Ep 3. LaWanda: The Book of Burial

Jefferson Pierce (Cress Williams) had given up his superhero alter ego, Black Lightning, years ago, focusing instead on being a devoted father and high school principal. But with the violence and crime in his community escalating, he has been forced to take up the mantle again in secret. In episode 3 of season 1, entitled LaWanda: The Book of Burial, tensions are high in the community after the death of LaWanda (Tracey Bonner), a mother who was killed during a peaceful protest against the 100 gang.

Jefferson is grappling with the loss of LaWanda, and is feeling guilty about not being able to protect her. He decides to take matters into his own hands and start to investigate her death, much to the chagrin of his ex-wife, Lynn (Christine Adams). Lynn is concerned for Jefferson's safety and thinks he should stay out of it, but Jefferson is determined to get justice for LaWanda and bring her killer to justice.

As the investigation continues, tensions between the 100 gang and the community continue to rise. LaWanda's funeral becomes a flashpoint for violence, as the gang tries to disrupt the proceedings. Jefferson uses his powers as Black Lightning to try to keep the peace and protect the mourners, but it soon becomes clear that the gang is not going to back down.

Meanwhile, Jefferson's daughters, Anissa (Nafessa Williams) and Jennifer (China Anne McClain), are both struggling with their own issues. Anissa is struggling with her identity as a lesbian and her newfound powers, which she is trying to keep hidden from her family. Jennifer, on the other hand, is dealing with the fallout of her parents' divorce and is acting out at school.

The episode culminates in a tense showdown between Black Lightning and the 100 gang, as Jefferson tries to take down their leader, Tobias Whale (Marvin Jones III). The final scene sets up the rest of the season, as Jefferson realizes that his return as Black Lightning is just the beginning of a much larger fight to save his community.

Overall, LaWanda: The Book of Burial is a powerful episode that tackles issues of police brutality, gang violence, and social justice head-on. The performances are strong across the board, and the episode sets up an intriguing arc for the rest of the season. Fans of superhero shows with a social conscience will definitely want to tune in to this one.