I really enjoy the episodes where Jensen gets to demonstrate his comedic side and this episode is a prime example. It is packed full of his wonderfully placed micro-expressions and brilliant subtle physical nuances. But the episode also contains one of the most poignant moments I have seen in a long time, as Dean battles to hold on to who he is. The shear loss in his face is heartbreaking and you can't help but feel for anyone who might have to go through such a situation in real life for reasons such as Alzheimers. That's one of the brilliant things about the show, that they can set very real human problems in this crazy mythical world, and make you feel the emotion of the issues while still enjoying the fantastical story. The storyline is also brilliantly delivered in this episode. We only find out the basic outline of the original case in second-hand information after the event. We deal almost entirely with the fallout. The baddies are finally dispatched almost negligently and we don't mind at all because they are secondary to the real story that is being told, and that technique works beautifully. The montage at the end tugs on your heart strings because you can see the change that Jensen puts into Dean's face and whole demeanour as he has changed back from a carefree young man to our world-wearied hero. Technically it's a 'filler' episode, as there is no advance to the main story arcs, but this is a beautiful little story that will win places in our hearts for emotional value.
Review of Regarding Dean
