Supernatural Episode 300 was the perfect balance of story and meta

Supernatural Episode 300 was everything many of us needed. It was also the perfect balance of a story and a meta episode.

Supernatural is no stranger to meta episodes. With the knowledge that John Winchester would return for Supernatural Episode 300, there was always the worry that it would be some sort of meta episode. And it was, but with a beautiful balance of storyline.

Let’s be honest, there were plenty of throwbacks for the fans. Whether it was the “I don’t understand that reference” or “according to the lore,” there were many lines that were put in for the fans. But then there was the storyline, the focus on the family reunion, and a good old monster hunt.

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We got the reminder that the Winchesters have hunter friends — and they will do right by those friends when said friends are killed. Then there was the violent spirit — the spirit of John Wayne Gacy. That situation was a quick over-and-done-with hunt that was more of a callback to thinks like Sam’s fear of clowns and dealing with cases than anything else.

Meta-wise, we very quickly got the legends that the “Campbell brothers” are in Lebanon. They’re known by everyone, with Dean being the flirt and Sam being a bit of an awkward dork at times. And that offered some throwbacks to past storylines, looking at how many things have remained the same over the years.

All this went together to get to the pearl, make a wish, and get John Winchester (albeit accidentally). Then everything to do with the overall season story was done. This was all about the family reunion.

Even that family reunion had a perfect balance. It wasn’t about the supernatural problem at hand in the Supernatural Episode 300. It was all about family, about closure, and about love. John had a chance to see the men his sons would become and reunited with the love of his life. The brothers had the one thing they’ve always wanted: their family back together. For one night, it was all perfect for them.

There were no arguments about sending John back to the past. Everyone knew it had to happen. John got the chance to say his piece to everyone and tell his boys he loved them, while also getting the chance to say goodbye to Mary. And while he knew he would never remember it, he didn’t fight against it. Dean said it all perfectly to Sam: he wouldn’t have their life any other way.

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Sending John back was quick and simple. No time was wasted on finding a solution, keeping the lore as basic as possible to put the focus on the family reunion as much as possible. This was a much-needed moment for the Winchester brothers and also a much-needed moment for the fans.

It was bittersweet and I wish it could have gone on for longer, but I was really glad where the focus was put and how much of a balance the episode was. Here’s to the writers for Supernatural Episode 300! Now get planning for Episode 400, right?

What did you think of Supernatural Episode 300? What did you think of the balance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Supernatural is taking a month-long break but will be back with new episodes on Mar. 7 at 8/7c on The CW.