Digest

This episode of Supernatural Then and Now features hosts Rob Benedict and Richard Speight Jr. dissecting Season 8, Episode 21, "The Great Escapist." They are joined by the episode's writer, Ben Edlund, who provides insights into the plot, character motivations, and the show's meta-commentary. The discussion covers Kevin Tran's situation, Sam's trials, Castiel's capture by Crowley, and the introduction of Metatron, God's scribe. Edlund clarifies confusing plot points, discusses his writing process, and shares his favorite moments from his time on the show, highlighting his significant impact on Supernatural's mythology and quality. The hosts also delve into the episode's title origin and the mythology surrounding the trials to close the gates of hell.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Episode 12: "The Great Escapist" Discussion

Hosts Rob Benedict and Richard Speight Jr. introduce their podcast, where they rewatch Supernatural from the beginning. They begin discussing Season 8, Episode 21, "The Great Escapist," focusing on Kevin Tran's situation, Sam's weakening condition from the trials, and Castiel's escape from Naomi. They also touch upon Sam and Dean's investigation into Meditron and Crowley's capture of Castiel.

00:07:10

Metatron's Revelation and the Third Trial

Sam and Dean confront Meditron, who reveals the third trial to close the gates of hell: curing a demon. Meanwhile, Castiel escapes Crowley, and the hosts discuss their initial confusion and ratings for the episode, noting its exposition-heavy nature and unclear plot points.

00:16:46

Interview with Writer Ben Edlund

The hosts interview Ben Edlund, the writer of "The Great Escapist." Edlund discusses his decision to leave Supernatural after season eight, his writing process, and clarifies confusing plot points such as Kevin's disappearance and reappearance, explaining it was Crowley's illusion. He also discusses the intention behind Metatron's character and his casting.

00:28:43

The Three Trials, Meta-Commentary, and Authorship

Ben Edlund elaborates on the concept of the three trials and the show's modular writing process. The discussion shifts to Supernatural's meta-commentary, with Edlund explaining its organic emergence from his background in parody and his fascination with self-reflective themes, exploring the concept of authorship within the show.

00:38:40

Favorite Moments and Edlund's Impact

Edlund shares his favorite episodes and moments from his time on Supernatural, including "The Suicidejerk Teddy Bear." The hosts emphasize Ben Edlund's significant impact on the show, praising his writing and contributions to its mythology and overall quality.

00:47:07

Mythology Deep Dive and Episode Details

The hosts delve into the mythology of curing a demon and discuss the implications of such a trial. They also explore the origin of the episode title "The Great Escapist" and share specific episode details, including Metatron's correction about his angelic status and mentions of other characters.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the significance of the third trial to close the gates of hell?

  The third trial, as revealed by Metatron, is to cure a demon. This trial presents a moral dilemma, as the ability to cure a demon raises questions about why the gates of hell should be closed if redemption is possible.

• Who is Metatron and what is his role in Supernatural?

  Metatron is God's scribe, responsible for recording divine history. He eventually helps the Winchesters, revealing crucial information about the trials.

• Why was Kevin Tran's return to the boat confusing for the hosts?

  Kevin's disappearance and reappearance on the boat were confusing because the previous episode implied his capture by Crowley. Ben Edlund clarified that the boat scene was an illusion created by Crowley.

• What was Ben Edlund's favorite episode he wrote for Supernatural?

  Ben Edlund cited "The Suicidejerk Teddy Bear" as a favorite, appreciating its unique blend of dark humor and the show's signature supernatural elements.

• How did the episode title "The Great Escapist" get its name?

  The title is a play on the 1963 film "The Great Escape." Its international translations vary significantly.

Show Notes