After last season ended on what is arguably one of the most intense cliffhangers in TV history, the season opener of the final series of Bones, “The Hope in the Horror,” was highly anticipated and did not disappoint.

The episode starts right where the last season ended, with Temperance Brennan “Bones” (Emily Deschanel) held captive by former Jeffersonian intern Zack Addy (Eric Millegan), who has spent the past few years in a mental institution after taking part in a cannibalistic murder ring in season three. The whole Jeffersonian lab team is racing to find Bones and save her from Zack, who is believed to be the mastermind behind a series of murders the FBI is currently investigating.

As the story progresses, the team and the FBI work to prove Zack is the serial killer they are chasing, however, the new evidence that surfaces cause some people to doubt his guilt.

Emily Deschanel made her directing debut with this episode, after spending the past 11 seasons acting as both the main character and producer of the show. Deschanel did a fantastic job, with the episode already reaching an 8.7 out of 10 on IMDb after only a few days.

Due to Deschanel being behind the camera, Bones herself had less screen time than usual. However, this gave the other characters a chance to shine, including some returning characters who brought several mixed reactions.

After the explosion last season that left Jack Hodgins (T.J. Thyne) paralyzed from the waist down and in a wheelchair, he has slowly begun to gain feeling in his legs. Throughout the episode, more is revealed about his condition and it tugs at the heartstrings of avid viewers and first-time audience members alike.

Relationships were a large part of the past few seasons, however, this episode put them on the back burner and focused heavily on the actual investigation. This was a welcome surprise, after last season when the show focused so much on various romances that the actual crimes got lost in all the heartbreak, heart eyes and abundant confessions of love. Although the audience did miss out on seeing any of the characters well-loved children, their absence made sense with all of the serious topics being addressed.

The interesting plot and unique situation gave the show the refresh it needed to give a great final performance. Last season was somewhat of a drag, with plot lines seeming forced at times and extreme measures having to be taken to recapture attention.

The plot of this episode was emotional and haunting, especially for avid Zack Addy fans, and it is a must watch for anyone looking to see what the show is all about. This episode brought Bones back to its roots while still keeping the plot current and moving forward.

Emotions are running high for fans, as the beloved series is rapidly coming to an end. However, if this episode is any indication of what is to come, this may just be the best season yet.