Supergirl Season 1 Episode 20 Review Better Angels

Hey there, fellow Earthlings! We’ve been soaring through the skies with our favorite Super-cousin on CBS, and let’s be honest, Season 1 of Supergirl has been a breath of fresh air. But as we hurtle towards the finale, things are getting seriously intense. Episode 20, aptly titled “Better Angels,” really dials up the emotional stakes, leaving us wondering if National City—and Kara Danvers herself—can handle the pressure. So, grab your favorite comfort beverage (mine’s a perfectly brewed chai latte, no judgment!), settle into your comfiest spot, and let’s dive into what made this episode a must-watch.

The Weight of the World (Literally)

This episode throws us headfirst into the aftermath of some pretty heavy stuff. We’re talking about the kind of situations that would make even the most stoic of us want to hide under a blanket. Non is out there, playing cosmic conductor with Fort Rozz, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. It’s a classic superhero dilemma: how do you save the many when the threat is so immense and personal?

Kara is, of course, at the epicenter of it all. Melissa Benoist continues to absolutely crush it, portraying Kara’s vulnerability and fierce determination with such authenticity. You can feel the weight of Krypton on her shoulders, the responsibility to protect her new home, and the deep personal connections that are constantly being tested. It’s a masterclass in channeling inner strength even when everything feels like it’s falling apart.

When Heroes Get Human

What I love about this season, and particularly this episode, is how it doesn’t shy away from the messy human side of being super. Kara isn’t just about punching aliens; she’s about feeling. We see her grappling with fear, doubt, and the heartbreaking reality of potentially losing people she cares about. This is where the “Better Angels” title really hits home. It’s not just about fighting villains; it’s about finding the better angels within ourselves when faced with darkness.

Think about it: how often do we feel overwhelmed by the news, by personal struggles, by the sheer stuff of life? Supergirl’s struggle is amplified, sure, but the underlying emotions are so relatable. It’s that moment when you’re trying to be strong for others, but inside, you’re a tangled ball of anxiety. It reminds us that even the most extraordinary individuals have their moments of doubt.

The Family Feud of Cosmic Proportions

Let’s talk about the Danvers sisters. Alex and Kara’s relationship is the beating heart of this show, and in “Better Angels,” it’s put through the wringer. We see Alex wrestling with her own fears and responsibilities, trying to protect Kara while also doing what she believes is best for humanity. Their differing approaches to the crisis create some seriously tense moments, but it’s all rooted in their deep love for each other.

It’s a powerful reminder of how family dynamics, even in the most extraordinary circumstances, can be complex. We all have those people in our lives who we love fiercely, but with whom we might have disagreements, especially when big decisions need to be made. This episode shows that even when you’re on opposite sides of a problem, the foundation of love can (hopefully!) see you through. Plus, Chyler Leigh and Melissa Benoist have such incredible chemistry; you can’t help but get invested in their sisterly bond.

A Little Nudge to Our Own "Better Angels"

Here’s a fun little tidbit: the concept of "better angels" is famously associated with Abraham Lincoln’s first inaugural address, where he spoke of appealing to "the better angels of our nature." It’s a beautiful sentiment, and one that resonates deeply in this episode. In our own lives, when we’re faced with challenges, whether it’s a tough work project, a difficult conversation with a friend, or just a bad case of the Mondays, we have the choice to tap into that inherent goodness.

So, what’s a practical tip from Supergirl’s epic showdown? When you’re feeling overwhelmed, try focusing on one small act of kindness or one step forward. Just like Kara has to make tough choices and take action, sometimes all we can do is tackle the immediate problem in front of us. Maybe it’s sending that encouraging text, offering a listening ear, or simply taking a deep breath and tackling that one email. Small acts of decency can have a ripple effect, just like Supergirl’s efforts to save the world.

The Spectre of Astra

Astra’s presence, even in spirit, looms large. Her influence, her legacy, and the complicated relationship she had with Kara and Non are key to understanding the motivations at play. It’s a fascinating exploration of how past choices and familial ties continue to shape the present. This isn’t just a simple good vs. evil narrative; it’s layered with personal history and difficult moral quandaries.

It makes you think about the people who have influenced us, both positively and negatively. How do their lessons, their warnings, or even their mistakes continue to echo in our own lives? Astra represents a complex maternal figure, and her presence forces Kara to confront not only the external threat but also the internal conflict of her Kryptonian heritage.

When Worlds Collide (and Villains Get Complicated)

One of the things that makes Supergirl stand out is its willingness to explore the nuances of its villains. Non isn’t just a mustache-twirling bad guy; he’s driven by his own twisted sense of justice and his love for Astra. This episode really digs into that, showing the depth of his pain and his determination. It’s a reminder that even the most formidable adversaries often have their own tragic backstories.

Culturally, we’re often drawn to stories with clear-cut heroes and villains, but reality is rarely that simple. Think about historical figures or even characters in literature and film; the most compelling ones often exist in shades of gray. Non's grief over Astra adds a layer of complexity that makes his actions, while horrific, understandable on a very human (or Kryptonian) level.

The Emotional Toll on Our Heroes

Beyond the massive alien threats, “Better Angels” really focuses on the emotional toll this fight is taking. Kara is pushed to her absolute limits, and we see the physical and emotional exhaustion creep in. This is where the show truly shines—it grounds the extraordinary in relatable human experience. It's not just about superpowers; it's about resilience.

We’ve all had those moments where we feel completely drained, where the world feels like too much. Whether it’s a demanding job, family responsibilities, or just the sheer exhaustion of navigating modern life, that feeling of being depleted is universal. Supergirl’s journey is an amplified version of that, but the core emotion is something we can all connect with. It’s a testament to Benoist’s performance that she can convey such raw emotion while still embodying the strength of Supergirl.

A Little Bit of "What If?" for Your Own Life

Consider this: if you were faced with an impossible choice, a decision where any outcome meant loss, how would you choose? This episode forces Kara into that very scenario. It’s a philosophical exercise that, in a less dramatic way, we all encounter. We have to make sacrifices, weigh priorities, and sometimes accept that things won’t be perfect.

A fun fact for the pop culture nerds: the title “Better Angels” might also be a subtle nod to the overarching theme of growth and self-improvement. Just like characters in a good novel or a binge-worthy series evolve, we too are constantly learning and striving to be better versions of ourselves. So, next time you’re facing a tough decision, channel your inner Supergirl and consider what your "better angels" would guide you to do.

The Stakes Keep Rising

As the episode progresses, the sense of urgency escalates. Every decision matters, every action has consequences. The stakes are no longer just about protecting National City; they’re about protecting the very essence of hope and what it means to be a hero. It’s the kind of climax that leaves you on the edge of your seat, your heart pounding in sync with the on-screen action.

This escalating tension is a hallmark of good storytelling. It keeps us invested and makes the eventual resolution all the more satisfying. It’s like a roller coaster ride: the climb up is thrilling, and the drop is exhilarating. And in the world of superheroes, those drops can be pretty dramatic!

When Hope Feels Like a Distant Star

There are moments in “Better Angels” where hope feels like a fragile thing, barely clinging on. Kara has to confront the possibility that she might not succeed, that the forces against her might be too great. This is a crucial part of her character development. It’s not about never failing; it’s about finding the strength to keep fighting, even when the odds are stacked against you.

In our own lives, there are certainly times when we feel like hope is a luxury we can’t afford. When challenges seem insurmountable, it’s easy to fall into despair. This episode reminds us that even in the darkest hours, there’s often a flicker of light, a reason to keep pushing forward. It’s about cultivating that inner resilience, that stubborn refusal to give up, even when it feels like the most logical thing to do.

A Reflection on Our Own "Better Angels"

Watching Supergirl grapple with such monumental challenges is inspiring, but it also serves as a gentle nudge to examine our own lives. “Better Angels” isn’t just about extraordinary feats; it’s about the quiet strength we find within ourselves when faced with adversity. It’s about the choices we make, the compassion we extend, and the unwavering belief that even in the face of darkness, there’s always a chance for good to prevail.

So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, take a moment. Think about Kara Danvers, the girl from Krypton who is learning to embrace her power and her humanity. Remember that you, too, have the capacity to be a force for good in your own corner of the world. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll find your own "better angels" guiding you through. Until next time, keep looking up!