Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Review: Inescapable (Season 6 Episode 6)
Most people watching Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. knew that a FitzSimmons reunion would eventually come to fruition.
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Season 6 Episode 6, “Inescapable,” finally gives the supposedly cursed lovers a bittersweet reunion.
Sweet, because anytime Fitz and Simmons are back together things are magical. Bitter, because their reunion took place in a VR representation of their shared brain, while their bodies lay unconscious.
The success of “Inescapable” relies mostly on the long-building chemistry between Iain De Caestecker and Elizabeth Henstridge, which is undeniable. Though Fitz and Simmons spend some time at odds, the reunion between the characters is layered, sweet, and ultimately satisfying.
AVA MIREILLE, IAIN DE CAESTECKER
Though the jokes that Fitz and Simmons shared a mind have always been around, “Inescapable” does an excellent job of highlighting their differences and similarities. Both are afraid of the monster within themselves, but their general demeanor and approach to delicate situations is wildly different.
But obvious to anyone watching is that Fitz and Simmons are two halves of the same whole. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. does an excellent job of establishing each as individuals, but infinitely more compelling when together.
“Inescapable” works well as another chapter in the love story that is Fitzsimmons, but even more so is a love letter to long-time Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. fans.
Using the memories of Fitz and Simmons as a catalyst, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. uses “Inescapable” to explore the history of the two characters.
AVA MIREILLE, IAIN DE CAESTECKER
This, of course, includes their time trapped underwater, Jemma’s time in space with Hive, and even when they were recruited out of the academy by Agent Coulson, right before the start of Season 1.
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. has not always been a perfect show, but in many ways the FitzSimmons relationship reflects that journey. The use of various memories and scenes throughout the show illustrates how, while not perfect, their love can and will stand the test of time, space, and even death.
More than that, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is an ensemble show. When Fitz and Simmons conjured up their friends Mack and Daisy within their own minds, it serves as an excellent reminder of how far behind Fitz and Simmons would still be if not for their friends.
Particularly, Jemma’s conversation with Coulson after the future Fitz’s death encourages her own instincts, but she may never have broken free to search for him without Coulson, Mack, and Daisy’s support.
Coulson: Is he out there?
Simmons: Yes sir
Coulson: Then get to work
“Inescapable” knew exactly which heartstrings to tug on and when, making for a beautiful, exciting, and compelling episode of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
AVA MIREILLE, IAIN DE CAESTECKER
A few stray thoughts:
- Easily the best part of this episode was the darkest parts of Fitz and Simmons hooking up. The worst parts of themselves are still meant to be.
- I was hoping for a Grant Ward appearance in their memories, since he was such a big part of their early-season memories.
- Honestly, I forgot for a minute that Fitz and Mack were friends. It’s been awhile since they’ve had time to be buddies.
- Shout out to the first mention of Fitz’s brain injury in 4 seasons!
- “Oh…and you’re a grandfather”
What did you think of this episode of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. airs Fridays at 8/7c on ABC.
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Nick Hogan
Nick Hogan is an experienced podcaster and writer (particularly on media topics), who loves discussion and analysis of TV and is always looking for new shows to watch. He is also a parent who loves buffalo wings, blowing raspberries, and his beloved Cincinnati Reds.