It seems like we are finally heading towards the crazy latter half of the season, as Arrow seasons always are. Whether it's actually Ras as the big baddie this season or somehow it turns out to be Malcom, we only have 8 episodes left. Tonight's episode saw several great character interactions, and it also presented us with another glimpse of Ras Al Ghul. The main reason season 2 still resonates more than this season is because Slade was in every episode from 9-23. He was constantly pulling Team Arrow's leg with all of his many tricks and plans. Ras has barely been on the show this year, so I hope that changes.
One thing that will sure have people talking is whether or not Ras was seen in the Lazarus Pit. I have heard they built the pit on set so I would assume we will see it shortly. I still feel like there is more to Oliver's 'death' than we have been led to believe. I'm sorry I just don't think a human being survives that fall and stab wound without some sort of help. Back in Star City we had many great character moments. I was glad to see the Thea-Laurel conflict not be played out for too long. Thea needs closure for her actions. Or maybe just something as simple as what Roy does with the family he helps, she has been through so much pain in these 3 seasons. I wonder how this will play out with Thea and Nyssa down in the lair. Thea wont die, I don't think, but perhaps some sort of agreement or team up is in store.
It's pretty crazy to think about how different the show is from last season and in particular, Team Arrow. Felicity is sleeping with Ray and Laurel pretty much hates Oliver's guts. The women Oliver used to depend on are slowly drifting away from him. But it was nice to see Oliver and Dig both working together in the field again. But did they kill those assassins? It sure seemed like it. The scene with Dig asking him to be his best man was pretty touching as well. Oliver confessed he is still haunted by the fact that Ras beat him and now that he wants him to be his apprentice, the whole latter half of this season is shaping up to be quite different than we expected. It makes me think that Malcom may very well be the main villain, after he inevitably escapes from Nanda Parbat.
I'm truly not sure where we are headed from here on out, but tonight did a good job of building momentum. Although, I think this episode is likely better served watching as a two parter. It's worth noting that Palmer now has a working ATOM suit. I don't know how I feel about him having flight powers. I would like to see the shrinking ability on the show at some point.
+Dig & Ollie together again
+Lazarus Pit possibility?
+Suspense building character drama
+Laurel & Thea have a strong episode
+Best man
-Team Arrow is getting twisted
-Better served as a two parter, now we have to wait 3 weeks...
8.5/10