"Bloodletting" Review
“Bloodletting” opens with a flashback. We’ve seen pre-apocalyptic flashbacks on this show before (“TS-19” comes to mind); it’s nothing over-the-top or incredibly significant like the Lost flashbacks, but it’s still a nice break and change of pace for The Walking Dead. Seeing Lori before the world went to hell reveals some more about her character - chiefly, her inner-strength and motivations. By the end of “Bloodletting,” we understand why Lori can’t deal with Carl’s bed-ridden state alone.
There are some great character moments all around in “Bloodletting.” Rick and Shane had some really great scenes together. Though I was a bit hesitant about Carl’s wound in the Season 2 pilot (it seemed a bit rushed and unexpected), the plot development was ultimately a good choice. We see some of the payoff here, as characters begin to reveal their true nature. I was definitely surprised by Rick’s determination to leave and seek an external solution to Carl’s gunshot wound rather than stay and face the internal struggle of waiting around.
I have to say before going further that I absolutely love the cinematography of The Walking Dead. This season especially, has a striking look. That old, Georgia mansion and the lush property adds a whole new perspective to the show, and it’s really become a pleasure to watch. Fortunately, it’s not all aesthetics, as the story matches in strength. The new doctor, in particular, was well-cast. He has a certain presence on screen, and the reveal that he’s actually a veterinarian was a nice little twist.
The rest of the story holds up just as well. Characters continue to be fleshed out, with T-Dog (worst chosen name in television history, btw) and Dale growing closer while left alone with the RV. I liked T-Dog’s observation that they’re only watching the RV because they are the weakest. 
Sophie is still missing, and I’m surprised she hasn’t been located yet. I’m predicting the payoff will come next week but it’s hard to make a call either way. My bet is on her coming back as a zombie, but it’s anyone’s guess, really.
“Bloodletting” leaves us with another cliffhanger, as Shane and Otis (the overweight man who shot Carl) are trapped in a building with a hoard of zombies clawing to get in… and damn, that bolt looked weak. But they got to the supplies, at least, so let’s not give up hope just yet. Still, we know Carl will live to see another day, right?
Though that question is left unanswered, “Bloodletting” is another strong episode of The Walking Dead, that raises the bar after last week’s Season 2 premiere. I know I’ll be tuning in next week to see where things go from here.
What did you think? As always, let me know your thoughts in the comments.
-MP