Nobody Does Meta Better Than Supernatural, and This Episode Proves It

Supernatural has always been known for some of its memorable meta episodes. Yet none have quite reached the level of self-awareness as the iconic 'Fan Fiction' from season 10. This 200th episode delivers a thank you to the show's devoted fans while also including some clever references to the series' legacy. Blending humor, emotion, and self-mockery, it perfectly demonstrates the essence of Supernatural's meta brilliance.

The Episode's Meta Madness

The episode sees Sam and Dean discover a haunted high school is putting on a musical based on their lives as demon-hunting brothers. Initially reluctant to embrace the idea, they eventually attend the show and find themselves immersed in a world where their lives are turned into song and dance. The episode cleverly plays between the fiction and reality of the series' popularity as the characters poke fun at their own supernatural experiences.

Some of the Best Meta Moments

There are so many great meta jokes to enjoy throughout the episode, yet a handful certainly stand out with the fans. One part which shows the teenagers dramatically mimicking the Winchesters' FBI badge move, is sure to cause a burst of laughter. Maybe the favorite moment among fans, however, is the hilarious 'BM scene. While Dean initially thinks it stands for bowel movement, he is informed it actually stands for Boy Melodrama. A description he is no more impressed by when he learns of its meaning.

If the episode's self-parodying isn't enough, of course, it only gets better with some catchy musical numbers packed full of series references. The best is 'Single Man Tear,' a song about Dean's struggling internal emotional battle. The end of the episode also sees a touching rendition of 'Carry On Wayward Son,' which is both iconic as it is satirical.

Fan Fiction, a Fan Delight

The Supernatural fandom, of course, considers Fan Fiction one of Supernatural's greatest episodes. Discussing Fan Fiction in the r/Supernatural Reddit thread, the fans mention the episode's greatest meta moments. One Redditor points out the episode is exceptional at not just making fun of itself but doing so tastefully. Others even named it 'Legit one of my favorite episodes'.

It's not just the comical nature of the episode which has fans so hooked. What Fan Fiction does better than the rest is show a little bit of the actors behind the characters. The audience can't help but feel some of the sarcastic stares given by Dean and Sam are a reflection of the real feelings of Ackles and Padalecki. As one fan puts it, 'The entire episode was a ride and I'm pretty sure that was the natural reaction of Jensen and Jarred.'

Overall, Fan Fiction truly illustrates the art of meta storytelling. As well as winning over the hearts of its fans with some classic humor, emotional scenes, and notable references, it serves as a salute to the show's legacy. Both in recognizing the admiration of its devoted fandom and as an unbeatable 200th episode to celebrate the show's ongoing success. Supernatural has undoubtedly earned its reputation as the unrivaled master of meta in television.

Source: Reddit.