Something Wicked

Dean having daddy issues and regret are a pretty central aspects of his character, especially for the first several years of the show. This episode goes a long way of explaining and grounding those aspects in a believable dynamic. Apart from that the monster of the week-a type of with that sucks up the life force of kids-is one of the more striking concepts in the first season. The script does a nice job of telling a two time period story and visually the episode breaks the time periods apart in a convention that works.

This one is for Dean girls.

Good old-fashioned spooky and atmospheric installment in the wondrously entertaining first season of the show "Supernatural", this episode "Something Wicked" revolves on a witch-like demon – called the Shtriga – that feeds on the vitality and life-force of children and wipes out the youthful community of a small American town every ten years. It looks as if the children are stricken with an outbreak of a pneumonia epidemic, but in reality they're slowly dying from the inside. It is Sam & Dean's own father who lead the brothers to the Shtriga's new playground in a small Wisconsin town, as he knows that Dean has an old and personal score to settle with this demonic creature. This episode finds the ideal balance between creepy monster mayhem and the fascinating background of the Winchester family. The Shtriga witch looks reasonably menacing, dressed in an ugly brown monk outfit and wrinkly skin, the ambiance is thoroughly sinister and the dialogs once again contain fantastic moments of black comedy.

"Something Wicked," the eighteenth episode of Supernatural's first season, created by Eric Kripke and directed by Whitney Ransick, is a gripping installment that delves into themes of family, protection, and the supernatural. This episode stands out for its exploration of the Winchester brothers' relationship as they confront a terrifying entity known as a shtriga.

The narrative begins with a haunting scene where children in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, are mysteriously falling into comas. Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) arrive to investigate, posing as officials from the Centers for Disease Control. They soon discover that the cause of the illnesses is a shtriga, a supernatural creature that feeds on the life force of children. The brothers' investigation is complicated by their own personal demons, as Dean's past experiences with the shtriga are revealed, adding depth to his character.

Whitney Ransick's direction skillfully captures both the emotional weight of the story and the suspenseful elements of the shtriga's attacks. The cinematography enhances the eerie atmosphere, particularly during scenes where the brothers confront the shtriga in its true form. Notable is the use of lighting to create an unsettling ambiance, highlighting the creature's ability to blend into human society. The pacing is well-executed, allowing for moments of tension to build while also providing necessary character development.

Jensen Ackles delivers a compelling performance as Dean, showcasing his protective instincts towards children and his determination to stop the shtriga. Jared Padalecki effectively portrays Sam's curiosity and resourcefulness as he researches the shtriga's origins and weaknesses. The chemistry between the brothers remains a highlight, adding emotional depth to their interactions as they navigate the complexities of their family legacy and the supernatural threats they face.

Thematically, "Something Wicked" explores issues of family protection and the burden of inherited knowledge. The episode raises questions about how past experiences shape present actions and how family legacies can both empower and haunt individuals. The shtriga serves as a metaphor for the unseen dangers that threaten families, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and protection. The narrative also touches on the idea of trust and loyalty, as Sam and Dean work together to save the children and uncover the truth about the shtriga.

"Something Wicked" stands out as a memorable episode of Supernatural, 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 protection and loyalty. By intertwining these elements with suspenseful storytelling, "Something Wicked" enriches the series' ongoing narrative, showcasing how even seemingly ordinary towns can harbor extraordinary dangers.

Takes us to see a bit of their childhood and builds Dean's character. A little too cheesy for me at times but ok.

Rewatching the series from the beginning, and it's amazing to see Dean's character develop in these early episodes, knowing what we know of the rest of the show. Jensen Ackles gives such a beautiful performance here, nuanced with so many layers of emotion (guilt, love, regret, longing).

And holy moly, John Winchester...maybe the real monster of the week was the one we were searching for all season.