Grade: B
Marvel has entered the TV market with its new series “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” While the first episode is a solid start, it has problems that pilot typically face. The show has an extensive cast of characters, including Agent Phil Coulson returning after his death in “The Avengers.” The episode does a great job establishing what makes each of these characters unique, but because it’s the pilot, it doesn’t firmly establish them. The plot of the episode is basic and somewhat generic, but just because the format of a pilot is limited that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The episode feels grounded in the Marvel cinematic universe — plot points from “Iron Man 3” are mentioned and give the show a unique Marvel feel. Overall, the pilot episode of “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” is a promising start to what can be a great series.