Perhaps it’s because I wasn’t feeling too well, but I had a lot of trouble maintaining focus during this week’s episode of Smallville. I’m not sure if that’s a criticism, per se, because I typically enjoy origin episodes. Nevertheless, there was just something about the first half of the episode that kept me from truly getting into the story. That being said, I do think things picked up significantly during the second half.
Last week, I mentioned that Tess seems to be a prototypical villain that lacked the depth and complexity of Lex Luthor (which, of course, is expected considering the huge discrepancy in their tenures on the series). Well, this episode did wonders for my opinion of her character. In fact, the relationship between Tess and Oliver is very reminiscent of Clark and Lex’s Shakespearian brotherhood (which, I’m sure, was no mistake). Out of a dire situation, Tess and Oliver repeatedly came to each other’s aid and showed that they were willing to risk their lives if it meant keeping the other safe.
Finally, I absolutely loved how the two year experience on the island transformed Oliver into a selfless humanitarian, while it hardened the once gentle and innocent Tess. Yes, I think it’s entirely likely that their break up had a lot to do with Tess becoming a cold, conniving businesswoman, but nevertheless I liked the idea of one event having the opposite effect on both individuals.
I will ask this, though: Isn’t it extraordinarily strange for the new CEO of a corporation to move into the home of the missing former CEO? That’s almost, like, stalkerish.
Another thing I loved: Clark Kent in a suit! In my past few columns I’ve noted the distinct adult-theme of this season (not with any explicit material, but with the notion that we aren’t watching a bunch of high school kids anymore), and this simple change in wardrobe does a wonderful job of expressing that. Along with that, it brings Clark one step closer towards his future self (having him share numerous snippy scenes with a bossy, successful Lois Lane also helps). I’ve read some reports that Smallville is basically now just Superman without the tights. If that’s the case, I think that’s a good thing. Now he just needs to fly.
And if I didn’t like Lois before, I adore her now for cutting Clark off before he went into a Lana-love-rant.
I also really appreciated the explanation regarding Chloe’s super brain. I thought Clark’s reaction was great as well, with him staring at her strangely and dead panning, “you’re reading that, aren’t you?” as several television screens flash different images.
Although, I must wonder, is Lana now a genius as well?
Matt Basilo has been writing for Inside Pulse since April 2005, providing his insight into popular television shows such as Lost, Heroes, Prison Break, and Smallville. You can visit his blog at A Case of the Blog.
