While the first half of Supernatural's first season sets up the characters and their backstory, it is undoubtedly the second half of the season that sees the series really hit its stride. Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki, without question the prettiest male double act on TV, continue to surprise with some class acting, both give amazing performances as brothers Dean and Sam, the superb chemistry between the two leads undoubtedly the show's greatest asset.
Added to the mix for five episodes is Jeffrey Dean Morgan as the boys' wayward dad, his presence culminating with the mind-boggling season finale Devil's Trap, the last fifteen minutes of which will have your jaw dropping more times than you can count, while the last 30 seconds will have you grabbing for the rewind button, the words 'That did NOT just happen!' bouncing off the TV screen as you scream at the season's mind-numbing cliffhanger.
While the final two-parter is certainly the season's apex, Shadow sets up these events in nail-biting fashion, while Something Wicked, written by Carnivale's Daniel Knauf, will take you to flashback heaven with a sneaky look at the Winchesters' childhood.
While every episode (with the possible exception of the cringe-making Route 666) is superb, the hilarious Hell House, frighteningly non-supernatural The Benders, the poignant Faith and cracking Provenance are all additional highlights.
Well worth your hard-earned cash!