Remember those heady days of “Wizards of Waverly Place?” The Russo family’s magical mishaps were a staple of Disney Channel, and now, with “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,” we’re back in that world, albeit with a slightly different focus. This Friday’s episode, “Potions Eleven,” finally addresses a long-dangling plot thread: the infamous “Unicorn Incident.” Yes, the very incident that got Justin Russo canned from his teaching gig at WizTech.
Billie, ever the curious one, decides to take matters into her own hands (and into Justin’s head) by using a potion to access his memories. While the prospect of mind-melding might sound like a sitcom trope, the execution here manages to avoid feeling stale. The episode finds a solid balance between the lighthearted humor the franchise is known for and the genuine emotional weight of Justin’s past.
We see glimpses of a younger, perhaps less self-assured Justin, grappling with the responsibilities of his magical abilities. The episode doesn’t shy away from the consequences of magical mishaps, adding a touch of gravity to the otherwise whimsical proceedings. “Potions Eleven” is a smart move for the series, offering a satisfying dose of nostalgia for long-time fans while also providing a solid entry point for newcomers. The unicorn itself remains a mystery (for now), but the episode offers enough breadcrumbs to keep us hooked.
“Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” airs Fridays at 8:00 PM on Disney Channel.