Against all odds, Daryl Dixon continues its surprising streak of competence with “Vouloir, C’est Pouvoir.” This episode delivers tense action, surprisingly decent writing, and the swagger of a show that’s finally found its footing. Who knew a Daryl-centric spin-off could actually be…good?
The episode picks up with Daryl and Carol facing a two-pronged problem. Their inept pilot, Ash, is trapped in a car surrounded by walkers, while Losang and Jacinta team up with the Guerriers to hunt down Laurent. Let’s start with the former, shall we?
Ash, bless his heart, remains a walking embodiment of incompetence, somehow surviving the apocalypse without acquiring even the most basic survival skills. His blundering leads to a predictable rescue mission for Daryl and Carol, forcing them to abandon their newly reunited group at L’Union’s rooftop camp.
The ensuing series of coincidences – conveniently located fuel cans, a case of Genet’s super-walker concoction in Ash’s car – strain credulity, but the well-executed action sequence makes up for the narrative shortcuts. And while the super-zombie explosion effect feels a bit too video game-y, it’s a welcome change from the usual walker-slaying monotony.
Meanwhile, Losang and Jacinta’s arrival at L’Union HQ leads to a catacomb showdown, a highlight of the episode. The dimly lit setting, combined with the Guerriers’ relentless pursuit, creates a genuine sense of dread, and watching Daryl and Codron (who continues to steal every scene he’s in) dispatch their foes with brutal efficiency is immensely satisfying. The confrontations between Codron and Jacinta, and Daryl and Losang, are brutal and effective.
Amidst the carnage, Laurent grapples with the weighty decision of whether to return to America with Daryl. The recent loss of Isabelle has understandably shaken him, leading to introspective conversations with both Daryl and Codron. These scenes, surprisingly well-written, with a vulnerability rarely seen in Walking Dead characters.
But just when it seems like smooth sailing for our heroes, Carol’s past lies come back to haunt her. The fabricated Sophia story, a manipulative tactic used to convince Ash to fly her to France, is exposed, leading to a tense confrontation. While Ash’s anger is justified, the scene feels a bit heavy-handed, rehashing a conflict that was already addressed earlier in the season.
And, of course, no Walking Dead episode is complete without a cliffhanger. The small plane, even with the miraculously acquired fuel, can’t carry everyone, leaving one person stranded in France. My money’s on Ash. Sorry, buddy.
The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon airs Sundays on AMC and AMC+
