What I’m Watching: Doom Patrol

Doom Patrol: Season 1, Episode 4 “Cult Patrol” (B)

This episode was my least favorite so far, if only because I’m not overly fond of supernatural elements, which this show hasn’t utilized nearly as much as it’s been focused on superpowers and science fiction. The creepiness of this cult was quickly indicated by all the birthday celebrations and then Elliott’s mother’s cold slitting of his father’s throat when he warned him to run away. Having them sit on altars and profess the impending doom of the universe was pretty freaky, and it doesn’t look like things are going to turn out so well for our friends, not that it’s ever really the case. Mark Sheppard, who I know best from “Battlestar Galactica” and “Bionic Woman,” showed up as another questionable figure, one whose magic isn’t nearly as effective as one might hope to help prevent the end of the world. I did like that he and Victor were initially dubious about their magic/science war and then complimented each other on the unexpected effectiveness of their respective weapons. Larry watching the video of the Chief trying to communicate with the spirit that now lives within him was interesting, and I think he’s getting closer to having a productive rapport with that entity. Jane, on the other hand, continues to be a true loose cannon, one who does seem so lost within herself that there’s no way to control who might come out and how that could affect the situation at any moment. I’m still invested, but I’d prefer to get back to the questionably omniscient Mr. Nobody and be done with this death cult hellbent on making things miserable for more than just our small group of friends.