Review: Supergirl 4×18 – “Crime and Punishment”

[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers]

Director: Antonio Negret

Writers: Lindsay Sturman, Aadrita Mukerji & Rob Wright

Starring: Melissa Benoist, Mehcad Brooks, Chyler Leigh, Katie McGrath, Jesse Rath, Sam Witwer, Nicole Maines & April Parker Jones

 

Summary

Kara and Lena head to Stryker’s Island to find clues that may help defeat Lex; Kelly encourages James to confide in someone about his PTSD; Alex faces off against Ben Lockwood when he takes powerful weapons from the DEO to hunt Supergirl.

Positives

There are two very strong fight scenes this episode. One is a hallway fight because these are a trend for some reason. It is very well done and a lot of fun. The second is a great fight with Otis as Metallo. The scene utilizes its location very well; Kara and Otis fight all over the prison taking advantage of their environment in creative ways. It’s choreographed well and the cinematography is excellent. Both scenes are action highlights of the series.

The immediate consequences of Red Daughter’s attack are interesting. There’s a feeling of chaos that is integrated well. And I like that it encourages Kara to focus on using her skills as a reporter to take on Lex. I’ve never loved the decision to make her a reporter but this season is integrating it more effectively.

 

Negatives

I wasn’t that invested in the sub plots. They’re not bad and they all end in a place that’s exciting but they were a little dry. Every time one of these scenes popped up, I just wanted the show to go back to Kara and Lena in the prison.

 

Verdict

This is a solid episode. It’s not the most interesting story wise. There are good character moments with most of the cast but it’s a lot of set up. Which is fine; I just didn’t think it was the most engaging episode on that level. However, the episode does make up for that with some stellar action.

 

Sean Blumenshine

Sean Blumenshine

I am currently a senior at Wichita State University studying communications. I started reading comics in 2013 because of how much I loved Man of Steel and season one of Arrow. My favorite hero is the Green Arrow and my favorite villain is the Joker.