I generally agree with both of you guys on all points. To start, I appreciate the little humorous moments (like with Griselda and Faragonda, as you mentioned Marty). And keeping the oringial music was a good move. The history of an ongoing cartoon and universe should always be carried over.
The Specialist involvement in episode one was necessary after their disappearance in WoW. I was rejuvenated when I saw the guys in full uniform again, and this time with upgrades. Yay! I loved the suits and all of the light weapons. (I don't like how young they look but...I won't fight it for the sake of it being an interesting opening episode.) Brandon had an exceptionally deep voice, lol. I agree with you Fort, Helia was not exactly himself. "Hot-headed" was a good description.
As for Nex...hmm, I know there are those who like him, so I will try to make my points fair. Ever since Season 5, I have not enjoyed his character. He was very pushy, arrogant, and prideful. If I remember right he was downright awful to Roy. That bothered me a lot. And I believe he hurt the overall unit of the Specialists. (And as we well know, Riven already fulfilled this role once, and it wreaked havok on the team overall.) So introducing another prideful character did not seem like a good move. But I will say that Season 8 has given Nex a personality makeover which makes him much more likeable. Unfortunately it does not erase his past history, but I can see him in a new light now.
More Rock Star Winx! Yeah...it was inevitable. Very forced, but I understand the need to sell dolls, merchandise, etc. (And I'm guilty of buying 3 of the dolls.
) At least the audience was more populated this time. In the past Alfea has not been animated with many students. Seems like they have rectified that in Season 8.
Season 7 was okay, but I am glad to see Butterflix (and the dance) go away. Totally ready for galactic outfits!
@Fort: good idea, talk about the animation style in the general overview topic of Season 8. I will do the same as soon as I finish the series.