Superman on Television
Supergirl: Episode Reviews
Season 2 - Episode 12: "Luthors"
Reviewed by: T.A. Ewart (aka liheibao)
Originally Aired: February 13, 2017
WRITTEN BY: Robert Rovner and Cindy Lichtman
DIRECTED BY: Tawnia McKiernan
REGULAR CAST:
Melissa Benoist (Kara Danvers/Supergirl)
Chyler Leigh (Alex Danvers)
Mehcad Brooks (James Olsen)
David Harewood (Hank Henshaw/J'onn J'onzz)
Jeremy Jordan (Winslow "Winn" Schott)
RECURRING CAST:
Chris Wood (Mon-El)
Floriana Lima (Maggie Sawyer)
GUEST CAST:
Brenda Strong (Lillian Luthor)
Katie McGrath (Lena Luthor)
Frederick Schmidt (John Corben/Metallo)
Peter Gadiot (Mr. Mxyzptlk)
Andrea Brooks (Eve Teschmacher)
Ian Gomez (Snapper Carr)
Rating - 4 (out of 5): "Luthors" functions due to following a more linear format of storytelling, i.e., a traditional superhero/rom-com tale. People need saving and Supergirl is off to the races. However, the best portions are what Supergirl revisits inadvertently, and the appearance of the best fifth-dimensional imp in literature. Supergirl doesn't believe in tension, and it wraps up any such tautness in 2-3 episodes. Alex was wrecked by Maggie and in a relationship within a fortnight. Jimmy and Winn's secret was revealed to Alex in sweet and short period. Now we see the friction between Kara and Jimmy resolved, but it also begs the question, why was there any tension to begin with? After an entire season of Kara mooning after Jimmy, they decide to be friends without ever looking back. Why then, is there such a problem over being Guardian? What's more, in these scene allotted by "Luthors", the chemistry between Kara and Jimmy is still there, which makes one wonder for what reasons it was quashed in the first place.
Mxyzptlk is one of the hardest characters to write for. Writers who are terrified of Superman, fall fetal at the mere mention of him. He is literally a character that can do anything without reservation, and many modern writers are character hacks, as opposed to competent storytellers. However, to see Mxyzptlk arrive decked in a two-piece, professing love for Kara, and effectively blocking Mon-El (sorry shippers, but Mon-El is going to the Zone like Buffy sent Angel to Hell) from any hope of consummation, not only raised an eyebrow, it made me look forward to next week's episode that much more. Now, when do they sing?!
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