Written by Dana J. Hortman, contributor
Image AMC
On the fifth episode of this season’s “The Walking Dead,” the opening scene begins with Abraham and the group riding in the church short bus, bound for Washington D.C. While the group seems to be in high spirits — joking about Eugene’s overgrown mullet — the moment is interrupted as the bus suddenly crashes. Of course there is a crash; a zombie apocalypse banishes all hopes of creating any type of road trip luck. But at least before the bus skids off the road and flips a few times, the fact that Eugene’s “party is getting a little long” is addressed. This may be Georgia, but get with the times, Eugene. With approaching walkers heading for the destroyed bus, the group must fight their way out, especially before the fire reaches the fuel tank and explodes.
Between the current scenes, we’re also treated to a flashback of Abraham’s life before meeting up with the current group. It appears he had a wife and two kids, and like everyone else, he was just trying to survive, even if that meant killing those who were a threat.
After the D.C. road trip topples on its side, the group leaves the bus and finds an abandoned bookstore. Throughout this particular scene, we can see the different members of the group bonding: Glenn and Abraham, Abraham and Rosita (who I didn’t know had that kind of relationship). This is a pleasant offset from the reality they’re currently living. Even Tara is bonding with Eugene. When she catches him watching Rosita and Abraham getting it on, Eugene admits that he caused the bus crash by placing crushed glass in the fuel line, because he doesn’t want to go to D.C. Tara reserves judgment and promises to keep Eugene’s secret. This becomes the point when I begin questioning Eugene’s true intentions. Does he really have a cure or does he just want protection?
The next morning, the group discovers a semi-functioning fire truck, but is halted from leaving town when a herd of walkers escape an abandoned firehouse. However, Eugene comes to the rescue, mowing them down with the fire hose. With that kind of knowledge, maybe he really does have a cure. He finally receives his moment of valor, saving the lives of the others in the group. As they start Road Trip Part Two, we quickly learn that an empty tank will only get you so far.
When the group meets a farm full of hungry walkers, they must reevaluate their strategy. But Abraham, who we learn drove his family away by protecting them, urges them to carry on. Is it just me or are his true colors finally being shown? However, the group refuses, causing Abraham to lose his temper. Ultimately, Eugene confesses his true intentions — he’s not a scientist and doesn’t have a cure, he just wanted protection — which sends the sergeant into a fit of rage.
The episode ends with another flashback of Abraham discovering his deceased family. About to commit suicide, Abraham stops when Eugene appears, crying for help as three walkers chase him. Abraham saves Eugene with ease, and Eugene sees his opportunity to clinch the protection of this strong man. The two make an agreement: get Eugene to Washington D.C. to solve the zombie apocalypse.
