So, something that the four Arrowverse shows really like to do is have these bottle episodes a couple of times each season. An episode that focuses on the characters and them coming to terms with something about themselves. Last year, we saw one of the greatest examples of that with the "Arrow" episode "Kapiushon" that was all about breaking Oliver Queen and make him reveal what was really driving his crusade back in Season 1. They have done it multiple times and it has started to become a tired trend. To the point where, unless they are extremely good, I would prefer for them to not be present. However, as Kara needs to come to terms with her identity, the writers found it wisest to write another bottle episode. In contrast to the great bottle episode on "Arrow," this one came across as unnecessary and dragged out to the point where I didn't care about Kara and her realization.
The things that this episode had going for it, was the further exploration of the Legion of Superheroes. This subplot has given Mon-El a reason to be in the show, and I appreciate the writers for giving him something of a purpose. Even though we don't know what their purpose is yet, we get some interesting updates in this episode, when it is revealed that they have something in their DNA that is very important for their mission. The writers are slowly building momentum for these characters and a building up for a great revelation that I personally can't wait for.
I did mention that this episode's main story dragged out a little too long. The story with Kara in her coma, and her trying to find out what her subconscious wants to tell her, was intriguing in the first few scenes, but quickly became irrelevant for the overarching story that the writers are setting up for the season. Her little scenes with Brainiac-5 were not leading up to anything other than Kara finding out that she needs to be Kara, as well as Supergirl. This all came across as unimportant for the story, and I think the writers did a disservice to their main character by putting her to the sideline, just to have her come in and save the day.
There was a lot of fun dynamic between Kara and Brainiac-5, though. The actors had great chemistry and worked in their respective roles. Brainiac-5 ultimately became one of the standout characters in this episode, and I am excited to see more.
The development of Reign was also a big plus in this episode. I am still confused with the reasons behind her mission, but I think they are building her character up before revealing to the audience what her actual mission is. It was exciting to see how Kryptonite affects her, but not enough to truly stop her rage and her powers. Also, the revelation at the end that there are more like her, was a need reveal and I think our heroes are going to have to train a bit harder to defeat her.
With that said, the episode lacked a lot of tension. The final battle between the Legion and Reign was not that intense and came off as very lacking. It also leads to a bad habit by the writers to try and set up false tension. There was a lot of scenes where I thought something exciting would happen, but it ultimately simply led to a joke or an anticlimactic stop. The writers need to get a better grip on their action sequences, and also needs to up their game when it comes to intensity.
This episode also focuses way too much on the unimportant characters. Thomas Coville had a nice episode, but even in that episode, he came across as someone who doesn't have a place among these great characters. Coville has a small part in this particular episode, but it definitely seems like he will have a big role in the second half of the season. I have no interest in seeing him as a major character, as he doesn't come across as anything more than waste of time and space.
1 out of 6 found this helpful.
Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
