This is an offshoot of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and sometimes an overlooked step-child of the highly successful movies. SHIELD is a global security institution tasked with protecting the earth by using superheroes and some supertech. Phil Coulson (Clark Gregg) returns from the dead to lead a small team of specialists.

The first year tries very hard to tie itself to the movies. Sometimes, it's to its own detriment. It can't help but feel inferior. Also, the movies never returned the favor which only accentuated a classic system between the two. Eventually, the TV show stops trying so hard and stakes out its own path. It does get caught up in a mess like the Inhumans but mostly there are some great season-long serials. With a few stumbles along the way, the show is able to find its own voice and its own cast of characters. They have fun adventures and even with some surprises. There are some very good years.