‘A part of something bigger’: a roundtable discussion of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., transmedia television, and the Joss Whedon brand

A conversation between the three authors examines key points of convergence between classic Whedon television and his work on Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Looking particularly at the idea of Whedon as brand, this article examines his development as showrunner and creator of ensemble writing/directing teams. Much current criticism of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. attempts to separate it from Whedon's body of work; however, here it is seen as a show that brings together two distinct franchises or labels - Whedon and Marvel. The show includes some key Whedonesque elements that are worth some comment, especially in its central creation of a team of disparate individuals who work together for a common goal (familiar from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly, Dollhouse, Marvel's Avengers). Additionally, ways in which Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. can be defined as 'quality', 'cult' and/or 'mainstream' television, and how it interacts with the Marvel film franchise (commented on by Joseph Oldham, CST Online, 27 June 2014) are discussed. The article also explores how the show brings together a variety of genres/ tones/ modes (e.g. realism and fantasy), and how it makes use of a strong ensemble cast. The conversation examines the ever-changing nature of the notion of the auteur via this series in relation to Whedon the man, ensemble creative team, and brand.