“Human for a Day” upped the ante for a “Supergirl” episode, delivering action, drama, mystery and major story revelations all in one episode.
Kara loses her powers and is forced to live as a normal human. Even worse, an earthquake has hit the city and lives are in danger. Alex and Henshaw are trapped at the DEO base in lockdown, where Alex finally learns the truth about him.
Kara losing her powers could’ve very easily fallen into gimmick territory, but the fact that the show used it to tell a moving story about helplessness and bravery in the face of adversity is a true testament to the writers. Kara experiences virtually every up and down this episode, from being unable to save a man from dying to stopping a robber as Supergirl without laying one punch. It’s a great dynamic we’ve seen before- break ’em down then build ’em up- but not on a superhero show.
Then there’s the revelation that Henshaw is not Henshaw, but a refugee Martian who was saved by Jeremiah Danvers and promised him that he would look out for Alex. Of course, there’s more to the story- the exact circumstances of Jeremiah and Henshaw’s deaths remain unexplained- but Alex knows some hint of the truth, which could either make or break her relationship with “Henshaw” going forward. After all, she did point a gun at him and he did lie to her for years. Still, it was a well executed reveal and a “Holy crap!” moment when you saw his real look.
“Human for a Day” was a standout episode for the show and a true high point for the season. We’re now getting into serial territory- another cliffhanger ending- so here’s hoping the show can keep this momentum.
Encores of Supergirl are currently airing Mondays on The CW. Season 2 premieres Monday, October 10, at 8pm on The CW.