(There’s a spoiler below. Highlight the text to see what it says if you want it to be revealed – the Management)

Tonight’s episode of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. continues to explore the encroaching conflict between the two factions of S.H.I.E.L.D.  The exploration of multiple schools of thought within S.H.I.E.L.D. is quite an enticing hook and adds a fresh wrinkle to the conventional S.H.I.E.L.D. vs HYDRA formula. It is a real credit to the writers that they are able to keep the story fresh while keeping it organically tied to the growing cross-media MCU.

Tonight’s story is told, with a series of juxtaposing flashbacks that take place during the fall of S.H.I.E.L.D. occurring  in events of the Winter Soldier (Captain America 2). I thought this was really powerful plot device. It not only solidifies AoS’s legitmacy as a chronicle for both S.H.I.E.L.D. and the MCU, It adds intrigue and anticipation for further developments to come.

Anti-Nick Fury sentiment has been a staple with Marvel’s comic canon, particularly the politics of S.H.I.E.L.D. It is a real pleasure to see this played out on the small screen. Tonight’s episode reaffirms Fury’s larger than life impact in the MCU especially considering how much he affects the landscape when he isn’t even there. If you didn’t respect Fury as much before this episode you will after this one, especially after learning the composition of the toolbox he entrusted to Coulson *spoiler* (Vibranium). A reveal that should have fanboys and girls drooling for a while.

At the heart of this episode is the question of Fury and by extension Coulson’s credibility. The two S.H.I.E.L.D.’s approach the same goal namely world security but go about it through fundamentally different means. Where the currency of Fury’s espionage was the selective wielding and use of secrets,  This new allegedly more democratic shield envisions them as a fatal flaw. To quote Bobbi Morse “Secrets are what brought down S.H.I.E.L.D. the first time” I love this conflict. S.H.I.E.L.D. is essentially torn against itself in a war of transparency versus strategic compartmentalization this feels like the perfect set up for the upcoming Civil War Movie.

The arsenal of Fury’s discretion (or indiscretions) namely alien biology (Kree/Inhumans /Skye) advanced weaponry and hidden knowledge have now become pieces on very complex chessboard. Opportunity costs that all players scramble for in order to contain, control or destroy. It’s a very fascinating time in the MCU.

Agents of Shield started out as the unsure newcomer as it struggled to find its place in an established world. It is self-evident how much the series has grown spreading its wings boldly in a new area and planting new seeds for more developments in the franchise. New intrigues, new players, new questions. I am excited and you should be too.

Overall Score: 10

Final Thoughts  / Speculations

I will never tire of the eternal badassery of Agent Melinda May. I hear that Kill Bill siren whenever she’s about to drop some poor soul.

Seeing Skye enjoy her powers and Gord’s speech about connection and vibration were very beautiful moments

I initially suspected Mack and Bobbi to be working for S.W.O.R.D. (The Sentient World Observation & Response Department)  With all this concern over the misuse and misunderstanding of alien powderkegs perhaps the two factions will come to an amicable agreement and we will see the founding of S.W.O.R.D. and their cooperation as sister agencies. With all of marvel’s cosmic properties inbound (GOTG2, Avengers Infinity War, etc.) this is not entirely outside the realm of possibilities.

If my speculation is correct would someone please.PLEASE cast Rose McGowan and Agent Abigail Brand?

If you haven’t read Whedon’s run of X-Men which introduced the space espionage agency S.W.O.R.D. please do you self a favor and do so immediately.