Supernatural Review: Golden Time (Season 15 Episode 6)
Supernatural is pulling out a lot of stops on its roll toward the series finale in 2020.
Supernatural Season 15 Episode 6, “Golden Time” brings back another character from beyond the grave, sends Castiel on a solo hunt, and maybe hints at some stories yet to come.
Eileen Leahy has returned! She was another surprise victim of hell’s exodus, as the boys assumed she would have gone to heaven. But she does want to better her situation now that she’s out, so Sam tries to help.
Eileen was a devastating loss from a few seasons back, so bringing her back turned into a compelling tale that simultaneously explores the loss of Rowena and some new witchcraft. Also, despite the disclaimers, this may open the door to converting more ghosts to flesh and blood fighters.
Do I wish they’d thought of this with Kevin? Sure. But it’s still a really great use of Rowena’s magic, despite the loss of Rowena herself.
This is also the first episode that truly deals with the loss of Rowena, so “Golden Time” has a lot of emotional depth. Even further than the grief for Rowena, though, is the existential “what’s the point?” coming from Dean in response to God’s general manipulation.
Both of these things make for some higher than normal emotional stakes, making for a compelling episode.
Outside of that, there’s Castiel’s solo hunt, which isn’t the most thrilling tale. But it’s obviously more about Castiel being on “vacation” and not being able to stop himself from investigating something unusual while he’s out there. Despite his conflicts with Dean, Cas remains firmly on the side of Team Free Will.
Perhaps this story wasn’t the best way of illustrating that, but it was still compelling as solo hunts go. There’s also a message there about men in power, since (spoilers) the monster turned out to be the sheriff!
The highlight of “Golden Time” is easily the episode’s climax, as Sam, Dean, and the ghost of Eileen fight a family of witches, one of whom is also a ghost. Ghost v. ghost is a pretty epic thing to watch, and this particular scene is one of the more exciting battles Supernatural has had in awhile.
A few stray thoughts:
- There have been several resurrected characters over the past few episodes, which leads me to believe that the theme will continue over the course of the season. Lilith and Eileen in back-to-back episodes – who’s next?
- As a fan of Once Upon A Time and Dark Matter, it’s always good to see Jodelle Ferland and Keegan Connor Tracy on my television.
- Theory time: The witch (played by Keegan Connor Tracy) had a throwaway line about Death closing loopholes after they’re exposed, so they could only use the resurrection spell once. Sam used it on Eileen — game over, right? Well, long-time Supernatural viewers know that Sam and Dean have a relationship with Death, and I think she just may take their side in this battle.
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.