No Exit

Dean and Sam visit Ellen and Joanna Beth in the Harvelle Bar, and Jo shows her file about the disappearance of six blonde girls during the last eighty years in an apartment building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She tries to convince the Winchester brothers to bring her to investigate the case; but Dean refuses the request afraid of Ellen's reaction. They break-in the apartment of the last victim and when Sam finds ectoplasm, they realize that a fiend is hunting the location. When they leave the place, they meet Jo with the super and find that she had lied to Ellen telling that she was going to Las Vegas and had just rented the foregoing apartment. Their further investigation discloses that in the past, before the construction of the building, the field was next to a prison and used to execute criminals, including the serial killer H.H. Holmes. When Jo decides to search the last victim behind the walls, she is captured by the evil spirit, and Dean and Sam figures out how to rescue Jo and escape from the wrath of Ellen.

"No Exit" is and engaging but flawed episode of "Supernatural". The story has good moments, like the revelation of Ellen to Jo about her relationship with John Winchester, but I honestly believed Jo was actually sister of Dean and Sam. The greatest flaw of the story is the use of the sledge hammer in the walls of the apartment building does not bring the attention of the super or the dwellers. My vote is eight.

Title (Brazil): "Sem Saída" ("No Exit")

With jo, which is a good character. It was classic supernatural.

Kim Manners is incredible in his use of camera to communicate drama, both interpersonal and internal. He choreographs his camera to circle his characters and always be in the perfect position to convey how they feel or what they're thinking, their reaction and what they're reacting to, all within the same frame; A lot of the best episodes of Supernatural are directed by him.

This episode contains 2 well-executed set pieces about claustrophobia that take place in angular and cylindrical mazes respectively. They're tense and memorable.

What is also memorable is, to this point, the worst dialogue the show has had.

Restating obvious things and filtered through a cringe-generator, one character keeps spewing these out like a spigot; "Pure iron you creepy-as* son of a bi**h!" "Scream all you want you di*k you'll never step over that salt!"

Meryl Streep would make those work perhaps, but they aren't being read by Meryl Streep, but an actor that maximizes their cringe factor. Yeesh.

Casting for television is a high wire act; you miscast a movie, it's a fling gone wrong.

You miscast a recurring role in a television show, that's a bad, joy-draining marriage, which is what fails this episode; too much screen time for an actor that can't carry it.

Resect the cringe like a tumor and it's 8/10 With the cancer intact, 5/10.

"No Exit," the sixth episode of Supernatural's second season, created by Erik Kripke and directed by Kim Manners, is a gripping installment that delves into themes of family, legacy, and the supernatural. This episode stands out for its exploration of Jo Harvelle's character as she navigates her desire to become a hunter despite her mother's objections.

The narrative begins with a heated argument between Ellen and Jo Harvelle at Harvelle's Roadhouse. Jo has discovered a potential case in Philadelphia involving the disappearance of blonde girls in an apartment building, which she passes on to Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles). Despite Dean's initial reluctance, Jo follows them to Philadelphia, where she helps investigate the supernatural occurrences. The brothers soon discover ectoplasm in one of the apartments, indicating a strong supernatural presence. As they search the building, they uncover a dark history linked to Dr. H. H. Holmes, America's first serial killer, whose spirit may be responsible for the disappearances.

Kim Manners' direction skillfully captures both the emotional depth of the characters and the suspenseful elements of the supernatural threats. The cinematography enhances the tension, particularly during scenes where Jo is captured by the spirit of H. H. Holmes and held in an underground sewer system. Notable is the use of lighting to create an eerie atmosphere, reflecting the supernatural dangers that loom over the characters. However, some critics argue that the pacing could be improved, particularly in scenes where the narrative jumps between different plot points.

Jensen Ackles delivers a compelling performance as Dean, showcasing his protective instincts towards Jo while also revealing his understanding of her motivations for becoming a hunter. Jared Padalecki effectively portrays Sam's concern for Jo's safety and his role in supporting Dean's decisions. Alona Tal shines as Jo, bringing depth to her character by revealing her emotional connection to her father and her desire to follow in his footsteps. The chemistry between the characters remains a highlight, adding emotional depth to their interactions as they navigate the complexities of their relationships and the supernatural threats they face.

Thematically, "No Exit" explores issues of family legacy and the desire for connection. The episode raises questions about how individuals define themselves through their relationships and actions, particularly in the context of family traditions. Jo's decision to hunt serves as a metaphor for her need to connect with her father's memory and find purpose in her life. The narrative also touches on themes of protection and sacrifice, as Ellen's reluctance to let Jo hunt stems from her fear of losing her daughter, mirroring the sacrifices made by the Winchester family.

"No Exit" stands out as a memorable episode 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 legacy and identity. By intertwining these elements with suspenseful storytelling, "No Exit" enriches the series' ongoing narrative, setting the stage for future conflicts and character growth. The episode's nuanced portrayal of Jo's character challenges viewers to question their assumptions about family and purpose, making it a thought-provoking addition to the series.