#windy review

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Walker Independence is a refreshingly inclusive western

Katherine McNamara stars in this welcome change of pace for The CW

Max's review is here!

Max's words on the diversity of the show and seeing Kai as a main character makes me so happy that WIndy is really working to get that part of history right.

[lillysilverus]

‘Walker: Independence’ Pilot Review [SPOILER-FREE] - Nerds and Beyond

Fans were excited to learn back in December that a Walker prequel was being developed, with Walker’s Jared Padalecki executive producing, and Anna Fricke and Seamus Kevin Fahey writing the te…

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Another great review from someone who's seen the pilot! This time, it's from a frequent Walker interviewer! (Who also recently interviewed Justin Johnson Cortez and will be posting that closer to the premiere.)

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They can’t cancel WIndy, this show gets better every week omg.

First off, am I the only one who is annoyed at the way Gus, Hoyt and Kate are treating Abby? It’s not her fault you guys followed her pretty blindly. And while I can understand that reaction initially, personally the moment I saw Shane I would have been like “oh wow, Abby was right. There’s two Tom Davidsons, what a reasonable thing to be confused about!” They made it even worse by treating her like a small child when she wanted to help out with Kai. Abby’s not even my favorite character and I still think her friends are doing her dirty…and chased her right into Tom Davidson’s arms.

At least Calian is a true friend, and the only one with wise words and support to offer even when he’s going through it. I thought it was so sweet that she went to check on him, and by his reaction I’m guessing no one else has yet. I love Abby and Calian’s friendship. To me, their chemistry has mellowed out and they’ve gone from potential love interests to twins souls. They’re both wise people who despite their on the surface stoicism are soft hearted and both are destined to be leaders, even if they don’t feel like they’re up to the task. Taza dying and his faith in Calian to guide their people had me tearing up. Calian walks a hard road, especially because there’s really no right route and suffering at the end no matter which way he goes. But Taza was right, him being pulled between two worlds make him the right leader to guide people into the uneasy new world. I also loved the one door closing, another opening with Taza dying and Calian potentially finding his sister. Lots of siblings popping up in Independence these days, I’m half expecting Hoyt to have brother next week lol.

We finally got the Kai centric episode we’ve been waiting for, and they did not disappoint! Even though I was suspicious of Lily from the get and figured she betrayed him for the Tong, they were pretty cute together so I was hoping it would all work out. I loved that he called Kate out for using him and proving that he knows a lot more than he lets on. And the detail about the change in his cadence! I thought his halted, accented English going to fluid Mandarin was a great detail, and it became 10x better when we found out the accent was all an act. So happy they didn’t shy away from badass Kai, a man who can dish it out whether it’s violence in streets or business negotiations. I want a whole season dedicated to a Kai and Tom partner ship and the two of them running Independence. I was shocked that Kate was so disgusted with him though. Ma’am, get off your high horse.

Shane Davidson was not what I was expecting. I thought he was going to be the competent golden child, not the party boy recklessly skating by on his family’s name/wallet and his ego. With every episode, I’m more convinced that Tom is trying to make a name for himself beyond his family, and that in his own way he really does care about Independence. I wonder what he was going to confide in Abby about, maybe warning her away from his brother? It must have stung to have disinterested Abby appear so into his brother. I was not expecting Abby to go to Tom about her suspicions regarding Shane! I wonder how her relationship with Tom is going to change going forward, and if that’s going to prevent her from making up with the rest of the group whose distrust of Tom runs too deep. I also wasn’t expecting Tom to have already hung his brother up! Like Tom, why do you have a murder shed? I figured last week it was a one time thing, but two people back to back? Tom you rascal. It shouldn’t make me like him more, but it does lol.

And while we saw a decent amount of Gus and Hoyt this week, there wasn’t much going on with them. I liked the hint of Hoyt’s more serious side, and the two of them work so well together I hope they continue to have more side storylines. Hoyt is a great character because everyone brings out a different side of him. Abby and Kai bring out his protective nature, Kate brings out his humorous side (they’re like bickering siblings, I love it), and Gus and Calian bring out his potential to be his own man who would make his father proud.

Another beautiful review! I know there was a lot going on this week, but I felt like it flowed a better than the previous week and had a bit more focus.

As for they way Abby's friends treated her? I think there's still an element of Abby being an outsider. Hoyt, Gus, and Kate have been in Independence longer and have a stronger relationship with Kai. They all went into protective mode and maybe they weren't sure how willing Abby would be to help Kai. (Though it was still rough to see them not even giving her a chance.)

The chemistry between Abby and Calian is ridiculously hot! I loved hearing Abby speak a bit of Apache. Even if they don't become love interests, their friendship is incredibly sweet.

My heart absolutely broke for Kai in this episode. They took us through the emotional and character gamut with him. Kai is a man of many talents and I can't believe Lily played him like that. The last thing he needs after going through such a harsh betrayal is for Kate to turn her back as well.

I will forever be confused by Tom. He seems to have so many righteous intentions, but his penchant for torture is pretty worrisome. How long before he turns on one of our WIndy favorites if they cross him?

Loved your analysis of Hoyt! It's so fun to see the different way each relationship develops.

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WIndy back with a bang! This show never misses or makes us endure dull moments and I love them for that.

I have to remember to keep good faith when it comes to Gus, he’s smarter and more in the know than he lets on and seems to have his own motives that he’s not quite willing to let people in on yet. He’s also the character that knows Tom best since he knew that unless Tom found the body himself he’d never believe it was Mary Collins, and was instantly suspicious of Tom letting the suspect go. The team needs someone who isn’t going to let their distrust of Tom blind them. His dynamic with Hoyt was so good– I’m a sucker for when the lawman and the outlaw team up. I’m also wondering if we’re going to see a new arc for Hoyt with him going legit, I could see Gus and Hoyt running Independence together. Hoyt’s days as a ranch hand didn’t last long and with it his relationship with Lucia is also over, or at least that’s the way it seems. I’m hoping that Lucia now enters her girl boss rancher era.

I’m happy that Kai didn’t run away, I’d miss him. Plus we’ve all seen that Independence is a boring town, it could use his drama 😉

I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Abby’s sister or her joining the show so soon (I thought Boston wouldn’t come into play until season 2) but I love her and need her back ASAP. Kate probably feels the same way lol. Those two kissing while Angel Olsen played did more for the gay community than Chaos Machine/Jenneel ever could. I loved the scene where Kate was filling Charlie in on all of the gossip. Didn’t think I’d get my shipping wish fulfilled in the same episode as her introduction! Their spark was there from the moment they met! Kate really is the most charming woman. I’m glad Abby seems to understand her sister a little better now, and hopefully realizes that they’re more alike than Abby thinks (side note, get off your high horse Abby). I’m also curious because it seems that Charlie knew more about Liam than his own wife did.

Calian’s storyline has taken quite the turn! I’m guessing that Calian is going to turn to the town, specifically Abby and co, for an alliance to protect his tribe. The Native gossip mill must be wild, how does this chick know so much about Calian? I know it’s probably just because it’s convenient for the narrative, but I like imagining people gossiping about the handsome Calian.

Did anyone else think that Tom Davidson was going to kiss Abby when they were searching the scene of Liam’s death? It’s funny because I’m always happy that the show doesn’t force romance and I’m a slow burn type of gal, but every episode I also want Tom and Abby to kiss. He’s clearly so into Abby. “You saved me, you’re so smart and determined, you ran the town with Gus while I was gone and I’m totally not jealous, you care and my family doesn’t😍🙈🙊” And this episode he reminded us that he was previously in a mental institute by hanging the guy that stabbed him from the ceiling. My skin crawled when he stabbed that guy in the hand. I was wondering why he let him go, but apparently Davidson sheriff work needs to be done off the books. Abby is growing on me as time goes on. I love the parallel of both her and Tom being artists, and being so conflicted when it comes to him and her morals.

And speaking of conflict, a Tom Davidson doppelgänger! Props to the casting department, they really do look like brothers. I’m surprised Abby is able to admit that she might be wrong about Tom, and I’m excited to see where this takes the case.

All in all, the perfect episode to bring things back. Humor, romance, more mystery and good, old fashion western drama. I missed these characters so much! Can’t believe we only have a few more episodes in the season.

Swoon! I love your reviews! Thank you for continuing to send them in!

Gus has so many layers I feel we've barely scratched the surface! And him and Hoyt? Comedy gold! (Matt was wearing a pretty smart suit in one of the bts photos... maybe he's looking to be on the town council?)

I miss Kai when he's not in the episodes, I can't imagine him being out of town. But I find it interesting that he was so willing to open up to Hoyt when he's been so tight-lipped prior to now. I wonder if Lucia's put in a good word for Hoyt, or if it's just easier thinking he may be talking one criminal to another.

Kate and Charlie!!! Chate? Karlie? "Those two kissing while Angel Olsen played did more for the gay community than Chaos Machine/Jenneel ever could." You're not wrong!

I'm right there with them gossiping about Calian!

I didn't really see a kiss coming, but the chemistry he and Abby have is fantastic. And I did not see Tom's descent into torture coming. Now I'm really curious as to what he was in the asylum for.

Called it when I saw those photos of Tom and Shane for next week. I knew there'd be a way for Tom to be exonerated of killing Liam. (Even if he still might be guilty.)

I'm lucky that I get to rewatch WIndy as I'm typing! Along with everything else being fabulous, Hoyt looks fantastic in blue! (I think that's a Walkerverse constant!)

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Another great review for Walker: Independence and it's cast and crew! (Also - vivaciously charming Kate? I am here for that!!!)

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WIndy really knows how to return from a hiatus! A great mix of humor, drama and suspense in this episode. Just like Hoyt, I’m also happy that the gang is back together and that Gus gets to take a bigger part in their shenanigans.

Calian and Hoyt’s reunion was so sweet! I love their friendship and how Hoyt was immediately ready to do anything to help Calian (bonus points for it including his favorite hobby😂). It seems like their go-to distraction plan is causing a scene with a fight. I guess if it’s not broke, don’t fix it. While this episode was a little heavy on Hoyt as the comic relief, it works better now in my opinion because we know the rest of the group takes him seriously and that he can switch back to being dangerous without any notice. I wonder if he planned for his protege to rob him and the railroad guy for a share of the profit, or if it was just a happy accident.

I’m so glad Kate and Abby made up, their friendship is everything. It’s so rare that we get to see genuine lady friendships that are compelling on TV. Plus they work well together, Abby is a bit of an idealistic dreamer and Kate is the pessimistic realist who keeps her grounded.

Tom and Abby were so sweet this week. Such a gentleman, trying to make sure Abby was comfortable after their night together. I also love the fact that he has so much confidence in her and sees her as the capable, intelligent woman she is. And trusting her with Davidson business when he doesn’t even trust his own deputy? Pretty serious, I guess Aunt Teresa’s high opinion of her goes far. Sidenote, I hope we see her again soon. I’m a fan of the dysfunctional Davidson clan. I’m kind of sad that they didn’t get to have their romantic candle lit dinner at their cabin, but I can’t wait to see what Liam’s journal reveals.

And speaking of the dysfunctional Davidson clan, Shane and Tom’s time in the murder shed! My poor meow meow! How dare he look so good covered in blood. And poor Greg, it was so cold you could see his breath and he was getting water thrown on him. The scenes between the brothers were so intense. I was so worried that no one would come for Tom until it was too late, but Gus came through…well presumably he did though Shane and Tom were doing the classic evil clone ‘kill him and not me!’ bit.

I was excited for Kate and Kai to make up, but it seems like Kai is (yet again) not who we thought he was. I wouldn’t have guessed he was the follow along with authority type. Now I’m worried that Kate has jeopardized their mission by trusting Kai.

These last three episodes (I guess two now) are going to kill me, I just know it! I screamed when I saw the teaser for next week. Wild West Jared and the long awaited backstories? CW please, renew the show and tell us already!

Yes to everything!!! (If there are any WIndy gif makers reading... I need Hoyt and Calian's hug!)

This show is so deft at switching between humor and drama, it reminds me of one of my other favorite shows, Firefly (showrunner issues aside).

I'm still not entirely sold on Tom and Abby, but it seems that perhaps neither are they? At least, not quite yet. And I'm sure Abby finding Liam's journal will put a damper on those plans (well, and Tom's torture.)

Kai really surprised me. I did not expect that explosive anger out of him. That boy has layers! Though I still really hope he and Kate can find a way to preserve their friendship.

I can't even think about renewal speculation now. I'd worry myself to death over that because I want it so much!

(Thank you, again, for another fabulous review!)

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I’m officially sending in my petition to rebrand Walker: Independence as a mystery. I don’t even know where to start this week.

We’ll start with Hoyt. I’m glad this week we returned to Hoyt as a serious man/wily criminal who happens to be funny vs being the comic relief. I was audibly aw-ing throughout the entire exchange between him and Luis. It was so sweet to see that the Reyes’ actually do care for Hoyt, and we got to find out a little bit more about Hoyt’s family. Everyone is so untwined in Independence, it makes for such an interesting story. I died when Hoyt protected the tree stump as a landmark, so funny. Him throwing the fight and passing out on a chance for glory to get money and pull his weight on the ranch was indicative of the kind of man he is (secretly honorable underneath all of the ruffian behavior). And not to skip forward too far, but did anyone else catch the look on Francis’ face when his father mentioned there’s potentially a place for Hoyt at the ranch? I’m wondering if he killed his father in order to keep the ranch for himself, he did not look happy at the prospect of sharing the ranch with Hoyt.

A surprising amount of insight into Kate this episode, though it’s not super obvious. A past affair with her boss (no matter what wording she used with Abby) has me wondering if she used her feminine charms to get her job as a Pinkerton agent. Her inability to see who Hoyt actually is has me thinking that sometimes her self confidence blinds her, and while it’s what the team needs it could be her downfall at some point. Side note: I don’t trust Elliot at all. Between his meeting with the Sheriff and brushing Kate off after it became apparent that she wasn’t interested in sleeping with him, I think Kate might be a free agent soon.

I was not expecting the former sheriff to be Gus’ suspect! I really thought it was going to be Abby. In fact, I wasn’t expecting the former sheriff to make an appearance at all. I had just assumed he was an old man who died. What a character Otis is (or rather was, do we think he survived a shot to the abdomen?). Obviously looks are in the job description for sheriff of Independence, and I appreciate that. The case of who killed Liam Collins that seemed so straightforward has so many twists and turns. Plus now we have even more unanswered questions. And it looks like Abby is going to have to take a little break from that mystery to solve a more pressing one and clearing Calian’s name. A shame that it looked like Gus and Calian’s relationship was on the mend only for another suspicious death to happen. Was Calian hallucinating the little girl and accidentally shot Luis in a trance? Did Francis shoot his father and take advantage of Calian’s state to frame him? Who was that little girl, and what does the town of Independence/Otis have to do with her disappearance? It’s a shame that Calian’s fears about getting involved with the town had come true- he’s framed and behind bars in a world that doesn’t care to understand him or even see him as human. At least he has allies now, but will they be enough? Will his people stand behind him? What’s going through Gus’ brain? Augustus is so hard to read. I have so many questions! What a good cliffhanger.

I fall more in love with Tom Davidson every week. He’s scheming, but not in the way we all originally thought. I think he wants to put his criminal past behind him, become an honest (or as honest as you can be in the west) man, do his aunt/family proud and put Independence on the map. It was so hot when he got in that ring, and he didn’t even have to take his shirt off. What a man. And the way Abby’s presence gave him the strength to get up and got back to fighting? I will do anything for a Tom and Abby slow burn romance!!! His smile when he saw her, and her look of disgust 😍 I’m also so here for a Kai and Tom alliance, those two could effortless run the town. It was so sweet that Tom made sure that Kai got a shout out in the paper alongside him, I love that he sees him as an equal. And I would love to see Kai go from working the railroads to helping run them.

Not a lot of Abby this episode, but everyone is this cast is so good I didn’t really feel her absence. I loved her dress and hair this week, and her horse matching her so well (meaning they’re both beautiful and polished lol). I love that Abby never backs down when the men are trying to protect her. She’s really finding herself. And Kat did such a good job portraying Abby’s heartbreak over her husband not being the man she thought he was. How do you mourn someone you didn’t actually know? How do you avenge the death of a man who may have been just as corrupt as his killer? Is it even worth doing so, or should she officially leave Boston and Liam behind in favor of moving forward? Her life is very promising for a widow (law career that she thought would never be possible as a woman, handsome men, good friends), it’s almost as though she’s better off without him.

And of course the cliffhanger! Tom being stabbed! Clearly there’s a conspiracy going regarding the Independence sheriffs office, and now that Tom is a casualty the previous suspect the Davidson’s aren’t the ones behind it. Nothing is as it seems. I’m assuming Tom lives because Greg has been filming, but it still hit me hard! How am I supposed to wait for next week? How will I survive the holiday season hiatus? This show is so good, it has surpassed all of my expectations and blown me out of the water.

"I’m wondering if he killed his father in order to keep the ranch for himself," Ooh... I hadn't thought of that! (I'm rewatching right now and Hoyt called the father Francis, so Luis is the son.)

Interesting thoughts about Kate and her self-confidence. I have a feeling if there is a downfall, it will be at the expense of a friend and might shake that confidence.

Why do I get the feeling there's an incredibly tragic story behind the little girl. Also, I'm going to have to listen to the conversation about Calian and Gus' backstory (and the references to someone being shot) because I'm reading the biography of Bass Reeves, and as the story goes, he was a slave who ended up in an altercation with his owner and fled (as a runaway slave) to Indian territory where he joined up to fight against the confederacy as a Buffalo Soldier. It sounded like Gus may have a similar story.

I worried about Kai owing Tom, but it sounds like Tom might be the right kind of ally. And I loved Kai offering boxing tips! Tom is a sweetheart that needs to be protected (especially from his scheming relatives.)

I find it interesting that Abby is technically the main protagonist, but I'm so much more enamored of all the other characters. I know Abby's story drives the plot, but I'm afraid I'm losing interest in her... (don't kill me!)

"How will I survive the holiday season hiatus?" I have no clue, because I have a sneaking suspicion they're going to end on a cliffhanger next week.