The first episode of the “Crisis on Infinite Earths” crossover event, definitively titled “Crisis on Infinite Earths: Part One,” aired on December 8, 2019, as part of the Supergirl series on The CW. It served as the opening salvo in a five-part saga that dramatically reshaped the Arrowverse landscape.
The Genesis of the Crisis: Why Supergirl Led the Charge
The decision to kick off such a monumental crossover with Supergirl might seem unusual at first glance, but several factors contributed to this strategic placement. Supergirl, at the time, held a crucial position within the Arrowverse, boasting a well-established fanbase and a strong narrative foundation capable of supporting the weighty themes of the impending crisis.
Furthermore, the timing of the crossover within the television season played a vital role. Supergirl‘s mid-season finale slot allowed for a natural pause in the series’ regular storyline, paving the way for the Crisis event to take center stage. This positioning ensured maximum impact and viewer engagement as the holiday season approached.
Finally, Kara Danvers, portrayed by Melissa Benoist, embodies hope and optimism, qualities essential for facing an existential threat like the Anti-Monitor. Starting with Supergirl provided a strong emotional core for the crossover, setting the tone for the sacrifices and triumphs to come.
The Prelude to Oblivion: Key Events in Part One
“Crisis on Infinite Earths: Part One” doesn’t waste any time throwing viewers into the thick of things. The episode opens with a montage depicting the annihilation of various Earths within the multiverse, each succumbing to the relentless wave of anti-matter unleashed by the Anti-Monitor. We witness the destruction of Earth-2 (home to the deceased Jay Garrick) and learn of Earth-38’s imminent peril.
Key events unfolding on Earth-38, Supergirl’s home, include:
- The Arrival of the Monitor: This cosmic being, played by LaMonica Garrett, oversees the initial stages of the crisis, testing various heroes and preparing them for the battles to come.
- The Battle of National City: Supergirl, Superman (Tyler Hoechlin), and Lois Lane (Elizabeth Tulloch) face off against the Anti-Monitor’s shadow demons in a desperate attempt to protect National City.
- The Escape of Kryptonians: Kara and Clark work tirelessly to evacuate as many Kryptonians as possible from Argo City, a surviving fragment of Krypton, before it too is consumed by the anti-matter wave.
- The Sacrifice of Argo City: Despite their best efforts, Argo City is ultimately destroyed, resulting in tragic losses and a deepening sense of despair among the heroes.
- The Introduction of Batwoman: Kate Kane (Ruby Rose), a key figure in the Arrowverse, arrives on Earth-38 to join the fight against the Anti-Monitor.
This opening episode masterfully sets the stage for the epic confrontation to come, establishing the stakes and showcasing the devastating power of the Anti-Monitor. It serves as a crucial point of convergence, bringing together heroes from across the multiverse to face the greatest threat they have ever encountered.
Decoding the Crossover: FAQs for Deeper Understanding
FAQ 1: What is the Anti-Monitor and why is he destroying the multiverse?
The Anti-Monitor is a cosmic being of immense power, driven by a thirst for anti-matter. He seeks to destroy all positive matter universes and replace them with anti-matter, ultimately creating a single, unified anti-matter universe under his control. He is essentially the embodiment of entropy and destruction.
FAQ 2: How does the Monitor fit into the Crisis?
The Monitor is the Anti-Monitor’s counterpart, a cosmic being who strives to protect the multiverse from destruction. He tests and prepares heroes from across different Earths, gathering them to fight against the Anti-Monitor and his forces. He plays a crucial role in orchestrating the defense of the multiverse.
FAQ 3: What is anti-matter and why is it so dangerous?
Anti-matter is a substance composed of antiparticles, which have the same mass as their corresponding particles but opposite charge. When matter and anti-matter come into contact, they annihilate each other in a burst of energy, making anti-matter incredibly destructive. The Anti-Monitor uses anti-matter as his primary weapon.
FAQ 4: Which Earths were destroyed in “Crisis on Infinite Earths: Part One”?
The opening montage depicts the destruction of several Earths, most notably Earth-2 (home to Jay Garrick) and Argo City (a surviving fragment of Krypton on Earth-38). The episode makes it clear that numerous other Earths are also falling victim to the anti-matter wave.
FAQ 5: What role does Superman play in the first episode?
Superman (Tyler Hoechlin) is a key player in the first episode, helping to evacuate Kryptonians from Argo City and fighting against the shadow demons in National City. He provides a symbol of hope and strength, inspiring others to fight against the impending doom. He is also crucial in securing the Book of Destiny.
FAQ 6: How does Batwoman become involved in the Crisis?
Batwoman (Ruby Rose) is recruited by the Monitor to join the fight against the Anti-Monitor. Her strategic mind and combat skills make her a valuable asset to the team of heroes. She arrives on Earth-38 to help defend against the anti-matter wave.
FAQ 7: What is the Book of Destiny and why is it important?
The Book of Destiny is a powerful artifact that contains the potential to rewrite reality. It is sought after by both the Monitor and his enemies, as it could be used to either save or destroy the multiverse. It’s initially sought out to save Oliver Queen.
FAQ 8: Where do the subsequent episodes of “Crisis on Infinite Earths” air?
The subsequent episodes of the crossover aired across other Arrowverse series:
- Part Two: Batwoman (December 9, 2019)
- Part Three: The Flash (December 10, 2019)
- Part Four: Arrow (January 14, 2020)
- Part Five: Legends of Tomorrow (January 14, 2020)
FAQ 9: Is prior knowledge of the Arrowverse series necessary to understand “Crisis on Infinite Earths”?
While not strictly necessary, having some familiarity with the major Arrowverse series (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, Batwoman, Legends of Tomorrow) enhances the viewing experience. Understanding the relationships between characters and the established lore will allow you to appreciate the nuances of the crossover.
FAQ 10: What is the overall impact of “Crisis on Infinite Earths” on the Arrowverse?
“Crisis on Infinite Earths” significantly reshaped the Arrowverse. It resulted in the destruction of the original multiverse and the creation of a new Earth (Earth-Prime), merging the storylines of several previously separate series. This allowed for more frequent crossovers and a more unified narrative universe.
FAQ 11: Were there any major character deaths or departures during the Crisis?
Yes, several major characters met their demise during the “Crisis on Infinite Earths” crossover. The most notable was the death of Oliver Queen/Green Arrow (Stephen Amell), who sacrificed himself to save the multiverse. Other significant losses included Lex Luthor’s sister, Lena’s mother, and several versions of other known heroes.
FAQ 12: Is “Crisis on Infinite Earths” a faithful adaptation of the comic book storyline?
While the Arrowverse adaptation of “Crisis on Infinite Earths” draws heavily from the iconic comic book storyline, it also takes creative liberties. The core themes of multiversal destruction and heroic sacrifice remain central, but the specifics of the plot and character arcs are adapted to fit the established narratives of the Arrowverse series. Overall, it captures the spirit of the original while forging its own unique path.