One of the reasons why Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is such a great show is that it doesn’t just focus on S.H.I.E.L.D. itself. It also brings in other characters from the Marvel universe and develops their characters, with some episodes tying into the Marvel films (the pilot took place after the events in Iron Man 3, and there are also ties to Thor: The Dark World and Captain America: The Winter Soldier.) This week, we see the inclusion of a very confused Lady Sif as she chases after a man with no reason as to why. However, this plot isn’t wonderful at portraying Sif as the kick-ass warrior that she is. In her amnesiac state, she appears more like a confused child (which we know she most definitely isn’t.)
Chloe Bennett (Skye) and Iain De Caestecker (Fitz) have really been developing their on-screen chemistry in the past two episodes. Fitz has now found someone to relate to, someone who sees themselves as different and who is struggling to deal with the changes that have occurred within them. Both actors give stunning performances this week, their emotions clear on their faces, their expressions so heartbreaking you just want to give them a tissue each and tell them it’s going to be okay. Skye is completely conflicted with herself. She doesn’t want to be a monster that can’t control her emotions, risking those that she loves. Fitz seems to be the only person she can really turn to, the only person who understands what she is going through.
We also see Mack develop as a character. He is obviously struggling with what happened in the underground city and the way that he was changed, but Coulson decides than he shouldn’t just be holed up under the hood of a car. He showed extreme strength whilst in the underground city and can obviously hold his own. But there is still mystery hanging around him and Bobby. What is really going on between the two of them? Of course they’re not really sneaking off to a support group. And why are they keeping it all from Hunter, their closest friend?
There are some questions that are answered in this episode, but we are left with some unanswered ones as well. Watching Skye deal with her powers and the way that the others react when they find out is an emotional experience. You can’t help but feel sympathy for the girl who all her life wanted to find a place to fit in and now, after finding somewhere to call home, she feels like an outsider again.
This week’s episode is most certainly a step-up from last week’s sub-par return.