Frontierland

Good premise and we get more of Castiel and what's he been upto Dean definitely shines here I never liked the whole Samuel Colt thing, why is there a devils gate? Why is there only one gun? Why did he not build more? Let me gues literal dues ex machina... Anyway they made this premise in their first season, i guess they didn't think it through, it just irks me. And then the bigotry of Dean, sure this phoenix killed an innocent judge and sheriff but even if he hadn't, even if they deserved to die, Dean doesn't think something not human deserves to live, he has no problem killing one for the greater good but not a human.

"Frontierland," the eighteenth episode of Supernatural's sixth season, directed by Guy Norman Bee and written by Andrew Dabb and Daniel Loflin, is a delightful homage to Westerns that blends humor, suspense, and mythology. By sending Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) back to 1861 to retrieve the ashes of a phoenix, the episode not only advances the season's overarching narrative but also provides a refreshing change of tone. With its clever nods to classic Western tropes and strong character moments, "Frontierland" is a standout installment that balances fan service with meaningful storytelling.

The episode begins with Sam, Dean, and Bobby Singer (Jim Beaver) uncovering a crucial piece of information in Samuel Campbell's library: Eve, the Mother of All, can be killed by the ashes of a phoenix. However, since no phoenixes exist in modern times, Dean proposes a time-travel mission to retrieve the ashes from 1861, where Samuel Colt reportedly killed one. Castiel (Misha Collins) reluctantly agrees to send them back in time but warns that they only have 24 hours before he loses the ability to retrieve them. Armed with cowboy hats and period-appropriate outfits-much to Sam's dismay-the brothers are transported to Sunrise, Wyoming.

Guy Norman Bee's direction shines in capturing the essence of a Western while maintaining Supernatural's signature tone. The cinematography by Serge Ladouceur effectively recreates the dusty landscapes and saloon interiors typical of the genre, while also adding a supernatural edge through atmospheric lighting during key confrontations. The editing ensures a smooth balance between humor and tension, particularly as Sam and Dean navigate their unfamiliar surroundings while pursuing their mission. The production design is commendable for its attention to detail, though some critics have noted that certain elements-such as Dean's overly clean cowboy attire-lean into parody.

Jensen Ackles delivers an especially entertaining performance as Dean fully embraces his cowboy fantasy, adopting Clint Eastwood-inspired mannerisms and reveling in his temporary role as sheriff. Jared Padalecki provides a grounded counterpoint as Sam, whose pragmatic approach contrasts with Dean's enthusiasm. Their dynamic is further enriched by their interactions with historical figures like Samuel Colt (Sam Hennings), whose reluctant involvement adds depth to the plot. Misha Collins adds intrigue as Castiel grapples with internal conflicts in his war against Raphael (Lanette Ware), while Sebastian Roché's brief appearance as Balthazar injects levity into the setup.

"Frontierland" explores legacy and sacrifice through its focus on Samuel Colt and Elias Finch (Matthew John Armstrong), the phoenix seeking vengeance for his wife's murder. Finch's tragic backstory raises questions about justice versus revenge, mirroring broader themes in Supernatural about moral ambiguity and the cost of hunting. The episode also delves into Castiel's growing desperation as he makes increasingly questionable decisions to secure victory in Heaven's civil war-a subplot that foreshadows larger conflicts later in the season.

One of the episode's most memorable moments is Dean's climactic showdown with Finch in a classic Western-style duel. The tension is palpable as Dean uses Samuel Colt's mystical gun to kill Finch just before being transported back to the present. Another standout sequence involves Sam convincing Colt to help by showing him a cellphone from 2011-a clever blend of humor and ingenuity that underscores Sam's resourcefulness. The resolution is equally satisfying: although it initially seems like they failed to retrieve Finch's ashes, a package from Colt containing both the ashes and Sam's phone arrives at Bobby's house just in time.

"Frontierland" is an engaging and well-executed episode that successfully combines Western homage with Supernatural's mythological framework. Its balance of humor, action, and emotional depth makes it one of Season 6's most enjoyable entries. While some elements lean into caricature for comedic effect, strong performances and thoughtful storytelling ensure that the episode remains grounded in its characters' journey. By intertwining historical adventure with personal stakes, "Frontierland" not only entertains but also enriches Supernatural's expansive narrative universe.

The show had ever so slight western vibe to it-traveling around the American west, standoffs etc.-that comes and goes throughout its run. Frontierland is an episodes that could have happened earlier but the show needed to finally go full blown western. This episodes does everything you would expect with the concept and it was delightful to seen Dean as a cowboy/gunslinger. The Phoenix is one of the better monsters in the season and the episode is nice slice of Americana.

I'm a great fan of Western so when I saw the opening scene I really wished the episode would be about (Sam and) Dean traveling back in time. And it was! I've gotta admit, throughout the entire episode I felt overjoyed like a kid opening the first present on Christmas. Yes, it's a satire, but this is as close to perfection as it gets for a Western lover like myself.

This show gets me good, I'm not lying when I say I had my mouth open since the delivery guy appeared at the doorstep till the very end.

Dean and Sam learn in Samuel Colt's diary that ashes of a Phoenix may defeat Eve and they summon Castiel to send them back to 1861, to Sunrise, Wyoming, where they can meet Samuel Colt and get the ashes. Casteil gives twenty-four hours to the brothers to get what they want; otherwise their return may be dangerous. Will the brothers be well succeeded in their intent?

"Frontierland" is another witty episode of "Supernatural", this time with a joke with Clint Eastwood and a conclusion à la "Back to the Future 3". My vote is eight.

Title (Brazil): "Terra da Fronteira" ("Frontierland")