I really liked this eppy.
1. Was a bit more understated than I was expecting for a season opener, but then, they do have a habit of being a bit exposition-y to cover the hiatus period of time...
2. TOOOOOOONNYYYYYYY!!!!! The contrast between funny but hurty but silly-crazy Tony in the hospital and focused competent dedicated intelligent Tony in the flashbacks was incredible. The best of both worlds of Tony. Loved it.
3. I liked that the team all knew Tony was doing some super-sekrit assignment this time, even if they didn't know what that assignment was yet. The family aspect of the team was really nice, specifically their support of and care for Tony. Good to see that back, hope it stays...
4. LOVED that little scene where they're having dinner at Gibbs' house... Just the whole storytelling, eating and drinking, relaxed moment before getting down to business. IDK I just really liked it.
5. ALSO LOVED Abby and McGee and Ziva spying on Tony but feeling bad but doing it anyway... It was totally cute, like younger siblings spying on their big brother or something. Just adorable.
6. I knew the FBI guy wasn't an FBI guy!!
7. I knew the super-sekrit spy guy wasn't legit either!! Actually, I thought the SecNav wasn't legit either, but apparently he's being kept in the dark too, so... I STILL DON'T TRUST HIM THOUGH!!
8. I like the relationship Gibbs and Vance have going on these days, it's very functional. They're still a little wary around each other, but they seem to really respect each other now... I totally loved the little "Why do I even have a door?" moment too, lol!
9. I think Stratton may be in the show a bit more than one eppy, perhaps?? I hope they continue that thread more, and catch the bastards in the end.
10. I was a bit surprised that they wrapped the whole Tony spying on someone thingy up in one episode, I was kinda expecting it to be a whole arc for Tony this season or something... I hope they continue making Tony seem more competent and intelligent as well as quirky and fun, this season. I don't like seeing him being made into a goofball at the expense of the entire rest of his personality, like they've done in previous seasons. Hopefully this is a season to look forward to still... We shall see.
Yup, I think I'm done. Yay! Happy happy me. So far. :D