The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 2 – New Zombie Variants Revealed
Insights from Executive Producer Greg Nicotero
Greg Nicotero, the executive producer of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, has shed light on the intriguing new zombie variants that viewers can expect in the show’s second season. As Daryl (played by Norman Reedus) and Carol (played by Melissa McBride) face fresh challenges, the storyline promises to be even more action-packed than before. This season will see Daryl continue his battle against the menacing Pouvoir, while Carol embarks on a journey to France in pursuit of him. The trailers have hinted at the emergence of new zombie types, including the swift variants from season 1, as well as innovative bioluminescent Walkers lurking in the shadows of sewer tunnels.
Practical Effects Bring Zombies to Life
During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Nicotero revealed that the bioluminescent and fast zombies, known as “ampers,” in Daryl Dixon season 2 largely rely on practical effects. The team employed LED lights to create the glowing zombies, which required precise timing—just two minutes were available to capture certain scenes using various light sources. Black contact lenses were utilized to give the ampers a distinct appearance, drawing inspiration from ’90s horror techniques, such as those used in The Faculty and Scanners. Nicotero shared his insights:
“During the strike, I returned to the States last year, and we discussed the concept of bioluminescent zombies. Seventy percent of the effect was practical. We used LED lights and a black light wildfire system to paint the back of silicone prosthetics with bioluminescent paint. If you watch the outtakes, you’ll see my team holding black lights right up to the zombies’ faces. Visual effects augmented this by extending the bioluminescence onto the cave walls.”
The team also managed to create glowing effects inside the zombies’ mouths. This involved cleverly concealing elements within the wardrobe and beneath the skin, painting silicone appliances from the inside out. The effect was activated just before filming, providing about 120 seconds of intense interactive light before it began to fade. The visual effects team then enhanced these effects, amplifying the bioluminescence.
The Role of Ampers in Genet’s Quest for Power
Nicotero emphasized that the ampers play a crucial role in Genet’s (Anne Charrier) pursuit of power. The team intentionally designed them to appear different, opting for black contact lenses. This decision was inspired by the visual techniques used in films like The Faculty and Scanners, where veins are visible beneath the skin. Nicotero aimed to redefine the portrayal of zombies by emphasizing their speed, an aspect often overlooked in The Walking Dead series.
Implications of New Zombie Variants for Daryl Dixon Season 2
France Faces Escalating Perils
The first season of Daryl Dixon concluded with the revelation that the Pouvoir were engineering zombie variants across France, seemingly to assert control by sowing fear among its citizens. This theme is expected to continue in season 2, especially with the introduction of bioluminescent zombies. However, the fast zombies and those with acidic blood remain significant threats, particularly as Daryl strives to safeguard Isabelle (Clémence Poésy) and Laurent (Louis Puech Scigliuzzi) from the clutches of the villainous group.
As season 2 introduces at least one new variant, the cast will need to remain vigilant in their ongoing battle against the Pouvoir. This will be especially challenging for Carol, who may arrive in France unaware of the existence of fast or acid-blooded Walkers. The latest trailer suggests that one of her traveling companions might fall victim to these new threats, potentially exposing her to the variants before she reunites with Daryl and learns about the situation in the country.
Our Perspective on the New Walker Variants
Enhancing the Zombie Threat
The introduction of additional zombie variants in Daryl Dixon season 2 elevates the stakes, reinforcing zombies as a central menace and making France one of the most perilous locations in The Walking Dead universe. With a new variant already confirmed, viewers can anticipate even more surprising zombie-related developments as Daryl’s journey progresses and Carol’s adventure unfolds. Since the show likely harbors numerous secrets yet to be unveiled, season 2 could feature the most formidable zombies the franchise has encountered thus far.
The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon season 2 premieres on Sunday, September 29, on AMC and AMC+.
Source: Entertainment Weekly
The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon
- Drama
- Horror
The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon is a spin-off series of the core franchise that stars Norman Reedus reprising his role as the titular Daryl Dixon. Waking up on the shores of France with no clue how he got there, Daryl attempts to navigate the chaos of a European country ravaged by the zombie outbreak to find his way back to the United States.
