The Remarkable Global Ripple Effect of The Walking Dead that Enabled Daryl Dixon's Epic Apocalypse Flashback

Warning: SPOILERS ahead for The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon episode 2!

Summary

The opening scene of episode 2 of The Walking Dead was filmed in multiple locations across Paris, thanks to the show's global popularity.

In the episode, Isabelle's backstory unveils her origins and introduces her as Laurent's aunt, who firmly believes that he is the Messiah.

It is uncertain if the significance Isabelle attributes to Laurent is rooted in his birth circumstances and her sister's loss, or if it serves as a means of dealing with her emotions. Daniel Percival, the director of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon spinoff series, has shared insights into how the show's worldwide appeal facilitated the filming of the opening scene in episode 2. This scene delves into Isabelle's past, showcasing her experiences in the early days of the apocalypse as chaos unfolds throughout Paris.

Percival, the director of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon episode 2, credits the show's widespread popularity for making the opening scene a reality. The support from Paris authorities was instrumental in bringing to life the early days of the apocalypse in France. Percival expresses gratitude for the cooperation, stating that without it, the scene would not have been possible.

Why Isabelle's Backstory Is So Important

Isabelle explores the streets of Paris as she witnesses the world coming to an end. During her journey, she is saved by Quinn, a person she met at a nightclub where she used to dance. Along the way, they encounter Isabelle's sister, Lily, who is unexpectedly pregnant. Quinn suggests that Lily shouldn't join their group, leading Isabelle to leave him behind. Unfortunately, while traveling, Lily is bitten by a Walker. They find refuge at an Abbey, where Lily succumbs to the infection while trying to give birth. As a result, she transforms into a Walker, but her child miraculously survives after being surgically delivered from her stomach.

This story reveals the origins of Laurent, who is a character in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. It also establishes Isabelle as Laurent's aunt. Isabelle believes that Laurent is the Messiah due to his ability to survive being born after his mother turned into a zombie. There is a possibility that Laurent has developed some form of immunity against the Walkers, although this has yet to be confirmed in the series.

Currently, it appears that Isabelle's emphasis on Laurent is due to the circumstances surrounding his birth, including the loss of her sister. It is uncertain whether Laurent's perceived status as the Messiah is a genuine evaluation of the boy or simply a coping mechanism for Isabelle in dealing with Lily's death. The upcoming episode 3 of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon will probably shed light on the repercussions set in motion by Isabelle's flashbacks in Paris, as she joins Daryl and Laurent in their return to the city.