It’s been an impressive fifteen years and a whopping 327 episodes, but we’re here at last: the final season of Supernatural has landed on physical media.

No one saw this coming, I’d wager—least of all me. Who would have expected this quirky WB show to amass such a devoted fanbase, to sustain itself for so long, to offer enough narrative twists and turns to fill a PhD dissertation on media studies?
Yet all things must die, and the tale of the brothers Winchester—while finally over—has certainly earned a most surprising and envious spot within the annals of TV history. Let’s talk about the bible and black holes, shall we?
At this stage in the game, Supernatural is clearly a show made for its most dedicated fans. That’s how it should be, too. This season aims to wrap up a number of loose ends and, for the most part, succeeds. (There’s always that tantalizing possibility for a spin-off, though. I’ll say no more so as not to provide spoilers.)
The primary plotline is ambitious, particularly when contrasted when the show’s somewhat modest beginnings. How many mainstream TV shows involve a plot to kill God? (Ok, yes, there’s also Preacher, and it’s hard not to think of that show—as well as its superior comic book origin—when watching this.) I could nitpick, but it’s impressive to witness an American television program wrestling with the Book Genesis in ways that are clever and, I suppose to some, potentially controversial. The corollary between souls and black holes is particularly fun—but again, the less said, the better.
Along the way are some less compelling adventures with woodnymphs and vampires and whatnot. I did find my mind wander during these more pedestrian tales. (Did I feed the cat tonight?…The roofing estimate is six grand…Should I get a second opinion?”) Even these lesser moments, though, pay appropriate homage to show’s storied history. Expect a lot of in-jokes and Easter eggs along the way.
On the technical front, colors are bright and vivid, and the picture quality is consistently commendable. While I have not watched a streaming version for comparative purposes, I expect this blu-ray edition is superior, particularly when picture details are concerned. Audio is similarly strong. There’s simply not much to complain about here.
In addition to the episodes, viewers are treated to some fairly extensive farewell featurettes. “The End of the Road” might make diehards long for that 16th season, and “The Long Road Home” is a serviceable recap of fifteen years of storytelling. There are also a few deleted scenes and the obligatory Comic-Con panel discussion.
Full disclosure: I am not the target audience for this program. If I want to watch vampires, I’m more likely to dust off some Browning or Herzog. That said, there’s fun to be had, and Supernatural’s final season—unlike a few more prestigious programs (Game of Thrones and Dexter, I see you)—provides the most loyal fans of the brothers Winchester with an entertaining finale (…or is it?).

-Palo Sionoplia