse.
H3: Where Was “Days Gone Bye” Filmed?
“Days Gone Bye” was primarily filmed in and around Atlanta, Georgia. The hospital where Rick wakes up is the Griffin Memorial Hospital, adding to the episode’s realism and sense of place. Georgia has become synonymous with The Walking Dead, and the state’s diverse landscapes have served as a backdrop for much of the series.
H3: What Were the Walkers Originally Called in the Comic Books?
In the comic books, the walkers were often referred to simply as “the dead” or “roamers“. The term “walkers” became more prevalent in the television adaptation, providing a consistent and easily understandable moniker for the undead.
H3: How Many Viewers Watched “Days Gone Bye” on Its Premiere?
“Days Gone Bye” premiered to an impressive 5.35 million viewers, making it AMC’s most-watched premiere of an original series at the time. This strong debut signaled the show’s potential and paved the way for its subsequent success. The high viewership demonstrated the public’s appetite for a mature, character-driven zombie drama.
H3: What is the Significance of the Teddy Bear in the First Episode?
The teddy bear that Rick finds and later places on the walker he encounters is a symbolic representation of the loss of innocence and the destruction of childhood in the post-apocalyptic world. It serves as a poignant reminder of the normalcy that has been irrevocably shattered.
H3: What are the Differences Between the Walkers and Other Zombie Portrayals?
The Walking Dead established specific rules and characteristics for its walkers, differentiating them from other zombie portrayals. These walkers are slow-moving, require a headshot to be killed, and are attracted to noise and movement. This consistency helped to create a believable and terrifying threat.
H3: How Did “Days Gone Bye” Impact the Zombie Genre?
“Days Gone Bye” and The Walking Dead as a whole revitalized the zombie genre, shifting its focus from simple horror to complex character drama and social commentary. The show demonstrated that zombies could be more than just mindless monsters; they could serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of morality, survival, and the human condition.
H3: What Awards Did “Days Gone Bye” Win or Get Nominated For?
“Days Gone Bye” received significant critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Makeup (Non-Prosthetic) and a Writers Guild of America Award for Television: New Series. These nominations recognized the episode’s high production quality and strong writing.
H3: Why is “Days Gone Bye” Considered a Classic Episode of Television?
“Days Gone Bye” is considered a classic episode of television because of its compelling storytelling, strong character development, and masterful execution. It successfully introduced viewers to the world of The Walking Dead and established the show’s signature blend of horror, drama, and emotional depth. Its lasting impact on the zombie genre and popular culture solidifies its place as a pivotal episode in television history. The episode effectively launched a cultural phenomenon that resonated with audiences worldwide.