scottgmckenzie

Episode one wastes no time pulling viewers back into the high-stakes world of Tony and Ziva. From the opening sequence, the tone is set with tension, international intrigue, and just enough playful banter to remind us why these two work so well together.

The premiere leans heavily on reunion energy, and it pays off. Their chemistry feels lived-in, their trust both strained and unshakable, and the introduction of family dynamics adds a new layer that feels earned rather than forced.

Action scenes are slick and well-shot, with European settings giving the show a fresh, cinematic feel. Some exposition feels a little rushed as it sets the stage for the season arc, but overall the pilot balances setup with payoff.

As a longtime NCIS fan, seeing Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo back together as Tony and Ziva feels like a reward for years of patience. Their chemistry hasn't lost a step-every scene crackles with the mix of tension, banter, and unspoken affection that made them fan favorites in the first place.

The storyline does a solid job balancing espionage-driven action with family stakes. While the pacing at times leans on familiar tropes, the emotional beats-especially moments involving their daughter-give the show fresh depth and remind us why this pairing resonates so strongly.

Production values are polished, and the European backdrops add a cinematic flair that distinguishes this spinoff from the DC headquarters-centric NCIS. Supporting characters still have room to grow, but the series wisely keeps Tony and Ziva front and center where they belong.

Overall, NCIS: Tony & Ziva is both a nostalgia trip and a compelling continuation. It's not flawless, but it delivers what fans have longed for: heart, humor, and high-stakes storytelling with two of the franchise's most beloved characters.