Supergirl episode 15, Solitude, creates one of the best stories delivered by the show. After Cat Grant refuses to publish scandalous information about celebrities from an unnamed source, the informant goes on a tirade against National City. The heroes’ progress is slow due to Supergirl refusing to work with Hank. However, she soon finds out that the informant is none other than Indigo, or Brainiac 8 from Fort Rozz. With access to anything with internet, Brainiac gains entry to a missile silo and quickly sends a missile to National City. It’s only with Hank’s help that Supergirl can stop her city’s destruction. Upon saving the day, Kara agrees to reluctantly returns to the DEO. Alex can no longer bare the guilt of killing Astra and reveals the truth.
Visually, Indigo was like a poor Mystique cosplay: blue, tight jumpsuit; thick, blue face paint; and crazy red hair. No attempt was made to mask her voice, or to even change the appearance of Indigo’s eyes. Just as Red Tornado was obviously a man in a suit, so too was Indigo: a woman playing an alien. Understandably, not every alien would be given the same care as Man Hunter is (who appears again this episode!). However, the poor production of alien costumes removes the viewer from the story and breaks the experience that could be had.
However, the actress, Laura Vandervoort, played the role well and delivered a fantastic fight scene with some military men. As for the trivia, she was also the actress for Kara and Brainiac back in the days of Smallville.
But, unlike other villains, she wasn’t just written in for an extra villain. Previously, I had just accepted that the Fort Rozz inmates found some miraculous way to follow Kara from the phantom zone. However, it was Indigo who was behind this brainy move and reveals that if it weren’t for her, Kara would never have arrived on Earth. This revelation is a fantastic addition and creates a greater dimension for Kara and Indigo the next time they meet.
Above all the fights and costume catastrophes, the closing scene of this episode brought back the heart that I love so much. Kara interrupts Hank and Alex mid spar to (reluctantly) re-join the DEO. The hardness Kara approaches Hank with is devastating to watch through Alex’s eyes. The guilt is obviously too heavy, and Alex spills the big secret. So much is revealed about Alex through this. Alex knows Kara values truth, and Alex loves Kara enough to give her that even if it means breaking their relationship. And to have Kara silently march to the door through Alex’s sobs and stop. Turn. And hug her. Scenes like these, when these two actresses are put together, give me chills.
Although not yet up to the standards of Flash and Arrow, Supergirl is still creating some breathtaking moments. And it’s those moments that really set this show apart.
Quote of the Episode: You’re just a glorified Windows Vista. (Winn)
