Timala Elliott
Timala ElliottBlack Lightning
The CW
Season 4 Episode 2
The Book of Reconstruction: Chapter Two – Unacceptable Losses
Official Description – The war between the 100 and the Kobra Cartel rages on; Lynn continues to be concerned about Jefferson; Jennifer’s curiosity is piqued by a new boy at school.
While this week’s episode is primarily focused on the Pierce family, the show catches up on several other inhabitants in the city of Freeland.
It opens with Chief Lopez directly stating her feelings on the disparate groups of crime syndicates and metas that are inhabiting the community. In subsequent scenes we see the interactions between the Kobra Cartel and the 100.
Meanwhile, Gambi has discovered plans that directly affect the safety of Metas. As he engineers a response to their safety concerns, he reconnects with an old friend.
In another part of the city, Tobias Whale is enacting secret plans involving a new business venture.
We find the Pierce family still dealing with the fallout from the previous war. Jennifer is deciding how she wants to proceed with her life and future educational choices while balancing crime fighting. Annisa reluctantly makes a new friend as her personal life has deteriorated.
As crime is on the rise in Freeland, the sister’s must step up their game as heroes. After a tragedy occurs, Annisa must find a new way to protect the citizens of Freeland.
As Lynn deals with her addiction, she struggles to find ways to keep her children safe and deal with the declining temperament of her husband.
Finally Jefferson is succumbing to a depression triggered by the death of Bill Henderson. His actions become more and more reckless, including during and encounter with Tobias. He must decide how he will approach crime fighting going forward.
As always, this show boldly addresses issues within the Black community. And while a number of topics were covered, it was the therapy scenes in this episode that moved me. I am always happy when I see mental health being discussed on television by Black characters. And that treatment options from Black healthcare professionals are being highlighted.
Thematically, I also find it interesting watching the evolution of Jefferson Pierce as he battles depression. And how it has affected his outlook. His change in perspective shows the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. It also begs the question: What is justice? Is it retribution, reformation, or a determined combination of the two intentions?
Black Lightning S04XE02
