Last night's Grey's Anatomy was all about perspective - what happened to a patient who died (and shouldn't have) from the point of view of every doctor who worked on her.

What we saw were 12 panicked doctors saying they saw 12 different things, unfolding gradually via "Rashomon"-like recollections from each as the Chief interrogated them.

The episode, "I Saw What I Saw" (follow link for a full recap), marked a complete departure from the Grey's Anatomy we're used to. The question is whether it worked.

We're going to go with a definitive yes ... and no.

IT WORKED BECAUSE at the very least, it was fast-paced, compelling and far from stale. The us-versus-them theme is already tired, but at least we got to see it from both sides as the Mercy West doctors played an equal role, not just serving as invaders.

Also, Derek calling out the Chief as the real reason for the disaster - because he fosters a tense environment that quickly spiraled out of control - was ballsy and overdue.

Way to go, McDreamy!

IT DIDN'T WORK BECAUSE this isn't ER. At least it wasn't before last night. There was so much cutting, coding and collapsing that it was making us as nauseous and confused as some of those burn victims. No personal life drama or humor? At all?

We get it. There is panic, confusion and fear at the hospital. While different, the narrative structure seemed a bit cheap at times, and the episode felt like filler overall.

Seriously, Grey's. Try figuring out what you are and where you're taking the show before airing it, rather than throwing things against the wall and seeing what sticks.

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.