I have enjoyed some other discussions here lately. I love how active this fandom still is.
Okay, on the topic of Observers, what really was racking through my brain as I was seeing the last season, that never really got addressed but seemed like a logical thought especially with previous developments...is that the shapeshifter tech seems like the oddly primitive form of Observer tech.
When we leave off our crew pre-Season 5, the shapeshifters are already these hybrids. You don't really know the full humanity and full shapeshifting at this point because there has been some evolution even in the show as we have seen them come up again and again.
Then when Peter goes on his anti Observer kick in the last season, it is SO OBVIOUSLY an echo to when he goes on his anti Shapeshifter kick earlier on. The modality, the download and integration of info, even some of the method. It just screamed like there was some sort of connection, that somehow the technology that Walter and Bell developed had made some leaps toward humans making their own shifting technology that ended up in the Observers.
That's where I thought there was some irony with Walter being the one to help Michael and go back to convince scientists...because it seemed to lay the groundwork that he created the possibility of the Observer future and was atoning for it. (another paradox like the machine, but reverse direction somewhat)
They did not really get to explore the thought on the show (yes, yes, we all wish there was more). But what are your thoughts? Do you think that was an intentional parallel? What do you think would have developed regarding that thread if they continued? Do you think it's something that Walter suspects/knows that he just doesn't bring up to the others?
Just love the community's thoughts and analysis. I personally love gushing and contemplating about very good shows...and Fringe is peak ofc.