6 reasons to watch Supernatural this friday!
1. Sheriff Winchester
Jensen Ackles has been vocal in his enthusiasm for 'Frontierland' ever since the concept was announced at last year's Comic-Con, but it's excellent to see that enthusiasm translate to the screen. The hard-working actor looks like a kid in a candy store throughout the episode's lighter moments, dropping Eastwood references and drawling like a pro (I guess being from Texas is a great boot-camp for this kind of episode), before effortlessly switching gears to channel the ass-kicking, take-no-prisoners Dean Winchester that we all know and love when the going gets tough.

I found myself reminded of the Dean we first met in season 1 at many points during this episode: The playful, smooth-talking conman who didn't yet have the weight of the world on his shoulders. And even though the stakes are high in 'Frontierland,' I enjoyed those moments of levity and confidence from our put-upon older Winchester; lord knows he deserves an angst-free day or two. This episode seemed like wish-fulfillment at its finest for Ackles, and that excitement is infectious as you watch.

2. Sam vs. Sam
While Dean is playing Sheriff back in Sunrise, WY, Sam (Jared Padalecki) has an equally important mission -- he's tasked with tracking down the legendary gun-maker, Samuel Colt (Sam Hennings), who may hold the key to defeating Eve. Unfortunately for Sam, crotchety old Colt is "retired" -- even though we know there's no such thing in the hunting world -- and isn't so eager to help out our loveable "giant from the future." Fans have been imagining what Samuel Colt might look like for the past four seasons, and Hennings is more than worthy of filling those iconic boots. I hope that, somehow, we'll be seeing more of him in the future (past?).

Though Sam plays the straight man while Dean (predictably) geeks out over their 'Back to the Future III' exploits, Padalecki still has his share of physical comedy, and while fans are often concerned when the brothers embark on separate missions, both characters have integral roles to play in the episode.

3. Touched by an Angel
Speaking of important roles, I was surprised -- and pleased -- by the amount of Castiel (Misha Collins) we were treated to this week. I had predicted that the Winchesters' heavenly helper would simply pop in to send and retrieve our heroes, but as producer Sera Gamble promised us at PaleyFest, the last few episodes in the season look set to intertwine Castiel's storyline with the brothers' in an unexpected way. Following on from last week's episode, we start to understand why the human soul holds such value for the angels (and dearly departed Crowley), as well as witness the return of Castiel's angelic blade.

We're also introduced to Castiel's lieutenant Rachel (Sonya Salomaa), who isn't so fond of the way the Winchesters order Castiel around. Let's just say her attitude is more Uriel than Gabriel when it comes to humanity ...

4. Butch and Sundance
The pop-culture references fly thick and fast this week, featuring everything from 'Star Trek' and 'Die Hard' to the opening credits of 'Bonanza' and Clint Eastwood's more questionable film choices. There's also a wonderful nod to Jim Beaver's past work that should please the actor's loyal fanbase.

Observant 'Supernatural' fans will be thrilled by the respect paid to the show's sprawling mythology; Samuel Colt's work on the Devil's Gate from season 2 is mentioned, and if you pay attention, you'll spot the ancestor of a hunter we met all the way back in season 1.

5. True Grit
Even an innovative concept like a Western-themed episode can be ruined by poor execution, so I was impressed by the obvious care and respect that went into producing 'Frontierland.' Guy Bee's direction is sharp, deft and doesn't take itself too seriously. I'll wager he was enjoying himself immensely in recalling visual cues that make the Western genre so distinct, from atmospheric long-shots that set up the high-noon shootout to extreme close-ups as our sheriff prepares to draw against the black-clad gunslinger that opposes him. Similarly, the episode is tinted with a gritty sepia tone, courtesy of cinematographer Serge Ladouceur, which only serves to enhance the visual connection to the films 'Frontierland' is inspired by.

6. We Watch for the Plot
It's a hotly contested question: How do you improve upon the perfection of Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki? The guys are clearly genetically blessed, and 'Supernatural' fans have been treated to a number of memorable costume choices over the years, but I've got to admit, cowboy hats and leather dusters definitely blow them all out of the water. Someone needs to hire these two for a feature-length Western, stat. ('Lone Ranger,' I'm looking at you.)

Fans have been anticipating this episode for the better part of a year, and I'm pleased to say that it far exceeded my expectations. The humor that was sorely missed in the first half of the season is back with a vengeance now, and writers Andrew Dabb and Daniel Loflin confidently balance plot, ass-kicking and pathos while neatly sidestepping the traps that could've made the episode feel cheap or kitschy. Saddle up, partners, I predict you'll want to visit 'Frontierland' again and again.

'Frontierland' airs this Friday, April 22 at 9PM ET on The CW.