Started and finished The Walking Dead S1 over the weekend.
Alright so, I have yet to read the graphic novels, it just so happens that the series came out as the interest was always there, so I've ended up watching the season first so I can't really compare.
That being said, unless the original material is better, as a standalone series, I don't see why ppl were complaining about the ending (despite it being abrupt). Certainly made me crave more of it (2nd season out this year on Halloween as per the first).
Production is top notch, acting is very good (bar some moments of over-acting imo), and the story is compelling so far despite how straight forward most zombie related material can get.
Can't wait for more, but I think I'll start with the books as soon as I can.