Two episodes into its sixth season, "Supernatural has so far failed to establish a story arc for the season All viewers have received are newer versions of old monsters, a tireless amount of angst from Dean and a sluggish pace with no indications that it will get any better any time soon.

While Sam (Jared Padalecki) investigates the murder of young couples, along with the abduction of their infants, Dean (Jensen Ackles) moves his girlfriend Lisa (Cindy Sampson) and her son Ben (Nicholas Elia) to a new home. It turns out that Sam thwarted one of the kidnappings, but not before the parents meet their demise. It isnt long before Sam calls Dean, asking him to make an exception just this once to help him with the baby. No, it doesnt make the most sense.

The baby is a shape shifter, and the Alpha father is on the loose, making him stronger than any other shape shifter. They boys bring the infant to their grandfather (Mitch Pillegi), because apparently, the best place for a child is the company of a band of hunters who have struggled mightily with family life. In the end, it is acknowledged that perhaps the Alpha cant be killed. What is left is a monster on the loose, an infant in the hands of hunters and Dean uncomfortable with it.

Does any of this sound exciting? It wasnt. This episode really wasnt about monsters as much as it was a way to bring Sam and Dean back together. It did so, but without any originality at all, and with very little style or substance.

What Worked

Perhaps the only element that is working this season is the role reversal of Sam and Dean. Sam is now the committed hunter, loyal to his hunter family, while Dean is trying to escape the life and has found meaningful companionship outside this circle. The role reversal did take place quite rapidly, so both characters seem to be a little out of character, but overall, it is a good idea that could use a little better execution.

What Didnt Work

Apparently, there is no room for humor in Supernatural any more. Gone are Deans many wisecrack quips, and they have been replaced by baby humor. This episode, quite honestly, was painful to watch at times. Two men who have been to Hell buying diapers simply isnt very funny, despite the fact that it tries to be. This concept went out of date after Three Men and a Baby and Look Whos Talking, and it wasnt even that funny back then. When shows resort to baby humor, its a sure sign the end is near. Perhaps the Apocalypse should have been the end.

Giving Credit Where Credit Is Due

Supernatural stars Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles. Two and a Half Men was written by Adam Glass and was directed by John Showalter.

Supernatural airs Fridays at 9 p.m. ET on The CW.