NFL
By Keith Richards
It’s been almost three years since the last episode of Supernatural aired. For 15 years, 15 seasons, and 327 episodes the adventures of Sam and Dean Winchester captivated millions. Now that it’s all over, how do we wayward sons and daughters carry on? We reflect and we remember.
So, today, we reflect upon the five best Supernatural episodes as I see them. Of course, this is highly subjective. My top five Supernatural episodes may differ from yours. Still, these five episodes are concrete. No matter how many times I watch Supernatural, these five episodes remain my favorite. So, let’s dig into it!
Honorable Mentions
While I did state that my favorites are concrete, there are a few episodes that I still enjoy, but are not in the top five. If I’m doing a personal Supernatural marathon, these episodes immediately are viewed after the top five. One is more serious. The other two are flat-out just funny. Without further ado, here are the honorable mentions of the top five:
Dog Dean Afternoon – Season 9, Episode 5
My Heart Will Go On – Season 6, Episode 17
Who We Are – Season 12, Episode 22
5. The Prisoner – Season 10, Episode 22
I will admit that sometimes I struggle to leave this at number five. Maybe I do so to eliminate recency bias, but The Prisoner belongs in the top five. As a story, it was beautiful. If it’s even possible, the acting made the story even better. The Prisoner makes the list because of the marriage of the story and the acting. The story is better because Jensen Ackles makes you believe that Dean Winchester is broken. You feel his grief. His pain is palpable. Many years from now, as this episode marinates more, The Prisoner might one day surpass my favorite.
4. As Time Goes By – Season 8, Episode 12
If there is one episode in this top five list that I feel vindicates a viewpoint, it’s As Time Goes By. The story of Henry Winchester, who is the father of John Winchester. In addition, As Time Goes By serves as the introduction to the Men of Letters (MOL). MOL will become a vital part of Supernatural moving forward. As a point of vindication, As Time Goes By solidifies the horrible life that John lived. John never had a chance. Furthermore, this episode shows where Sam and Dean get their instinct and knowledge. They’re legacies.
3. Lazarus Rising – Season 4, Episode 1
At its core, Team Freewill has three members. Up until now, we’ve only seen two: Sam and Dean. In the top five, Lazarus Rising introduces us to Castiel. Everyone’s favorite angel. The one who gripped Dean tight and raised him from Perdition. With the addition of Castiel, Supernatural would never be the same. Sometimes, he’s an angel looking to serve the will of Chuck. Other times, Castiel thinks he’s Chuck himself. A part-time vessel for Lucifer and the temporary house of the Leviathan, Cass is an integral part of the story. Lazarus Rising gives Castiel an entrance so great, it’s only surprised by Death itself.
2. The French Mistake – Season 6, Episode 15
By far, The French Mistake is the funniest episode in the top five. Arguably, the funniest episode of the entire series. Jensen Ackles playing Dean Winchester playing Jensen Ackles. Jared Padalecki playing Sam Winchester playing Jared Padalecki. It’s a lot to keep up with. Yet, it’s done beautifully and it’s hilarious from beginning to end. From Misha’s Mishamigos to Dean calling Sam “Padaleski”, the whole thing is just pure magic. It was the pinnacle of the Angel Civil War and a nice break from the nonstop action. RIP fake Eric Kripke.
1. Swan Song – Season 5, Episode 22
The end all, be all of Supernatural and the number one in the top five. Swan Song could have been the end of the series and it would be perfection. Swan Song gives us Sam and Dean at their finest. Against all odds, Sam and Dean win. They quite literally defeat the will of God and the Devil. Three seasons before the introduction of the MOL, here we catch a glimpse of the full potential of the Winchesters.
Of course, no great episode is without controversy. At which point did Chuck transition from the prophet to God? We may never know, but it’s a point we love to argue about. Still, to this day, Swan Song is the gold standard of Supernatural. If you don’t like it, then just deal with it assbutts.
There you have it! My top five Supernatural episodes. Did your favorites make the list? What episode is missing? Is there one that shouldn’t be there? Let us know! Be sure to check out our other TV coverage as well.
