While it's exciting that the 3 CW superhero shows are back, it's really unfortunate that none of them had any major impact on their respected seasons. Not revealing Savitar's identity was probably the bigger disappointment, but it's frustrating that Prometheus didn't even play a role in tonight's Arrow. Sure, taking him down was the driving force of the conflict between Felicity and Team Arrow, but to not even have him show up was definitely a letdown.
I used to be a big advocate for Olicity and an even bigger fan of Emily Bett-Rickards' performance as Felicity on the show. However, her presence has become more of a necessary evil than it has been a joy like it was the first few seasons. Actually, the necessary part may be completely overruled with Curtis now playing a part on Team Arrow. The point is, I was dreading the day that she inevitably had her own episode and shared the main conflict with Oliver & the crew. To me, with the bigger issue being Adrian Chase on the run, the whole "fight against each other" thing felt frustratingly filler. We all know Felicity will eventually come to her senses and so will Team Arrow. Did I really need to see a whole episode addressing this non-issue?
The answer is no. It's not like I think Richards isn't doing great work, she is. I just don't care to see Felicity as a character go down this road. Maybe it's about time because of all the times that Oliver has done similar things, right? Maybe it's time she's gotten her time to shine as a rebel of Team Arrow, only to return a few episodes later? After all, pretty much every other character has gone through this arc. But isn't this all coming at the worst possible time? Why use the 5th to last episode tackling this?
On a different note, Rene and Quentin spent some quality time together as Quentin tried to get Rene to go see his daughter, Zoe. Arrow has rarely failed when it comes to family drama material and this was no different. I like seeing a different side to Rene and hopefully this will open the door to more character development from Rene this season or next.
I've spent a good portion of this review ranting about the irrelevancy of the Team Helix vs Team Arrow storyline, especially if that was actually the end of Helix on the show, but the reality is the episode wasn't all that bad. I like the parallels between what Lyla & Felicity were doing, and particularly how this could be another factor in Prometheus' effect on the city & team. I just don't understand why this is all happening now. Hopefully next week will right the ship
+Rene & Quentin
-Pointless Helix stuff
-Quit arguing and work together
6.8/10