On Batwoman season 1, episode 10, it didn’t seem like there were many consequences of “Crisis on Infinite Earths” for Kate and Gotham, which only made sense because we’re relatively new to her story… until the end.
Honestly, Batwoman season 1, episode 10, is probably my favorite episode of the season so far. It was such a light, fun episode, while still tackling something as daunting as sexuality and coming out, and the twist at the end really was the perfect way to tie “Crisis on Infinite Earths” into Batwoman.
‘Batwoman’ season 1, episode 10 review
At this point, I’d say it’s quite likely that Batwoman is finding their groove and going stronger than any of the other Arrow-verse shows have in the first season.
This episode is the perfect example of that; Kate and Alice have such an interesting relationship, working together toward self-destruction is so bizarre yet fun to watch, and Mary and Alice both have the presence of a starring character, so every scene with these three women is incredible.
Though this was a bit lighter than we’re used to or expecting from Gotham’s newest vigilante, I think it really worked with the inner conflict Kate was facing.
As for living in a post-crisis world, I think the writers did a fantastic job of just adding enough elements, like the mention of Metropolis and the CatCo article about Kate’s sexuality, to make it believable on this new show. And then, of course, there’s the twist from the end: Beth and Alice both existing in this universe.
Beth Kane
Another Beth Kane in this universe, one that seemingly didn’t get kidnapped by Mouse’s father, was so unexpected. It’s possible she’s from another Earth, since the multi-verse still exists, but wouldn’t it be so interesting if Kate and Alice had a triplet they didn’t know about?
Regardless, this is going to throw Kate off of her game in the coming episode(s). It’s clear that this isn’t Mouse, as Kate even tried to rip her face off to prove it, so who exactly is this?
I honestly don’t even care where this Beth is from. This is such an interesting twist that is going to challenge Kate mentally and emotionally, especially as the battle between this Beth and her Alice take place. Bravo, Batwoman writers. By far one of the best twists.
Rachel Skarsten is such a talent, and I could not be more excited to see her play both of these versions of her character, especially with the emotional consequences they have for almost every main character on the show.
Kate, Jacob, and Mary are all going to have very extreme reactions to both, while it’ll be intriguing to see if Sophie gets a chance to realize what’s going on and try to help Kate with the emotional turmoil and confusion it creates. In short, I’m all in for a weekly double dose of Rachel Skarsten on Batwoman.
Batwoman and Captain America
I absolutely adore that the Batwoman writers really took the time to flesh out the story of Batwoman coming out to Gotham (and the world). It’s one thing for Kate Kane to be out and proud, but the eyes of the world are on Batwoman (and if they weren’t before, they are now).
Giving those who are growing up and struggling with their sexuality someone, a hero, to look up to and to aspire to be is so important. They’re seeing themselves in a hero for the first time.
Being a hero, these characters are confined to the identities the public puts upon them, just as our society does with celebrities. These heroes are whoever you want them to be because their private lives aren’t known.
Kate, as Batwoman, coming out to the world is opening herself up a little more than we’ve seen from Supergirl or The Flash (and Green Arrow until Oliver just revealed himself to the public).
That said, I hope the show really slows down on people finding out Kate’s identity or revealing traits about herself to the world. Especially for Batwoman, if people were to find out Kate’s true identity, it would be terrible.
She’d be in such danger, more so than some of our other heroes because of how dark we’re supposed to believe Gotham is. It’s only episode 10, and it feels like Kate’s identity is such a poorly guarded secret, it’s a shock that Mary and Sophie don’t know yet.
Kate and Alice
Honestly, there may not be a better duo on television right now. The story between Kate and Alice is exciting, intriguing, and crushing, as we can feel how hurt both of the characters are by not having their twin sister by their side. I’m a little surprised how quickly Kate eased up on Alice, even if she’s still not believing that there’s any piece of the Beth she remembers in there.
Maybe it has to do with her time in the Vanishing Point during “Crisis on Infinite Earths,” which is definitely something I want to see Kate talk about with someone (probably Luke).
What did she realize after losing, well, everyone to the anti-matter wave and spending months with them all dead? Who did she miss the most, what surprised her about how she was feeling… I want to know everything. It seems to have changed her view of Alice, but in what way?
Any way, I hate to say it, but Mouse had the right attitude toward Alice’s hope for a reunion with Kate. She didn’t take into account Kate’s feelings about the two people who loved Catherine, Mary and Jacob, so of course Kate wasn’t happy about Alice murdering her.
With each passing episode, it seems like Alice is leaning more toward the side of being completely gone rather than on the edge, mentally, which is disconcerting; however, it’s nice to know that Alice will always play a big part of Kate’s story, according to showrunner Caroline Dries.
Mary’s grief
Personally, Nicole Kang gave the strongest performance of Batwoman season 1, episode 10. Though her scenes were brief, Mary’s strength shined through as she attempted to handle her grief and helping Jacob prove his innocence. Her heartbreak, sadness, rage, and desperation were all so perfectly balanced.
I’m excited to see more of Mary (as more than comedic relief) in the coming episodes. Kang has the talent to rival some of the best actors, so we need to see her play off of the others, especially Rachel Skarsten, more often.
Now that her life has been so personally impacted by the darkness of Gotham, the Batwoman writers have the opportunity to do so much with Mary, and I hope they don’t waste it.
(Side note: I loved seeing the hug between Kate and Mary, even if they haven’t fully reconciled yet. It shows growth, and Mary accepting that her family is on her side. Such a beautiful moment.)
What did you think of Batwoman season 1, episode 10? What was your favorite part? Let us know!
Batwoman airs Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on The CW!
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