Provenance

There's something innately unsettling about a mirror, a photo or picture that captures an image. The red Indians wouldn't allow at first their photographs to be taken as they believed their souls would be held captive in the resulting photo. They seem to hold secrets of a past now gone, held forever frozen in time, something now separate from the person who looks at it from a place in the future. No wonder then that there have been numerous horror stories written on this subject.

This is one of them: an old painting that spells death and disaster for whoever brings it into their possession and home. The brothers have to find out why and who and then put an end to it.

That's the basic plot but there is a creepy air of displaced horror that makes this one of the best stories in this series so far. To me, a good horror story is more about mood and atmosphere than blood and gore. This has it in spades, spooky to the ninth level.

Yes, it is predictable to some degree but that does add to the mix, you know what is going to happen as the painting changes hands, and knowing only the addition of the boys will stop it.

This is the type of thing that justifies the title: 'Supernatural.'

Was there anything authentic on that actress who played "Sara" (the antiques guy's daughter)? The acting certainly wasn't - but the fake teeth, the nose job (michael jackson's plastic surgeon must have worked on it) and the ridiculously heavy makeup (although she probably didn't decide that), gobs of lipgloss over those fake teeth - it was such a fascinatingly inane sight that it was almost impossible to follow the storyline.

Btw, Supernatural actually would be a fun show to watch if the casting were a little more realistic. All those anorexic babes in backwood popsicle stands in Wisconsin and Illinois...

Pretty entertaining, not really into the love thing in the show, seems hollow but they did try to make the things said about loss and shells genuine, also omg that painting is Beautiful😆 Also what is up with qi-doc, so triggered by the pretty girl jeez, also anorexic? The girl was actually a good size considering the industry.

Dean and Sam read on the newspaper about a young couple slashed in New York and they decide to investigate. They disclose that the victims have just bought an antique painting of 1910 in a beneficent auction and when they check its provenance, they find that three other families that owned the painting had been killed in the past. Further, the head of the family had murdered his wife, sons and stepdaughter with a razor blade. When the painting is sold to a local and she is also murdered, Sam and Dean with the support of the daughter of the auctioneer, Sarah Blake, disclose the truth about the killer.

"Provenance" is another great episode of Supernatural. The creepy and gore story finally shows a romance of Sam with a girl, and the killer is really scary. My vote is ten.

Title (Brazil): "Procedência" ("Provenance")

"Provenance," the nineteenth episode of Supernatural's first season, created by Erik Kripke and directed by Philip Sgriccia, is a compelling exploration of the supernatural intertwined with themes of love, loss, and the consequences of the past. This episode stands out for its unique premise involving a haunted painting that serves as a conduit for malevolent spirits, while also delving into the emotional dynamics between Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles).

The narrative begins with a chilling prologue featuring a couple who are brutally murdered in their home after acquiring a mysterious painting. The story then shifts to Sam and Dean, who arrive in New Paltz, New York, to investigate the recent deaths linked to the painting. They enlist the help of Sarah Blake (played by Taylor Cole), the daughter of an auction house owner, who provides insight into the painting's provenance. As they dig deeper, they uncover a dark history involving the Merchant family and their tragic past, which is intricately tied to the supernatural occurrences surrounding the painting.

Philip Sgriccia's direction effectively captures both the eerie atmosphere of the haunted painting and the emotional stakes involved in Sam's budding relationship with Sarah. The cinematography enhances suspenseful moments, particularly during scenes where the brothers confront the ghostly manifestations tied to the artwork. Notable scenes include Sam's realization that the painting is cursed and his determination to protect Sarah from its malevolent influence. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing for moments of tension while also providing character development that enriches the narrative.

Jensen Ackles delivers a strong performance as Dean, showcasing his protective instincts towards Sam while also displaying his characteristic humor. Jared Padalecki shines as Sam, portraying his internal struggle as he grapples with his feelings for Sarah and his fear of putting her in danger. The chemistry between Sam and Sarah is palpable, adding depth to their interactions as they navigate their growing connection amidst supernatural threats. The guest cast also contributes positively; Sarah's character adds a layer of complexity as she deals with her own family's legacy.

Thematically, "Provenance" explores issues of legacy and how the past can haunt individuals in unexpected ways. The episode raises questions about how inherited trauma can manifest through objects and relationships, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's history to break free from its grasp. The haunted painting serves as a metaphor for unresolved family issues and the impact they can have on future generations. Additionally, Dean's encouragement for Sam to pursue a romantic relationship with Sarah highlights themes of love and connection amid chaos.

"Provenance" stands out as a memorable episode within Supernatural, effectively combining horror elements with meaningful character development and thematic depth. Its exploration of love, loss, and familial legacies resonates throughout the narrative, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences with history and relationships. By intertwining supernatural horror with real-world emotional struggles, "Provenance" enriches the series' ongoing exploration of human nature and connection, making it a compelling watch that lingers long after viewing.