Ep 2. So Close, Yet So Far

As the world around them continues to crumble, the characters of Fear The Walking Dead struggle to come to terms with the reality of the situation. In So Close, Yet So Far, the second episode of the first season, viewers are introduced to many of the show's central characters and watch as they begin to grapple with the enormity of the crisis in which they find themselves.

The episode opens with a montage of news footage, showing the panic and chaos that has gripped Los Angeles in the wake of the outbreak. However, we quickly transition into the day-to-day lives of the show's characters. Madison Clark, a high school guidance counselor, is dealing with one of her students, a young man named Tobias who seems to be unnaturally prepared for the disaster that is unfolding. Meanwhile, Madison's daughter Alicia is sneaking out to meet up with her boyfriend Matt, unaware of the danger that is looming just outside their door.

As the episode progresses, we see the characters begin to take note of the strange occurrences around them. They realize that something is terribly wrong, though they don't yet understand the full implications of what is happening. Travis, Madison's boyfriend and a high school English teacher, is one of the first to become aware of just how serious the situation is when he witnesses a violent attack on the streets of L.A.

However, not everyone is as convinced of the urgency of the situation. Madison's ex-husband, Travis' ex-wife, and his son Chris all seem to be taking a wait-and-see approach, assuming that the military or the government will swoop in to save them. This creates tension and conflict among the group, as they struggle to reconcile their different attitudes and opinions.

As the episode progresses, the characters begin to experience more and more firsthand exposure to the walkers, giving them a clearer understanding of what they are up against. For example, Alicia is forced to defend herself against one of the undead after Matt falls ill and is quarantined by the military. Meanwhile, Madison and her family realize that they need to take matters into their own hands and begin to prepare for the worst.

So Close, Yet So Far is a tense and suspenseful episode that lays the groundwork for the rest of the series. Viewers are treated to some truly frightening moments, such as the scene in which Madison and Travis witness a crowd of walkers descending on a hospital. The writers do an excellent job of ratcheting up the tension and creating a sense of unease throughout the episode.

One of the themes that runs throughout the show is the idea of denial and the failure of authority figures to take action in the face of a crisis. Fear The Walking Dead examines how people react when their world is turned upside down, and how they come together, or fall apart, in the face of adversity.

Overall, So Close, Yet So Far is an excellent episode that sets the stage for an exciting and compelling series. With its strong performances, taut direction, and well-crafted script, it is a must-watch for fans of the zombie genre and anyone who enjoys a good suspenseful drama.