Devil's Trap

The series' grim tone and overall look of a grimy world in perpetual need of dusting or wiping is a long way from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and closer to Japanese movies like The Grudge It's likely to startle you the way no show has since The X-Files. This creepy storytelling carries extra punch because the drama has an excellent, easy-to-root-for cast. A creepy, atmospheric, sometimes downright scary hour of TV. "Supernatural" is unlike anything else out there and should build a following among viewers who mythology and mystery adventure appreciate its combination of spooky Ackles and Padalecki are good-looking, yes, get to drive a '67 Chevy and will undoubtedly run into a lot of really hot women in peril, but "Supernatural" works. It's just serious enough, just hip enough and, as advertised, more scary than imagined. Of all the season's new dark-arts adventures, WB's aptly if generically named Supernatural may be the simplest and the scariest.... It wants nothing more than to frighten you -- and tonight, it does.

While visiting their father's friend Bobby Singer to learn more about demons, Dean and Sam are visited by Meg, who wants the ancient colt. They trap her completely powerless in the protective circles of the Key of Salomon and Dean interrogates her while Sam exorcises the demon that had possessed Meg's body. Before dying, Meg tells them where John Winchester is. Dean and Sam have to use their abilities to rescue John.

"Devil's Trap" is another great episode of this series. Full of action, the last episode of the First Season is interrupted in its climax. In my opinion, this usual procedure of the producers of TV Series is shameful, since we fans have to wait until the release of the next box of DVD. I do not understand why these people that do not have any respect for the fans and only aims money do not conclude the episode in the end of the season. My vote is nine.

Title (Brazil): "A Armadilha do Diabo" ("The Devil's Trap")

This is a great first finale! Sums up a fantastic first season and left you with the highest anticipation for season 2!

Rewatching season 1 for the ???? Time. The last 2 episodes of season 1 should have won Emmys for acting (Jensen Ackles and Jeffrey Dean Morgan), writing, directing and producing. The emotion shown by Jensen as Dean was absolutely heartbreaking. Jared's Sam Winchester was also well acted but Jensen's bringing out all the conflict in Dean was palpable and so easy to see. Jeffrey Dean Morgan's portrayal of an obsessed husband of a murdered mother is so believable as to be scary. The scene where Dean challenges his "Dad" as to who he really is blows my mind as to the emotional toll on both Sam and Dean. And that closing scene-absolutely brilliant!!!!

"Devil's Trap," the twenty-second episode of Supernatural's first season, created by Eric Kripke and directed by Kim Manners, is a gripping season finale that masterfully intertwines suspense, family dynamics, and supernatural horror. This episode stands out for its intense emotional stakes and the cliffhanger ending that sets the stage for the series' future narrative arcs.

The narrative begins with a haunting scene featuring Meg, a demon, who is being interrogated by Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles). The brothers use a devil's trap to contain Meg, who eventually reveals that their father, John, is being held by demons in Jefferson City, Missouri. As they devise a plan to rescue John, they face numerous challenges, including the moral dilemma of exorcising Meg, which would likely kill the human host. This ethical conflict highlights the complexity of dealing with possessed individuals and the difficult choices the Winchesters must make to protect themselves and others.

Kim Manners' direction skillfully captures both the emotional weight of the family's situation and the suspenseful elements of the demon's attacks. The cinematography enhances the tension, particularly during scenes where the brothers confront possessed individuals, including their own father. Notable is the use of close-ups to emphasize the emotional turmoil faced by the characters, especially when Dean is forced to confront the demon possessing John. The pacing is well-executed, allowing for moments of suspense to build while also providing necessary character development.

Jensen Ackles delivers a compelling performance as Dean, showcasing his loyalty to his family while also revealing his vulnerability as he grapples with the idea of losing his father. Jared Padalecki effectively portrays Sam's determination to stop the demon and his emotional struggle with the moral implications of their actions. Jeffrey Dean Morgan shines as John, bringing depth to his character by revealing both his determination to protect his sons and his willingness to sacrifice himself to save them. The chemistry between the brothers remains a highlight, adding emotional depth to their interactions as they navigate the complexities of their family legacy.

Thematically, "Devil's Trap" explores issues of family loyalty, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between good and evil. The episode raises questions about how far individuals will go to protect their loved ones and the moral compromises they must make in the process. The demon's possession of John serves as a metaphor for the internal conflicts faced by the Winchester family, emphasizing the importance of trust and loyalty in the face of overwhelming danger. The narrative also touches on themes of identity and control, as the brothers struggle to maintain their humanity amidst supernatural threats.

"Devil's Trap" stands out as a powerful season finale of Supernatural, effectively combining elements of horror with meaningful character development and thematic depth. Its exploration of family dynamics and the supernatural makes it a compelling watch, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences with loyalty and sacrifice. By intertwining these elements with suspenseful storytelling, "Devil's Trap" enriches the series' ongoing narrative, setting the stage for future conflicts and character growth. The episode's cliffhanger ending, where the yellow-eyed demon escapes, leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next installment and the resolution of the season's central mystery.