After the whirlwind first episode, the pace thankfully slows down a bit. June takes a needed backseat this, though she is clearly struggling to hold it together, between some clear ptsd issues and obsessing over Serena. But, the writers get an opportunity to flex, and we get some great dialog as Serena returns to Gilead to bury Fred's Dead. Serena (Strahovski) gets to spar with Mark (Jaeger), Nick (Minghella), and of course, the always superb Joseph (Whitford). It's really great back and forth, excellent writing and delivery by all involved.
Lydia meeting Mark was hilarious, it's so hard to find humor in this series, that was about as good as you can hope for. I honestly laughed out loud. Nicks reaction in the background was fantastic. Janine (Brewer), is as heartbreaking as ever, it is truly painful to watch. Brewer with her fantastic acting, her expressions, just kills it. Esther (Grace) continues to confound. I was worried all of Gileads horror was going to be placed on her this season, though it seems she had a different idea.
Serena-Mark shipping is going to be at level 10 after this season premiere, as it looks like Mark is going to be heavily featured this season, which is absolutely fantastic.
Those last 10 minutes, the ballet/funeral!!!!! The stare down!!!!! HANNAH!!!!!!!!!!!
Great episode, wonderful start to season 5.