Supernatural Review: Back and to the Future (Season 15 Episode 1)
It’s finally happening. The bittersweet beginning of the end. The 15th season of Supernatural has arrived.
Supernatural Season 15 Episode 1, “Back and to the Future,” manages to move the show both forward and backward. Some of the Winchester brothers greatest ghost conquests return from hell, but in doing so they create an entirely new threat.
This is the best possible start for the final season of Supernatural. To create a long-term imminent threat, establishing God as the final boss, and explore the roots of the show all at the same time.
Really, that’s everything a final season should be: revisiting the history of the show and the biggest threat yet.
“Back and to the Future” takes place right after the events of the Season 14 finale, making the rift between the boys and Castiel still fresh, as well as Sam’s wound.
But the most interesting aspect of this Season 15 premiere is the incorporation of Alexander Calvert, while maintaining the stakes created with Jack’s death.
Hell had “billions” of escapees thanks to God’s temper tantrum, which includes a demon who borrows Jack’s bdy as a vessel. Really, it’s a genius way to continue to use Calvert, who has become such an asset to the show.
Jared Padalecki, Jensen Ackles, and Misha Collins all operate at the top of their game on “Back and to the Future.” There’s a lot going on, but everything feels true to the show.
Beyond that, too, there are seeds of what’s to come. Sam says he thinks God is gone…which of course means he’s coming back.
Then, Dean asks their new demon friend (I liked the term “Crowley Jr.” personally) about what happened in hell, which leads to the first mention of Earth-1’s Michael in some time. Fans who have kept up with news on the show will know that Jake Abel is already slated to return this season, so….more foreshadowing.
And we mustn’t forget Sam’s flashback/smirk as his wound is being cleaned. Foreshadows abound.
Supernatural starts out the final season in the best way it possibly can. Dean and Castiel one liners, an appreciation for its history, and new stakes to carry them through the final season.
It’s the job of “Back and to the Future” to get viewers excited for what’s to come and from where I’m sitting- they succeeded. Season premieres are hard, but for it’s last one (*sniff*) Supernatural kicks off strong.
A few stray thoughts:
- “Oh we are not twinsies”
- The ghost posse is really exciting and scary. Well done.
- It’s hard not to imagine the possibilities for what’s to come with mention of God and Michael. My hope for the future is to see as many returning characters as possible.
- Belphagor (Demon Jack/Crowley Jr.) may be the nicest touch on this episode. Just an absolutely wonderful surprise.
What did you think of this episode of Supernatural? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Supernatural airs Thursdays at 8/7c on The CW.
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Nick Hogan
Nick Hogan is an experienced podcaster and writer (particularly on media topics), who loves discussion and analysis of TV and is always looking for new shows to watch. He is also a parent who loves buffalo wings, blowing raspberries, and his beloved Cincinnati Reds.