Ep 11. Hostiles and Calamities

Rick and his group have been through a lot thus far in the post-apocalyptic world, but things are about to get even more complicated. In episode 11 of season 7, titled "Hostiles and Calamities", we see what happens when two of Negan's followers, Eugene and Dwight, find themselves in a precarious situation.

The episode opens with Dwight, who is on the run from Negan after helping Daryl escape in the previous episode. He tries to make his way back to Alexandria but is caught and brought back to the Sanctuary, Negan's base of operations. Meanwhile, Eugene is settling in at the Sanctuary, where he has been living since being taken captive by Negan's men.

As Dwight is brought before Negan, he is given a brutal punishment for his insubordination. Negan burns a side of his face with a hot iron, leaving a permanent scar. However, rather than killing him outright, Negan decides to let Dwight live as a reminder to the other Saviors of what happens when you betray him. The scene is intense, and viewers will feel Dwight's pain and fear in equal measures.

Eugene, on the other hand, is treated very differently by Negan and the other Saviors. They respect him for his intelligence and skills, and he is given a comfortable room with plenty of amenities. Negan even goes so far as to call Eugene "Doctor" and tells him that he wants him to help with his weapons-making operation. Eugene is initially hesitant but soon realizes that aligning himself with Negan may be the best way to stay alive.

As Eugene begins to work on Negan's various projects, he discovers that one of Negan's wives, who he previously believed to be happy and content, is actually very unhappy. She confides in Eugene and tells him that she wants to escape and start a new life. Eugene is torn between his loyalty to Negan and his growing empathy for this woman, but ultimately he decides to help her. However, things don't go quite as planned, and he finds himself in even more trouble.

The episode is a study in contrasts, as we see how different characters are treated based on their loyalty to Negan. Dwight, who has betrayed him, is punished severely, while Eugene, who has aligned himself with Negan, is rewarded. At the same time, we see how even those who are ostensibly "happy" under Negan's rule are still trapped and unhappy, longing for a way out.

Overall, "Hostiles and Calamities" is a gripping episode that explores the complex interpersonal dynamics of life in the post-apocalyptic world. It showcases some fantastic performances from actors Josh McDermitt, who plays Eugene, and Austin Amelio, who plays Dwight, and adds new layers of nuance and complexity to the ongoing narrative. Fans of The Walking Dead won't want to miss this one.