The series is an attempt to build on the least fascinating, almost mundane idea of an FBI like agency that exists in the wake of the superhuman stars of the Marvel's universe. SHIELD is actually somewhat of an afterthought, an attempt of Marvel's creative minds to show that the US state and the human world in general are not insignificant ants in comparison to the more gifted characters we all dream we could be like. Well, the plan was flawed from the beginning, because this is exactly what they are, insignificant, trivial characters that lack any purpose and focus. SHIELD comes as a child's imagination of what being an FBI agent means, and that child has been fed too many series on the subject already (NSA, NCIS, you name it) but also has a soft spot for the x-files.

In this case, a bunch of ridiculous but oddly happy characters scour the globe, leaving huge carbon footprints with their big plane that houses a bachelors penthouse inside (go figure!). While doing that, they never fail to exhibit their sensitive, emotional human side and confront each other for no good reason, usually while in the middle of a super trivial mission or (not so) mortal danger. All the clichés apply in spades so we get a mix of rebel, macho, dark and brooding, Asian, Newyorker, computer geek, British PLUS Scottish accent (boy! they really overdid it there). Obviously the mix doesn't work because you could be having this play in the background with the sound off and still not miss much. The series don't have anything to offer either as plot or as pure sensory pleasure. Not even special effects or sexy bombshells were employed to capture the audience. This is why the writers had to resort in "clever" gimmicks like the name THOR being mentioned at least once every other episode to make your head turn and look at the screen.

If you are so much taken by the recent Marvel superhero movies that you are suffering from withdrawal until the next one hits the big screen then by all means watch this. It will perhaps help ease your pain. Just don't expect any kind of thrill from it. For the rest of us it should be a pass.