In Review: Black Lightning (S4 – Ep9) The Book of Ruin: Chapter Four: Lyding

Synopsis: In ‘Lyding’. Gambi warns the Pierce family of a possible crisis looming. Meanwhile, JJ takes a few dangerous risks to help her schools music program.

The Story

‘Lyding’ begins with a dream sequence in which Lynn uses her Meta Antidote to remove all the powers from her family. It is not long before we get to the main crux of the plot. Gambi who has just created a new suit for Anissa calls a meeting to discuss Ishmael. We learn that he is a meta hunter and that he is in the employ of Destiny for the Cobra gang. But it seems that Ishmael isn’t their only problem. The embezzlement charges that have been lodged against Jefferson are beginning to become a real thorn in the side. When Lynn signs in for work. She finds that her lab has been completely locked and is no longer able to access her research. The security guard tells her that her research has been taken as part of the investigation into Jefferson’s alleged embezzlement. To make matters worse. Lynn later finds herself being arrested and strip-searched.

Elsewhere, Black Lightning is battling Ishmael while Lightning is running away from the law who has used her social media against her. Also, Khalil/Painkiller go out to put the hurt to some crooks that have been helping Tobias Whale with the framing of Jefferson Peirce.

The Acting

Cress Williams puts in a strong performance as Jefferson and Black Lightning and has some great scenes. I particularly liked the clandestine scene where he meets up with Detective Shakur to ask him to clear an entire block so he can face Ishmael. I also enjoyed the scene where he was being the protective father with JJ.

We also get a great but brief appearance from Jordan Calloway who gets to play both his roles of Khalil Payne and Painkiller while giving the hurt to come folks that have been helping Tobias Whale. It really goes without saying that we should get a spin-off series about Khalil and Painkiller. The insight that we got into his world a few episodes back was to my mind the best episode of the season.

Overall

‘Lyding’ is another great episode. The writers managed to cram a lot of plot and character development into 45 minutes. It leaves us with one epic cliffhanger as we see Lynn’s dream get realized, but without her involvement.