Review: Black Lightning 1×09 – “The Book of Little Black Lies”

by Shean Mohammed
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[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]

Director: Tawnia McKernan

Writers: Keli Goff

Starring: Cress Williams, Nafessa Williams, China Ann McClain, Christine Adams, James Remar, Damon Gupton and Marvin Jones III

 

Summary

FAMILY ABOVE ALL – In the aftermath of the latest killing, Black Lightning (Cress Williams) works to clear his name while also hunting down the person responsible for his father’s death, and anyone else involved. Tensions remain high between Black Lightning and Gambi (James Remar).

Positives

In this episode, Anissa tells Jennifer the truth about her powers, yet Jennifer doesn’t believe her right away. Not until Anissa showed her powers to her, creating a minor rift in the family. The effect this truth has on Jennifer brings with it repercussions throughout the episode that causes her to question every family member’s motives behind keeping these secrets from her. This reality causes her to question her own future and why Lynn divorced Jefferson. This is where the show shines as it tackles a common superhero problem and a typical family drama problem at the same time.

We also find out that the organization Gambi used to work for is responsible for Green Light, which makes me wonder what the purpose is behind them flooding Freeland with this this dangerous opioid. Lastly, we finally get to see Anissa in her new superhero suit designed by Gambi, something that fans of the show have been waiting to see in action ever since The CW first revealed it.

 

Negatives

The lack of focus on Lynn’s story feels like the viewer is being shorted, but as this show has proven time and time again, it will exceed expectations by the next episode.

Verdict

This is the best episode yet, not only because get to see Anissa in her new superhero outfit, but also because we get some resolution on the Green Light storyline.

 

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