Fear the Walking Dead

:

Season 1
  • Network: AMC
  • Series Premiere Date: Aug 23, 2015
Season #: 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 1
User Score
5.5

Mixed or average reviews- based on 604 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 297 out of 604
  2. Mixed: 115 out of 604
  3. Negative: 192 out of 604
Watch Now

Where To Watch

Stream On
Stream On
Buy on
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Expand

Review this tv show

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling

User Reviews

view
per page
  1. BShaps
    Sep 2, 2015
    2
    I'm a big TWD fan and watched with another big TWD fan. The pilot was so bad that I had to turn it off about halfway through. The acting was terrible and none of the characters were remotely believable to me. The characters are what make TWD so good and that aspect was completely lacking in the pilot.
  2. jasharkowalski
    Sep 2, 2015
    6
    I am afraid the show will be re-titled at the end to "Pass The Walking Dead"....it's so obvious now how good the original show is because i have no nerve to watch the slow developments int this spin-off....i rate 6 out of 10 only because i cannot wait til' the original walkers get back...
  3. podunk411
    Sep 1, 2015
    5
    I hope it gets better, but so far not a great start. The writing, characters & story are somewhat muddled, just not strong at all (not all bad, but certainly not good either, and nowhere near as good as TWD pilot). I'll keep watching in hopes it gets better, and really, it's the strength of TWD that has me interested in FTWD.
  4. HarlanSaysSo
    Sep 1, 2015
    9
    I am a huge Walking Dead fan. It's funny because I only gave it a try because there was nothing else on T.V..and it became such and engrossing part of my television watching habits. Sundays are just not the same without it. When it is on hiatus, I just get saddened by how long I have to wait to continue the journey with the characters that I have grown to love. So, when I found out aboutI am a huge Walking Dead fan. It's funny because I only gave it a try because there was nothing else on T.V..and it became such and engrossing part of my television watching habits. Sundays are just not the same without it. When it is on hiatus, I just get saddened by how long I have to wait to continue the journey with the characters that I have grown to love. So, when I found out about this show and how it was going to be a different direction from the first, I immediately felt the urge to give it a try and not be so skeptical. That horror T.V can work. I am very happy to say that this show definitely pulls it's own weight. What I love most about this show is the different angle in which it is playing. The Walking Dead focuses on survival, whereas Fear the Walking Dead focuses on infection, and the outbreak which started it all, and how people are coming to terms with the chaos that is caused from it. It works. Very well. Because it becomes terrifying in a sense that WE as a viewer know what has happened and how to deal with certain scenarios or situations, but seeing as these characters are in the midst of the outbreak and not the aftermath, they are more vulnerable and oblivious to the dangers and how to face them effectively. And since this is the beginning of the outbreak, the zombies are more "fresh" and not so obvious of what they truly are, which heightens the intensity of the situations that occur on hand .The characters are all portrayed very well and the city is a welcome atmosphere as opposed to the countryside. People who are complaining about not having enough zombies are just ignorant to the fact that they just want the horror part of the story. That is just one part of it . There is a story being told and I am glad that the shows producers are not forgetting that. I would definitely give this show a chance. So far its a great opening to what we have come to know of this Universe and I am very eager to see where they take it . Bravo.… Expand
  5. BigPoppaFitz
    Sep 1, 2015
    6
    I think the first mistake people make when watching this is assuming that it will either be identical to 'The Walking Dead' or that it will at least hold true the same antics and situations. It's important to treat this as a completely separate entity (which it is). It is not a companion series. That being said, I find the show to be average. It's hard to judge a show off of two episodes,I think the first mistake people make when watching this is assuming that it will either be identical to 'The Walking Dead' or that it will at least hold true the same antics and situations. It's important to treat this as a completely separate entity (which it is). It is not a companion series. That being said, I find the show to be average. It's hard to judge a show off of two episodes, but in 2015 producers know that if a series doesn't suck you in by the first two episodes, the rest of it is likely to fail. I could be wrong, but it seems like it's going to be the same old predictable plot where the virus breaks out, they're stuck in the city and are trying to escape. Everything in between is just fluff. The acting is average at best and none of the characters are relatable even in the slightest bit. Since it is Robert Kirkman, I will give it until the end of season 1 but I doubt the series is going to take a hard left and take off so I give it a 6 as it stands.… Expand
  6. 007foxtrot
    Sep 1, 2015
    3
    1. After episode 2. When does the daughter get to know her mother and brother killed zombies/people?
    2. Anti-police. Mom rakes the cops at the hospital. She probably has had her own run ins with the law. Probably drug related as she has a great amount of sympathy for her son who is trying desperately to check out.
    3. Mom let's the knife boy out of the car on his own, doesn't warn    1. After episode 2. When does the daughter get to know her mother and brother killed zombies/people?
    2. Anti-police. Mom rakes the cops at the hospital. She probably has had her own run ins with the law. Probably drug related as she has a great amount of sympathy for her son who is trying desperately to check out.
    3. Mom let's the knife boy out of the car on his own, doesn't warn daughter, doesn't warn neighbors. Please don't make her the "Rick Grimes" of this series. Her exit via zombie hopefully is sooner than later.
    4. At least take Knife Boy's knowledge. The civilized grid will soon go down, get moving, at least sharpen some sticks.

    May survive on the back of The Walking Dead.    … Expand
  7. Odin-
    Sep 1, 2015
    3
    Three words, shameless cash grab.

    This show is pure unadulterated crap. The content is repetitive and boring, mirroring the same constant theme over and over again with very little to mix it up. When you go from Rick grappling with a post-apocalyptic world apologising to a zombie missing legs with incredible music in the background to scenes where Alicia and her impetuous teenager love    Three words, shameless cash grab.

    This show is pure unadulterated crap. The content is repetitive and boring, mirroring the same constant theme over and over again with very little to mix it up. When you go from Rick grappling with a post-apocalyptic world apologising to a zombie missing legs with incredible music in the background to scenes where Alicia and her impetuous teenager love obsession with some guy coupled with her adolescent rebellious nature dominating scenes it feels more like home and away episode than anything else. The script writer’s attempt to mix things up by having a drug addict suffer from withdrawal syndrome doesn’t really keep suspense or the story interesting either.

    Disaster scenes feel cheap and fake which may point to a lack of funding. Riot scenes have a handful of riot police and protesters which is a stark contrast to the sheer calamity the show is trying to convey. The acting is poor and their characters feel forced rather than superb acting in the Walking Dead. Every scene is stretched out to ad nauseam, the dialogue is awful and the characters are monotone and boring.

    There is nothing to compel you to watch it further.    … Expand
  8. johnyflyin
    Aug 31, 2015
    2
    This show is hiding in the shadow of its big brother. Granted it was not the best opening premiere, but this show was a let down even by normal tv standards. There was family tropes left and right; a daughter who wont listen to her mother and madly in lovely with her bf, a son who is a bad egg, parents who had divorce. It was a bit bland for those used to the walking dead's plot. Now iThis show is hiding in the shadow of its big brother. Granted it was not the best opening premiere, but this show was a let down even by normal tv standards. There was family tropes left and right; a daughter who wont listen to her mother and madly in lovely with her bf, a son who is a bad egg, parents who had divorce. It was a bit bland for those used to the walking dead's plot. Now i personally have never been a big fan of the walking dead's dialog(any scene with Carl and his father has horrible dialog) but this show is on par if not a bit worse with its cheesy lines. There is not much to say other than it was a huge let down and not worth watching unless you want to experience some of the lore before the events of the walking dead.… Expand
  9. thugchamp
    Aug 31, 2015
    10
    Amazing character development so far, not so much meaningless action as TWD first episodes but hey thats TWD is for. Personally I prefer the approach this show is taking over just people you dont even know getting eaten all over the place. Also, Im sure we can expect plenty of that as the series builds and gets further into the breakout. 10/10
  10. manwe7
    Aug 31, 2015
    9
    Thisshowblows needs to go get his blowing quota in as he's an idiot if he didn't like the second episode. You know there is a thing called character building that they have to do to start the show off, which they did and moved on. THe second episode had me on the edge of my chair as things are building up and the drama is tense.
  11. Hollyyyy09
    Aug 31, 2015
    9
    There is a lot of promise and great moments in the first two episodes. The second episode is stronger than the first so hopefully it should just keep getting better and better! A lot of people are complaining that the first one doesn't have enough walkers. However, the show is not a carbon copy of the Walking Dead. It is set in the same universe and one day, will look the same. However,There is a lot of promise and great moments in the first two episodes. The second episode is stronger than the first so hopefully it should just keep getting better and better! A lot of people are complaining that the first one doesn't have enough walkers. However, the show is not a carbon copy of the Walking Dead. It is set in the same universe and one day, will look the same. However, Fear is exploring the early days. There has to be family drama and normality before everything goes to hell! You cannot expect the first episode of Fear to be just like the first episode of the Walking Dead. There isn't that many zombies yet. It is just stupid to expect otherwise. The second episode picks up the pace a bit and was very good! A couple of the characters were a bit annoying at the beginning. However, trying to find rational explanations is what we would all do. Frank Dillane is the breakout star for me!… Expand
  12. j1177o1
    Aug 30, 2015
    5
    I really tried to like this show, but it's slow pace, boring characters, and overall lack of emotional depth and excitement has made this show very disappointing. A lot of scenes are somewhat illogical (sudden riots in downtown LA) and the character dynamics are seriously dull. I really dislike how one character who seems to be cognizant of an impending zombie apocalypse (brings a weaponI really tried to like this show, but it's slow pace, boring characters, and overall lack of emotional depth and excitement has made this show very disappointing. A lot of scenes are somewhat illogical (sudden riots in downtown LA) and the character dynamics are seriously dull. I really dislike how one character who seems to be cognizant of an impending zombie apocalypse (brings a weapon to school, gathers up supplies, forebodes the end to civilization) shows no fear or urgency or bother to explain how he came to that realization and was rather emotionally apathetic the whole time.… Expand
  13. thisshowblows
    Aug 30, 2015
    0
    Stupid characters, can't connect with any of them because they aren't very likable. The first episode was insanely boring, and the second one isn't any better.
  14. murph07
    Aug 30, 2015
    2
    I really did not like the characters in this show. Are these people that we want to survive? The mom was very rude to the cops and the nurses even though she is an educator so you think she would give other public service people a bit more respect. I can't stand the "bail my kids out of their situation regardless of their own stupidity" type of parenting. The step dad finds bloodI really did not like the characters in this show. Are these people that we want to survive? The mom was very rude to the cops and the nurses even though she is an educator so you think she would give other public service people a bit more respect. I can't stand the "bail my kids out of their situation regardless of their own stupidity" type of parenting. The step dad finds blood everywhere in the church but seems to see no need to call the authorities. The kid then commits murder and the parents are already talking about how to get him out of that. I am hoping that they all get eaten in the second episode and a better group of people becomes the cops.… Expand
  15. vgmkyle
    Aug 30, 2015
    9
    I was hooked as soon as it started. It's nice to switch to a new atmosphere, it's nice to see that maybe the virus can be explained; the talent chosen for this spin-off is great! The story is well-paced, and more action will balance that out in following episodes.
  16. Kreso
    Aug 30, 2015
    9
    Very good. It starts slow, but based that it's just the start of the outbreak this is normal...cast is good, setting is great and I'm just sorry there is 6 episodes this year....
  17. mbmartins
    Aug 29, 2015
    4
    I was expecting something different, a introduction perhaps, but I saw more of the same thing without the intensity of the original show. Maybe the next chapters change something but i dont think that this is the way that the series will continues.
  18. maxwelldemianx
    Aug 29, 2015
    3
    There is way too much family drama and not enough fear, horror , zombies. They make it feel as if they stretched the family drama extra long in order to spread the little horror they can show on a spin off pilot. At some point it was like watching a B-serie movie about a drug addict, his somewhat hot sister and their interacial parents. Positives : good actors, good special effects, theThere is way too much family drama and not enough fear, horror , zombies. They make it feel as if they stretched the family drama extra long in order to spread the little horror they can show on a spin off pilot. At some point it was like watching a B-serie movie about a drug addict, his somewhat hot sister and their interacial parents. Positives : good actors, good special effects, the premise make sense, story gets interesting when there is finally some action. Negatives : slow unfolding, boring transitions, cheap startling techniques that reminded me of the 1990's **** horror movies. Overall it showed some promise but I really scaled my expectations down. For me it's a low for AMC. 4/10.… Expand
  19. 53bload53
    Aug 28, 2015
    10
    I honestly wasn't expecting much of this spin off, I thought it was just gonna be a low-quality copy cad of the actual show directed by a bunch of kidos.

    My mind is completely blown at how good the 1st episode was, it really has the feeling the actual show has and they did really good in making up an interesting story to follow. Can't wait for episode 2.
  20. chuckvw
    Aug 28, 2015
    9
    I think the slow burn really works. The LA locales are shot expertly, and the production values are excellent across the board. The cast is also strong. I liked the occasional ominous shot of the hazy LA skyline. Nice foreshadowing!

    I'm looking forward to seeing how the show unfolds.
  21. XisXis
    Aug 28, 2015
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The pilot for this show was slow and the writing was terrible. I get the idea of the show is partly to explore the effects on everyday people. That is part of the charm of the original series. It is not all about the political elite and extraordinary heroes. It about the human spirit and how various personalities tap into that spirit with varying outcomes.
    Okay, so why are these characters doing stupid stuff that no one would do. Why do the police fail to investigate a place that has been named as crack den where a gruesome murder just took place. Sure the witness is a crackhead, but still. So instead, the kids step dad - for no good reason - decides to go and investigate the crack-den gruesome murder scene himself - at night. Sure enough, its true. But does he call the cops? Nope, him and his wife decide to go back and check it out again, alone. Yep, still a crack-den scene of gruesome murder. Does anyone call the cops? No. But then the wife's judgement is so good that she decides to keep the knife wielding of a student just their little harmless secret.

    And so on. The characters are just cardboard cut outs, their actions the consequence of just unaccountably stupid plot twists.

    Me thinks the writers of this series have contempt for their audience.    … Expand
  22. LEDMAN
    Aug 27, 2015
    7
    I want to see the writers substantiate the origin of "the zombies" and why the walking dead must live on the blood of humans and not other mammals. We all know civilization collapses so why not invest some time in building upon the collapse? It certainly is scary enough to see such a disease spread through crack houses and perhaps the "fear" could be directed in a humanitarian view as aI want to see the writers substantiate the origin of "the zombies" and why the walking dead must live on the blood of humans and not other mammals. We all know civilization collapses so why not invest some time in building upon the collapse? It certainly is scary enough to see such a disease spread through crack houses and perhaps the "fear" could be directed in a humanitarian view as a deterrent to drug abuse. It would certainly scare some people strait just seeing this.

    However, I'm tired of seeing Los Angels and New York City as the setting for all TV and Motion picture productions and found the original series setting in the south great and refreshing in general. Most likely a pandemic would more likely originate in Areas of high population density and without adequate infrastructure. Those that experienced and survived super storm Katrina know all too well what happens when civilization collapses.

    Sifting through the horror, guts, and blood, the opportunity presents itself to expand on how well FEMA is prepared to step in and hopefully slow down the collapse so we can see how well all the preppers living off grid will manage.    … Expand
  23. mjboldy
    Aug 26, 2015
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I admit that reviewing after a single episode is a little quick but it isn't the greatest start for the show.

    My biggest issue is that none of the characters are initially sticking out to me. The son, I actually found myself hoping that he was going to the zombies a couple of times. Of course they had to go down the route of him being the first to see them. He's a drug addict who was hallucinating after all. Excuse me while I tear my hair out. To be honest, it would have been nice to skip the disbelief phase as it's always a frustrating moment for the viewer any time it's done. The mom and father seem decent enough though a bit forgettable as characters. We'll have to see how they develop. The daughter, of course, you'd be forgiven if you forgot that she existed. I feel like she had a total of 5 minutes of screen time.

    Unfortunately, the main focus of this first episode was more about what the son saw in the church as opposed to adequately introducing us to the characters. I'm a little skeptical as to why the father would investigate the church by himself. I gave it a pass the first time but was a bit in disbelief when he brought his wife around for the second trip. A building with a history of violence and drug deals to which they were well aware of.

    Of course the big elephant in the room during the entire episode for most people was, when was all hell going to break loose. Many people on here seem to be complaining that it moved too slowly and that it needed more action. "Get to the zombies already." It is a TV show, though, so the story needs to complete a marathon run. If you want non-stop zombie killing action, might I recommend a 2-hour zombie flick.

    In my opinion, I was a little disappointed that it happened so soon. Here I was excited that this show was going to have the opportunity to build up a solid character base before the zombies truly came into the picture. Obviously it is a premiere so they have to give the people what they came for but The Walking Dead prided itself on the characters. I was hoping for the same here.

    What we have so far are a mom and dad with a hackneyed story line of raising their troubled kids. To be honest, I don't see myself connecting with any of them though I could be wrong. The acting seemed a bit spotty but not terrible. I guess we'll see how it goes but I'm not holding my breath.    … Expand
  24. DereckS
    Aug 26, 2015
    8
    Was it great? Meh. Did it have to be? Nope. Was it better than most of the other stuff out there? Most assuredly.

    Here's the thing, this is all about the beginning. While the family dynamic is a bit cliche, the point is that when anything initially begins (particularly a pandemic event), people casually ignore the signs and life moves on UNTIL they see it with their own eyes. It WOULD    Was it great? Meh. Did it have to be? Nope. Was it better than most of the other stuff out there? Most assuredly.

    Here's the thing, this is all about the beginning. While the family dynamic is a bit cliche, the point is that when anything initially begins (particularly a pandemic event), people casually ignore the signs and life moves on UNTIL they see it with their own eyes. It WOULD be a bit dull UNTIL it got personal. I felt that this episode did a great job with this aspect. No, the city hasn't gone to hell yet, but I'm sure we'll get there.(Further, we already saw that in Atlanta). I don't think that this pilot was ever going to be about blood and gore, but more about how people could believe or comprehend what they were seeing and how they would react. You see how it starts....quiet paranoia. This will likely lead to civil unrest, which will lead to dinner bells for the walkers.

    I trust that the blood and spitting guts are to come, but in a way I am very interested to see how a couple of teachers and their kids will enter and MAYBE survive some of the zombie apocalypse. I doubt very much that we will be disappointed.

    Looking forward to next week. Solid 8 for me. Not mind blowing, but far from disappointed.    … Expand
  25. ahastings7878
    Aug 26, 2015
    0
    There was so much hype about FTWD, so no small wonder why it was the most watched premiere. Every fan of TWD waited in anticipation, hoping for something to hold them over until October. FTWD doesn't seem to have the appeal, the excitement, the FEEL of TWD. It doesn't compare. I'll watch episode 2, but I'm not sure I'll watch episode 3, 4, 5 or 6. Come on October!
  26. Quinny202
    Aug 26, 2015
    7
    Fear The Walking Dead's slow pace may put off fans of the main show, but overall manages to keep you wanting more with its interesting narrative that places you in the early days of the initial outbreak.
  27. brockcheese
    Aug 25, 2015
    7
    This show is still very good although it cannot even come close to comparing with the original. One problem is the lack of zombie action as it is still occuring.
  28. DanniBoi
    Aug 25, 2015
    10
    So far the expectancy of this series will be a 10 for me, this has a unique perspective from the original TWD we all know of and most of us are already tired of seeing the same thing over and over, but yet we still watch it non the less.

    The development is new show is so slow, and more slow that the previous installment from the feel of this "plot" (and that is good!) Because it will    So far the expectancy of this series will be a 10 for me, this has a unique perspective from the original TWD we all know of and most of us are already tired of seeing the same thing over and over, but yet we still watch it non the less.

    The development is new show is so slow, and more slow that the previous installment from the feel of this "plot" (and that is good!) Because it will take us in a journey to understand and be more interested in the characters.

    And of course it is intensive, because is building the "hype" / "excitement" for the moment we all waiting for, the zombie break trough. But as we go there, we get to know and love or hate each of the main characters and so forth as we continue down that road, but yet doing it in a slow sensitive manner by tangling us, the viewers, in this interesting slow phase perspective and life of this families in which is building a few new interesting premises from what we know already. So each of this characters that we still do not know nothing about, but yet we still know the obvious reasons of each one.

    Something new and different from the previous installment (as I mention) it is for sure a great and a different intensive new cool experience and perspective from this "beforemath" soon to be a "aftermath"    … Expand
  29. OmneIgnotum
    Aug 25, 2015
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Big fan of TWD, so when I heard Kirkman was involved and might finally get a chance to give some origin to the epidemic, I decided to give it a shot. Boy was that a mistake. All you need to know from this hour long snore fest was that the kid is a drug addict and that causes the "modern day" family situation stress. That's all. Time that should've been spent building suspense in the world (mumblings about the disease while standing in line at the grocery, or clips of morgues overflowing) was over ridden by the teenager's drug use. I get it as a tool for delivering doubt at the onset of the pandemic, I even get it as an attempt to make you understand/care about the new characters (completely failed btw), but the way this is force fed to you over and over makes me think that they were under the impression that they were the first tv show to ever tackle the topic of teenage drug use. I didn't expect zombies everywhere as this is set pre-epidemic, and the sirens and choppers that seemed to grow louder as the episode went on was a nice touch, but I disliked the characters, and seeing as how all they attempted to do in this episode was make me care about what happens to angsty teenagers and the edu-rents, that's not a good sign. The kid uses heroin. Really, I got it. Won't be watching this again, i'll stick to the flagship where something actually happens.… Expand
  30. roinujrino
    Aug 25, 2015
    7
    Well, even it did not reach the quality expexted, Fear the Walking Dead is solid, and the pilot leaves the promisse of a good season. I believe the series can and will grow in the next years.
  31. TobyTrainwrecks
    Aug 25, 2015
    0
    We had high expectations, considering how great The Walking Dead has turned out. This does not live up to them at all. We're treated to a hackneyed origin story with a cast of characters that seem like they were ripped out of a high schooler's zombie fan fiction... Only more clichéd with no chemistry.

    The more forgiving have been referring to the show as a "slow burn." If you're    We had high expectations, considering how great The Walking Dead has turned out. This does not live up to them at all. We're treated to a hackneyed origin story with a cast of characters that seem like they were ripped out of a high schooler's zombie fan fiction... Only more clichéd with no chemistry.

    The more forgiving have been referring to the show as a "slow burn." If you're looking for a slow moving character study then watch Rectify (the best show on TV that no one is watching).

    This pilot is just bad.    … Expand
  32. angelsanzcorrea
    Aug 24, 2015
    3
    There was some smart editing and a couple of neat tricks teasing with the comfort of our knowledge from the main series. Other than that, it's what pretty much everyone else says: dull and predictable story, poor writing, very annoying characters and some cringeworthy acting.
    Unless you're a teenager who is really into the horror genre, skip this one...
  33. eek13
    Aug 24, 2015
    1
    The only zombie around was me; zoned out and drooling in my chair for the duration of this boring pilot.

    Pretty much every family-drama trope is lumbering along too.
  34. brettrosey
    Aug 24, 2015
    2
    It's pretty obvious based on one episode that this show is plain garbage. FTWD characters make TWD characters look like brain surgeons in comparison. "Oh, you say you saw your girlfriend feeding off a dead body before attacking you?" "let me just head on down to that crack den, alone, without a weapon and without informing police to see for myself." "oh, it looks like you were telling theIt's pretty obvious based on one episode that this show is plain garbage. FTWD characters make TWD characters look like brain surgeons in comparison. "Oh, you say you saw your girlfriend feeding off a dead body before attacking you?" "let me just head on down to that crack den, alone, without a weapon and without informing police to see for myself." "oh, it looks like you were telling the truth, let me just bring my wife along for a return trip, without telling police and again without a weapon." "hun, you were right something awful happened here". "ok let's get back to school and not report any of this".… Expand
  35. WDfan
    Aug 24, 2015
    1
    The cast of characters in this show range from dull to annoying to detestable. If this was my family, I would be praying for a zombie apocalypse. Its unlikely that I will watch Fear the Walking Dead again, but if I do it will be to root for the walkers. Without a single likable character, I could only describe this mess as depressing soap opera style dysfunctional family drama. What aThe cast of characters in this show range from dull to annoying to detestable. If this was my family, I would be praying for a zombie apocalypse. Its unlikely that I will watch Fear the Walking Dead again, but if I do it will be to root for the walkers. Without a single likable character, I could only describe this mess as depressing soap opera style dysfunctional family drama. What a disappointment.… Expand
  36. AaronAction
    Aug 24, 2015
    4
    Being in a room of 14 people who all completely hated this, I was the only one who tried to defend it for, "trying to build character development." In the reality of things, this is one of the worst premiers I've ever seen. I hope the rest of the Season isn't this boring, predictable, and poorly written.
  37. jlplatten
    Aug 24, 2015
    9
    This show is off to a great start. A spin-off show shouldn't be more of the same, rather it should provide a different and unique perspective on the universe they created. This does exactly that. People that love the zombie genre just to watch the living hack away at the dead, will not like this show. People that love the zombie genre because they're intrigued by the psychological impact aThis show is off to a great start. A spin-off show shouldn't be more of the same, rather it should provide a different and unique perspective on the universe they created. This does exactly that. People that love the zombie genre just to watch the living hack away at the dead, will not like this show. People that love the zombie genre because they're intrigued by the psychological impact a zombie outbreak would have on society, this show is right up your alley. By the end of the first episode, you see the first signs of an outbreak, and some characters really questioning if what they're seeing is real. It makes you think what people would do if this really happened, and that's what makes this show special so far. It feels real. Relatable. So far I like the main characters, which are played very well by the cast so far. I'm already drawn in and can't wait for the next episode.… Expand
  38. skip1971
    Aug 24, 2015
    3
    Decent characters but the script is mundane, the play too slow and predictable. Does it really take the whole pilot to ratchet up suspense by using the usual lousy tricks (overall, the abuse of sirens and helicopter blades whirring)? Why not a warning "zombies ahead" con the highway VMS?
  39. swijes1227
    Aug 24, 2015
    1
    I am a big fan of the walking dead. This show, "fear of the walking dead", is terrible. Hard to connect with a druggie, a dysfunctional family and the lead female character that is so disrespectful to the police officers amongst others around her. If all these charters from this family were bit and turn into walkers and someone shot them, that would be entertaining. Short of that, thisI am a big fan of the walking dead. This show, "fear of the walking dead", is terrible. Hard to connect with a druggie, a dysfunctional family and the lead female character that is so disrespectful to the police officers amongst others around her. If all these charters from this family were bit and turn into walkers and someone shot them, that would be entertaining. Short of that, this series was a waste of my time with poor scenery, cheap acting, no emotional attachment to the charters, and boring. Shame to have any association with the original walking dead.… Expand
  40. atmacgoog
    Aug 24, 2015
    1
    Pretty unfortunate opening for a spinoff of The Walking Dead. There is precious little action. I suppose this would be fine if the intent was to develop characters that the viewer is going to care immensely about in later episodes. However, based on the opener, this seems unlikely.

    Sadly, the interpersonal drama is akin to what you might expect from an after-school special designed to    Pretty unfortunate opening for a spinoff of The Walking Dead. There is precious little action. I suppose this would be fine if the intent was to develop characters that the viewer is going to care immensely about in later episodes. However, based on the opener, this seems unlikely.

    Sadly, the interpersonal drama is akin to what you might expect from an after-school special designed to teach young people about the wonders of diversity. I found it nauseating, and not in a flesh-eating way - more like a banal, mind-numbing way. In addition to the oh-so-wonderful diverse blended family, we are treated with characters ham-hamdedly intended to appeal to preteens. The heartthrob teenage boy will obviously clean up his act, but is currently quite annoying, as his bored sister. The classroom scenes, supposedly showing us the wonder of a teacher reaching out to urban youth, are straight out of the 1960s.

    Based on the depth of TWD, I suppose I'll give this one a little more of my time, but it's painful to do so.    … Expand
  41. GundamMars
    Aug 24, 2015
    4
    Okay, how to start. It's dull and that vibes continues through the show. When it starts up visually you're given the same look as the mainline show so you're tricked into thinking the **** has already hit the fan. But no this clever rouse takes us a few days before the all out infection of the country. Not saying that's a bad way to start, but when you're given a very limited run you needOkay, how to start. It's dull and that vibes continues through the show. When it starts up visually you're given the same look as the mainline show so you're tricked into thinking the **** has already hit the fan. But no this clever rouse takes us a few days before the all out infection of the country. Not saying that's a bad way to start, but when you're given a very limited run you need to start off with a BANG, not a fart. The setting is LA, which they really take advantage of showing more minority characters, which isn't bad, but nobody here is interesting or makes you care for them with Z-Day right around the corner. The main character is a junkie who plays being a junkie loser quite terribly. We're introduced to his family and they're as equally as annoying, from the **** mom, to the annoying teenage daughter all the troupes of a bad drama are represented. We get a couple of side characters that do little if nothing for the plot and any glimpses of zombies are short and don't have the same fell as they do in WD. We as the audience knows what's coming, but everyone in the show is completely clueless to the world around them. I was going to rate this show lower, but I want to see if they can improve. So far though, I was not fearing the Walking Dead, just starting to root for them.… Expand
  42. Knighthawk81
    Aug 24, 2015
    7
    It takes a little bit to build a world and invest in characters. That work is even more difficult if the audience knows what's coming and the characters don't. Such is the fate that befalls "Fear The Walking Dead," the prequel/spin-off series to "The Walking Dead." As an audience, we know the mysterious virus is real, as is the danger. But these people living in sunny Southern CaliforniaIt takes a little bit to build a world and invest in characters. That work is even more difficult if the audience knows what's coming and the characters don't. Such is the fate that befalls "Fear The Walking Dead," the prequel/spin-off series to "The Walking Dead." As an audience, we know the mysterious virus is real, as is the danger. But these people living in sunny Southern California don't. With this show there is work being done to build up characters, something that's been a criticism of critics when reviewing "The Walking Dead." But that results in a pilot that is a little slow. I have faith this will turn into an engrossing series, but you have to give it time.… Expand
  43. IvanCortez
    Aug 24, 2015
    8
    with a slow star but a really good end, the first episode of "fear the walking dead" star a series that look very good. Good acting specially from Frank Dillane
  44. Ekras
    Aug 24, 2015
    10
    Even better than the original series (which is hard to beat). It's intentionally slow to give viewers time to relate with the characters before they are plunged into the apocalypse. Great acting, great directing, great story. This is by far the best Zombie-Genre show on TV right now. Here's hoping its success breeds more Zombie series!
  45. MovieMan285
    Aug 24, 2015
    2
    When you have a 90 minute show where nothing happens for a good 85 minutes, you know you're in trouble. Opens well and ends well, but the boring, endless filler in between was unbearable. I assume it was supposed to build character development, but the poor script makes you care less about about them, and actually annoyed. Decent acting by Frank Dillane but this doesn't hold a candle toWhen you have a 90 minute show where nothing happens for a good 85 minutes, you know you're in trouble. Opens well and ends well, but the boring, endless filler in between was unbearable. I assume it was supposed to build character development, but the poor script makes you care less about about them, and actually annoyed. Decent acting by Frank Dillane but this doesn't hold a candle to The Walking Dead.… Expand
  46. Popcultures
    Aug 24, 2015
    10
    Contrary to most of the other reviews, I liked the show! All the "little things" add plenty of atmosphere and really builds up the whole zombie factor. It's a little weird that people are seeing the zombies firsthand and aren't... Y'know getting ready for an apocalypse, I mean if it really happened, grocery store and malls would already be empty people would be insanely paranoid.

    All    Contrary to most of the other reviews, I liked the show! All the "little things" add plenty of atmosphere and really builds up the whole zombie factor. It's a little weird that people are seeing the zombies firsthand and aren't... Y'know getting ready for an apocalypse, I mean if it really happened, grocery store and malls would already be empty people would be insanely paranoid.

    All and all I still liked it and it wasn't trying to be exactly like the original show, it's unique in its own way.    … Expand
  47. csgott
    Aug 24, 2015
    9
    I've been a fan since the beginning and I was a little weary about this spin off. After watching it though I got to say I was glad to see that the starting point is 180 degrees in the opposite direction from The Walking Dead (TWD). One down point I felt was that there might be to much meat into the story. But considering how little we actually knew about any of the characters in TWDI've been a fan since the beginning and I was a little weary about this spin off. After watching it though I got to say I was glad to see that the starting point is 180 degrees in the opposite direction from The Walking Dead (TWD). One down point I felt was that there might be to much meat into the story. But considering how little we actually knew about any of the characters in TWD starting off it could just be a feeling. I enjoy that we are actually getting a bigger sense of who these people are and what their personalities are like before all the chaos begins. The characters are definitely relatable in many ways to the real world. I see a lot of connections, though I also see a lot of questions. I for one want to know more about the kid who brought the knife. He seems to know something but nobody is giving him the time. That's probably just a crumb but its one that should be followed up on. He seems like he knows more than he's really telling. The dad is a pretty cool guy, the sister seems like a bit of a **** but she's a teen so that's typical. The son well.. I kinda feel like I'm watching Slater from Dazed and Confused but he's strung and how he reacts and the end of the show also tells me that there's more to this character that has yet to be revealed. The mother seems like somebody who is just trying to manage the situation rather then letting it hit her so she can deal with it. I appreciate the fact that it started out slow because you got to see where the cracks in everything began to show up. Their world appears to be on a train that has left the station and picking up speed to the ultimate chaos that follows. I can't wait to see what happens next week.… Expand
  48. blahdeedah
    Aug 24, 2015
    1
    My expectations were way too high. I am very disappointed.
    Cartoon like acting. The coddling of Nick was beyond tolerable. Poor sense of pace to the story.
    I was bored.
  49. djvampyre
    Aug 24, 2015
    2
    While the limited glimpses of the zombies we got were good the terrible writing/acting delivered during the other 95% of the show was dishearteningly bad.

    I don't think the character introductions went the way they wanted them to go. Instead of making you care about anyone they introduce the main characters as being people so incredibly stupid you don't want them to live through this.    While the limited glimpses of the zombies we got were good the terrible writing/acting delivered during the other 95% of the show was dishearteningly bad.

    I don't think the character introductions went the way they wanted them to go. Instead of making you care about anyone they introduce the main characters as being people so incredibly stupid you don't want them to live through this. While it's OK to introduce future zombie chow it's not OK to turn the entire cast into this and not even give the courtesy of a smart character you can relate to and pull for through the shows twists and turns.

    We have a couple of teachers in a blended family struggling with their heroin addict son who is also apparently the dumbest kid in California. The angsty pointless teenage daughter trying leave town with her art school boyfriend. Some random highschool kid you barely get introduced to trying (badly) to tell people something bad is coming and brandishing a butterknife for self defense (dumb). Then of course the show then ends up being 90% dumb teachers dealing with dumb son's issues (something you probably hear about from other people at work all day long) 5% "wait a minute something is strange here but whatever lalalalala" and 5% "wow there's an actual zombie" to which the three main characters have a very subdued "well that was really odd don't you think" reaction to instead of the realistic reaction which would be to flee in screaming terror or at the very least go get help immediately.

    Apparently episode 2 will be more hair pulling of a similar nature. Failed character development and a few zombie teasers again. Bad way to start.    … Expand
  50. ParkerFarron
    Aug 23, 2015
    7
    I'll of course be updating the score throughout the season but I thought FTWD was off to a solid start. It's a testament to the writers that this type of scenario can still be incredibly interesting and intense. We've been saturated with zombies yet this universe keeps itself grounded with real characters who have no idea what a "zombie/walker" is. There are some cliches right off the bat,I'll of course be updating the score throughout the season but I thought FTWD was off to a solid start. It's a testament to the writers that this type of scenario can still be incredibly interesting and intense. We've been saturated with zombies yet this universe keeps itself grounded with real characters who have no idea what a "zombie/walker" is. There are some cliches right off the bat, the druggy youngster who no one believes, the snarky teenage girl, etc. Kim Dickens stole for the show for me, I think she will be the best part of the series.… Expand
  51. MikeZillaGames
    Aug 23, 2015
    2
    As a fan of the original show, this is a swing and a miss for this spin off. I could sum it's plot up as this: "Junkie knows something weird is happening, nobody else gives half of a f***, and would rather show off their acting chops in slow, boring "character development" tangent stories for the next hour."

    In the original show's pilot, we have a car chase which leads to a dazed and    As a fan of the original show, this is a swing and a miss for this spin off. I could sum it's plot up as this: "Junkie knows something weird is happening, nobody else gives half of a f***, and would rather show off their acting chops in slow, boring "character development" tangent stories for the next hour."

    In the original show's pilot, we have a car chase which leads to a dazed and confused Rick Grimes waking up from a coma to find himself in a terrifying hellhole. It was exciting and creepy.

    In 'Fear of the Walking Dead', we have a stoner getting hit by a car, getting locked up inside a hospital (makes little sense), and half an hour of whining by apathetic LAPD members and a 'Stand and Deliver' style classroom drama that just drags on and on for some time. Apathetic is the best word here, because it doesn't seem like anyone cares what's going on. Even when the zombies show up, it doesn't feel exciting...and that's a bad sign for this spin-off.    … Expand
  52. Timfads
    Aug 23, 2015
    3
    Boring, slow n predictable. For something with only 6 episodes they needed to come out fast especiallly if you are going to showabout two episodes worth of footage thru commericals, previews n hype clips.
  53. SeenNotScene
    Aug 23, 2015
    8
    I love this pilot mainly because it reminds us of fear which is the title. We're used to the survivors who have had to do some of the worst things in order to survive, this is a chance to create a show based on the fear of losing everything rather than based on source material. Everyone who wants to immediately hate the show because it's another cash grab shut up. Robert Kirkman has theI love this pilot mainly because it reminds us of fear which is the title. We're used to the survivors who have had to do some of the worst things in order to survive, this is a chance to create a show based on the fear of losing everything rather than based on source material. Everyone who wants to immediately hate the show because it's another cash grab shut up. Robert Kirkman has the ability to create another side of his universe. Let's let him do it.… Expand
  54. rgd
    Aug 23, 2015
    1
    A very very slow start. Out of 90 minutes, 88 minutes of buildup and tease. Now i read in a professional review that the second hour is more of the same? Deadly--and not in a good way.
  55. cimerians
    Aug 23, 2015
    5
    The pilot episode was bad but got better towards the final 30 minutes. The acting was atrocious for the most part but enjoyed some scenes from Curtis and Dillane. Way too many characters introduced and none of them are initially appealing. None you care about. Of course this is the beginning and one show does not determine the entire series but so far its at an almost tragic start. I'llThe pilot episode was bad but got better towards the final 30 minutes. The acting was atrocious for the most part but enjoyed some scenes from Curtis and Dillane. Way too many characters introduced and none of them are initially appealing. None you care about. Of course this is the beginning and one show does not determine the entire series but so far its at an almost tragic start. I'll leave it at that for now.… Expand
  56. VieRus8u
    Aug 23, 2015
    10
    Zombies, Death, tearing of flesh....and running in fear....I hope this movie has the same life span as the original show.

    I will be watching this every week without fail.
  57. I_loveTVnMovies
    Aug 23, 2015
    10
    I think it was GreaT! I don't get the people comments, specially when we know that "Fear the Walking Dead" is THE BEGINNING. In fact, I wasn't expecting to see a zombie in the first episode; but I think what we saw was enough. I really liked the characters with their family issues. And I also liked the tone and mood of the pilot. I liked a lot of things from it, specially the video thatI think it was GreaT! I don't get the people comments, specially when we know that "Fear the Walking Dead" is THE BEGINNING. In fact, I wasn't expecting to see a zombie in the first episode; but I think what we saw was enough. I really liked the characters with their family issues. And I also liked the tone and mood of the pilot. I liked a lot of things from it, specially the video that goes "viral" on-line. It seems to me that the fear at the beginning will be more like a PARANOIA without people knowing what it is really going on. They will feel exactly like the boy when he woke up and he thought he was hallucinatinG. It seems to me that is good spin-off and it will give us lots of answers. The connections are already there : )… Expand
  58. dbunye
    Aug 23, 2015
    6
    There is a lot of potential for this show.
    The urban setting creates a significant range of options that we do not really see in the rural setting of Walking Dead.
    I recall a major letdown in the movie World War Z was not seeing as much of the start of the Zombie Apocalypse as I hoped for. The movie was good, but fell short of the book. Fear the Walking Dead has the potential to fill    There is a lot of potential for this show.
    The urban setting creates a significant range of options that we do not really see in the rural setting of Walking Dead.
    I recall a major letdown in the movie World War Z was not seeing as much of the start of the Zombie Apocalypse as I hoped for. The movie was good, but fell short of the book. Fear the Walking Dead has the potential to fill in those gaps, so to speak.
    But this episode was long and slow. For an hour and a half, not much happened.
    So, it was disappointing, but I remain hopeful that the series will be worth the wait.    … Expand
  59. TheZeroPercent
    Aug 23, 2015
    10
    I was a lil bumbled that they were gonna 'milk' the franchise. I knew the new show would be 'good' based on critic reviews. Honestly, the show kinda blew my mind a little. Solid acting, excellent atmosphere(Cali-style), fresh take. It is a 10 for me.
next
Page:

Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Most Discussed TV Season of 2015
16
#16 Most Shared TV Season of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
66

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 33
  3. Negative: 0 out of 33
  1. St. Louis Post-Dispatch
    Reviewed by: Gail Pennington
    Aug 24, 2015
    75
    Fear the Walking Dead is heavy on spooky atmosphere and light on zombies (they’ll be known as “infected,” not walkers, we’re told) in the early going.
    Read full review
  2. The Wrap
    Reviewed by: Ned Ehrbar
    Aug 24, 2015
    80
    Fear the Walking Dead pulls off a great feat in prequel land: using that nagging sense of inevitability to its advantage. It shouldn’t work, but it totally does.
    Read full review
  3. Philadelphia Inquirer
    Reviewed by: Tirdad Derakhshani
    Aug 24, 2015
    80
    Fear the Walking Dead is a wonderfully refreshing reboot that reminds viewers of the exciting, moving, and dramatic potential The Walking Dead had in its first season - a potential the show has all but squandered.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »