The Real Ghostbusters

The single worst episode in the first five seasons.. Holy crap so cringey

I actually liked this episode. It was both innovative and old fashioned, as it gave up a glance to the old hunts we've been used in the first seasons. Only a show like Supernatural could put its main characters into a convention of the show itself! I figure this episode as a sort of "direct line" with the authors, with them telling the watchers their point of view, as a way to express their concern about the show developing the best way.

The thing I like the most about Supernatural is that I've never felt the urge to make things go in a different way, just like writing fan fiction, I never sensed I would be able to develop better the plot if I were an author; I really like the story and I don't think that if the show is really going to end next year, they will ever jump the shark!

"The Real Ghostbusters," the ninth episode of Supernatural's fifth season, created by Nancy Weiner and directed by James L. Conway, is a captivating installment that masterfully blends humor, suspense, and supernatural intrigue. This episode stands out for its exploration of a Supernatural fan convention in Vermilion, Ohio, where Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) are tricked into attending by their over-enthusiastic fan Becky. As they navigate through the convention, they discover that the fans' role-playing game has inadvertently awakened a real ghost, Leticia Gore, an orphanage caretaker who supposedly killed four children by scalping them.

The narrative begins with a humorous scene where Sam and Dean arrive at the convention, only to find themselves surrounded by fans dressed as them. The episode's use of suspense and mystery keeps viewers engaged as they piece together the events leading to the final confrontation with Leticia's ghost and the three ghost boys who killed her son. Notable is the comedic timing of Dean's interactions with the fans, particularly when they comment on the "homoerotic tension" between the brothers, mirroring broader cultural debates about fan culture and the blurring of reality and fiction.

James L. Conway's direction skillfully captures both the comedic elements of the episode and the suspenseful elements of the supernatural threats. The cinematography enhances the tension, particularly during scenes where Sam and Dean confront the ghost boys, creating an atmosphere of desperation and fear. Notable is the use of lighting to highlight the dark nature of the events unfolding, reflecting the twisted reality of the ghostly encounters. 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 comedic timing as he navigates the absurdities of the fan convention. Jared Padalecki effectively portrays Sam's frustration with the situation and his growing concern about their lives being scrutinized by fans. 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. The guest cast, particularly Becky, adds complexity to the narrative by presenting a character who is both enthusiastic and manipulative.

Thematically, "The Real Ghostbusters" explores issues of identity and fandom, raising questions about how individuals perceive their roles in life and the consequences of their actions. The episode highlights the tension between Sam and Dean's reluctance to be idolized and the fans' admiration for them, mirroring broader cultural debates about the nature of celebrity culture and fan engagement. The ghostly encounters serve as a metaphor for the external forces that can disrupt human lives, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding. The narrative also touches on themes of family and loyalty, as Sam and Dean struggle to maintain their bond amidst supernatural forces that challenge their worldview.

"The Real Ghostbusters" stands out as a memorable episode of Supernatural, effectively combining elements of humor with meaningful character development and thematic depth. Its exploration of fan culture and the supernatural makes it a compelling watch, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences with identity and fandom. By intertwining these elements with suspenseful storytelling, "The Real Ghostbusters" enriches the series' ongoing narrative, setting the stage for future conflicts and character growth. The episode's nuanced portrayal of Sam and Dean's emotional journey challenges viewers to question their assumptions about right and wrong, making it a thought-provoking addition to the series. However, some viewers might find the handling of the ghost storyline to be somewhat predictable, detracting from the overall impact of the episode.

I feel that everyone who criticized the show about its silly episodes are wrong. It's whats making g the show last for 13 seasons. The behind the scene clips of Dean singing " eye of the tiger", "imaginary friend", "the real ghostbusters", etc. The writers have active imaginations that are creative including fun to watch. If it was all seriousness. Then it won't be fun to watch. Their really Talented writers. Name one other show that has the same or similar quirkiness.

continuing with this season's phenomenal quality, this episode proved the writers of supernatural know what they're doing. and that they've been listening to their fans.

the basic premise of this episode is a bit lame, yes. dean and sam are tricked by their uber fan, becky, to attend a convention commemorating their own lives and while there, discover the bogus ghost hunt put on by the fans is more fact than fiction. but that doesn't mean this episode is pure genius.

first of all, this episode was hilarious. with loads of inside jokes, from calling upon the "homoerotic tension" between the brothers, to mocking how "supernatural makes grave digging look so easy," along with numerous dorky larpers trying their hardest to act the parts of dean and sam, and failing miserably and fantastically despite quoting the boys exactly from different scenes throughout the series, the humor of this episode is guaranteed to make any supernatural fan howl with squealing laughter. this episode is a perfect example for why serious shows should occasionally take the time to chill, and possibly make fun of themselves in the process.

however, despite the hysterical nature of most of this episode, it still managed to maintain a serious edge to it. during this episode, the brothers, dean in particular, had a chance to look at their lives through the eyes of their fans. it's well known by anyone who has watched this show that sam and dean are none too pleased to be living the life dealt to them. they have to carry more miserable and back breaking burdens than any normal human should. a normal person would go insane in their position. yet even still, there are fans who want to be them and the brothers can't understand it. but in this episode, two fans reveal to them why they are people to be looked upon with admiration, and even jealousy, and finally, they get it.

another great aspect of this episode: we haven't had a regular hunt episode in quite some time. the closest was the previous episode dealing with the trickster, but nothing involving the trickster winds up regular. it was good to have fight something that could be held back with just a bit of salt and iron. also, the plot twist near the end of the episode will definitely surprise you.

also, a very crucial bit of the plot was revealed within this episode. guess it's not just in fanfiction that people noticed how useful fans could be for sam and dean.

this episode was a true master piece. hilarious, yet oddly serious, supernatural reminds the fans once again why we love it so damn much. definite 10/10.