In a true Agents of shield fashion, this episode flips the show on it's head once again, there is a shift into a darker, more mature tone, not a good thing on itself, I hate when people equate darkness with quality, but this show manages to do it in a way that feels earned, especially following the events of last season and the state the team finds themselves in.
The status quo is all different too, the new team dynamic is mostly depressing, though I am here for nonsense Simmons giving orders, I also love the idea of pairing up Mack and Coulson, the show continues to strike gold with team-ups. Fitz's storyline made me a bit worried the first time I watched it, but now that I know how it all unfolds and what little hints we are laying out for the future I am amazed at how good this storyline is, once again I am ashamed of doubting the writers who continue to prove me wrong.
Speaking of doubting the writers, I had my doubts about Ghost Rider, I wasn't afraid they can't pull it off like most GR fans complained leading up to this episode, I honestly didn't care for the character, I was more concerned the show will become the Ghost Rider show instead of our agents, but I was once again forced to eat my words as not only did the show find good balance for the characters, it also got me to fall in love with Robbie and the rider from day one I was suddenly on board with him taking over .In addition they introduced some other supernatural elements with the "ghosts" that the GR more mystical aspects didn't feel so out of place. Honestly though, how good was that "I'm not the one who decides moment"?
I must also praise the wonderful Mallory Jansen who kills it as Aida,she got the perfect robot mannerisms .