First, my shameless disclaimer: I love the show. I personally liked Season 1 the best, but Season 2 was right up there, and many think it surpassed the original. Regardless, I have been chomping at the bit to get to Season 3, and was so thankful to AMC for continuing with this fantastic quality show despite ratings that are not exactly stellar. While I enjoy knowing the "secret" that this is the best show on TV that most friends and coworkers have never heard of, I selfishly want it to get more mass acceptance simply so it will continue.
In an effort to provide a true spoiler-free review, I will keep things generic for this episode. The setting of the location of the show has changed, and introduces a new dynamic to the show. The acting continues to be absolutely top-notch, and all of the characters we know and love continue to evolve. The set pieces and authenticity feel accurate and are consistent with my memories of that time-period. The episode is something of a "slow burn" and lays out many of the moving pieces to the Season 3 story line, and is definitely laying the groundwork to have another fantastic season; it would not surprise me if this one turns out to be the best yet.
For me personally this has to be the best TV show in history that has been almost completely overlooked by the critics. It is smart, it is funny, and it has the character development that makes a show great (just like Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, Sopranos ... all have great characters). Good writing and acting are not dead by any means - I can't wait for the remainder of Season 3!
