Author Archive | Ali Trotta

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Radicalization, Hate, and Racism on SUPERGIRL

Supergirl’s third episode (“Man of Steel”) gave us Agent Liberty’s origin story. Presumably, we’re supposed to understand, as the audience, how a seemingly reasonable, kind man can turn into a hateful, xenophobic bigot. It checks all the stereotypes: blue-collar racist dad (Xander Berkeley), well-educated and learned person, loving family, generally seems to try to do […]

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Death Is Relative on THE FLASH

The Flash’s third episode (“The Death of Vibe”) was so much fun and full of family drama. You know, a typical Tuesday night. First, we have a new Wells! Sure, he’s a bit of a swindler, a French version of Sherlock Holmes, named Sherloque. Cisco quips that he smells like poutine, and I just about […]

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SUPERGIRL and Its Extraordinary Women

Supergirl’s second episode (“Fallout”) had so many powerful moments that it’s hard to know where to begin. The writing has been absolutely exquisite, and I love all of the girl power moments (Eve, Lena, and Kara teaming up and kicking ass? Yes, please.). But I was particularly touched and moved by Nia, both the strength […]

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The Big Bad Bug Man on THE FLASH

The Flash’s second episode (“Blocked”) introduces us to Cicada, and it’s the least intimidating name I’ve heard in a while—especially for a dude who looks like a super evil Subzero, with a slight Zeus obsession. I mean, the lightning bolt of doom is an interesting weapon. And Cicada, name aside, is menacing and formidable. I […]

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Conquering the Hateful Divide on SUPERGIRL

Supergirl’s season 4 premiere (“American Alien”) was pretty excellent. There was more to cheer about than not, even though the show tackled some difficult, relevant social issues. I mean, Kara was forced to confront her privilege, since she can “pass” for human. That was no small deal, and I loved that Alex reminded her to […]

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A Future Family Reunion on THE FLASH

The Flash’s season five premiere (“Nora”) was equal parts funny and touching. Mad props have to be given to Jessica Parker Kennedy, for her wide-eyed turn as Nora, Iris and Barry’s daughter. (Confession: I loved her on The Secret Circle, and I’m still mad that show got canceled. Don’t judge me.) Earnest, self-depreciating (“I’m not […]

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So Many Goodbyes on SUPERGIRL

Supergirl’s 23rd episode (“Battles Lost and Won”) had some really great moments. Sam encountering her dead mom (“All that remains of me is my love for you. Please you have to believe me.” Betty Buckley forever, please and thank you), who helped her overcome Reign. Alex and Kara bonding on the couch at the episode’s […]

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SUPERGIRL: (Kryptonian) Witch, Please

Supergirl’s 22nd episode (“Make It Reign”) was full of a lot of great moments, even if there were difficult ones. For one thing, Sam (Odette Annable, crushing it) finally apologized to Ruby for keeping her not being honest with her in the past: “We’re going to call Lena and Alex, and they’re going to get […]

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You Can, and Can’t, Go Home Again on SUPERGIRL

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: […]

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Reunions and Self-Reflection on SUPERGIRL

Supergirl’s 20th episode (“Dark Side of the Moon”) had some interesting twists and surprisingly emotional moments. Surprise! Alura isn’t dead! At first, I was naturally suspicious of her and Argos. But it was a nice turn to have her be so remorseful, so grateful to see her daughter again. I’m still annoyed they recast the […]

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Finding the Good in the Bad on THE FLASH

The Flash’s 23rd episode (“We Are The Flash”) gave us everything: laughter, danger, feels, and a heap of powerful moments. It was, of course, satisfying as hell to finally be rid of DeVoe. I still maintain that his storyline dragged on for far too long, but I loved that way it wrapped up—and that we […]

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Secret Identities and Tension on SUPERGIRL

Supergirl’s 19th episode (“The Fantatical”) was a bit all over the place, narratively speaking. But I will say this: Jimmy does a hell of a Batman impression. His “Let her go” was very Michael Keaton meets Christian Bale, and I am here for it. And I’ll give credit where’s it’s due: one of the best […]

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It Pays to Be an Optimist on THE FLASH

The Flash’s 22nd episode (“Think Fast”) showcases how far DeVoe has spiraled into chaos, remorseless in his pursuit of what he thinks to be right. The Murder Symphony that starts off the episode was so very excellent. But he’s ancillary, for this go round, as far as I’m concerned. Team Flash, engaging with each other […]

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Welcoming the Future, Treasuring the Past.