Supergirl’s 21st episode (“Not Kansas”) had a lot of brilliant moments, even if it was a little bit slow in its storytelling. First and foremost, the social commentary about guns, gun control, and how those who make their money from guns are often woefully neglecting the human cost—well, it was brilliant. This was particularly chilling: “This is a family business, and our guns bring families together.” J’onn’s utter disgust that lives were less important than profits reflects my own beliefs, but it was Jimmy and Lena’s interaction that I found most interesting. While they held opposing viewpoints, their conversation was measured, civil, with a healthy level of respect. It should also be noted that Lena is representative of a responsible gun owner—the antithesis of Arthur Willis.
But even he was a powerful character. The scene where J’onn reasons with him, talks him down? It was excellent work from David Harewood, who—let’s face it—is consistently amazing. The depth and range of emotion that he portrays in an episode is really something to behold. J’onn appealed to him with kindness and humanity, then giving him hope: “I know you’ve been bullied. That doesn’t give you the right to bully back. … Your life doesn’t have to end like this. … You can begin something new.” It was a great bit of social commentary.
Of course, we need to talk about Kara going home—Alex supporting her and cheering her on was the best—to a pile of weird and shady. I will admit, there was satisfaction in her homecoming, especially with Mon-El by her side. Chris Wood radiates this very warm love and affection as Mon-El, and Melissa Benoist more than matches it (“Saving people without telling me, hmm?” A cute moment.). The connection there is obvious, as is the symbolism (he literally gave her his ring), but more than that: he constantly supports her, encourages her, reminds her to trust herself, and is a true partner. Sure, he’s “space police,” but I’ll be damned, if he isn’t a man in love.
Which brings us to the garden scene (very Eden in its imagery, ruined by evil in its own way). The way their walk evolved and even the way those two hugged was telling. But watching Mon-El finally verbalize all the chaos in his heart was unexpectedly sweet and definitely emotional: “I didn’t want to burden you, before. Um. I know you’ve moved on, from us. But I didn’t just come back her to help you fight Reign. … I’ve been trying to convince myself that friendship between us was the right thing. But I think I’ve been lying to myself. I’m sorry to spring this on you. … I just don’t want to hide things, pretend that they don’t exist.” I mean, damn, dude. Way to put yourself out there. I’m just annoyed that they didn’t kiss. (Yes, yes, Kara wouldn’t, with him being technically married. But leave me and my dirty shipper heart alone.)
I love that Eve (an incredible Andrea Brooks) is super smart and Lena hired her to help work on the project for Supergirl. But holy gods and goblins, how did no one realize she was super smart before now? Granted, Eve has a sunny personality and is damn good at her day job, but that character turn surprised the hell out of me. But I’m all for ladies teaming up and being badass and science-y.
Reign is obviously not as gone as we thought, due to the evil priestess brigade. Man, these villains really know how to play the long game, sometimes. I do think Barry Allen would approve of Sam and Ruby’s viewing choice: Singin’ in the Rain. I had all kinds of feels for Alex, who clearly has decided to adopt a tiny human all her own. Assuming, you know, that Reign doesn’t end the world next week. No big.
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