#spnwin lb notes

[whateverthedragonswant]

TW: 1x07 "Reflections"

Disclaimer: It goes without saying, if you don’t like, don’t read. And as I always say, criticism of a show does not equate to criticism of actors (or executive producers) as people so if you choose to continue, please leave all stanage (in particular, AA baggage) at the door.

Written by: David H. Goodman & Robbie Thompson

Directed by: Richard Speight, Jr.

Rating: 6/10

Pros: decent mid-season finale; A+ usage of 15x18 theme for John and Henry's scene & the usage of the Winchester theme; I have decided to adopt an alien-spider dog & I'm starting a group for all alien spider-dog moms on Facebook so let me know if you want to join (Roxy would join but she's, ya know, floating in a dimension somewhere that doesn't have decent Wifi); Samuel's entrance; the Jary kiss felt earned; Speight directing (yes, you could definitely feel it); music choices are starting to be more on point for the time period and the overall vibe of the show

Cons: The Akrida obviously being a copy of SPN demons (which is why we haven't seen too many demons thus far btw) & just the SPN copying in general, I thought this show was supposed to expand the universe, not clone every single facet of it; Bridget's own Party City wig; rather than ADR, they kept Meg's cracking loss of voice in; Dean's voiceover

Dean voiceover: “There comes a time in every hunt when the fighting starts. And the difference between winning and losing isn't whether you have the holy water, the wooden stake, or the silver bullet. It's whether you got the grit to get the job done.” - Still not quite Dean (too much of a bit of an accent present) but closer - you're getting warmer, Jensen

Isn’t Mary concerned they might hear her or John’s voice? If there was someone in there?

Oh boy, Samuel’s bag covered in blood, not good

So in SPN the MoL bunker in Lebanon was empty because of Abbadon, right? Idr that storyline too well, did Abbadon and all of the demons/Hell Knights wipe out all MoL? I wonder if we’ll get the answer later since I see Gil is in this episode

A werewolf, another supernatural guard, just like Mrs. Butters

“Me being in here cooked right through him” - I’m sorry, I’m just going to say it, the Akrida idea and execution is stupid - I seriously feel like this was their response to copy the demons that Dean and Sam came up against in season 1 (with YED leading to Lillith then leading to Lucifer)

Are those 3 spikes on the ground next to Akrida!Hector?

OMG SERIOUSLY WHAT IS WITH THAT HAIR??? Did they shop at the same wig store they got Sam’s wig from in the SPN series finale? That is genuinely terrible - why not just curl Bridget’s actual hair at that point? - there’s a difference between 70’s style hair and a mop head that’s been in a violent windstorm only to then be turned into a wannabe shag carpet

So if she’s the queen of the Akrida, why use a scalpel to threaten this guy? Doesn’t she have the alien spider-dog hanging around at her beck and call? Was he not able to come through the alien spider-doggie door?

Ah, there he is! (love how the guy barely spares him a glance btw)

The Ostium…interesting name...I'm not going to say what it makes me think of, I'm not going to...nope...mm-mmm...lips zipped

And just like that he knows his dad’s handwriting? - I mean, I get that he’s probably read and reread Henry’s letter hundreds of times by now but that seems rather impossible to tell that quickly? Especially not using the letter to reference?

Awww Carlos 🥺 

I’m glad they brought Millie in, it feels more like a mid-season finale episode now

Of course Carlos and Mary get pulled over by Mop Head--sorry, I mean Roxy

Ooo Meg, a little bad acting here

The best thing about this scene? Bridget - no surprise there, she always plays a wickedly entertaining bad guy

Nice move, Carlos

Meg sounded sick in this scene, like she was losing her voice a bit - girl, get you some Ricola drops or something. How horrible they made her shoot dialogue when she's literally lost her voice (yes, I know, that's the industry, but still, how does that work in the episode's favor?)

That was a nice scene between Millie and Ada

Good song choice

Awww Carlos doesn’t want to lose Mary or the group, understandable

I love Ada’s magic so far in this show - if they do bring some SPN originals to cross over, I really hope Rowena is one of them, I’d love for her and Ada to cross paths

Oh yeah, Meg is definitely losing her voice *goes all mom and picks up phone to leave Robbie another voicemail; ignores his greeting telling me specifically not to leave another message*

Ah, the infamous Dean/Winchester theme coming into play when John brings the object - this is going to be important for John’s character I’m assuming

So, Henry showed up after all (also love how they had Mary have the lighted up halo as being John’s “saving grace” in the beginning of that scene)

Wow, are they playing the confession scene music during this scene???? W O W - this is obviously very important for John (and this reiterates how important that 15x18 scene was for Dean's character)

And the Winchester/Dean theme comes back into play - wow, they’re really going all out for this one

So I’m confused or maybe I’m just not remembering, do they know Henry died before this moment or how? Or no? If not, neither John nor Millie asked him? And they suddenly knew they needed to do a seance? Or maybe it was in Henry's letter and I'm just not remembering? Like a "if you're reading this, I'm dead" kind of thing?

I think Drake did a great job in this scene

And just like that, Roxy is gone? Bridget did a whole whopping 3 episodes this season? How was she not the queen? Bridget, don't worry, you'll always be my queen, just not of a weird alien bug species - don't worry, girl, I've got you

They sure have a lot of monster essence when they only dealt with 1, 2, 3 tops so far this season?

The first kiss and a callback to the first episode - I wouldn’t say this moment was overflowing with chemistry but it sort of felt earned? Way more than another couple in another show of Jensen's that shall remain nameless *cough* Big Sky *cough cough*

I couldn't help but laugh when the door broke open and their kiss got interrupted only because it was like 'did you guys really forget that a rabid pack of weird alien spider-dogs are trying to break down the door to kill y'all?'

The Samuel save was a good one - I thoroughly enjoyed that part of the scene - not gonna lie, I expected Clark Kent's laser eyes to come into play but Tom/Samuel wielding the Akrida-sucking-ghost-trap-thing was pretty good, too...now he just has to put that thing into the Containment Unit & we're golden, then they can go to that Big Kennel in a random dimension

Gotta say, I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about Tom as Samuel but I’ve never been so relieved to see anyone in this show as much as I was with him

So, the monster essences are going to wake the queen, I take it? *thinks about this* Is Mary going to be in a mecha-suit soon doing battle with a huge alien spider-dog/wolf thing? Because I gotta admit, that kinda feels like where this is heading with the whole Alien queen thing (I'm not thinking Aliens, you are) - either that or a huge fucking wasp creature thing

As always, Speight delivers

Episode theme: you have to have the will to get the job done, to keep pushing forward

Monsters: The alien spider-dogs were a bit creepy when there was more than 2 of them - *writes note to self*: do not get more than 2 for the house, keep them out in the yard (good luck, mail person!), do not install any doggie doors, check out alien spider-dog obedience school, tell your neighbors not to let their kids or cats within 500 ft of the property, keep a mop head wig close by and only break out for emergencies, no bath time, and definitely do not feed these little shits after midnight

Chemistry: Mary and Carlos; Ada and Millie; Carlos and Latika; John and Mary

Ending Thoughts: Not bad for a mid-season finale for this show. I think it's starting to make its way, slowly but surely. I’m curious to see how the father/daughter scenes between Samuel and Mary play out when the show returns. I have to say, there were times I had no desire to continue this show due to the writing, the lazy-not-even-hiding-it outright copying of everything SPN, the overall mess, but it’s gotten somewhat better as it’s progressed so depending on how the mid-season premiere goes on January 24th, that will determine if I continue with the series or not (something tells me I will but because I like to be all mysterious and shit so I don't want to give the game away too soon... *whispers* I'll probably continue watching it)

[whateverthedragonswant]

TW: 1x06 "Art Of Dying"

Disclaimer: It goes without saying, if you don’t like, don’t read. And as I always say, criticism of a show does not equate to criticism of actors (or executive producers) as people so if you choose to continue, please leave all stanage (in particular, AA baggage) at the door.

Written by: Jess Kardos

Directed by: Geary McLeod

Rating: 5.5/10

Pros: the message & theme of the episode; John's involvement in the arc & the writers not shying away from this part of his journey/character, instead they seem to be exploring it fully; John and Mary had more chemistry than last episode; Drake and Nida were excellent in the barn scene; Latika saved the day; we saw a legit hunter's funeral with other hunters; we also got to see Mary's hunting connections outside of John/Carlos/Latika; we see more of Mary's desire to get out of hunting and they bring it home about how hunting is actually deadly and not a fun pasttime for young adults as opposed to staying home to watch the newest Mash episode or going roller skating.

Cons: Dean voiceovers still don't sound like Dean; still stereotyping Carlos when it comes to Spanish; still copying things SPN, right down to dialogue and SPN character quirks (every time I think you guys are going to go your own way and forge an identity, you do this and it needs to stop, all it does is smack of desperation and lack of creativity/originality, it is not helping you); Carlos getting knocked out while Mary didn't though she got hit the same way and then hit worse (while we have POC saving the day, this is still problematic)

Alright, I’m sorry, what kind of blood/splatter effect IS THAT???

Dean voiceover: “Hunting has a way of changing a person. After a while, right, wrong, good, evil, they all start to look the same. And then it makes you start to wonder, who’s really the monster here? Them or me?” - a little more like Dean but still not quite there - what happened after 1x04? Jensen, my man, what's happening?

Omg “Amigo” is back *rubs temples*

“I am not obsessed. I’m thorough.” *best Marcia Brady voice* Sure, John, sure

And now we have “amor” - I’m sorry but how do you guys not see how stereotypical this is? Not to mention it’s checking the boxes of “representation”?

John, chill out - again, you’ve been hunting for six episodes and maybe you believe you’re the chosen one but didn’t we learn the lesson a few episodes ago that we need to depend on others, to let them in, we can't always do it alone or something? Chill. Out.

I love that Latika and Carlos are trying to give John options on chilling out aka helping his anger that seems to be mounting with every episode

They even copied the SPN Dean robe thing, Lord help us

And werewolves make an appearance

And the old journal thing again

It’s moments like this that make me really hopeful for Mary getting out of hunting (despite knowing what’s coming down the line)

“But that’s the life of a hunter, right? Kill or be killed.” Exactly, I’m glad Tracy said this and nullified the making light of the life of a hunter they tried to make it in the van

It amazes me that John doesn’t seem to be thrilled for Mary getting out of hunting - I get that he told her she should leave Lawrence if she does in the last episode and he doesn’t really want her to leave, but if you truly love someone, don’t you want what’s best for them? I know he's still young but wasn't he engaged before or something?

Good song choice and I do love that they are showing this part of the world: the hunter’s funeral

I’m glad that Tracy isn’t alone for it (looking at you SPN series finale)

Exactly, John, is that the end you want for her? I don’t think so

I love that Carlos wants to take a gander at the Harlequin romance novels - I wonder what his reaction would be when he came across his first "purple-headed warrior" line

John Winchester everybody - this guy has a resume of 5 episodes in hunting and already trying to rush in head first to duel the Big Bad without a plan… I’m calling it now, this is going to be turned into some big romantic gesture he’s trying to make by the show, he wants to defeat the Akrida as soon as possible so Mary can be free of hunting so she doesn’t die

And surprise, surprise, we get the whole Carlos and Latika conversation happening about Latika “torn between two worlds” *smh* so on the nose - but since it is important to Latika’s role in the story so far, tbf, it does make sense (but still...)

Awww Carlos you’re so cute - don’t worry, you can recover from that one, I guarantee it

So, Alfred Hitchcock mentions? Nice - Rear Window is a fantastic film (if you haven’t seen it, you should - one of the first films we ever watched in film class, it’s a masterpiece for framing and the camera in general!!!)

Wait, Samuel and Deanna separated? And Deanna is no longer in the picture? Then how in SPN do they… How when Dean goes back in time do they… ? ? ? You know what, I’mma let that one go and just go have a sandwich

“They separated again?” Me: *looks up with mouthful of BLT* “Oh, so that’s how they’re justifying it”

“They’ll work it out eventually” I guess that’s how they’ll be back together by the time Dean rolls through I'm guessing a whole year later (curious to see if they'll work that into this show if they get a 2nd season btw)

I’m glad Tracy had that talk with Mary (and Mary, you better not be sticking around in hunting for John’s sake, once you find Samuel, you get out, girl - you can date John and be out of hunting if it comes down to it - you don't know it yet but you married him and did this very thing) - she needs to do what’s right for herself

Poor Carlos lol - hang in there, Carlos! I'm rooting for you, pal!!!

Soucouyant is the monster here? A rare vampire-witch from the Caribbean? How is it both of those things at once? (I’ll give this show one thing, the monster lore books/drawings look pretty cool)

Okay yes, there’s a connection, but let’s not forget that these monsters are being drawn here by the Akrida so why would it go straight for Tracy and Darla? Is it really that mad about stuck in the cave for ten years?

I’m sorry, is this supposed to be a scary monster? To me it just looks like someone who forgot to put on some moisturizer and brush out their hair for 40 years and has never heard of a wardrobe change, that's it

So this is a vampire-witch that is strong enough to not only kill Darla but to knock down Tracy’s front door like it was made by piled-up toothpicks and then burn the sigil off the wall, but it’s defeated by a fire extinguisher and a fireplace poker? (which obviously they’re trying to show the difference between John and Mary, they’re not on the same page due to the props; Mary - fireplace poker, still fighting/hunting; John - fire extinguisher, trying to end the fight and get Mary out of hunting; vampire-witch - shooting fire aka symbolizing the hunt/fight)

Of course John goes right after it, of course

What the…a VAMPIRE-WITCH RUNS AWAY? A VAMPIRE…WITCH??? Did I see that right???? 😵

Another gratuitous shirtless scene (and yes, it’s another scene because John doesn’t put his shirt back on after the stitching up is done)

O M G another soldier boy - this is pure cringe now - staaaahhp

I figured Antoine was interested in Carlos, he kept trying to make convo, now he’s asking about him…um hmm 😏 - Carlos, you are so in, man

CALLED IT!!! 

Wow, this was actually one of the best scenes John and Mary have had yet (and not only did Meg and Drake nail this scene but the chemistry actually became palpable - let’s hope this continues)

Oh Mary, really? Like Carlos hasn’t been forced to be around you and John this whole time? Are you the only two characters in the show allowed to mention the word date? He’s allowed to have a crush, relax - perhaps she and John need a hit of something to chill the hell out and stop being so annoying (this is the 70's after all)

“Because it’s already dead” - I’m sorry, this is a VAMPIRE-witch, is it not? omg, where is Dean when I need him? I feel like I'd come up with vampitches and he'd give me a funny look, say we're trying to name a new monster not a new STD, which I'd then point out well STD's can be monstrous to which he'd chuckle and make one of his faces and then Sam would give us both an eye roll and his RBF, and then Dean would clear his throat, get serious, and come up with something better

Now it’s a ghost of a vampire-witch that can have their limbs cut off and they run away not disappear…MAKE IT MAKE SENSE, PEOPLE

I’ll tell you, Mary, it’s either Mack the hunter who allegedly died in the cave in or the hunter Rob who wanted to go back to the site 10 years later, my money is on Mack

Nailed it! Money in the bank! The cave in wasn’t an accident - color me shocked

Thank you, Latika! YES!

No wonder Mack is a vengeful spirit, I’d be too - this guy was abused as a child, was lost when grown up and was looking for a way to never feel powerless again, needed for them to be there for him not fear him or abandon him, and you guys did THAT to him? Screw that

Naturally, John goes after this thing himself, too bad he doesn’t have kids yet that he can use as bait or sacrifice… I said what I said

So now John is possessed - good going, John

Wait, Carlos got knocked out by that? What…

So he uses the same move on Mary as he did Carlos but that doesn’t knock her out? TW is lucky it doesn't have a hotline that goes straight to the writers' room because I'd be ringing that bitch right about now

He punches her in the head and it still doesn’t knock her out? Like I’m glad it didn’t but why did Carlos have to be knocked out? COME ON

Wait a second…wasn’t Latika just near Tracy? Now she’s back by Carlos again? How did editing miss that one?

And now she’s back by Tracy while Carlos does a flopping fish trying to get up? Holy shit, dude - C O N T I N U I T Y

I do like the theme they have shown here of a choice needing to be made for violence vs peace, especially in the case of abuse and more specifically generational abuse/trauma

Latika saved the day - IT’S ABOUT FREAKING TIME - *hangs up phone* guess that call to the writers wasn't needed after all

Btw Drake and Nida were EXCELLENT in that scene

Exactly, Mary, what Tracy said

LOVE this scene between Carlos and Latika - and so glad Carlos got his date with Antoine (you go, my adorable sassy hunter son! Yes!)

“Morning, Sunshine” - any other SPN lines we can throw in there, guys? Is there absolutely anything original you can come up with or is that a big fat no? *picks up the phone to call the writers again, leaves a voicemail asking Robbie to call me back*

This actually was a decent scene between John and Mary (and more chemistry, both Meg and Drake did well here) but I do wonder if the hand grab was a bit much? Nothing wrong with it but just with the build-up, not sure if we were there yet, but I guess technically Mary did the same thing after she came out of her mind walk last episode so I guess it’s a fitting sort of parallel…

John taking up meditation is a good thing I think

And so we have a fitting beginning and ending scene contrast/parallel with Dean voiceover included; I think it’s interesting that these voiceovers happen after the mantra: “I am centered. I am at peace. I create my own path and I walk in it fearlessly.” Particularly after the last line. Which is fitting when it comes to Dean himself along with the whole theme of this episode (as well as the mention of abuse and cycles) if you think about it. I’ll give Robbie and the writers that one, this they got right. Especially since they chose for John of all people to be the one to be possessed by Mack, to choose to take Latika’s offer instead of Carlos’ when he and Carlos are both war vets, John’s anger being an issue at the forefront, and the theme of making a choice. So kudos to them on that. *leaves another voicemail telling Robbie it's okay, he doesn't have to call me back, we're good...for now*

2nd Dean voiceover: “Hunting’s not for everyone. You have to be strong, stay sharp, make tough decisions, and it’s not easy but then again the righteous things never are.” - still not quite Dean *picks up phone and leaves a voicemail for Jensen this time, asking him to call me back*

And this is just a personal thing: I love Nida’s smile and Nida herself - LOVE LOVE LOVE her

The radio station has been located which leads us into the fall finale, dun dun dun

Episode theme: Monsters aren’t always the bad guys

Monster: not scary unless you look directly at it

Chemistry: Carlos and Latika; Mary and Tracy; John and Mary; John and Latika

Ending Thoughts: this episode while it had its issues was better than the last; hopefully, it continues on this upward trend or at the very least, stabilizes. I liked the message of the episode and how they made sure to involve John as much as possible, right down to his possession. I feel that was very important and almost integral to the foundation of John's character not just in this series but also in SPN. I increased the rating because they did finally have POC in the spotlight/hero role, they did focus on a very important theme this episode (which also links back to SPN in an appropriate way) that does intertwine with John's story appropriately, we got a bit of expansion into the hunters universe or at the least the vibe of it, and this episode did help move the narrative along in a more organic way than previous episodes.

[whateverthedragonswant]

TW: 1x05 "Legacy Of A Mind"

Disclaimer: It goes without saying, if you don’t like, don’t read. And as I always say, criticism of a show does not equate to criticism of actors (or executive producers) as people so if you choose to continue, please leave all stanage (in particular, AA baggage) at the door.

Written by: Sehaj Sethi

Directed by: Lisa Soper

Rating: 4.5/10

Pros: costuming is better; showcasing of John's real character peeking through; Carlos and Latika (they have the brains, I'm telling you); Ada's back story and how it played into this episode; the scene with very young Mary, showcasing how horrible it is that any kid should be exposed to this world so young (the show didn't shy away from this and I appreciate that & I also think it's a great way to set out for the reboot with the right message/idea for a younger generation, perhaps they're finally realizing what they want their actual target audience to be?); the Men In Black Big Bug Bad was given another job (thanks, it's been 15 years since his last job so his wife and thousands of kids really appreciate it)

Cons: still have that trying-too-hard-to-be-SPN vibe in the beginning; Dean's voiceover somehow sounds less like Dean; lack of chemistry between John and Mary again; the lack of Mary's emotional agency when it comes to John; the Spanish terms are starting to feel like a box being checked while still maintaining a stereotype; POC still can't be the heroes, only John; lazy and opportunistic writing when it comes to the building of the John/Mary bond; alien space bugs as the Big Bad, say it with me "alien space bugs"; someone is missing a mop head and they should really look in Bridget's trailer if they're trying to find it, just saying

Idk these intro scenes with the “monsters” and then the opening sequence really just feels like they’re trying too hard - I know I’ve said it before but they really need to do something different to set themselves apart and find their own identity (and with it their actual audience) - I get why they’re doing it but it just doesn’t match up to SPN, instead it seems to make almost an unintentional mockery of it -- last episode they were getting better about this but now...they need to do better

Dean: “Spending a lifetime hunting monsters takes its toll. There comes a time when you gotta let out that pain inside you. If you don’t, it’ll eat you alive.” - sounds less like Dean, how is this possible?

John and Mary have less chemistry in this scene - again how is this possible? Am I watching the episodes out of order? *checks* No…

It’s official, Meg as Mary and Drake as John don’t have romantic chemistry - which would be fine this early in the game (and working on that organic build-up) if they weren’t pushing it so hard with shots and framing and dialogue and the rest like they are

I know I’ve seen this in previous episodes but I have to mention the “based on ‘supernatural’ created by Eric Kripe” credit - if the specific wording of that credit doesn’t tell you that this isn’t an official prequel and it’s actually a reboot/AU, then I don’t know what else will - so people can STOP screaming about how if you don’t watch this show and make it a success ratings wise that you’ll never get anymore SPN content

Right, John, and Denial is a river in Egypt; and Millie knows it, too

See, this convo between mother and son about Mary and romance to me feels more organic than random characters continuously reminding the audience about the Jary romance factor each episode

Oooo Millie thinks Mary is good for John but also doesn’t seem to care for her or is putting on the tough Mom front, one or the other

Relevant Prop: Headline: “Today’s the day they say ‘I do’” (and as if the “New meat plant openings in Waterville complex” “Real estate on the rise” and “State fair wins praise” aren’t obvious, TW, come on) - right after the Millie and John convo about Mary which gets interrupted by Mary and lo and behold, she’s the one holding up this paper - on the nose and not cute or brilliant, sorry

Ooh, we see Ada again, nice

There’s Carlos bringing in the more immediate issue at hand aka logic (this is going to bring about the split up of the team mentioned in the blurb isn’t it?)

I love how Carlos is the one to bring Ada into the decision making, I get that he’s doing it so she’ll side with him, but why isn’t Mary doing that? Isn’t Mary the supposed leader of this Scooby Gang?

Uh oh, I don’t like that look, Ada - I gotta admit, I like her character (and I think there’s way more to her than meets the eye) but I don’t exactly trust her intentions sometimes

Gotta give props - seems like the costume dept has gotten better about matching the time period, I’m glad to see it

I LOVE Latika’s outfit

Alright I’m just gonna say it, why are the POC in the back and John and Mary are up front in this walking sequence/shot? Again, if this show didn’t market themselves as inclusive and having a diverse cast, continuously driving that point home during promotion, I wouldn’t keep bringing this up as often as I do - does TW really not realize how unfavorable (nicest word I could think of) that image is?

And so Djinns make an appearance into this universe, interesting

I’m sorry, John is a soldier and he doesn’t react to someone running at them, possibly to attack them? Instead, he’s just calm as can be? Same with Mary and Carlos as two experienced hunters? Are you kidding me? - especially given the contrast of Latika’s reaction

Interesting shot of Ada and the guy - something tells me she knows him and I’m thinking with how young this kid is, it’s her son or younger brother, someone close

Oh, there you go, it’s her son

Wait, how did Carlos, Mary, and John hear Ada when they were still in the warehouse? Sigh (how did they have a semi-decent episode in the last one and now we’re going back to amateurville? HOW?)

Ada’s got a point - it’s her son, why would she tell hunters about him if he’s half-Djinn?

Wow, fuck you, John - typical John coming through (I’m glad that they didn’t lapse on showing this part of his character that is very much a part of his SPN character post-loss) - you just started hunting five episodes ago, take a goddamn seat

And everyone just follows John’s lead? Because the newbie spoke up? Omg this is aggravating 

John, Istg I’m about to come through that screen and slap that look off of your face, how dare you, sit down and stfu - JHC he is irritating in this situation, typical SPN John Winchester coming through (I give props to Drake and TW for that one)

Thank you, Carlos, and omg thank you, Latika - at least somebody’s using their brains in this group

Seriously, Carlos and Latika are the only ones that have treated Ada like a person in this group so far

Now John is Mr. Super Sensitive Guy With A Heart? Because it’s Mary? Talking about Ada and her Djinn boyfriend falling in love? Idc what anyone says, my loathing of John in any form will never cease, there is no redemption for that son of a bitch, idc what JDM, Jensen, Danneel, RT, Kripke, or anyone else might have to say - but again, major props to the show for not veering away from showing that part of his personality

Another “soldier boy” reference - EYE ROLL - God, I have no idea why they keep going back to this, it’s so cringe and so obvious

A little more chemistry with John and Mary in this scene but I think it was coming more from Drake’s side here - the whole convo was stupid tbh and obviously John trying to goad Mary with some possible jealousy while also teasing her

“Mi Abuela”...not “my abuela”, when Carlos doesn’t speak Spanish that often (and we don’t even know if he can speak it fluently or was raised with it) - better than “amigo” but you guys still need to work on this

I feel for Tony

Relevant line: “Like a giant bug” - obviously the Akrida - can I just say that I still think it’s laughable that the Big Bad is a group of alleged alien bugs?

“The Akrida” Dun dun dun

Oh and again John is running things *cue another eye roll*

I’m glad Mary is being a lot nicer to Ada

Tony possibly following in his father’s steps - another parallel to Mary (and John) with the whole father theme

Ada: “I’ll take that win.” - writers, really? You do realize that you do not need to copy every single thing from SPN, right? These aren’t cute callbacks and that is definitely not a line that was used back in the 70’s so it’s obvious what your real goal is and it’s ridiculous (again, just call it a reboot and go)

Okay, okay, so you’re telling me that Mary can’t have this moment with Ada alone? That John has to eavesdrop? Because she won’t “open up” to him? How are we supposed to see Mary as her own character in this series when they do things like this? Whatever she’s thinking/feeling about John does not need to be made apparent to him (without her consent like in this scene) right away in order to sell this “romance”; the only one that should be “eavesdropping” on this scene is the audience

Mary, of course she’s going to say she would do it again, she had a kid - very different

Ugh, I despise that smile of John’s - for a show that’s supposed to have me rooting for this couple so Sam and Dean can happen in the flagship series (hear me, Robbie, FLAGSHIP SERIES, not mothership, ugh), you guys sure are working to do the opposite

“Hey, where’s John?” He was busy eavesdropping with serious Edward Cullen-creepy vibes and only bounced a second ago, you can probably catch him if you hurry

I like that Carlos and Mary took the lead on this one

Oh look it’s the alien spider-dog again, why are you guys running? He just wants to play fetch

So that’s the next job the Men In Black Big Bug that Vincent D’Onofrio turned into has! I was worried that his career hit a bit of a stale point but it looks like he’s making a comeback, whew, one worry off of my list 

“What the hell was that thing?” “Roach” - you aren’t kidding, Carlos. Don’t you know these are alien space bug things?

I bet you Mary was stung by the alien spider-dog

Yep - knew it

Whoa - I’m sorry to say it but Meg’s acting is not that great in this scene, like girl all you have to do is act out of it, how is that a problem?

“Querida” - alright a little better

While I respect everything Tony is saying in this scene, this whole thing is ridiculous - and John is the only one connected to Mary out of that group? Come on, people, back to amateurville it is apparently - and of course John has to be the hero, not any POC including Tony who is the actual half-Djinn? Omg...I don’t know if I’m going to make it to episode 7

Loved Carlos’ “help” LOL

Hey writers - hi there! Just a small little question - why is Mary struggling so much while in this dream state but John isn’t when they’re both doing the same thing? I get that the Akrida didn’t affect John and he’s going in through using Tony’s powers but really? 

So we have a hallway that is reminiscent of Beetlejuice? Okay

Mary has the anti-possession charm on a bracelet? What if the clasp breaks? What if it’s a demon who breaks it? I get that the tattoos weren’t around until Dean and Sam but isn’t there a better way to have it on their person?

“Mary, we don’t have time for this” - I get that John is right but did he not hear Tony when he mentioned the word “trauma” in his explanation? Since John doesn’t know what the said trauma is for Mary, shouldn’t he state this another way? Especially since he’s "in love" with her? (and just as an aside, I don’t care for how Mary’s emotional trauma and thoughts were stripped from her this episode so John could be let in without her consent to force the “romance” and bonding - Mary doesn’t force John to talk about the war and his trauma, he shouldn’t be doing that to her outside of the whole Akrida urgency business - you’ll notice that Latika didn’t force Mary to go into Maggie’s room in the previous episode - and the writers using this mind walk crap as a way to force that bond is lazy and pure bullshit - one thing SPN itself got right was the emotional foundation it created, that’s good writing, this is not it)

Oh, now he talks to her appropriately

OMG this is so fucked up - they’re showing a bit of the foundation of the Mary we know (which is good) and how she never wanted this for her children but John literally still does the same thing to Dean and Sam later on - FUCKED UP (and once again, fuck you John and a major fuck you to the Campbells) - I don't give a crap if there's a mind wipe or spell or whatever that gets us to the original series (and John doesn't remember), the point is Sam and Dean should have never been made to do any of it and John is a POS father, again idc what JDM, Jensen, John apologists have to say - this scene actually showcases that brilliantly with this scene of young Mary

I have to say Meg’s acting is a bit better here, more believable

Oh shit, I take that back, Meg honey, you had it, what happened?

“No kid should ever have to go through that.” A LITTLE LOUDER FOR THE JOHN WINCHESTER APOLOGISTS IN THE BACK

Okay, Meg has it back again, good

“Did you open up to Mary yet?” “Nope, but she opened up to me. Just not how she expected.” yeah aka without her consent

So we went through all of that for Mary to “open up” to John and then John shuts down on her? #makeitmakesense

Awww loved the Tony/Latika moment, cute

Roxanne -> Rockin’ Roxy - calling it now

Yep, knew it

Omg what hair is that??? *jumps up and yells into the crowd* “IS ANYONE MISSING A MOP HEAD?” holy crap, I know it's the 70's but surely the hair/costuming dept can do better than that

“I Put A Spell On You” - really? Obviously that’s the radio station they’re using and I wonder if the music itself is the “signal” since the song choice here is on the nose

Episode theme: You need a release/to let go or it will consume you

Monster: mixture of cute and the desire to grab a can of Raid

Chemistry: John and Millie; John and Betty; Carlos and Ada; Mary and Ada; Tony and Latika

Ending Thoughts: I'm not exactly sure what happened her but somehow this episode was less stellar in quality than the last, it almost gave off the vibe of the episodes being out of order or something. The Mary memories were great and so was Ada's and Tony's story. I also appreciated seeing the real John Winchester come through and I'm glad TW isn't shying away from that. And that's why I left the rating as the same rather than decrease it though this was subpar compared to last episode.

[whateverthedragonswant]

TW: 1x04 "Masters of War"

Disclaimer: It goes without saying, if you don’t like, don’t read. And as I always say, criticism of a show does not equate to criticism of actors (or executive producers) as people so if you choose to continue, please leave all stanage (in particular, AA baggage) at the door.

Written by: Julia Cooperman

Directed by: John T. Kretchmer

Rating: 4.5/10

Pros: Dean sounded like Dean; Bianca as Millie; Carlos in his Navy uniform and his overall presence in this episode's narrative; PTSD was given more appropriate handling than in the pilot; all of the main actors seem more settled into their roles; good music choice, costuming, and set dec - it's beginning to look a lot like the 70's; some of the parallels set up

Cons: some of the dialogue - soldier boy needs to stop, seriously; POC gets shoved in as the sidekick again during a "heroic" moment; this god character and John being the "chosen one" story line wasn't all that believable

What’s with the would-be comic book Samurai wannabe with a glowing...sword?

Dean voiceover: “Fighting the battle between good and evil isn’t easy. Especially when the first monster you have to face is the one inside yourself.” - sounds a lot more like Dean

…and we get our first gratuitous shirtless guy scene 

The fight choreography for this sparring scene was better than it’s been in previous episodes

“Am I interrupting whatever hetero mating ritual this is?” - it’s official, Carlos is definitely my favorite

I have to say there was a little more chemistry between John and Mary in this sparring scene - it felt like Meg wasn’t trying that hard and she was relaxed and enjoying the scene; same with Drake

Ooooh, Carlos was in the Navy, nice

Another “soldier boy” *cue eye roll* - at least this time the way Meg played the line was a little more natural

More Maggie mention - I’m curious to the full story on this and why it affects Mary so much - I get that it’s her cousin, she was killed on a hunt, and that Mary feels responsible but what exactly happened?

This PTSD episode that John is having is way more realistic than the one they brought on in the pilot so I’m glad they treated this topic with more care

Okay so it’s not a samurai but an old Roman soldier with a…mace-looking weapon? - now appearing to John as well, it’s obviously going after veterans suffering PTSD as its target - something war related?

Drake’s acting in this scene is alright but also a bit forced especially with the hand shaking

Relevant line: “Talk is cheap, kiddo. It’s our actions that matter most.”

Carlos in his Navy uniform = 👌🔥🔥

Ngl got a bit of a once-over appreciation from Millie in this scene, not that I can blamer her lol - Carlos’ line capped it perfectly

I love Bianca as Millie btw

Oooo Carlos turning on the charm

Okay so they’re keeping the Mary hair, good

Oh okay so the reporter guy is the one the wife talked to and the guy Mary was at the movies with previously, nice

“All across the country” dun dun dun

I have to say I’m glad to see Carlos and John working together - I get that this show is supposedly about showing John and Mary’s backstory but I like when we get to see them working with other characters, too

Somehow I get the vibe that this monster poses as a patient in the groups, not the doctors - I could be wrong but that’s just the vibe I get

Jojo nailed this scene - very nicely done

“My friend died and all I got was a lousy scar” - I’m sorry, does this line not have “this happened and all I got was this lousy T-shirt” vibes? You guys are killing me with this dialogue sometimes

Hmm, okay maybe it is something to do with the doctor, like something attached to him or something and when he gets threatened/shouted at, boom, it kills that person

This is the most Mary has looked like Mary since the show started

Welp, John’s now next on the list - guaranteed; though I have to say Drake nailed that scene I think

Yes, Carlos, take charge

Ooo lava lamp! Love it! BRING ON ALL OF THE LAVA LAMPS (I love those things)

Oof that wallpaper is terrible, however completely on cue with the time period we're in so nicely done, set dec

I do like the parallel of both Mary/Latika and John/Carlos dealing with the past and both Latika and Carlos being the ones to initiate John/Mary into doing so

Uh oh…Carlos, run!

The burning cherries of the cigarettes image - nice!!!! Now that's a great shot!

Oh man, here we go - so does this god feed on PTSD episodes?

Oh he uses the PTSD episodes to get the guys, got it

Relevant line: “You put him in a dangerous situation with an enemy, and he is going to run straight towards that enemy every single time.” - relevant because this feels on brand for John’s later post-loss iteration as well as hunting in SPN; though this has me wondering why Millie is so chill with John hunting knowing this about him, just sayin'

Oh…fuck…

I’m sorry, but this is supposed to be some big scary god? It looks like a guy on his way to a costume party after browsing the clearance rack at Party City. Or he’s on his way to audition for one of the villains of the original Power Rangers TV series, not realizing the show ended years ago. And what is with that voice???

Fucking knew it! Of course it was Jimmy!

Oh now the gods are stepping in to help with the Akrida? And they’re relying on this kid to be the one to stop them? Especially when the hunters “are too weak to stop them”? Not even Mary? Really? What the… This was such a good episode up until this moment

And yet again, we have John being the “hero” with Carlos being the “sidekick” - sigh - I get that this show is called The Winchesters and where it’s supposed to lead but come on, man

Bianca seriously is perfect in this role

Well at least they’re being realistic with John losing to a god

Nice, Millie!

“I was right. You are just like me.” “No.” - John beats him bloody but yeah he’s not like him at all, he's such a hero

Yes, Carlos, you should be concerned

So basically, John is the chosen one to go against the Akrida? - S I G H

“Just John? Why?” exactly, Latika, exactly!!

I’m glad the dr said that to Carlos - to me, that was more important than being the supposed god-hand-picked weapon against the Akrida

Nice to see this group’s closeness

Awww Carlos extending a hand to John - loved this scene and I think both Drake and Jojo nailed it

Nice song choice! There we go, we’re starting to settle into the actual time period

I’m glad Carlos went back to group (and John’s empty chair is very loud) - I think showing that was very important not only for Carlos' story but also as a message

Powerful image of Millie holding onto John in the tub

Episode theme: dealing with the monsters you carry/demons inside yourself

Chemistry: John and Mary; Carlos and Latika; John and Millie; Millie and Carlos; Mary and Latika; Millie, Mary, and Latika; Carlos, Latika, and Mary

Monster: can this really be considered a monster? Not scary at all, but kind of makes sense with the story told this episode - I just want to know why some random god is more worried about the Akrida than any Hell or Heaven factions, just a thought

Ending Thoughts: this episode was probably their best one yet, it felt like they are slowly starting to turn a corner, they just need to make some more tweaks. For once this felt like the reboot it is, not completely relying on SPN but gleaning enough from it to tell its own story.

[whateverthedragonswant]

TW: 1x03 "You're Lost, Little Girl"

Disclaimer: It goes without saying, if you don't like, don't read. And as I always say, criticism of a show does not equate to criticism of actors (or executive producers) as people so if you choose to continue, please leave all stan-age (in particular, AA baggage) at the door.

Written by: Gabriel Alejandro Garza

Directed by: Claudia Yarmy

Rating: 3.5/10 (I debated moving up one but it still feels like they have so much work ahead of them so I settled on this instead)

Pros: Dean's voiceover (sounded way more natural & fitting this time around); better costuming; Drake & Nida are relaxing more into their roles & so far feel the most natural (& Jojo is definitely coming along right behind them); Ada's character shining through (& an organic lead-in to her back story); interesting twist with the plants; some Ada and Carlos time; Mary was SPN Mary for a hot second

Cons: Meg is still struggling to relax into the Mary role (it feels too forced); writing is still choppy and inconsistent (feels more like a broken up rhythm in some parts & it's not matching); stop with the on-the-nose SPN callbacks that have nothing to do with the characters/world you're in (they're not cute & they're preventing you from showing the audience which show this is & why they should tune in plus it doesn't jive with the story you're attempting to tell)

Oh boy, now we’re in Lawrence & we’ve got a sort-of SPN type opening with the same title screen - again, trying too hard

Dean’s voiceover sounded way better this time around and worked better for this episode

I see they’re keeping the Mary hair - good idea, I still don’t understand why they gave her a 90’s look in the pilot - I have to say that the costuming has gotten a bit better

Interesting that Latika picked that up about Samuel & she appeared to clock it better than Mary did & Mary’s response to it is…to walk away? Literally? I don’t understand this character (and I’m not even talking about in comparison to SPN Mary) or some of Meg's acting choices here

So far Drake and Nida seem to be settled into their roles & starting to relax into them more - Meg appears to be struggling to find the right rhythm for hers

Soooo that whole episode of Mary being called out by Carlos & for her to learn that she doesn’t have to be militant like her dad was for…nothing? She’s still giving orders, attempting to be a leader (but like she allegedly learned last episode, good leaders take in different viewpoints/tips & remain open to their team) & while she's still learning it wasn't set up last episode to show this continuation of learning? And even though Ada isn’t being sidelined directly, she’s not even able to choose if she wants to take Carlos with her & when did Ada start working for Mary? Oh, right, she doesn’t

The whole scene with Betty, John, and Mary was awkward and not why you think - Betty seems like an incompetent cop (I get it, it’s the 70’s but come on, common sense) - “Where’s Carrie?” “She’s missing” - just like that - and then no follow up on that from Mary? Really?

Man, the Campell parents really sound like John from SPN & that’s not something to be proud of

“Here’s a new one that’s sure to have you buggin’ out” - very on-the-nose there, people

Did the demon really get stopped by…Ada getting out of the van on the other side? LOL that’s a new one. And to think, all this time, that’s all Sam and Dean had to do for 15 years, get out of the other side of the Impala "So get this...we just need to get out of the car on the side...wait for it...they don't expect" "Sounds like pure crap to me, Sammy, but okay"

While I love that Carlos and Ada got their badass moment, would a demon really allow itself to be thrown around like that?

Mary to John and Latika: “Do you guys find it weird that we’re coming across so many wayward monsters?” John who found out about monsters literally two episodes ago: *shrugs*

It’s shame that they made it about John and Mary getting together and the whole “epic love” thing because this actually would be a much better story if it was more about their separate origin stories & the love was a side result/consequence of the two stories converging like they are now & you could still keep the Dean involvement/overview — anytime they mention the romance & force it into the show/the dialogue to make it the focus by making other random characters mention it who have only been around them for 3 minutes (you know, just in case the audience forgot for one hot second), it just makes it awkward

Ah, turns out Betty may not be so incompetent after all

“Where are you?” wasn’t the first question from John when Mary is on the transistor radio? How...how are scenes like this making it to air? Seriously, I want to know

Mary taking this action felt like SPN Mary for a moment - GOOD

Oh God, she put on that hat - never mind, I take that previous note back

WAIT A SECOND - demons can be put into a plant? Sam, Dean, wtf? How did you not know to carry a mobile greenhouse around in the Impala? *facepalms*

While I think it’s ridiculous, I can appreciate the “twist” with trees being a conduit since they are live organisms

So Ada wants to be a witch? Honestly, I think she’d make a good one and if pre-existing SPN characters will be brought in, I’m thinking she could cross Rowena’s path at some point, that would be pretty cool to see -> I'm all for it

Demons can’t stop the Akrida? For real? So Crowley or whoever is King of Hell at this time isn’t working with Heaven to kick the Akrida out or even just working amongst themselves? They’re just rolling over and making a deal to survive? But they don’t know who the Akrida are? S I G H

Oh I am loving Ada as well, she’s a badass - we need more Carlos and Ada scenes

“None of this works without Mary” - wish that SPN John had felt the same way & not done what he did to Sam and Dean because of what happened to Mary butttt that's now a moot point, isn't it? Somebody had to say it though

Soooo Mary supposedly learned to walk in her own footsteps but she’s channeling her father while learning to lead herself? What the… Make it make sense, Jan. And apparently, Samuel’s hat for Mary is the equivalent to John’s leather jacket for Dean. (again, trying too hard with the callbacks & how is this relevant to Dean's story? Or both his and Sam's? Just admit it, this is a new gen show/reboot, which is fine, but label it as that and move on already)

Oooo Latika’s mom is still alive but didn’t Mary say her parents died years ago or…? Ah, she lied to John about who it was. Okay. Interesting.

I liked that they put John and Latika together this episode and Ada and Carlos - it’s nice to see the ensemble being an ensemble and not it just being the John and Mary show

Carrie kicking the monster’s head was “stupid” - I know it was meant to be a funny moment but it achieved the opposite effect

Ah so Betty is an ex-fiancee of sorts, interesting - so basically John was always looking for a wife?

So we get rando guy with Mary in the end, okay - but I do like that it does sort of complement her fear in the episode & it's a glimpse of a part of what she could have if she gets out of hunting

John: “So who is she?” “This is Rockin’ Roxy” (& then we see her and her hands) - I didn’t think they’d give it away that soon but okay (and it makes you wonder why the cloaked figure in the last episode? she could have been shown or in silhouette/shadow - I feel like I'm consistently bashing my head on the wall trying to follow the path this show is taking us on)

So apparently you can play fetch with an alien dog with spider-type legs. Who knew? 

I'm utterly convinced that no matter what villain role Bridget Regan finds herself in, she will always be super sexy while scheming mass death and destruction

No one should ever leave Ada alone with the plants - Carlos' lesson for the episode

That whole plant revelation 👀 is kind of making me leery of going to nurseries in the future so bravo on that one TW

Monster: kind of scary (would be to little kids anyway) but also not

Chemistry: Latika and Mary; Latika and John; John and Mary are getting better (but still don’t have that organic romantic vibe; personally, I think their teamwork has a better vibe)

Theme of episode: You can’t do it all on your own; you can end up lost if you try; it's time to let go

Ending Thoughts: this episode is better than the last so I'm hoping it continues on that trend and that all of the other hot mess is just due to them trying to find their footing & trying to decide which audience to target/play to (hint hint: based on the last 2 episodes, it should be new gen, just saying)

[whateverthedragonswant]

TW: 1x02 "Teach Your Children Well"

Disclaimer: It goes without saying, if you don't like, don't read. And as I always say, criticism of a show does not equate to criticism of actors (or executive producers) as people so if you choose to continue, please leave all stan-age (in particular, AA baggage) at the door.

Written by: Robbie Thompson & David H. Goodman Directed by: John F. Showalter

Rating: 3/10

Pros: Song choices; more usage of other characters; better costuming & overall look (John F. Showalter coming in helped tremendously I think); more realistic characterizations (i.e. Millie); Carlos (& Jojo being better settled into the role compared to the pilot)

Cons: The show is still struggling to find its identity (i.e. Dean's voiceover; SPN links) & core audience -> on-the-nose writing which can alienate an older audience they're shooting for; not enough usage of other characters (i.e. Ada)

Opening sequence feels like it’s trying to be SPN (as I said before it’s trying too hard)

Dean voiceover was unnecessary (and it still doesn’t sound like Dean) tho I will say that those specific lines are interesting - but too on the nose when in combination with the dialogue later on in the episode

Titles should be different; I get they’re going for the SPN feel but when is this show going to attempt to forge its own identity? Especially since it’s upending canon for the entirety of its series that will only come back to canon at the very end somehow?

Now Mary has Mary hair, good (and this didn’t happen in the pilot why?)

What is it with the daddy issues? Again, it’s trying too hard to be SPN - it’s one thing now that we have Mary and John both having that, but now the random characters do too? I get we're going with the theme of the episode, but come on

“Why wouldn’t he try to contact you, Mary?” “This is his way of contacting me” - so leaving zombies lying around, a couple still able to attack, and a shotgun shell is better than a note or postcard? Okay then (almost makes me miss the coordinates copying from SPN they did in the pilot) - Samuel so far is a lot more alike to SPN John then I think any of us realized, fathers of the year

Glad to see Ada, Latika, and Carlos getting to be in on the action - also glad to see Carlos get a kill compared to that pilot (though John is able to handle himself due to being a trained vet but Carlos can’t handle himself being an experienced hunter & needs Mary’s help in the beginning? seriously? can we stop downplaying everyone else in favor of John and Mary? I get they're the two leads but shouldn't John be learning from the other three?)

Can someone explain to me why the WOC are damsels in distress when they’re incredibly smart & Ada has MoL connections? Especially with what we see later on for Ada?

Good on you for calling Mary out, Carlos - telling Ada to do the bitch work while everyone else leaves? Ridiculous “i’m following in my father’s footsteps” yeah and he’s an asshole, we’ve established that

Another John/Mary moment in a car, let them have their own original moments for Pete's sake - again, trying too hard to be SPN (Sam and Dean had their own thing, stop trying to carbon copy that; this literally feels like the equivalent of copying the answers from the kid sitting next to you in class)

So there’s a little more chemistry this time around between John and Mary but still feels forced rather than an organic build-up

“It’s your dad all over again” - there’s the concerned mother Millie I was looking for in the pilot - too bad she already said what she said in the pilot because now it just feels inconsistent and like whiplash

Thank you, Carlos, for doing the right thing and attempting to give John and Millie a little bit of privacy

John, seriously, even pre-loss you can be a dick - you ran away from home to join the Marines and lied about your age, now you’re running off to kill monsters, just like your dad - for real? Give the woman a break

“I think I just prefer the less talkey more punchey side of hunting” - omg who the hell writes this stuff?

Musician names as false identities - sigh - but it’s a different genre of rock so to speak & they're not playing at Federal agents so it gets a pass

So John and Mary are now talking to the dad while Carlos and Latika are stuck in the hotel room? Can I ask what even is the point of having these characters if they’re only there to push the white leads’ narrative along? Why would we even need to learn their names or see them interact? - seriously, this show needs to do better

Carlos singing scene was funny for a second and good transition into the commune scene (and song - great choice that showcases the era!) but the extra scenes interspersed of them messing around, with the commune members weren’t needed (it just ended up making the montage awkward in the end)

How is it that Mary is so gung ho for John to be a hunter after in the pilot she kept pushing him away, warning him that he didn't want a hunter's life? And while we’re on the subject, didn’t Mary not want to be a hunter and wanted to break away according to what was said in SPN? But now she's trying to be like her dad & follow in his footsteps? You can't explain that away with her trying to find her father - there's something else at play there 

For Mary to be a lead character, she sure is unlikeable so far in this series; now we know why we got the “head honcho” promo

Good for you, Carlos - gotta say I’m really starting to like him (and of course I love Latika, to me she’s more well-rounded than Mary so far)

“I’m just trying not to keel over from the shock” Okay, it’s official - Carlos is one of my favorites (and Jojo felt a little more settled into their role in this episode)

Interesting that Mary actually works with Carlos and Latika as a team when John is not present

Okay, I’m sorry, the entity engages in their tentacle-branch arms for everything else but suddenly decides to go three rounds in a boxing match with John? For real?

I will say that I really am loving Bianca in this one (loved her in Dawson’s Creek and it’s nice to see her again, now in this role)

Omg the reply “I just have to believe in myself” - L A M E - just another example of them swinging the pendulum towards the new generation side (which would be fine if they would just stick to one audience)

Showing Carlos and Latika struggling to free Barry five feet away from John getting his ass kicked is just…I don’t even have the word for it tbh - it’s just ridiculous

I’m still confused about the whole John knowing about the MoL thing - not because of the clash with canon but because Millie knows about it and while John isn’t a kid anymore, how can she just be okay with John hunting? Hunting that we learned from SPN is dangerous & most hunters would die before the age of 30 in a gruesome way, so how is she okay with it? How is Samuel okay with Mary doing it? I just don’t get it

So basically Ada is a trove of info but was relegated to the sidelines - how is that good diverse representation? Or even good storytelling?

The show’s take on automatic writing was interesting - I wonder though, did the paranormal community know that or use it back in the 70’s? Asking for a friend

Cloaked and hooded figure collecting essences of defeated monsters? Is this the Big Bad? Like the role Bridget Regan was supposed to play?

Ending scene was nice though it could have been a few moments longer I think (for the group, Millie’s was good and the right length as was the mystery figure’s)

I think if anything, this episode proves that the show still has no idea what their target audience is - I think they’re trying to get both SPN fans & a new younger generation of fans (based on the writing, the cliche on-the-nose aha moment Mary has, etc, which also explains Meg Donnelly's casting) - hopefully, as they continue, they’ll figure it out and what their identity is, and stick to one target audience so they can focus on it and everything will come together more cohesively 

Monsters: not scary (but I don’t think it was meant to be due to the emotional aspect of it)

Chemistry: Mary & Carlos, Carlos & Latika, Millie & John

Theme of episode: children breaking away from their parents (Dean’s voiceover; victims) -- I'm taking note of this because I think when the season is said and done, it should be interesting to line all of these up and see exactly what Robbie is trying to accomplish here

Ending thoughts: This episode was better than the pilot but it still has a long way to go; there was definitely a difference from the look of this episode to the last (I think that’s John F. Showalter coming through as well as the producers they brought in)