The Hidden Depths of a Supernatural Episode: Unveiling the Show's Most Powerful Trope
Uncover the hidden depths of Supernatural's forgotten episode, Slash Fiction, as it cleverly employs a powerful trope with multiple meanings Explore the intricate web of references and meta elements that make this episode a standout, and discover how the show's self-awareness propelled it to long-lasting success
Article Overview
Supernatural cleverly incorporates movie call-outs and pop culture references, adding depth and entertainment.
One Supernatural episode alludes to Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction, slasher films, and fan-fiction, effectively demonstrating the show's connection to popular culture.
By incorporating self-awareness and meta moments, Supernatural effectively engages fans and establishes a strong connection to the plot, blurring the boundaries between fiction and reality.
One often overlooked episode of Supernatural effectively illustrates the show's clever use of multiple meanings and highlights a recurring theme. Over its 15 seasons, Supernatural has delved into inventive storylines, such as Sam and Dean finding themselves trapped in various fictional manifestations of real-world shows. What sets the show apart, however, are the intricate references that enhance the audience's viewing experience.
From subtle movie references in the characters' dialogues to clever nods to pop culture through Sam and Dean's alter egos, Supernatural is filled with hidden gems. These Easter eggs can be found in episode titles, narrative connections to previous seasons, and character developments that drive the storyline forward. By incorporating these small details that connect the characters to other fictional works or moments within the series, Supernatural not only provides entertaining moments but also delivers a deeper layer of significance.
Supernatural Episode "Slash Fiction" Has Multiple References In It
Season 7, Episode 6's Recurring Nods Matter
The title of Supernatural season 7, episode 6, "Slash Fiction," sets up three different references. It alludes to Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction, both in the title and throughout the episode. For example, in one scene, the Leviathan versions of Sam and Dean rob a diner and mention the Pulp Fiction character Honey Bunny, referencing the iconic diner scene between Pumpkin and Honey Bunny. Additionally, Leviathan Sam also utters the line, "Everybody be cool! This is a robbery," just like Pumpkin does in Pulp Fiction.
Additionally, the utilization of "slash" links to the slasher sub-genre of cinema, which aligns well with the fact that Leviathan Sam and Dean embark on a rampage of killings in the episode. "Slash" also pertains to a sub-category of fan-fiction where enthusiasts envision two characters of the same sex as a couple. In "Slash Fiction," Sam and Dean are identified as Honey Bunny and Pumpkin and Mr. and Mrs. Smith, both couples from movies. While not explicitly confirmed, this establishes a connection to the fictional relationships created by fans, underscoring the profound involvement of Supernatural's writing with fandom and popular culture.
Supernatural’s Other “Fiction” References That Are More Meta
“Meta Fiction” And “Fan Fiction” Also Have Multi-Layered References
The writers were clearly aware of fans' discussions about the show, and Supernatural displays its self-awareness through episodes like "Meta Fiction" and "Fan Fiction." In "Meta Fiction," which is set in season 9 of Supernatural, Metatron directly addresses the audience, contemplating the essence of storytelling. By the end of the episode, he types a script that mirrors the events happening simultaneously. The clever use of his name in the episode's title, as well as the exploration of the significance behind storytelling, showcases Supernatural's ability to incorporate meta moments that captivate fans while remaining connected to the overarching plot.
"Fan Fiction" goes above and beyond in taking this concept further. The episode showcases a group of high school girls performing a musical production based on the Supernatural books, a fictional series created by Chuck (Rob Benedict) within the show. Not only does it cleverly reference significant moments from previous seasons, but it also taps into fan culture by incorporating terms like Destiel (representing the romantic pairing of Castiel and Dean). By intertwining the meta trope with the episode's title, narrative, and connection to Supernatural's preexisting meta through the book series, the show effectively blurs the boundaries between fiction and reality.
How Supernatural’s Self-Awareness Helped It In The Long Run
The Meta Trope Became A Plot Device
Some of the best episodes in Supernatural incorporate meta moments, such as "The French Mistake," where the actors portray themselves. In Season 15, this meta approach moves the main plot forward significantly. The season revolves around the idea that Chuck/God is manipulating the show's events and reveals the existence of the Supernatural book series that chronicles the Winchesters' lives. Chuck's ability to rewrite and delete worlds he deems as failures adds to this concept. Moreover, he shows Sam alternate endings through visions, offering different outcomes for both the Winchesters' story and the show itself.
This meta approach proves advantageous in explaining various events in the final season and emphasizes Chuck's role as the true villain in Supernatural, surpassing previous formidable adversaries like the Leviathans. It also harmoniously ties in with earlier instances of self-awareness demonstrated through meta writing. Supernatural goes beyond mere pop culture references and incorporates layers of meaning within its episodes, pushing the boundaries of blurring the line between reality and fiction in storytelling.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I appreciate Supernatural's clever incorporation of movie call-outs and pop culture references, adding depth and entertainment to the show. The episode "Slash Fiction" cleverly alludes to Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction, slasher films, and fan fiction, effectively demonstrating the show's connection to popular culture. By incorporating self-awareness and meta moments, Supernatural effectively engages fans and establishes a strong connection to the plot, blurring the boundaries between fiction and reality.
I also find it intriguing how Supernatural incorporates meta moments and references to fan culture. The episode "Fan Fiction" takes this concept even further, showcasing a group of high school girls performing a musical production based on the Supernatural books, a fictional series created by Chuck (Rob Benedict) within the show. This not only cleverly references significant moments from previous seasons but also taps into fan culture by incorporating terms like Destiel (representing the romantic pairing of Castiel and Dean). By intertwining the meta trope with the episode's title, narrative, and connection to Supernatural's preexisting meta through the book series, the show effectively blurs the boundaries between fiction and reality. Overall, Supernatural's clever use of references and meta elements enhances the viewing experience and contributes to its long-lasting success.
