The Walking Dead: The Distance: Season 5, Episode 11

As we get closer to the Season 5 finale, the group is faced with a test. Can they trust a newcomer and his safe community? Maggie and Sasha arrive back with Aaron, who they found lurking. Aaron is a seemingly nice guy, who promises to allow them inside his community if they “audition.”

 

“It’s hard to trust anyone who smiles after they got punched in the face.” - Rick to Aaron

 

Obviously Rick is suspicious and doesn't trust him, but who can blame him really. He’s been put through the ringer by every safe community they've met. As a way to prove himself, he says he’s been spying on them, leaving water, and hasn't killed them. So then, they must trust him. Just like that. Yeah, good luck buddy, Rick isn't paranoid or anything.

 

However, the group is quick to jump at the chance of being safe and not having to worry about constant threats. They’re survivors. But tired survivors.

 

The episode’s strong point is the focus on shifting power dynamics and relationships. It’s about finding the middle ground between strong characters, like Abraham and Rosita, and Michonne and Rick, while introducing Aaron and Erick, who probably sacrificed the most this episode because of Rick’s inability to let go of power.

 

The episode continuously reiterates: Is he lying? Is he not lying? Do we put our trust into someone again? Rick has been through a lot and has had to sacrifice, so he’s jaded. But there’s a fine line between protection and a declaration of ‘this is our food’. Seriously, are they in a zombie apocalypse or middle school? Then he ignores a seemingly safe passage to ride to Alexandria in the dark, because that’s always a good idea.