Black Lightning Review: Equinox: The Book of Fate (Season 1 Episode 7)
On Black Lightning Season 1 Episode 7, “Equinox: The Book of Fate,” two shocking deaths are neutralized with two (or three) equally thrilling appearances; Gambi delves deeper into the dark, Black Lightning is framed for murder, while Jefferson begins the important process of embracing Anissa’s powers and allowing her the liberty to apply them to the cause.
Lots of ‘oos,’ ‘ahhs’ and ‘what?s’ as Black Lightning delivers yet another captivating episode. This episode can be described as the combination of an earthquake, a hurricane, a zombie apocalypse and a cool breeze. Roller coasters have got nothing on it.
It is interesting to see the show moving ahead and becoming more engaging. Talk about advancing the narrative and going in-depth with the characters.
The audience is all soaked-in and asking series of questions. One of the paramount ones remains: ‘how is Jefferson not recognized as Black Lightning in that costume?’, especially seeing that he came very close to Officer Henderson and communicated with him on the phone.
It has been shown in past episodes that Jefferson and Officer Henderson are good friends, so it is rather unbelievable that he would neither recognize his friend’s voice over the phone nor figure him out in a face-to-face meeting.
Speaking of that meeting, what has everyone cheering is Black Lightning’s vanishing move, so batman-esque, and pays tribute to the comic universe in a really subtle way. It reminds viewers that this story is rooted in the comics, despite the real-life adaptation.
Gambi is shown to be playing a very complicated game and his actions have advanced to include murder in cold blood, the same pattern of behavior he wants Jefferson to avoid.
The series of events so far have succeeded in transforming viewers’ perception of Gambi. He is no longer the trusted ally but a prime suspect in the affairs of The One Hundred. The development of his character is commendable and the way he still juggles the two sides of the divide is smooth but highly inundating.
There is still a mystery surrounding his actions; it is unclear where his true allegiance lies and his increasing contact with Jefferson’s family is nothing short of scary. But who will tell Jefferson to be careful of Gambi?
Clearly noted, Tobias has not aged since 30 years, which answers the inconsistency surrounding an issue that was raised on Black Lightning Season 1 Episode 6, when Tobias murdered Jefferson’s Dad.
In the early episodes of the show, it was difficult to entertain fears towards the gang because they seemed like a handful of young bullies but surprisingly, there has been a massive assembly of the brains behind the squad. Now, the menace feels real and intriguing.
Initially, it was just Lala, then came Tobias, Lady Eve, Tori, now Lala is back to life in a very creepy turn of events, then there is also a mention of the Shadow Board, which is on a whole extraordinary level. Showing the complex nature of gangs is something this show is doing right. There is always a hierarchy, things are complicated, gang members turn on each other, and at this moment, expectations are high because new villains are unveiled at every turn.
The puzzle now is this: how are they coming back to life? That is a question that should be answered in future episodes, and maybe Tori and Lady Eve will return in the same vein.
The man who shot and killed Lady Eve came straight out of a coffin and Lala came back to life out of nowhere. Lawanda came back briefly to cement her face on Lala’s chest, an image that will likely haunt him forever. It strikes a thought though, that maybe Lala’s return is for good; maybe he has come back to right the wrongs of his past, hence, the tattoo of the woman he murdered.
It makes truthful sense that Black Lightning is accused as Lady Eve’s murderer because her injuries indicate that she was burnt by electrocution, synonymous with Black Lightning’s powers. Now that Lady Eve is dead under very shady circumstances — it is hard to imagine that Jill Scott has been killed off, by the way — it is important to point out that for some weird reason, many of the villains on the show are beloved by viewers.
The murmurs and screams on Twitter when Tori and Lady Eve were killed were riotous. It is a rare, unique quality and probably one of the reasons the show stands out.
The music also works in the way the songs are embedded with their corresponding scenes. It gives an insight into the elements of a scene and conveys the message smoothly.
Jefferson finally decides to have a talk with Anissa about using her powers, which is necessary, because independent of him, she is all fired up and no amount of parental advice can make her quit now. It’s not like she needs their approval anyway, she is an adult.
Telling that glaring lie to Jennifer about why they were upset with each other and later working things out? Total family dynamics. Their relationships seem really genuine and Cress Williams is doing an amazing job on the show so far. Playing the role of a father, a Principal and a superhero and executing all three with grace and commitment, is worthy of mention.
Jennifer seems like she could use more screen time; she added some fun and spark with her youthful exuberance but the focus has shifted to the other members of the family. She has probably decided to heed her parents’ admonition to move cautiously but she still has that rebellious kick inside of her waiting to be energized. Freeland needs them to join forces and eradicate The One Hundred.
Overall, this episode gets a high pass because in addition to furthering the dialogue, it leaves a bunch of cliff-hangers that will ignite passion for future viewership. With the death of Lady Eve and Tobias’ beloved sister, Tori; with Lala back, Gambi as a suspect and Jefferson oblivious, the battle for Freeland continues and shockingly, the police still seem to be playing catch-up, despite some very transparent cues.
What did you think of this episode of Black Lightning? Do you think the Shadow Board will make an appearance to avenge Lady Eve’s death? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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Black Lightning airs Tuesdays at 9/8c on The CW.
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Cynthia Jones
Cynthia is a Sociologist but most especially, a TV enthusiast, with an undeniable attraction to authentic storytelling and powerful portrayals. Her interests also revolve around discovering ways of achieving social change through strategic strides in movies and television. Though she can barely strike a vocal note, she has an endless love for music and her piano is her bff.