This is a scene that works.

Person of Interest, S03E21, CBS 2014.

Even on repeat viewings.

It checks a lot of boxes.

Smart attitude. Gutsy subject matter. The look and feel. Emphasis on the unexpected. It's all there, and it all clicks just like it should.

Ever notice how stories work? It all starts with an agenda. Somebody wants something. Somebody else doesn't want him to get it. Paths cross. Sparks fly. Shots ring out. Where did you think this scene would lead? What did you think was true about the characters as the action unfolded? What did you learn about them by the time it was over? Did they get what they wanted? Did you learn something new?

Sure, there are other ways to show the chick is a badass, but I can't imagine anything more economical. Ninety seconds—maybe it could have been edited even more tightly.

Takeaway.

People are capable of things we don't expect.
Things are not always what they seem.
Highlighting this discrepancy, this duality, is a great way to get folks excited and keep them interested.

Nobody's who they pretend to be. That's when my jaw drops. That's when I say "Damn—good writing."

He Wept. Original fiction that bleeds.