Well, that was different.

A patient's tumor took us all to a musical review on Code Black Season 3 Episode 2. This isn't the first time that the showrunners have shown their theater geek sides, but I think it was my favorite.

The brightly colored song and dance routines worked precisely because they were hallucinations. It's not a new approach (looking at you, Grey's Anatomy), but it is an effective one.

As fun as the intro scene was, I preferred Noa's ballet scene. Not only did Emily Tyra get to show off her skills, but it was a better representation of what was really happening.

Dr. Avila still hasn't grown on me, and I doubt many of you are impressed with the wannabe documentarian. He may have managed to put the camera down and practice some medicine, but it didn't do anything for his personality.

He's even more grating because he's aware of how much of an entitled ass he is.

But the writers have shown us before that they know how to write a redemption story, so I'm willing to stick with it. Besides, there's also a history of interns being fired or killed, so even if his attitude doesn't improve, there's hope!

Avila: You know my dad's given a lot of money to this hospital, how much more would he have to give to fix the whole thing? Never be in code black again?
Campbell: Two billion.
Avila: Wow
Campbell: A year.

Permalink: A year.

I'm trying to apply that optimism towards my frustrations with Willis' new ride along position as well.

Actually, I'm not altogether bothered by the idea that he'll be heading out on EMT calls. The explanations that he gave Campbell and Rox make sense.

But if the point of his being stationed at Angel's is to educate first responders about advances in battlefield medicine, why on earth does he have a permanent partner?

He should be teaching in a classroom or rotating through different EMT units. It's not the premise that bothers me, its the execution.

I wish I could ignore that giant logic hole. It's just so gaping and obvious. But I do like what we've seen of Rox, so I guess I'll have to work out some kind of coping strategy and learn to deal with it.

Rox is pretty great though, right? She has no problem taking Ethan to task for the stupid crap he pulls. It's pretty obvious that she's there to be his love interest, but I can accept that as some kind of concession to network execs.

As much as I like the new girl, my heart still beats for our original residents.

I don't know if you follow Harry Ford or Ben Hollingsworth on social media (you should), but the Angus/Mario bromance transcends into the real world.

Maybe that's why their scenes are so great -- it's only like fifty percent acting.

The teasing and camaraderie are great, but the supportive speeches always get me right in the feels.

Mario used to hate Angus' family connections and the class differences between them, attributing the other man's success to nepotism and privilege.

But now he's the one pumping up his friend. I love their relationship.

Angus: Okay, so if you're blue collar, or whatever, what am I?
Mario: A surgeon. Campbell sees it.
Angus: Well, I don't.
Mario: That's what you got me for. You'll believe in anything, even a crazy psychic. But you won't believe in yourself.

Permalink: That's what you got me for. You'll believe in anything, even a crazy psychic. But you won't...

I would like to see Angus return the favor a little this season. Mario seems to be struggling in his relationship with Noa and could probably use some advice from his more sensitive friend.

But at least Noa and Mario are pretty decent at communicating. They don't always get there on the first try, but they keep at it.

Noa: Did you ever want to be anything besides a doctor?
Mario: When I was a kid I wanted to be a drug dealer. Bad role models.

Permalink: When I was a kid I wanted to be a drug dealer. Bad role models.

I do wish that Noa and Elliot had even a smidgen of the friendship that the third-years share. They're both great independently, but we don't see them together that much.

Wouldn't it be great if Elliot could talk to his peer about the guilt he's feeling? For both of them? I hope he finds somebody to help him clear his conscience. Anybody.

That kid needs a friend.

Elliot, you need to stop thinking about it. Detective Gomez is dead and you can't bring him back. Whatever mistakes you made, let them go. Or you'll just end up making more.
Leanne

Permalink: Elliot, you need to stop thinking about it. Detective Gomez is dead and you can't bring him...

Jesse and Leanne's case didn't thrill me, but I suppose the leads need a break now and then from the heavy lifting. After all, Luis Guzman will be carrying Code Black Season 3 Episode 3 ("La Familia").

When Mama's brother is taken to the ER after an accident at work, we learn a lot about Jesse, his family, and his history with Leanne.

It's an origin story rolled up with defining character moments, and you should definitely make sure you have a clean hanky ready.

So what did you think of "Better Angels"? Were the dance routines too much for you? Can Angus hack it as a surgeon? Do you like Ethan in the field or does he need to get back to the ER, stat?

We want to hear your opinions, so sound off in the comments section! Share what you thought worked (or didn't) and where you'd like to see things head.

Remember, you can watch Code Black online with us anytime to catch up or refresh your memory!