Review: Supernatural 'Pac Man Fever'

After a mini hiatus, Supernatural is back with a super solid filler episode with a high count of hugs. Not many shows in its eighth season can still kickass. Supernatural takes advantage of the opportunity to connect past elements and stories together, while introducing new things and characters to excite us. One of these things is Charlie. Supernatural rarely uses the same song twice, unless it's Carry On Wayward Son. How often do we get a happy song to accompany a feel-good episode with the sweetest hug? Thanks to 'Her Highness' Charlie (guest star Felicia Day), even in the darkest hours, a moment of sweetness is not impossible. 

8.20 Pac Man Fever is the sweetest and most adorable episode. I don't think I have used those words before to describe an overall episode. It was such a great written episode by Robbie Thompson and a well directed episode by Robert Singer. Robbie also wrote all Felicia Day's episodes -- The Girl with the Dungeons and Dragons Tattoo and LARP and the Real Girl. So good! Just so good! 

There are many things I love about this episode. Where to begin? I think Charlie's personality breaks pattern. Charlie is different from people Dean and Sam have met before, including hunters and non hunters. Charlie isn't a hunter, she is a civilian, a geek and she is into LARPing. Her social profile almost doesn't belong to the supernatural world. But there are some similarities between Charlie and the Winchester brothers, as presented in this episode -- Charlie's mum was taken away from her when she was little, she blamed herself, she got into trouble, she has been on the run forever, and her aliases were as good as Dean's and Sam's. 

I think Charlie has raised to the challenge before and she's done it again in this episode. If Pac Man Fever indicates anything, I am sold as to why she is one of the best people to help Dean and Sam right now -- she is tech savvy, she doesn't have an agenda, she is smart and she is resourceful. She is a Woman of Letters!

What's interesting to me is that Charlie, in a way, presents normality. I love that Charlie is written as a friend and as a sister figure. Dean and Sam are obsessed with saving the world and people from supernatural crap. But every now and then, it's sweet to see how they deal with other people -- the way they accept Garth, worry about Kevin and care about Charlie. Episodes like Pac Man Fever definitely highlights a different quality of the Winchesters which differentiates themselves from other hunters. I also love the fact that Charlie has read the Supernatural books by Carver Edlund and she has so much faith in Dean and Sam. 

I think the onscreen chemistry between Jensen and Felicia is getting better! Last time when Dean was putting his knight costume on in LARP and the Real Girl, he gave Charlie the full Wiki on what's been happening. In this episode, while Charlie had a montage of wardrobe change, Dean did the same thing and told her stuff. I think it was great to see Dean actually got a chance to 'chat' to a friend about their supernatural crap. It's not like Dean has many friends that he can talk to. I just love the chemistry between Dean and Charlie! The scene where Dean and Charlie had a 'I-love-you-I-know' Star Wars moment, that's my favourite scene!!!

I think this is a very Dean POV centric episode. It's like Dean having a bird eye view of things. Dean saw how things turned out. He helped Charlie to overcome her fear and help her to find clarity in her mother's situation. Through the 'letting things go' theme, it enlightened Dean about his relationship with Sam. Dean being Dean, of course he wanted to 'save' his little brother, look after him -- "I may not be able to carry the burden that comes with these trials, but I can carry you." The theme of 'letting things go' means different things to Charlie and Dean. Charlie made a difficult decision to let go of her mother. This experience reminded Dean that the only thing that would make Sam better was to find the prophet and finish the last trial. Dean wasn't pissed at Sam. Sam thought he was in trouble and attempted to justify why he was out there working a case, when Dean specifically told him not to. But I am glad Sam helped, they were stronger as a team and hunting has always been a two people job. Thank you Robbie Thompson for showing us the sweet Dean, who gave many hugs to many people in this season, and I think that's a great character progress. Dean just gave Sam a hug, and then he told him, "let's find the prophet'. There is no getting better until the trial is completed.

This season reminds me how much crap Sam's been through. We know how it went down with the whole Lucifer hallucination storyarc. Sam had a complete breakdown and went to the mental hospital. It was painful for Sam, and it was painful for Dean to see his little brother like this. I think Sam has been through a lot, and I mean a lot! From the moment he found out about being one of the special children' to drinking demon blood; from being locked up in hell with Lucifer and Michael to coming back soulless, and then the 'wall' crumbled. I get why he just wanted a normal life. Now he is back, he is going through the trials and he is hurting again. I really feel his pain, my heart really breaks for Sam. I hate to see him suffer, again! Dean feels that same, every bloody year his little brother has some crap going on with him and it breaks his heart to see his little brother suffers, and it kills Dean not to be able to save Sam. 

When will they stop caring for each other? NEVER! I think that's why Supernatural is so good to watch because of the brother relationship. On one hand, it's different from the past because they're more mature now. On the other hand, it remains the same because they are still Dean and Sam, the big brother and the little brother.

A few other things that I love:

Dean in uniform -- Seriously! Give Jensen Ackles a bathrobe and he can still look good in it. SUPER HOT! Wait… what? The whole uniform look reminds me of Captain America/ Captain Steve Rogers. I will never get tired of this, so sue me!

The video game -- I was waiting for a Resident Evil Leon Kennedy reference, because of some hot Jensen related casting rumour about this a few years back.

The montage -- Walking on Sunshine is a signature song for Charlie. That scene was awesome! It weirdly reminded me of Natalie Portman in Leon.

Pac Man Reference -- I played Pac Man before on my cousin's thing, but I was never a gamer. But I can see some fans are happy to see that reference. It's also a treat for Felicia Day's fans because she was a gamer. Nice!

Something completely random -- Is it just me that I want to see Wil Wheaton on the show? I just had a moment.

MoL HQ -- It's official. It's HOME for the boys! I just love the idea the boys have a home now. I know Kripke used to say, the Impala is home for the boys. It still is, but the idea of having a HQ as a home where they can use the resources and to regroup. The MoL bunker as their home is a welcoming idea. And I love it! You know I do! I just LOVE IT! SO MUCH!!

Sam's hair -- Like… OMG! Too cute!!!! Thank you Sam! Thank you Jared. I had a great laugh. And Sam wasn't able to catch the beer from Dean was hilarious. Sorry Sam, I know you're hurting but you gotta laugh a little sometimes.

Dean in uniform -- Wait a second! Have I mentioned how much I love Dean in uniform?  

Pac Mac Fever is packed with stuff and food for thoughts. This is the kind of filler episode that audience and Dean and Sam need before the final trial. The final three episodes are here! Brace yourself for an emotional ride! I see nothing but epicness!

Next episode is 8.21: The Great Escapist

When Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) receive a distressing video message from Kevin Tran (guest star Osric Chau), they set about trying to uncover the Third Trial. The boys make a discovery that sends them to a casino in Colorado, to find a mysterious recluse (guest star Curtis Armstrong) who may be able to fill in the holes in Kevin's research. Meanwhile, Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) is on a winning streak. Castiel (Misha Collins) tries to elude Naomi (guest star Amanda Tapping) and the angels hunting him.

Supernatural Returns - Pac Man Fever

Life does suck big time whenever Supernatural is on hiatus. But thank goodness my life is back in supernatural order! Supernatural returns this week (April, 24) with all new episodes, Pac Man Fever.

DEAN INTRODUCES CHARLIE TO CHEAP PANTSUITS — Concerned about the physical toll the second trial took on Sam (Jared Padalecki), Dean (Jensen Ackles) benches his brother from hunting until he heals up. So, when geektastic hacker Charlie (guest star Felicia Day) stumbles upon a case and finds the boys, Dean decides it’s time to teach Charlie how to be a hunter-in-training. While happy to see 'her highness', the boys suspect Charlie is hiding something; a secret that could get her killed. Robert Singer directed the episode written by Robbie Thompson. Source: KSiteTV 

Here is the preview clip for the episode. Charlie is AWESOME! I hope she sticks around! She is perfect to be the Chloe O'Brien of the MoL Bunker!!

Supernatural: Charlie and Dean Promo Pics (Adorable!)

I can't wait. I say this every week, but I can't wait! A week without Supernatural is a week of crap. 

Here is the first look of Charlie with Sam and Dean in the upcoming episode, Pac Man Fever. Source: KSiteTV

ADORABLE!!! OH I WANT A HUG LIKE THIS!!!! 

KSiteTV has a set of ten promo pics. Go there NOW! OMG OMG OMG!!

SWOON!! Notice Dean has two different shirts in these photos. Will Charlie survive the game? Are these the Hello or Goodbye photos?

Description: Supernatural 'Pac Man Fever' and 'The Great Escapist'

How's everyone surviving the silly two week hiatus? It sucks, I know! Here are the description of two upcoming Supernatural episodes, Pac Man Fever and The Great Escapist. My God! We are only a few episodes away from the season finale. Time flies when you have fun! 

8.20 Pac Man Fever

DEAN INTRODUCES CHARLIE TO CHEAP PANTSUITS — Concerned about the physical toll the second trial took on Sam (Jared Padalecki), Dean (Jensen Ackles) benches his brother from hunting until he heals up. So, when geektastic hacker Charlie (guest star Felicia Day) stumbles upon a case and finds the boys, Dean decides it’s time to teach Charlie how to be a hunter-in-training. While happy to see 'her highness', the boys suspect Charlie is hiding something; a secret that could get her killed. Robert Singer directed the episode written by Robbie Thompson. Source: KSiteTV

Pac Man Fever airs on April 24.

8.21 The Great Escapist

FEELING LUCKY TONIGHT? — When Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) receive a distressing video message from Kevin Tran (guest star Osric Chau), they set about trying to uncover the Third Trial. The boys make a discovery that sends them to a casino in Colorado, to find a mysterious recluse (guest star Curtis Armstrong) who may be able to fill in the holes in Kevin’s research. Meanwhile, Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) is on a winning streak. Castiel (Misha Collins) tries to elude Naomi (guest star Amanda Tapping) and the angels hunting him. Robert Duncan McNeill directed the episode written by Ben Edlund. Source: KSiteTV

The Great Escapist airs on May 1. Hello Ben Edlund! 

Here is an update on episode titles and air dates:

8.01  We Need to Talk About Kevin

8.02  What's Up, Tiger Mommy?

8.03  Heartache 

8.04  Bitten 

8.05  Blood Brother

8.06  Southern Comfort 

8.07  A Little Slice of Kevin

8.08  Hunteri Heroici 
8.09 Citizen Fang

8.10 Torn and Frayed 

8.11 LARP and the Real Girl

8:12 As Time Goes By
8.13 Everyone Hates
8.14 Trial And Error
8.15 Man's Best Friend With Benefits
8.16 Remember The Titans
8.17 Goodbye Stranger
8.18 Freaks and Geeks
8.19 Taxi Driver
8.20 Pac-Man Fever (April 24)
8.21 The Great Escapist (May 1) 
8.22 Clip Show (May 8)

8.23 Sacrifice (May 15)

Review: Supernatural 8.11 LARP and the Real Girl

LARP and the Real Girl was a SUPER fun episode to watch. After reading a selection of reviews of Torn and Frayed. When some fans said that episode was difficult to watch, I realise that it wasn't an episode 'to enjoy' because it was a dark and intense with lots of torture and emotional issues surround the characters. It wasn't about Torn and Frayed being a badly written episode -- no one 'enjoyed' watching an angel being tortured by demons! I realised that my feeling towards Torn and Frayed was similar to my feeling after watching Les Miserables. Our protagonists were going through the toughest time, certain events had made them very desperate and miserable! After an intense episode like Torn and Frayed, seeing Dean and Sam played dress-up with Felicia Day was much needed. To Dean and Sam, it was a break they needed too. A break that allowed them to have a bit of fun.

 

LARP and the Real Girl was directed by Jeannot Szwarc, who is no stranger to television. For Supernatural, he directed Adventures in Babysitting and Mannequin 3: The Reckoning. He has also directed many shows such as Smallville, Fringe, Bones, Heroes, Boston Legal, JAG, Ally McBeal, and here is my favourite, Somewhere in Time, one of my all time favourite romantic flicks.

  
LARP and the Real Girl was written by Robbie Thompson, who has recently joined Twitter! He has become one of my favourite writers on the show. His writing is like a love child of the work of Carver and Edlund. I have much to learn! I love Supernatural for so many reasons. One of the key contributing factors is the writer's ability to integrate pop culture references. One can tell whether or not the writer enjoyed writing a particular episode. I can tell, Robbie Thompson had a blast writing this episode. And therefore, we had a blast watching it.

It wasn't the first time Supernatural touched on LARPing (Life Action Role Play). Monster at the End of the Book is one of my all time favourite episodes, squalling with The End, Home and The Song Remains the Same. Monster at the End of the Book was epic because of the whole Chuck the prophet of the lord thing. I didn't know what LARPing was and had zero exposure to this 'interactive literature'. The Real Ghostbusters was a relatively weak episode but it was still fun to watch at the time -- Chuck saved it and I like the ending when the where about of the Colt was revealed. It was also a good attempt to highlight how much the heroism of the real Dean and Sam meant to fans of books. 

While I am sure Supernatural can get more 'LARP-y' than LARP and the Real Girl, but this episode went all out with no reservation -- the set, the LARPers, the Charlie and Fairy flirtatious scenes, the story-within-the story, the costume, even Dean and Sam couldn't resist Braveheart! Most importantly everyone had fun making it and we had fun watching it. Am I the only one who have watched the Braveheart scene 66 times already? 

"I think we can take care of a bunch of accountants with form swords."

Jensen Ackles can do anything, and I mean anything! He plays a hero on Supernatural, but over the years, we've seen him playing different versions of Dean on the show -- a serial killer (Skin; Slash Fiction) and demon Dean (Dream a Little Dream of Me). We have also seen a darker, cold blooded version of Dean (The End), we have seen how comfortable Dean was as a cowboy (Frontierland) and as an Untouchable (Time After Time). We know Jensen can play happy, funny, sad, depress, angry, frustrated.. you name it! Basically Jensen has nailed every emotion that is required of him to play the role of Dean Winchester. LARP and the Real Girl has strengthened Jensen's resume -- the Braveheart speech and the hair was nothing but epic! And if I may, I am going to go all fan-girl right now -- every shot of Jensen in this episode was super hot! 

Jensen is a great actor, he is one of the best actors in his generation. I think he leads a scene very well and he always has great chemistry with any guest stars. What I love about about this episode is his chemistry with Felicia Day. Dean and Charlie had great chemistry because they are practically on the same wavelength! I think Dean really respects Charlie and digs her as the civilian who turns hero because she is brave and she knows what's the right thing to do. This is a great quality even hunters like Gordon and Martin do not possess.

"Not the Glinda from Wicked?"

Sam has been struggling with himself and Dean. After breaking up with Amelia, he can only bury himself at work and try not to think about it. Dean is talking to Sam and Sam is calmly listening and interacting. Sam knows that family is all he's got, Dean is all he's got. Let's admit it, Dean and Sam are two very people and after all these years they are still learning how to deal with each other especially during crisis. When Dean is sad and depressed, Sam is mostly there for him. When Sam is sad and damaged, Dean is hurt too, he would do anything to protect his little brother. Sure, they have augments and they do things that piss each other off. But as Kripke said "they always come together in the end." 

Sam, the 'time traveler' didn't look very enthuse in this episode when it came to dressing up and LARPing. He just did what was required of him -- researching and saving people. But in the end, Dean did great in convincing Sam to dress up! I think that was a great way in wrapping the episode. The Dean and Sam dialogue before the Braveheart scene was almost funny, because you knew what was coming! The Braveheart scene was a great way to end the not-so-good part of their brothers relationship. I love how a filler episode like LARP and the Real Girl addressed such an important part of the brother relationship without doing too much. 

There is usually a thing or two that trigger my mind into focusing my review on a different aspect. Hopefully I am giving you something different from what you've already read else where. I have blogged about the development of a supporting cast 2.0. Over the years, the show has built strong team of supporting cast -- just look at the guest lists of any Supernatural conventions! But because this IS Supernatural, it's almost like a policy that the writers must keep killing the supporting cast! 

I feel Supernatural was going through a transition period when Cas was in his darkest hours and when Bobby went GhostBobby. Did it ever occur to the writers that what if both Cas and Bobby left the show? They must have. You just never know who is going to stay and who is going get killed off quickly. I think the introduction of Garth, Charlie, Kevin and Crowley is probably the strongest supporting cast and has the most potential for further development since Cas, Chuck and Lucifer appeared in season four and five.

Charlie (Felicia Day) returned as the civilian who got dragged into the supernatural war between the Leviathans and humans. I think her character has great potentials. We get to know Charlie a bit more in LARP and the Real Girl. She explained to Dean why she was into LARP-ing. Same reasons why anyone would get into LARP-ing -- to escape from their boring reality to become a hero for one weekend. LARPing is all fun and game, but people do take this seriously. When they are in characters, they are more alive than ever. Some people are dying to be part of something and become heroes. Give them an apocalypse and they will be happy to fight zombies and to save the world!

After the death of two LARPers, Charlie should leave the camp for safety reasons, but the Queen has the duty to stay and fight with her people. Charlie didn't think she was significant in the real world, but Dean disagreed. He told her she was the hero, they wouldn't success in taking Dick Roman down without her help. She was heavily involved in episode. She also met a Fairy, and did what I think was typical of her -- the flirty type (kinda like the female version of Dean). In the end, she destroyed the book -- very Harry Potter! she worked well with the boys. The whole saving people thing revealed who Charlie really was, she was a hero. I am sure this won't be the last time we saw Charlie.

Let's talk about Garth quickly. I think the writers have every intention in bringing DJ Qualls back. While Garth is not in every episode, his character is in the background busy doing things and gets mentioned in every or every second episode. Garth is being developed without being in every episode. The whole Garth-has-a-GPS-on-us is elevating his statute from zero to Nick Fury. I love the fact that Garth is taking the initiative to take the lead and keeping an eye on the hunting community. When something is wrong, he should be the first one to to know. And because he loves Dean and Sam so much, they will be the first to know things. After all, they are on the biggest case on Earth! I think it is imminent that Garth and Charlie will be in an episode together. 

LARP and the Real Girl is ten kinds of awesome. Hands down, this is one of my favourite episodes of season eight. It seems that I have said this on many occasions this season, but it's a sign of a great season!!

"They will never take our fandom!!"

Next episode, As Time Goes By, is highly anticipated. I cannot begin to describe how much I love a good Winchester episode. Grandpa Samuel was a bit of a disappointment in season six. I have high hope that Grandpa Henry will be much better and Samuel. I don't normally watch spoiler clips, but I can't help it this time. I can tell you that Henry is everything I want to see. I cannot wait! Will Henry's appearance tight into the overall of the myth of season eight? What will be the impact of Henry's appearance in the boys lives? I cannot wait!! I really cannot!!!

"Grandpa would be so proud!"

I opted for the Canadian promo this time because they always have better (but sometimes spoilery) promo.

Supernatural 'LARP And The Real Girl': OMG! What Have They Done To Dean; Crossover Ideas

OMG! Right?1 I thought it was a fan-made photoshop thing.. But NO! It's real! Dean Winchester! You! You!!! Move over King Arthur and Robin Hood! Dean Winchester is taking over your territory!

In case you miss it, here is the description of episode 8.11 LARP And The Real Girl. More pics can be found on KSiteTV
 
FELICIA DAY RETURNS! — Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) investigate the mysterious deaths of two LARPers (Live Action Role Playing) who were playing a game entitled Moondoor. The guys are thrilled to discover the Queen of Moondoor is none other than Charlie (guest star Felicia Day). The three learn that a fairy (guest star Tiffany Dupont) has been commandeered to harm people and the only way to stop her is to find her master. Jeannot Szwarc directed the episode written by Robbie Thompson. 

LARP And The Real Girl airs on January 23. 

What's up bitches?

Episode like this really provides a great opportunity to do crossover. While I am at it, what crossover do you want to see? I want to see Supernatural to cross over with Smallville, OUAT, The Avengers, The X Files, Super Mario Bros or The Simpsons. AWESOME! 

What else do I want Jensen to be dressed as? CAPTAIN AMERICA!!!!!!

Whoever did this, is AWESOME!

Supernatural 'LARP and the Real Girl' Description; Episode Titles Update

The episode description episode 8.11 LARP and the Real Girl is released by the CW. This episode is scheduled for January 23. Yay! Felicia Day returns as Charlie! 

"I'm back, bitches!"

FELICIA DAY RETURNS! — Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) investigate the mysterious deaths of two LARPers (Live Action Role Playing) who were playing a game entitled Moondoor. The guys are thrilled to discover the Queen of Moondoor is none other than Charlie (guest star Felicia Day). The three learn that a fairy (guest star Tiffany Dupont) has been commandeered to harm people and the only way to stop her is to find her master. Jeannot Szwarc directed the episode written by Robbie Thompson. Source: KSiteTV

Robbie Thompson wrote this episode. Yes! Robbie has become one of my favourite writers. I cannot wait to see his episode featuring Felicia Day! Yay!! 

Here is an update of the episode titles:

8.01  We Need to Talk About Kevin 

8.02  What's Up, Tiger Mommy? 

8.03  Heartache 

8.04  Bitten 

8.05  Blood Brother

8.06  Southern Comfort 

8.07  A Little Slice of Kevin

8.08  Hunteri Heroici 
8.09 Citizen Fang

8.10 Torn and Frayed (16 Jan)

8.11 LARP and the Real Girl (23 Jan)

8:12 As Time Goes By
8.13 Everyone Hates
8.14 Trial And Error (previously known as Black Dog)
8.15 Man's Best Friend With Benefits
8.16 Remember The Titans
8.17 Goodbye Stranger 

Source: KSiteTV 

Supernatural: DJ Qualls, Felicia Day, Amanda Tapping, 'A Little Slice of Kevin' Description

I am back, and so are a few guest stars.

*Applaud*

A few announcements first..

Do I miss home? Not really. It's America I miss. That's right. If anyone wants to swap with me, contact me immediately! Australia is great -- sunshine, great coffee, you got New Zealand as your friendly neighbor. 

The only thing I miss about home is my hairdryer. It's the one thing I cannot live without, apart from Jensen Ackles and Supernatural of course. Happiness!

So I was in the Creation Entertainment's Salute to Supernatural -- Chicago 2012 last week. It was epic! I cannot begin to use word to describe my feelings. I might be suffering from a pro-convention depression, but I will overcome this by sharing with you my photos and experience. I have taken approximately 2,000 photos during the convention, I am pretty sure 50% of them were Jensen Ackles related! Can you blame me? This guy CANNOT look ugly. So anyway, I will leave my thoughts and experience to the dedicated posts. Please watch this space or follow me on Twitter @tinybeanie for update. 

I am also in the process of creating another blog which is travel and food related. Since I have just returned from New York and Chicago, I will be sharing my photos and experience in that new blog. Again, please watch this space or follow me on Twitter @tinybeanie for update. 

I was lucky to leave New York before Super Storm Sandy hit New York. It is very sad to see all the images of effected areas. Especially the streets of New York, I had just literally walked through a few days before the storm hit. My thoughts are with those who have been effected. I know many convention fans were stuck in Chicago, I hope they got home ok. 

I have the pleasure meeting DJ Qualls last week and MAN he is a natural speaker and a genuine nice guy! Very funny and friendly. I hugged him and I want to hug him again! It's no secret that he is returning and he will be on next week's episode Southern Comfort. Can Garth be the new Bobby? Bobby is irreplaceable, but Garth is awesome. Give him a chance! New chemistry can mean new perspective, and I welcome fresh blood to the show. More pics can be seen via KSiteTV

Felicia Day will also return as Charlie. I love her. Do you? What's there not to love? Can Creation Entertainment invites her to a convention already?! Please!! Felicia is already back on set as per her tweet. Felicia will return for 8.11 LARP and the Real Girl. This episode will focus on LARPing in fandom, obviously, which is always fun. The last time we come across LARPing was Monster At The End Of The Book and The Real Ghostbusters, which I love! Can't wait to see how this episode will look like! Source: Zap2It

The photos of Amanda Tapping in the up-coming episode are released! She will join the cast in 8.07 A Little Slice of Kevin. I love Amanda! She is one of my favorite characters on one of my favorite TV shows -- Stargate SG1 and Atlantis. This is really personal, because there is nothing better than seeing my favorite actors to guest star on my favorite show. There is more to the A Little Slice of Kevin, we will see [spoilers] the official return of Castiel. It's about bloody time!!! I miss Misha Collins!!! We will also see Kevin, Mrs Tran and Mark Sheppard. I love this episode already!!! 

Here is the official description of 8.07 A Little Slice of Kevin:

CASTIEL ESCAPES PURGATORY — Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) are stunned when Castiel (Misha Collins) suddenly appears back on Earth with no memory of how he escaped from Purgatory. Meanwhile, Mrs. Tran (guest star Lauren Tom) enlists a witch (guest star Cyrina Fiallo) to concoct a demon bomb, but the witch double crosses Mrs. Tran and turns her and Kevin (guest star Osric Chau) over to Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard). Charlie Carner directed the episode written by Eugenie Ross–Leming & Brad Buckner. Source: KSiteTV


Here is an update on the episode titles:

8.01   We Need to Talk About Kevin 

8.02   What's Up, Tiger Mommy? 

8.03   Heartache 

8.04   Bitten 

8.05   Blood Brother

8.06   Southern Comfort 

8.07   A Little Slice of Kevin

8.08   Hunteri Heroici (previously known as Dean Amuck)
8.09  Citizen Fang

8.10  Torn and Frayed (previously known as Don’t Stop Believing)

8.11  LARP and the Real Girl

8:12 As Time Goes By (previously known as Out Of Time)