Ep 9. Rewind 1921

In Lovecraft Country season 1 episode 9, titled "Rewind 1921," the main characters find themselves traveling back in time to the Tulsa massacre of 1921. As they try to find a way back to their own time, they must navigate the dangerous and racially charged city while also confronting their own past traumas.

The episode opens with Tic, Leti, and Montrose being transported back in time through a magical portal created by Hippolyta. They find themselves in the midst of the chaos of the Tulsa massacre, where white supremacists have descended upon the black neighborhood of Greenwood and are wreaking havoc. The trio must blend in with the crowds and find a way to avoid being caught up in the violence.

As they make their way through the city, they encounter many horrific sights, including burning buildings and innocent people being attacked by the white mob. Despite the danger, they are determined to fulfill their mission and find a way back to their own time. Along the way, they meet a group of black resistance fighters who are trying to defend their community against the white attackers.

The episode explores the historical context of the Tulsa massacre, which was a real-life tragedy that occurred in 1921. It was a two-day attack on the Greenwood District, which was then the wealthiest black community in America. White supremacists destroyed over 35 square blocks of businesses and homes, killing hundreds of black people and leaving many more homeless.

As Tic, Leti, and Montrose get a firsthand glimpse of the horrors of the massacre, they also face their own personal demons. Montrose, in particular, is forced to confront the trauma of his past and his relationship with his father. Meanwhile, Tic and Leti struggle with their own feelings of guilt and shame over their ancestors' involvement in the horrors of slavery and systemic racism.

The episode is beautifully shot and features some hauntingly memorable scenes. The use of music is also noteworthy, with a stirring rendition of "Strange Fruit" playing over one particularly powerful moment. The themes of racial injustice and intergenerational trauma are tackled with sensitivity and nuance, making for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant episode.

Overall, "Rewind 1921" is a standout episode of Lovecraft Country that sheds light on an often overlooked but important moment in American history. The combination of the time travel element with the historical context adds an extra layer of complexity to the story, making it a must-see for fans of the show.