"Mortal" - loved it? Hated it? What did you think?

[F-Stop Blues]

I liked it. Way better than gone.

[montevallo]

i loved it to, chloe finally accepts that clark is with lana and is happy that he is happy. PETE, JASON, AND ALICIA ARE MENTIONED OMG I COULDENT BELIVE IT. the writing has definently improved, atleast relationship-wise

[opticon]

it was a very strong second epy the premice seemed fresh to me and the dynamic between chloe and clark was very good. and clark for once actually saw the bigger picture to what lex was doing and actually confronted him mad props to the writers on this one.

and a very special thank you to who ever picked out chloes outfits for that show

[vanilla_bandit]

I thought it was an amazing episode. The freak of the week story did not overpower all the other things going on like in many other episodes. I'm still astounded that they fit in the clark and lex fight with the clana sex in one episode. There was also great continuity in this one. I give it an A+.

[LLJ]

This was an average Smallville episode to me. No meaningful or progressive conversation between Clark and Lana. Anything important with Clark and Lana is swept under the rug.Lex still looking for proof of Clark's secret when Dr. Walden already told Lex who Clark is. Lex is extremely incompetent when it comes to Clark and his secret. Not very impressed this looked a lazy season four episode to me.

[MBCorp]

I thought it was a really good, strong episode. Very well done. The Clana scenes were actually sweet and Clark and Lana both looked like they were really in love and lighthearted about it. Chloe was awesome, I loved her scene with Lex in the caves and her and Clark breaking into level 3. Chloe was really tough and smart and loyal in this episode. Heh, she outwitted Lex who's supposed to be an evil genius.:p The fotw's weren't great, but they were adequete. The Clex fight was really well done and I honestly don't blame Clark for hitting Lex.

[crush41gb]

I really admired the episode. This show has a totally different 'feel' this year and it's a good one. I was afraid this episode would be a filler ep and stressful because CK didn't have his powers returned yet. But, it was handled carefully and so much happened that progressed the story and the lives/paths of the characters. Great job, everybody! :D

[lilo]

Very well-done episode. Great dialogue and acting, awesome plot progression, and CONTINUITY!!!!!!!!

[cayayofm]

This episode was great, we had great continuity and plot advancement. I was with mu mouth open when Clark punched Lex and said to him that he was a coward.......so true. I loved this episode. This is how freaks should been used always, to advance the plot, great characters interaction, overall I was impresssed by this episode.

[Ebert & Roeper]

Afterwards I was just so pleased - very satisfied. I loved every second of it, and only once did I say hmmm that's not right, or not so believeable (I know it is based on a comic, I mean believable w/ in the show). I loved, loved , loved the fight between Clark and Lex, but the end - when Clark said: satisfied? - got me saying : that better not be all it takes - if so, he could have freaking used kryptonite long ago, and what about in Devoted when lex saw clark bleed? Oh well, A+ for all the continuity, great sfx, clana, chlark, kents, continuity, the fight, and Chlex. And continuity!

[Bwookie]

I was bored. :) I found myself switching channels and watching what else was on. I'll watch the whole thing again after baseball.

[Best Episode - 321]

I thought it was a good episode. It wasn't the best, but it was solid entertainment and I enjoyed the interactions between Lex and Chloe, Clark and Chloe, and even Lana and Clark. Thought it was good. Ready for next week.

[Saber]

It was crap.
Only good part was Lex & Clark fight & Chloe.
Other than that it was a waste of time. :o

[Investigative Reporter]

This episode exceeded my expectations. It had great pacing and continuity, far better than previous episodes. The FOTW story was interesting and had just the right amount of time assigned to it. The scene where Clark and Chloe sneak into Level 3 was amazing. I love how Clark realized how difficult things will be for him without powers in this episode; I think he'll realize how much he took things for granted, and hoorah for stepping up and still beating the FOTWs! And with all this, there was still plenty of time for Clark/Lana, which thankfull didn't take up too much time, and Clark beating the crap out of Lex, which had me cheering. PLUS, we got an Alicia, Jason, AND Pete mention! Fantastic episode - I didn't expect much from the description, but it turned out to be great.

[LLJ]

I never complain about the acting in Smallville. The actors always do a good job bringing their characters to life, for the most part.
I just get tired of the recycled storylines. If it wasnt for the characters I dont think Smallville would be worth watching.

[CLS]

On the surface Mortal looked like a filler, but boy there was so much going on here!

Clark scoffs when it's Jor-El talking to him about his "destiny" but maybe when it's Chloe talking to him about it may just get through his thick skull!

Kiss bye the BDA there Clark, this is your best friend Chloe telling you this!

Best you consider the course of your life, superpowers or no.

Aha the rift begins, or has it?
Will AlMiles fake us out again?
Let us hope not.

And it ends with Lana and Clark, I quote another poster on another MB here, carpe-ing the diem!

Very tastefully done as well, they even went to the shot of the blowing curtains!
Gotta love those old movies.

-cs™

[BlueNRed2]

The parts i got to see were great.

I loved the banter between Clark and Chloe. Clark adapting to the struggles of normality. Chloe providing some fun lines ranging from questioning his desire for being normal to the Pete reference.

Lex obsessed with the events in Arrival, so much so, to set up a test just to confirm his theories. Chlex was a blast! Although it makes me nervous about what may come out of it.

Those Wonder Twins, definately more creepy/odd than what i expected.

Clark vs. Lex, very enjoyable hearing Clark call Lex out and then baiting him to draw blood.

All-in-all, ill give it a B+ for now. Just gotta get my hands on a good copy so i can hear the parts i missed!

[Summers]

Way better than "Arrival". "Arrival" to me wasn't that great. I really wasn't impressed, but "Mortal" I liked. I thought it was a very strong episode, and well rounded. There are some things I don't like about the whole moral Clark thing, however, I thought the episode was strong.

Chlark was cute, and very sweet.
Clana was decent(still have my problems with it though)
It had a good continuity by bringing up Alicia(whoa they actually remembered her lol) and Jason. JK's heart, and yay the Sheriff is back(I love her :D ).
The confrontation of Clex was somewhat was decent except well considering the fact Lex was trained by a Navy Seal I wish he wouldn't take that much of a beating and fight back some, and Clark "I'm different now" wasn't very smart of Clark(very BDA lol)
Clark going into law enforcement joke reminded of the same joke on Buffy when she had the same thing asked to her....hehe

I thought it was way better than the premiere. It had strong character development all around, and I was pleased. I'm a happy slayer lol.

Oh, the actor on Tommy Lee I loved. He used to be on a show calle Penscola Wings of Gold. He played an Air Force Pilot. I loved that show.

[CLS]

Originally posted by Summers
The confrontation of Clex was somewhat was decent except well considering the fact Lex was trained by a Navy Seal I wish he wouldn't take that much of a beating and fight back some.
I have a feeling that was another test by good or is that bad ol Lex there.

I'm sure he's willing to get banged around a bit just to get some more insight.

-cs™

[ClarksGirl21]

I liked it alot too! Clana happened, and I thought it was really sweet how they were to each other. Chloe is awesome! She is hilarous and witty, she's just great! I like how she is about Clark's secret. It's almost like she's always known.. it definately fits. And Go Clark! He punched Lex really hard and just kept coming! ah! I loved it! Great episode!

[Kris-El]

Originally posted by LLJ
Lex still looking for proof of Clark's secret when Dr. Walden already told Lex who Clark is. Lex is extremely incompetent when it comes to Clark and his secret.

Dr Walden told him who Clark was? the one who escaped from the insane asylum when he told Lex? Come on, thats not proof.

Sure, Lex has seen Clark bleed . plenty of times in fact. But then something completely inexplicable happens all over again! Just when Lex thinks his suspicions are confirmed, new ones surrounding Clark arise. And while he's seen him bleed and such, he's NEVER witnessed him doing anything super. And THAT to him is what he is obsessed with catching.

I thought the episode was really good. Rebuilding the barn, mentions of Pete, Alicia, and Jason...Clark and Chloe breaking into level 3 Clark going nuts on Lex....the beautifulness that is CLANA....i really enjoyed it. Good stuff!

[alphaomega618]

For whatever reason, I found the episode somewhat boring. I believe it's because of the lack of superpowers. I found myself just watching it, when usually I really get into the epsiodes smiling and thinking "wow" alot. I did like the Lex and Clark fight and I thought Chloe looked hot in this episode. I was glad to see the sheriff playing a big role. There wasn't much of a story, or maybe it just wasn't thrilling. I'm also getting really tired of all the meteor freaks. It's really getting old. Overall I give it a b-.

[nexttolastsonofKrypton]

Good TV!

The FOTW had super powers before a few shots of green k. Smallville has opened the door a little more to the rest of the world. Chloe and Clark continue to entertain me with thier dialog.

Pete? Wasn't he that kid who was in a few episodes a few years back?

It was great to hear them reference him (and Alicia), and the exchage between Chloe and Clark was awesome.

I don't think Ma and Pa Kent know that Chloe knows about Clark. So he's hiding that he knows that Chloe knows that...well I know you know what I mean.

Even Clark and Lana together was done very well.

Clark and Lex fight! Need I say more?

A solid episode and the new season continues to show amazing potential.

[LoisNClark]

i thought this episode was awesome!!! they didn't go crazy wiht the clana scene
chloe and clark made such an awesome team
loved the pete comments
chloe's trunk and lois's grad present
lana and jonathan's moment with the sheriff
clark's ability to save the day powerless
and the highlight of the episode was the clark lex fight...lex deffinetly deserved and clark's face at the end when he said, "satisified" was awesome

[F-Stop Blues]

The law enforcement joke reminded me of lois's comments to clark in commencement.

[tmkfan]

I still havent seen the whole episode.. but the Clana parts were amazing, wooooooow im speechless!

[F-Stop Blues]

Originally posted by tmkfan
I still havent seen the whole episode.. but the Clana parts were amazing, wooooooow im speechless!

I thought the clana was very sweet in this ep. I almost, key word almost, feel bad for them, knowing their future.

[Crispin Glover]

"Mortal" was a great second episode. We had FOTWs, but they were the back story and only used to move the main story forward. The Kents were actually working on building a new house. I love it! I thought the house would be back to normal because that's what Smallville would usually do. I kind of missed Lois this episode. The Chloe and Clark interaction was perfect. I am glad that he tells her everything now. Lex testing to see if Clark is a superman because no one would give him answers in "Arrival" was great. The fight was awesome and now they are enemies and Lex will pass the time away by causing havoc. Lana and Clark tastefully had sex, good thing they have the apartment above the Talon for privacy. Continuity was awesome. The special effects were pretty good for the FOTWs. I thought it was really good episode and keeps the pace of this season going toward the best. I thought the fight was much needed. It puts them at odds and it was just perfect. I think this leaves the gap for Lex to not know that superman is Clark for a little while in the future. Smallville is now 2-0 and next week looks better than this week. I can't wait!

[warriorrenegade]

Im with the majority here, Loved this episode. Lex fight hello? that was awesome. Lana and Clark sexing it up.. done tastefully. Loved the Chloe and Clarks team work breaking into Lexcorp. Also laughed out loud when the bada** called Lana "sweetmeat" then licked her face. Oh and someone please tell Jonathan to stop budding in , man that poor guy always getting beat down. First Arrival doing the most viscious stunt I've ever seen on this show, to him getting his butt kicked yet again. Keep it up SV 2 great episodes keep them coming

[rumpuso]

From the start, this episode had a different feel to me. I wasn't sure what exactly changed, but I felt awkward (almost) as I watched. Then it dawned on me that I was caught offguard tonight. Clark, as a human, was a new character. I feel we have just begun to see the makings of Clark's future alter ego. Tonight we saw a clumsy, bumbling, fumbling, stuttering, unsure young man who reminded me (to a degree) of Christopher Reeves' Clark Kent. I think we will see the dawning of realization for Clark that this experience is one he will need to draw on in the future.

I also must comment on the Clark and Lex fight and the punches heard round the world. Was Clark justified? Well, Clark isn't responsible for Lex's over inquisitive nature and obsessive strive to know each and every little detail that isn't his to know. Tonight, we saw Lex's curiosity cross the lines and endanger Clark's loved ones. Lex's need to know lead to senseless violence towards the Kents and Lana. Yes, Clark was justified.

[aqua]

Loved it. Every character had screentime, continuity, and the Clana was realistic, the Chlark was great, and I loved the Twins.

[LLJ]

Originally posted by Kris-El
Dr Walden told him who Clark was? the one who escaped from the insane asylum when he told Lex? Come on, thats not proof.

Sure, Lex has seen Clark bleed . plenty of times in fact. But then something completely inexplicable happens all over again! Just when Lex thinks his suspicions are confirmed, new ones surrounding Clark arise. And while he's seen him bleed and such, he's NEVER witnessed him doing anything super. And THAT to him is what he is obsessed with catching.

I thought the episode was really good. Rebuilding the barn, mentions of Pete, Alicia, and Jason...Clark and Chloe breaking into level 3 Clark going nuts on Lex....the beautifulness that is CLANA....i really enjoyed it. Good stuff!



I think Dr. Walden was great proof since hes the only other person that could decipher the kryptonian language. The fact he was a liguist adds credence to it. Dont forget that Dr. Walden wrote or burned the kryptonian language on his ceiling in his room at the asylum which. Clark and Lex saw it for themselves.

As for Lex witnessing Clark bleed. I was thinking that Lex did remember the incidents in Onyx but apparently he doesnt. Which goes back to my original statement of recycled storylines ala amnesia.

[Somebody Stop Me]

Originally posted by rumpuso
From the start, this episode had a different feel to me. I wasn't sure what exactly changed, but I felt awkward (almost) as I watched. Then it dawned on me that I was caught offguard tonight. Clark, as a human, was a new character. I feel we have just begun to see the makings of Clark's future alter ego. Tonight we saw a clumsy, bumbling, fumbling, stuttering, unsure young man who reminded me (to a degree) of Christopher Reeves' Clark Kent. I think we will see the dawning of realization for Clark that this experience is one he will need to draw on in the future.

I also must comment on the Clark and Lex fight and the punches heard round the world. Was Clark justified? Well, Clark isn't responsible for Lex's over inquisitive nature and obsessive strive to know each and every little detail that isn't his to know. Tonight, we saw Lex's curiosity cross the lines and endanger Clark's loved ones. Lex's need to know lead to senseless violence towards the Kents and Lana. Yes, Clark was justified.

Brilliant observation. It didn't dawn on me about the alter-ego until your post. I also thought that this episode had a different feel to it and I felt rather awkward at times.

The scene with Chloe and Lex was incredible and Allison Mack is such a great actress. The Clark and Lana scene was really good at the end and it was done in good taste.

This episode was much better than last years "Gone" which I really thought was stupid. Right from the barn building scene I thought "wow some continuity".

4 out of 5 stars.

[dhacker615]

Wow. A very, very strong episode.

The good:
- Thank God they have finally cut to the chase in the Clark-Lana relationship. It was near perfect. They refered back to Jason and Alicia nicely. Alluded to last season, then moved things along. The wirters had been too guarded about their respective virginities, so it was a welcome ending.
- The Clark-Chloe banter was uniformly very good. I loved the Pete reference. I really miss his character.
- The FOTW were inventive and, in the case of the twins, creepy. The best "Smallville" FOTW are the scary ones.
- They really showed that Clark is just brave and selfless period and that quality is a direct result of being the Kents son. Johnathan and Clark had a lot of nice small moments this week.

The bad:
- The Smallville sheriff is borderline incompotent. It is hard to tell if that is deliberate, but she has a knack for making a bad situation worse.
- Chloe suddenly being a super-spy. I know they needed to compensate for no super powers, but they went too far.

The Odd:
- The Clark-Lex fight. After everything that has happened, the incident toight was pretty minor. Clark jumped to conclusions and over-reacted. It may have been justified, but he didn't have definite proof. He has forgiven so much from Lex, why stop listening to his explanations now?

[dhacker615]

Wow. A very, very strong episode.

The good:
- Thank God they have finally cut to the chase in the Clark-Lana relationship. It was near perfect. They refered back to Jason and Alicia nicely. Alluded to last season, then moved things along. The wirters had been too guarded about their respective virginities, so it was a welcome ending.
- The Clark-Chloe banter was uniformly very good. I loved the Pete reference. I really miss his character.
- The FOTW were inventive and, in the case of the twins, creepy. The best "Smallville" FOTW are the scary ones.
- They really showed that Clark is just brave and selfless period and that quality is a direct result of being the Kents son. Johnathan and Clark had a lot of nice small moments this week.

The bad:
- The Smallville sheriff is borderline incompotent. It is hard to tell if that is deliberate, but she has a knack for making a bad situation worse.
- Chloe suddenly being a super-spy. I know they needed to compensate for no super powers, but they went too far.

The Odd:
- The Clark-Lex fight. After everything that has happened, the incident toight was pretty minor. Clark jumped to conclusions and over-reacted. It may have been justified, but he didn't have definite proof. He has forgiven so much from Lex, why stop listening to his explanations now?

[abarsami]

Awesome, I loved the Chlark interaction. Chloe adds some very needed humor.

The show started off slowly, but ended with a much needed boost. I love that Clark caught Lex with his hand in the cookie jar.

[Kryptomaniac]

Another homerun! GREAT eppy. Full of surprises. I never dreamed Lex was up to what he was up to. And Lana has grown a backbone. I loved the Chloe scenes even though she was the ONLY character not to get beat up..HA! Mmmmmm, verdict still out on whether I can morally approve of the #$%. Sheriff sure had a good line," Just another day in Smallville." Good day.

Rating 5 out of 5.

[abarsami]

I thought Chloe was the best actor in this episode. She has tons of spunk.

[fattire]

all I have to say is, oh snap. allmost every complaint ive ever had with smallville, they went ahead and took 'em out. this is by far the best episode ive ever seen.

[the_real_lois_lane]

Originally posted by rumpuso
From the start, this episode had a different feel to me. I wasn't sure what exactly changed, but I felt awkward (almost) as I watched. Then it dawned on me that I was caught offguard tonight. Clark, as a human, was a new character. I feel we have just begun to see the makings of Clark's future alter ego. Tonight we saw a clumsy, bumbling, fumbling, stuttering, unsure young man who reminded me (to a degree) of Christopher Reeves' Clark Kent. I think we will see the dawning of realization for Clark that this experience is one he will need to draw on in the future.



i have to say that i agree, rumpuso. clark is changing and i think that these traits he's showing now while human will be with him even moreso later in life. it is, after all, the "clumsy, bumbling, fumbling, stuttering, unsure" "geek in glasses" that lois lane falls for eventually anyway.
i loved this episode. i loved the changes in characters, not only in clark (Tom Welling was brilliant), but also in lex (MR is always brilliant) and chloe. we're really beginning to see the rift forming between clark and lex. we're not there yet, but it's already beyond repair. the look on lex's face after he hit clark was priceless. and i LOVED chloe tonight! AM was wonderful. she definitely showed that chloe CAN take care of herself and is prepared for anything. i loved the exchange between lex and chloe in the caves and what she says to him: "stop asking me questions, or i will start asking my own." lex didn't look too happy at this and i still believe that not only lana, but also chloe will be key to the further dissolution between clark and lex.

[vyperman7]

A much better episode than I thought it would be. When it opened with yet another FOTW, all I could think was "Great, another FOTW episode". However, this episode actually had depth to it. The Clex fight was outstanding, as well as the interaction with Chloe and Clark. Seeing Clark as a normal person was interesting, and the Clana stuff was done the right way. The very end was weird though when they panned over to the window, and then just went up to the stars? I thought they may show Lex spying or something... LOL

They also mentioned Pete, which was a BIG step forward in the continuity department as well.

This episode will not go down as one of my all time favorites, but it was still an excellent episode. It had some continuity, and great character development.

[the_real_lois_lane]

Originally posted by vyperman7
The very end was weird though when they panned over to the window, and then just went up to the stars? I thought they may show Lex spying or something... LOL




:rotfl:

i thought the EXACT same thing! especially after seeing that promo poster..the Good Sex Bad Lex...the voyeuristic lex behind a naked clark and lana

LOL..too funny :D

[phoephoe]

oh man that would be insaine lol, it would have left me in question

[vyperman7]

Originally posted by the_real_lois_lane
:rotfl:

i thought the EXACT same thing! especially after seeing that promo poster..the Good Sex Bad Lex...the voyeuristic lex behind a naked clark and lana

LOL..too funny :D

LOL LOL

You have got assume that Lex has got cameras everywhere. Or they could pull a Fright Night and have Lex up in a tree.. :rotfl:

Lex is the new Evil Ed.

[phoephoe]

lol

[Jellie]

Originally posted by vyperman7
LOL LOL

You have got assume that Lex has got cameras everywhere. Or they could pull a Fright Night and have Lex up in a tree.. :rotfl:

Lex is the new Evil Ed.

:rotfl: :rotfl:

[vyperman7]

"Oh you're so cool Brewster".... LOL

Man, I love that movie.

I am gonna start refering to Lex as Evil Ed.

[Poetic Chaos]

I have very mixed feelings about this episode. Mainly because of the Clana. I hated it. Now I've never had anything against them being together, though I prefer Clois, but tonight just gave me reasons. Everytime they were on screen it was a friggin' cheese fest. I couldn't stand it. Add on to it that the relationship has caused Clark to undergo a total regression with his feelings towards his powers. He was finally starting to accept himself last season (like in Run) and now he has a "haven't I done enough" mentality. I'm looking pretty lowly on CK right now and I've ALWAYS been one of his defenders on these boards. It sucks to feel betrayed by a Tv character.

But other than Clark...I loved the episode. The Chlark was completely on tonight and really enjoyed Lex's and Chloe's exchange in the Cave. Highlight for me had to be Lex punching Clark back after just taking it at first. Granted Clark is justified but damn, he does nothing but judge Lex these days.

[LuckyKrypto]

I liked this episode!

Clark and Chloe working together was great! I really hope we see more of this. I admit her being a 'super spy', was a little out there, but it didn't bother me that much.

I keep wondering how things are going to play out with Lana now that they have ;)

I love what's happening with Lex! This is getting really good.

So far not so bad. I hope this season is a good one. It's got the right start in my opinion :)

[Daphne]

I liked the episode a lot. Clark and Chloe are quite the team.
Love that Lex is going bad, like that Clark gets his go at Lana.

[constancelight]

Originally posted by rumpuso
From the start, this episode had a different feel to me. I wasn't sure what exactly changed, but I felt awkward (almost) as I watched. Then it dawned on me that I was caught offguard tonight. Clark, as a human, was a new character. I feel we have just begun to see the makings of Clark's future alter ego. Tonight we saw a clumsy, bumbling, fumbling, stuttering, unsure young man who reminded me (to a degree) of Christopher Reeves' Clark Kent. I think we will see the dawning of realization for Clark that this experience is one he will need to draw on in the future.


Great observation rumpuso about the emergence of the alter ego Clark.

And I too felt that there was a different feeling about this episode. The FOTW were there but they didn't surround the story. Instead, I think the episode focused on the relationships of the characters.

While S4 tried to camp up the episodes to make them funny, in this episode I think it was just the banter between Clark and Chloe, and Clark's goofiness with his no-powers self that made it funny. So more realistic, flowing humour. That is what I think made this episode feel different.

Overall, I'd give it an A.

[~*Lois & Clark Fan*~]

Am I the only one who thought this episode was a major snoozefest? The Wonder Twins, that was as cheesy as you can get, I mean they even put their fists together like the Wonder Twins from the old Superfriends cartoon, that just made me LMAO :rotfl:

The only and I mean only good parts of this episode were the Chlark scenes nothing else stood out :\

[smallvillerox05]

Originally posted by ~*Lois & Clark Fan*~
Am I the only one who thought this episode was a major snoozefest? The Wonder Twins, that was as cheesy as you can get, I mean they even put their fists together like the Wonder Twins from the old Superfriends cartoon, that just made me LMAO :rotfl:

The only and I mean only good parts of this episode were the Chlark scenes nothing else stood out :\
Golly, just for Lois not being in the epi? :p

If I'd seen the Superfriends cartoon, I might laugh at the Wonder Twins too.

I liked the Clark/Lex and Chloe/Lex scenes too, but I really enjoyed the Chlark parts. :)

[MBCorp]

Originally posted by vyperman7
The very end was weird though when they panned over to the window, and then just went up to the stars? I thought they may show Lex spying or something... LOL

Oh god, I thought I was the only one to think about that! I swear to god when the camera started panning toward the window I had this horrible feeling that we'd see a camera and then see Lex watching the Clana sex, or that we'd see him looking in at the window. I was so glad when that didn't happen! :lol:

[Sydafex7]

I absolutely loved this epsidoe. It all started off as just another stupid FOTW second epsiode of season snore a thon. But, because of the already in place season story archs this episode was so much different than the others we've seen in the series. We've got Lana and Clark actually together. We've got Chloe and Clark talking about HIM BEING AN ALIEN. We've got LEx and Chloe scenes, We've got a mention of Pete AND Alicia. (wow, didnt expect that EVER). The thing: No Shelby!! How hard is it to let a trained dog loose and have em run around in the back ground at the Barn raising? or in the kent house? or just outside? I mean come on!

We've also got some pretty cool FOTW's: the twins havent been done before on SMallville. Electro man has however, but a VERY long time ago (Pilot) so thats not that bad.

And we got a friggin fight with Lex that actually turns physical!! Awesome.

IS it just me, or do the characters seem more connected this season? Example:Last season we always had Lana and Jason talking about Witches, we always had LEx and Lionel talking about stones, and we had Clark and Chloe talking care of the FOTW's. Well, this season, we got Clark asking CHloe about Lex, We got Chloe and Clark working together, We got Lana and Clark together, we got Lana and the Kents together. Its like everyone has something to do with the others, if that makes sense, instead of just paring them off. The last time I remember seeing this I think was season 3.

Also, the ONE thing that makes this epsidoe one of my favorites yet is the twist that I wasnt expecting. This doesnt happen much for me. I cant think of an episode where I didnt remotely see what was going to happen before it happened. I mean yeah the bump in the beginning between Lex and the FOTWS was weird, but it was very sneakily done. it wasnt something I noticed the first watching.
Lex setting the entire thing up JUST to see if Clark really is superhuman. I cant tell you how cool I thought this was. All last week we were all wondering how DUMB is Lex? Well.. he obviously is catching on and FAST.

I also loved how we are actually seeing Smallville in the Summer!! All other seasons they always do that "3 months Later" crap. Season 2 was the last time we saw a season finalie opening up right where the premier left off. Season 2 was the last season to do this, but, even then the scond episode flashed forward 3 months to Chloe getting back from her intern, blah blah. We just MISSED 3 months! Season 3.. same thing, season 4. yep, no summer. I liked this because it was different.


Only thing that is a complete Cliche for this show is Clark losing abilities JUST at the right time. I mean wow. How LUCKY is he??

Okay, that was very long and rambled on, not very organized, but Im tired and I need to get off of here and go to bed so I am just writing as I think of things.

Overall, I absolutely love this episode and it, in my opinion is one of the top 5 FOTW episodes. VERY well written and FILLED with references and continuity. I mean Pete AND Alicia references. THATS what I wanted last season.


Originally posted by crush41gb
I really admired the episode. This show has a totally different 'feel' this year and it's a good one. I was afraid this episode would be a filler ep and stressful because CK didn't have his powers returned yet. But, it was handled carefully and so much happened that progressed the story and the lives/paths of the characters. Great job, everybody! :D


Is it just me or do the characters feel SO much more connected to each other?? Everything seems so much more organized writing and plot wise and I love how they arent trying to juggle 3 or 4 storylines in one episode. ONe main storyline, but one that Involves EVERYONE. Imean the scene in the caves with Lex and Chloe, spills over to the Level 3 crap with the flashlight! I mean, simple things like that are what gives this episode its strength. The writing is TEN TIMES better than a lot of last seasons episodes.

Also, I was like wait! wheres Lois? No mention? then I remembered that she is out of town! I was like wow, everythings covered! this is a first... great continuity


Originally posted by Poetic Chaos
I have very mixed feelings about this episode. Mainly because of the Clana. I hated it. Now I've never had anything against them being together, though I prefer Clois, but tonight just gave me reasons. Everytime they were on screen it was a friggin' cheese fest. I couldn't stand it. Add on to it that the relationship has caused Clark to undergo a total regression with his feelings towards his powers. He was finally starting to accept himself last season (like in Run) and now he has a "haven't I done enough" mentality. I'm looking pretty lowly on CK right now and I've ALWAYS been one of his defenders on these boards. It sucks to feel betrayed by a Tv character.

But other than Clark...I loved the episode. The Chlark was completely on tonight and really enjoyed Lex's and Chloe's exchange in the Cave. Highlight for me had to be Lex punching Clark back after just taking it at first. Granted Clark is justified but damn, he does nothing but judge Lex these days.

Dont really understand what you mean by this. Thought the CLana was great. I mean those 2 have such great chemistry after 4 years and its always been good, but now, It actually seems as if they are in Love and it may be kind of Cheesy, but Love and Romance has always been a part of Comics, especially Superman. Look at Spiderman. The MJ crap is ALWAYS cheesy in that movie.

He has no idea what hes going to become. HE doesnt know his powers are going to come back like we know. For all he knows, this is his punishment for not keeping his promise to Jor-el. I mean come on man, Clark THINKS he took care of the threat Jor-el warned him about. I mean why not think that? He doesnt know something else crawled out of that ship. We JUST saw Clark save the world last episode. Sure, he only saved Smallville, but, After Smallville, those Kryptonians would have taken over the ENTIRE world, not just SMallville, and CLark stopped them(was a little easy though, but whatever, he still stopped them).

All Clark wants is a life as normal as he can get it. Now, he can have that (he thinks at least) he can have a g/f and not lie to her (again, he has no idea it aint gonna last) and, he doesnt have to worry about anyone finding out his secret or hiding it.

I think Clark is is completely in character and is acting the way he SHOULD act in his situation. I mean he has just had the weight of the world lifted off his shoulders and that needs to be shown, which I believe it was.
Also, he seems MORE of a hero to me than ever. He saved the day WITHOUT powers! Like Chloe said, once a hero, always a hero. I loved how this episode showed us that its not the powers that make CLark a hero, its the Man himself.

[djpnutz]

Man this episode is one of the best if not THE best episodes in the whole SV series... NO it's not because of the CLANA or the SEX or anything, but when Clark's normal/powerless the writers have a new dynamic to put in because he's actually THERE... In the other episodes he's there for the news and the Bam he's at the trouble spot. In this one he had to cooperate with his friends to get the job done. He also finally got all those feelings out... I mean ALL!! Socking Lex was a shock at first, but then I realized what happened and was wanting him to whack him some more. The flow of the story was very fluid and smooth. Like other people mentioned, they did mention the past characters =) GO PETE! heh and it gave them more depth because of it. It showed that the writers don't just take out a new sheet of paper every episode... It was happening quite a lot during the last few seasons... i.e. filler episodes with little or no relevance. Again... I liked this because of the interaction between every character shown. I just feel bad for Tom... He's gonna have to start running in camera shots and stuff heh. No more green screen/computer animations for him... til later. Poor Tom.

[Poetic Chaos]

Sydafex7, valid points. But I just didn't like what I saw. I can let the mushy stuff go because hey, a lot of relationships are like that but Clark's attitude...a bit tougher to swallow. Even if he does think he's done with the Big Threat Jor-el was referring to, that doesn't mean the world stopped needing saving. He had abilities that could change the world for the better. And to that he says "it was a one time thing, that part of my life is done." Clark has been so selfless, so for him to be selfish now just seems wrong.

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by Poetic Chaos
Sydafex7, valid points. But I just didn't like what I saw. I can let the mushy stuff go because hey, a lot of relationships are like that but Clark's attitude...a bit tougher to swallow. Even if he does think he's done with the Big Threat Jor-el was referring to, that doesn't mean the world stopped needing saving. He had abilities that could change the world for the better. And to that he says "it was a one time thing, that part of my life is done." Clark has been so selfless, so for him to be selfish now just seems wrong.

I could see your point if Clark STILL had his powers and he refused to use them. THAT would be selfish. But he HAS NO POWERS. And like ive said 10 times before he doesnt know hes getting them back like we do. Im sure when they come back, he will use them for good... again...

You even said it yourself, he HAD abilities that could change the world for the better. Remember, he believes that he is not getting his powers back, because of this, he is NORMAL. He cant do the things he's done in the past. the ONLY reason he has been able to save so many lives is because of his abilities. Well, they are gone and you expect him to continue to save people? How?

WHy does it seem wrong? Does what Clark want NOT matter? Your right, he HAS been selfless for 4 years and has got NOTHING out of it but some hard learned lessons and a LOT of stress. He's lost a best friend, his first real shot at having a relationship with a girl (Alicia) he even lost his first shot with Lana (hes been blessed with a second chance). Clark has gone through soo much.. Can you blame him for wanting to just get rid of it all and be normal? He has NO idea HOW MUCH the world needs him. This is what we will hopefully see in "Aqua". In an interview here on the site, they said that Aquaman will teach Clark to start looking globally with his abilities, not just Smallville)



My Point is, He is constantly saving people, and what you seem
to be saying is that its not enough. He saves the WORLD in "Arrival" from Alien warriors, he has saved HUndreds of lives already throughout the 4 years and he isnt even full blown Suprman yet, hes a Teenager!!

Sometimes, you gotta do things for yourself. Clark DESERVES some "Clark" time. He has done MORE than enough these past 4 years, more than any other person on the PLanet! HE has already made a difference in the world, wether people in other countries, cities whatever see that. LIke I said those alien warriors would have taken over the world, but, An 18 year old from the middle of nowhere in the U.S Stopped them. People in other countries have NO IDEA what was so close to happening if he hadnt stopped them.


Again, Chloe said it best. Clark saves people everyday and doesn't take a single bit of the credit for it.

[SupermanLivesAgain]

I found mortal to be kinda of a let down but it was still fun with lots of clana. LEX CLARK fight was awesome..

Anyway decent episode looking for to many more

[knight150]

Over all liked the ep and the special effects. Seemed to me kinda like a soap opera with all the kisisng etc. I dont think i really like the way smallvile is portraying clark, kinda like he hates being superman and hes running from it whenever he can. Kinda kills the whole superman idea for me. And the fact that he was INTERUPTTED last ep while learning the information of the universe was just plain crazy to me. He wasnt interuppted in the movie, i dont think that they should have done it, but idk. But god is anyone else with me, LET THE POOR BOY FLY. He was supposted to fly when he turned 18 i believe. Hes like 27 playing a 19 year old and he cant and doesnt even wanna fly. Just though superman actually liked being superman. But overall give it 5 stars.

[trajet]

Originally posted by ~*Lois & Clark Fan*~
Am I the only one who thought this episode was a major snoozefest? The Wonder Twins, that was as cheesy as you can get, I mean they even put their fists together like the Wonder Twins from the old Superfriends cartoon, that just made me LMAO :rotfl:

The only and I mean only good parts of this episode were the Chlark scenes nothing else stood out :\

Well at least they didn't do the entire routine. I mean I prefer the stupid shield thing over the: "Shape of a Gopher!" and "Form of... Water!" plus, they didn't wear some cheesy purple suits or have a stupid monkey with them.

Instead they looked like sleep-deprived, sun-deprived, heroine addicts.

---------

Didn't enjoy Clana stuff, Chlark stuff ruled, they are so perfect in a team.

I still think that Lex, in general not just this episode, should be smarter. I mean, the man is a genius when he is an adult and I'm pretty sure he has a photgraphic memory. Instead he's dumb rich kid who's been investigating Clark since the first meeting, he should probably just go jump off a cliff and spare the world of a stupid bald guy.

[Green Hornet]

I thought it was a great episode...

Something hilarious happened thought while watching the barn raising scene.

When raising the barn I saw Clark and thought "Ok, hes pretending to pull" and half expecting that soon something goes a bit wrong and he looks around to see if anybodys watching just so he can save the day with his heat vision or what not. After awhile I remembered what had happened in Arrival, "oh yea, thats right, he lost his powers".
Continuity 1-0

Then soon after Clark goes to Lana and takes her hand. I thought "WTH are they doing...?" and again remembering what i had forgotten.
Continuity 2-0.

Maybe its the fact I mostly watch Smallville on DVD. So there are no long gaps or simply that for once, the episodes are linked... What ever the reason was, I loved it. For once I was suprised, several times actually. The episode kept me on my toes.

Also I used to hate Clana, now it felt natural. The end was kind of tacky and overdone but it was still good.

[b-baller]

I thought the episode was great, and I agree with many others that this season seems much different. I am glad to see everything that happened, happened. I was pleased to see how Clark handled things even though he did not have his powers, it showed that he can think things through, where as before he would just go and use his powers to stop people from harming others.

I thought the episode was great, and I agree with many others that this season seems much different. I am glad to see everything that happened, happened. I was pleased to see how Clark handled things even though he did not have his powers, it showed that he can think things through, where as before he would just go and use his powers to stop people from harming others.

[cayayofm]

Originally posted by LLJ
I think Dr. Walden was great proof since hes the only other person that could decipher the kryptonian language. The fact he was a liguist adds credence to it. Dont forget that Dr. Walden wrote or burned the kryptonian language on his ceiling in his room at the asylum which. Clark and Lex saw it for themselves.

As for Lex witnessing Clark bleed. I was thinking that Lex did remember the incidents in Onyx but apparently he doesnt. Which goes back to my original statement of recycled storylines ala amnesia.

I know it's dissapointing and recycled that Lex does not remember the events of Onyx, but I figured that if I wanted this season to work I had to put a block to season 4 as it never happened. I know it should not be this way but the events of season 4 doesn not make any sense, the characters had differents personalities and it would be to hard to try to make sense to last year. So Im taking each season as it comes. Now they would had to keep the continuty from this episode and I will be happy.

[lexobsessed]

Awesome, awesome, awesome. I loved it. Seeing Clark and Lana together made my heart melt. They looked so comfortable with eachother, more so than any other season. They looked like a normal couple in love. And I mean come on people they finally did IT. That's huge.

And the fight with Clark and Lex was great. It's what I thought we've all been waiting for. Everything is all out in the open.

This season to me so far just has a much more mature and compelling feel to it than all previous. I feel like the show is really progressing.

[mastadon]

20 takes is my guess for how many it took MR to keep a straight face for the Lex Lionel Belle Reve scene.

Looks like Kal el has a penis.

Good episode!

[SnarkMasterJ]

Okay, I'll bite. :)


GOOD STUFF:

- The Chlark...just...it was so on point last night, I couldn't even describe my elation. The jokes, the references, it was all wonderful. And of course, there is the quote of the ages:


"Who needs super powers when I've got you?"
- Chloe -- I love the girl. If I was a lesbian, I'd seriously want to date her. She's gorgeous, she's snarky...she's not a self-centered princess of double-standards...y'know...perfect.

- Human!Clark -- granted, he's kind of a snore just being "one of us", but he sure is hot. Very cute and vulnerable and clueless...wait. Nope, Super!Clark was clueless too. Never mind, cute and vulnerable it is.

- Lois didn't appear in the episode at all...not once. That's grounds for celebration.


BAD STUFF:

- One word: Clana. Y'know how when you recycle something numerous times and it gets really old and worn out and, well...useless? Yeah, that's Clana. There's nothing special about them, they're just another cheesy couple who ruins good love songs.

- The villains...wasn't really too enthused with them. I mean that whole story line was kind of lack-lustre, except when the twist came and we found out Lex orchestrated the whole thing.


JUST...STUFF:

- Yeah so, what was up with those guys wrist braces being so easy to get out of? I mean, bumping into someone and poof you're free? The Smallvillian Government needs to monitor what they're really spending tax dollars on.

- Clark was being pretty blase about not having his powers. Granted, if I'd spent most of my teenage years saving people without really anything in return, I'd probably be feinding for a break. But there is a difference between being tired and being naive. The problems aren't going anywhere, Clark -- the solutions are just going to be harder to find. Think about that.


All in all, the episode could've definitely done worse. It was a good second ep. And there was actual...*drum roll*...continuity. Almost had a heart attack from the shock.

I look forward to next week's ep. :)

[~*Lois & Clark Fan*~]

Originally posted by trajet
Well at least they didn't do the entire routine. I mean I prefer the stupid shield thing over the: "Shape of a Gopher!" and "Form of... Water!" plus, they didn't wear some cheesy purple suits or have a stupid monkey with them.

Instead they looked like sleep-deprived, sun-deprived, heroine addicts.

---------


Honestly I expected them to say "Wonder twin powers activate" :lol: That's how cheesy it was :lol:

[ProudPenny]

Post your general "I loved it/ I hated it" thoughts here. Please don't everyone each start a "Best/worst episode ever!" thread. Thanks. =)

[Jellie]

I have just started watching the episode and I like what I see so far. Go clana

I also liked the superman 4 reference ''no pain no gain '' :lol:

[Brainiac_13]

Did you guys install a 24-hour delay policy on this section or something?

[Crazy4Smallville]

Crazy4Smallville’s Weekly Review

Season 5
Episode 2
"Mortal”

As much as I thought that I would hate this episode, I was genuinely surprised by it, and I enjoyed it tremendously. There were elements I hated about it, but overall I think it was well acted, well written and well executed.

But, as much as I was pleased, I was also very highly disappointed with some of the aspects of the storyline.

I am going to jump right to Clark and Lex first, because their storyline just jumps right out at you. Do you know what happens when you strip an all powerful alien of his powers? He gets a little common sense on one end and becomes totally hopeless on the other. Clark is definitely starting to grow up. Clark was able to foil Lex Luthor’s plans – all the while knowing that Lex had something to do with it. He put the pieces of the puzzle together for himself. I have to say that even I was shocked at how much Lex was involved, yet Clark had him pegged and confronted him about it. When Lex started with his ‘I was hoping to have a fresh start’ mantra – I noticed my brain was starting to shut down, because I’d heard the same speech over and over. But, when Clark reared back and knocked him one, I thought okay, this is getting interesting. When he exposed Lex’s plans – and Lex didn’t have a rebuttal – I jumped up to the edge of my seat. But, when Lex finally saw that Clark wasn’t going to be hoodwinked again, blocked Clark’s swing and hit back, I jumped in the air. IT’S ABOUT TIME!

The previews had you thinking that ‘everything you’ve been waiting for’ was about the relationship with Clark and Lana, but it was with Clark and Lex stepping into the roles they were destined to play. Alexander surfaced to the top, took off his Lex mask and exposed himself. NOW things will get interesting. So, YES – that was what I’ve been waiting to see for four years now.

Clark’s done a lot of growing up. He’s starting to finally realize some truths about himself and see a purpose for his powers, instead of viewing them as a burden and shame. I think he got a little taste of how limited a human really is, and how much more (with his powers) he’ll be able to do the thing that comes natural to him (whether it be by Kryptonian nature or human nature) and that is to be a “hero”. I think he’s starting to realize that it’s not his powers that make him a hero, but his heart and his passion. Clark has went around for four years thinking that he’s become Smallville’s ‘self appointed hero’ out of his guilt for being the cause of the meteor showers and the result to all the ‘freaks’, and because he has these super powers it’s his ‘responsibility’ to help. Well, now that he doesn’t have any superpowers, he’s still out saving people – yet he can’t do his job the way he was made to do. When a person does something, they should do it to the fullest, and Clark is beginning to realize that he’s a hero (with or without powers) and can now see the benefit of having the powers.

But, where he’s still his weakest is when it comes to Lana Lang. Now, granted – I actually enjoyed their exchanges at the barn raising and even their ‘secret moment’ in the barn. It didn’t bother me, made me want to hurl or even get upset. I thought it was sweet. I really admired Clark for telling Lana that she deserves their first time to be as special as she was. That was honorable, that was touching – and I found it to be heartfelt. I even liked their surprised expressions when they realized that the other was still a virgin, especially Clark’s. The look on his face was priceless. I’m also glad that at the end of the episode, they didn’t give us a free peek.

Yet, I’m disappointed! Clark has once again showed that his word isn’t worth anything. He promised Lana a special time – not a convenient one. Yes, he just nailed the proverbial coffin of his friendship with Lex shut – but that was not a reason or circumstance for them to have gone any farther than comforting one another (if that’s what happened). If Clark truly desired for that moment to have been special with Lana, then he would have done it after he made a commitment to her. Dating her isn’t a commitment. Even under the influence of Red K – he made a commitment with Alicia (even if it was her idea) – yet with the one he supposedly has loved all of his life – he changes it in for a moment of depression? I know many of you will probably disagree with me on this point – but there are those of us in the world that truly honor a committed relationship and view intimacy between two people as one of the most sacred and cherished of acts that two people committed to each other can share. Yet, we live in a society (especially in the world of the WB) that views it as a moment of convenience, as leverage, to be exploited for personal gain, to be used to fulfill a selfish desire, abused and perverted. If he loves her enough to be intimate with her, then why doesn’t he love her enough to honor her by first giving her a commitment before asking her to share her most intimate gift she could ever offer? Maybe his ‘human’ emotions were too much for him?

An aspect of the episode that I didn’t fully understand was Lana’s obvious disdain for Lex. Why does she so openly hate him? What has he done to her? Let’s see – he tried to get her out of Smallville during the meteor shower in one of his helicopters after he had been trying to protect her from going to jail for murdering Genevieve Teague. He found her in the middle of the road, took her back to his mansion, cleaned her up and left her alone. She wasn’t a prisoner and could leave at any time. She then lured two aliens back to his mansion, who tore up the place. Oh, and then he takes the murdered body of the woman she killed and made it look like she was killed by the meteor shower to keep Lana from going to prison, because I don’t think the defense of “I was possessed by a witch when I killed her” would work too well. So, why the disdain for a man who seems to have only helped her? Because of the shame of her own guilt and the burden of the secret she now has to carry.

The exchange between Chloe and Lex was awesome. It revealed to us how Lex has been feeling over the past few weeks – as a third wheel. He was pulling a ‘Lionel’ on Chloe, trying to play off her emotions about Clark, but it backfired. Chloe wasn’t falling for that a second time. I just KNEW that Lex was standing behind Chloe when she was standing at the table and mentioned Clark. Lex always has a way of being in the right place at the right time. I’ve always said that he’s seen too much, and overheard too much to not know what was truly going on.

Poor Lex though – after all this time, everything he thought he knew he now questions, because Clark conveniently lost his powers – AGAIN. He was right about Clark, but he went all wrong on trying to expose that truth. But, I’m glad to see Alexander back. I like him much better than Lex.

I LOVED the banter between Chloe and Clark. Clark struggling to do the most menial of tasks was a sight to see. Chloe’s nonchalant attitude through the whole episode was great. She truly loves Clark and has shown her dedication and loyalty. But, what she has shown Clark (which I’ve known all along) is that it’s not the powers that you have that make you a hero. She’s never had a superpower, yet she helps ‘save the day’ as much as Clark does. She’s insightful, inventive and ingenious when it comes to ‘solving the clue’ of the day. She’s a modern day Nancy Drew with a few more attributes. I love Nancy Drew – but I love Chloe Sullivan even more. She’s the new super sleuth for the new generation.

I was so glad to see my favorite sheriff return. Two things really stuck out – her overwhelming affection for coffee, and her blunt approach to all things Smallville. Her line about being just another day in Smallville, when the cop was pointing out the invisible field was priceless. I really do hope they keep her around. I love her humor, I love her accent and I love to see her on the screen. She’s sharp as whip, and doesn’t miss a thing. She played her part cool and then went right into action.

WE saw the Kent’s resilience again. Once again they’re held hostage and Jonathan gets tossed around, yet doesn’t have a mark to show for it. For a brief moment, during his fight exchange, I saw Bo Duke emerge. It was awesome.

The three stooges did nothing for me. They were really stupid. What did they think they were going to do once they got their ‘fix’? Keep going back to the Kent’s to get the next one? They weren’t too bright, and they didn’t really explain their powers too well. At one point – Mo said that the experience enhanced what they already had – so were they meteor freaks or were they some of the people Lex had hidden from level 33.5 that had been enhanced by kryptonite? Mo, had powers that he seemed to get from electricity, while Larry and Curly had this force field type of gift. Either way, neither was impressive. I thought they did a great job portraying addicts in need of their next hit. They’re relevance to the story wasn’t apparent until the end of the episode when it was revealed that they had been part of Lex’s plan to expose Clark.

There was a lot in this episode. Even as long winded as this review is, I’m sure I missed quite a bit. I thought this was an exciting episode. Though I dreaded it, I was very pleased with it.

This has been Crazy4Smallville’s weekly review. Till Next Time!

[chrismen]

If last week's episode didn't have that scene with Chloe this would have been much better. LOVED IT!

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by Poetic Chaos
Sydafex7, valid points. But I just didn't like what I saw. I can let the mushy stuff go because hey, a lot of relationships are like that but Clark's attitude...a bit tougher to swallow. Even if he does think he's done with the Big Threat Jor-el was referring to, that doesn't mean the world stopped needing saving. He had abilities that could change the world for the better. And to that he says "it was a one time thing, that part of my life is done." Clark has been so selfless, so for him to be selfish now just seems wrong.

The theme of pretty much the whole show is the struggle between what Clark wants and who he is. He has always wanted pretty much the same things (i.e. to be with Lana, to hang out with his friends, etc.) normal teenagers want. On the other hand, he is Kal-El the Last Son of Krypton. What made "Mortal" great was to show that the path he takes to become Superman has nothing to do with his powers. The guy just cannot resist being a hero, since it is the example he learned from the Kents.

The mushy stuff with Lana is pretty much the most important thing in the series. They have danced around it way too long. Clark and Lana don't work out. He leaves her to embrace his destiny. If the viewer is not invested in them as a couple, then who cares about that decision? They wasted all of Season 4 with the Witch plot-line, so they are behind the 8-ball this year. A lot of viewers moved on from the Clana much faster than TPTB did.

[Kal-El1138]

It was an alright episode. Clark's interactions with Chloe were priceless.

"Gosh, Clark. I didn't know super-whining was one of your abilites." :rotfl:

That's just awesome.

Clark and the three Krypto-freaks interactions. AWESOME. Very Superman-esque stuff from Tom. :)

The Clana......:\

The only thing I didn't like about the episode. I'd rather watch "Unsafe", "Pariah" and "Obsession" in rapid succession than watch any more Clana. Anybody know when the Clana ends this year?

Other than that, though. "Mortal" was fairly entertaining. I liked seeing Clark do something without super-powers, and everybody(including Rosey) was spot-on acting wise. Oh, and the guy who played Tommy Lee kicked ass.

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by knight150
Over all liked the ep and the special effects. Seemed to me kinda like a soap opera with all the kisisng etc. I dont think i really like the way smallvile is portraying clark, kinda like he hates being superman and hes running from it whenever he can. Kinda kills the whole superman idea for me. And the fact that he was INTERUPTTED last ep while learning the information of the universe was just plain crazy to me. He wasnt interuppted in the movie, i dont think that they should have done it, but idk. But god is anyone else with me, LET THE POOR BOY FLY. He was supposted to fly when he turned 18 i believe. Hes like 27 playing a 19 year old and he cant and doesnt even wanna fly. Just though superman actually liked being superman. But overall give it 5 stars.

See my above post.

He doesnt hate being Superman. Hes NOT even superman yet. Clark THINKS the reason he was sent to Earth was to stop an impending doom from drestroying mankind. Well, Clark THINKS he did this already and his work is done. He has no Idea the impending doom wasnt the Kryptonian Warriors, but the creature inside the ship which is now loose.

Why are people being so selfish? Clark has saved lives for the past 4 years. Hundreds and hundreds. IF you consider the fact that he saved the entire planet from being taken over by aliens, then he has techincally saves Billions. SO lets get this straight a Teenager from the middle of nowhere saved billions of lives, and took ZERO credit for it. NONE. No one even REALIZES how close they all were to death. So again why is everyone being so selfish with this?

On top of that, CLark saved the day AGAIN. thid time WITH OUT POWERS. This alone made me see the Superman in him more than any other time the past season, maybe even the third season also. As Chloe said Once a hero always a hero. Clark will learn this once Aquaman teaches him to start thinking globally with his powers and not just locally. You'll see.

Why cant Clark have some 'Clark time'??

[Liriel]

We're not selfish. We don't gain anything my Clark keeping up the heroism - he's fictional. Demanding, maybe, but not selfish.

I don't mind Clark having "Clark time" - I do mind a heroic, well superhero, not being the hero. Superman, unlike Spidey or Bats, has always been the hero driven to go out and do good because that was his innate nature. The one who did good for no other reason than he had the ability to do so. So for him to be saying "hey, life without powers - I can get the girl now (no matter if I'm keeping secrets from her that I really think would matter to her)."

Yeah, I know he's not Superman yet. But he's finished high school. It's time for him to be moving towards that. I know we'll see it in the future, but I'm ready to see it now.

[RedKalEL]

Originally posted by opticon
it was a very strong second epy the premice seemed fresh to me and the dynamic between chloe and clark was very good. and clark for once actually saw the bigger picture to what lex was doing and actually confronted him mad props to the writers on this one.

and a very special thank you to who ever picked out chloes outfits for that show

Steven S. DeKnight best smallville wrtier ever besdies gough and millar

[thmallville]

I thought that last night's episode was OK. The barn raising was quite corny, and though Clark throwing the kryptonite was symbolic of him being normal and the meteor shower wasn't going to affect his life much, the whole act made me laugh out loud. Also, someone without powers for the first time in his life who just helped raise a barn structure wouldn't have much stregnth to chase after his girlfriend. He didn't seem winded at all. The whole "electrical boys" concept was poorly written and had no effect on the show at the end of the episode, so i will not further elaborate on it. I have been recently having "second thoughts" about Lex, and I have decided that, after "Mortal", he is totally evil. When Clark started punching Lex, my cousin and i started singing:
I get knocked down
But I get up again
You're never gonna bring me down
repeat
i don't know who sings it. When Lana starts cleaning his cut, i wondered: wouldn't kleenex stick to his congealing blood? it didn't seem to clean it at all, either. If i were Lana, i wouldn't ----- with Clark after, either. Ew! Blood all over my mouth! Anyhoo, i thought the ending was so cute, but my one problem was that they've been together for a few weeks, max. and they're already --------? I mean, i know Clark had a crush on her for 4 years, but they can't be THAT in love. I know i want Clana, but that seemed a little rushed.

Also, wasn't Clark supposed to get shot and die in "Mortal"? i know Kryptonsite.com said it was next week, but the WB previews last week showed him dying this week. Dang, i wanted to see him flatline. Good work, Kryptonsite. Bad, WB.
So: final recap: The episode was OK, the three thugs was boring, Clana was cute, and Clark didn't die.
P.S. Corny line: "Sometimes, it's best just to turn the power off."

[Poetic Chaos]

Why are people being so selfish? Clark has saved lives for the past 4 years. Hundreds and hundreds. IF you consider the fact that he saved the entire planet from being taken over by aliens, then he has techincally saves Billions. SO lets get this straight a Teenager from the middle of nowhere saved billions of lives, and took ZERO credit for it. NONE. No one even REALIZES how close they all were to death. So again why is everyone being so selfish with this?

Yeah he saved the world, but there shouldn't be a quota when it comes to helping people. Not for a hero. Much less a superhero.

[finchy4]

i didn't really like this episode. fotw's are necessary to a point, but i thought this week's guys were lame. and to top it all off we had clark sounding like a %$##$ when he was talking to lana. this isn't like lois and clark when you wanted them to be together, i think more people hate lana than like her. they wasted an entire episode on some lame fotw's and lana and clark getting together. oh, and then they just threw in there the rift between lex and clark....cuz that shouldn't get it's own episode!!

what a joke, not impressed, not what i waited to see at all

[TomsGirl42677]

I wasn’t sure where to post my review, here or under the topic “‘Mortal’ – loved it? Hated it? What did you think?” This one seemed the more popular of the two, so I went with this one...



I don’t usually post, as you can see by the number of my posts below, but I always “lurk”, reading what everyone else has to say. (I totally love this site, btw. Kudos.) For some reason, I felt I had to reply to this topic... (It took me so long to reply because I’m at work and have been trying to write this between patients and transcription. LOL)

First off, I absolutely LOVED this entire episode, from start to finish. I’m one of the few, it seems, that have been rooting for Clark and Lana since the pilot and it was very satisfying for me to see them finally able to be together. I would have to rank “Mortal” as one of my top ten favorite episodes in the entire “Smallville” series, but not just because of that...

I love Chloe, and I feel for her because she has been crazy about Clark longer than Lana has, but I’d like she and Clark to remain strictly friends, - I don’t want to see that ruined by an attempt to take their relationship to “another level”. I think their friendship is going to be the best relationship out of all relationships this entire season, now that she knows his secret and he has someone, other than his parents, who accept him for who/what he truly is (since Pete moved away in season three). I loved the interaction between Clark and Chloe in their scenes at Level 3, - especially the scene where Clark is crawling through the air ducts and Chloe’s comments about “super-whining” and “Pete got to see your spaceship?!”

The scene at the end between Clark and Lex was one of my absolute favorite scenes in the entire episode. Seeing Clark act somewhat “bad-assed” when NOT on red kryptonite was thrilling, and sexy. I loved seeing him stand up to Lex. And knowing Lex is truly starting to become who/what we all know he eventually becomes, is amazing and exciting. (In “Onyx” last season I got chills to see the truly evil side of Lex. Michael is a terrific actor...)

Now, I’ve never been a huge Superman fan. I’ve seen the movies but that’s about it. Yes, “Smallville” has many of the same characters as the Superman movies and takes much of its mythology from Superman lore and legend, and yes, Clark Kent eventually becomes Superman, but one has to remember that “Smallville” is a different story than that of the Superman movies. For example, as far as I remember there is no Chloe Sullivan at the Daily Planet in the Superman movies. If “Smallville” were to continue to the point where Clark starts working there himself, he would obviously already have a friend there. Also, in “Smallville” Clark and Lois are already friends. In “Superman”, if I’m remembering correctly, Lois and Clark didn’t meet until their days together at the Daily Planet. And didn’t Clark meet Lana for the first time at college in one of the Superman movies? (I don’t want to offend anyone who is a die hard Superman fan, so correct me if I’ve been mistaken regarding anything I’ve just said. I haven’t seen any of the Superman movies for a very long time.) Now, unless everyone’s memories get wiped out at some point in the future of “Smallville”, which I’m not saying couldn’t happen, if “Smallville” were to continue on until it “converged” with where half-way through the first Superman movie Clark ends up at the Daily Planet, which I’m not saying IS going to happen (although I’m sure many of us, myself included, would love to see “Smallville” continue indefinitely), it would end up being a completely different movie. Wouldn’t you agree?

And, in general, I guess I’ve never understood why Clark Kent/Superman couldn’t have intimate relationships with mortal women unless he himself was mortal. (I’m sure there’s been an explanation, but I personally don’t remember one.) Now, regarding “Smallville”, until Clark was stripped of his powers by Jor-El, once he was able to get a handle on each of his developing abilities (sans magic or scientific phenomena), he has been able to control them (i.e. his physical strength and speed while playing football). So, why wouldn’t he be able to control this new “ability” (i.e. sexual intimacy) in a relationship with Lana once Jor-El returns his powers to him...?

I had another paragraph, but realized it included a spoiler, so I had to ditch it. LOL

Okay, this post ended up being longer than I meant it to be. LOL Please remember that these are strictly my own personal thoughts and opinions... Thank you to those that took the time to read this...!

[kmichals]

I know this was from a couple of posts ago but I was thinking the same thing.


*****
The very end was weird though when they panned over to the window, and then just went up to the stars? I thought they may show Lex spying or something... LOL
*****

I taped the show and kept rewinding looking for come kind of spy camera. Maybe a reflection in the mirror of clark and lana would have been a better choice. not sure?


Like the eps very much. The FOTW were better than normal I thought.

[chlana_sandwich]

Definitely, I could have done without the FOTW boys. The only redeeming point about them was that Lex instigated their release from BelleReve. Even that was a stretch, insomuch as Clark connected the dots with no real evidence. I guess the fact that there was video surveillance on Level 3 and "someone" was watching is enough to convict Lex. In this day and age, it would be surprising if there weren't video surveillance in or near a secured vault!

[GhostRider]

Wow. What a great episode. And they didn’t even have Brainiac in this one. People, this season is going to be AWESOME.

If you remember last week I griped about screen time wasting recaps. They got rid of that this week thanx to me. Kneel before GR. :p

We start off with a shot of the same fence that Lex tried to climb over in Asylum. That set up the scene with Lex and Lionel in the sanatorium, a total juxtaposition of the end of Shattered with Lex putting his hand on the glass. So the son becomes the father. Next we get introduced to the obligatory FoTW’s. OK, I liked “Tommy Lee” since he had ‘tude plus it was cool how he redirected power instead of just creating it which will be important later on. However the other two were a tad silly. If you’re going to do a shout out to the Wonder Twins, at least make one a girl. A hot girl. If you’re looking for negatives this is the only one so read it twice. ;)

Next we see Clark at a good ole’ fashioned barn raising; I thought he was mortal now not Amish. :p Watching Clark being normal, and happy, was great. This entire scene had the feel of dream, what Clark has always wanted. Chloe seemed to symbolize Clark’s conscience, asking him if it was what he really wanted. (First good line Destiny is just another word for not having a choice.” Lana’s bitter comment about Lex being “a real hero” says she remembers his actions from before. And next Clark gives Lex one last chance when they are talking about rebuilding. It’s not has heartbreaking as I would have hoped though.

Ok, this next scene is a Clana fan’s dream. Or a Clark fan like me who just wants to see him happy for once. They are totally cute together and still very dreamlike. Lana wants to clear the air, Clark want to just let it go, so they do. They go to the loft and act like any young couple in love. Some of the dialogue is a bit cheesy but as I think back to my first time I’m pretty sure I said some cheesy things so that’s just realism. They mention Alicia and Jason to mark how rare occasion this truly is, at least on SV, you know continuity and all. The best part for me was when Clark thought his parents just showed up; been there, done that, got a backwards T-shirt. :lol: Of course it’s the FoTW’s Clarkie boy.

Tommy is seriously kicking Clark’s butt and licking his girl. Like I said, he has ‘tude.

Chloe and Lex are in the cave and I’m really hoping for some Chlex this season, not the romantic kind, but Chloe is stepping up to the plate intellectually speaking. And she looks hot. I’ve heard being a third wheel is very time consuming. Man, that’s brutal. Clark and Lana are finally together, they’re happy. That’s all that should matter to a real friend. But Lex isn’t a real friend is he? And Chloe knows it. The verbal judo about the ship was great.

The next scene gives the backstory on the freaks, Lex has restarted the Level 3 experiments and has been trying to increase their powers. And it puts some questions in Lana’s mind about Clark, if the stories are true that is. Anyway his parents show up and Clark throws a hissy fit which is probably the smartest thing I’ve ever seen him do, too bad it didn’t work. JK’s heart takes another hit when he gets shock. Don’t worry, his hair is still perfect.

Here we get a tiny recap like last week. I’ve finally figured out why; they’re trying to snag viewers when Everybody Hates Chris on UPN in over. Sneaky.

This next scene is just totally awesome. And Chloe looks hot, if I haven’t mentioned that already. :p She’s definitely the brains of the outfit. We get some explanation about how Chloe does what she does and Clark is amazed; he asks her why she never showed him before and she replies that we all have secrets. I actually saw a light bulb go on above his head. Next great line: So what you’re saying is that now that you’re human you have absolutely no useful skills. Nope. Nyet. Nada.

Back to the freaks; best line Baby, you’ll know when I freak out. Quite stealing my lines. :p

Chloe is soooo the brains here as she directs Clark through the duct system. And she delivers the one line we’ve all so wanted to hear: Gosh Clark, I didn’t realize super-whining was one of your powers. That made the entire episode right there. Being a guy Clark tells her that Pete was better at pep talks that her. The ship comes up and this was so cute, AM is great. And Clark can’t even manage to make a left. I guess since he’s human now he’s just a BD. :)

Back at the Kent house everybody’s fighting. I guess Clark won’t be the first guy Lana nails after all. :p I still don’t like the twins but Tommy ‘tude is great. Ain’t this the right pickle.

Chloe and Clark break into the inner sanctum. Notice here that Chloe says “Wow” with the exact same inflections that Lois did when she saw Clark’s strength in Blank. I don’t know if that was intentional or not but it was cool. Anyway Chloe is talking about Lex’s thumbprint and I find myself just staring at her chest. Does that make me a bad person?

At the Kent farm, the sheriff is finally starting to clue in all the weirdness going on. The best part here is when Lana says Clark will find a way to get them out of it as he always does. The look on JK’s and Martha’s faces was priceless; it said “we’re boned.”

OK, mark this day, Clark’s super brain has finally started to kick in. He actually outsmarts Tommy ‘tude here. Best lines: This is not the time to be a hero……I’m not!!!!!! But he is. What’s really cool is they link Chloe’s line about it being easier just to turn the power off to this, that’s good writing.

The aftermath. The dialog here was a little corny but I’m still staring at Chloe’s chest. Anyway Clark is still in his dream Chloe’s still playing his conscience, and gives him a big does of reality about Lex. I’m not sure what Lex meant here by “This is impossible.” but Clark comes in swinging. OK, this is somewhat OCC for Clark since Lex wasn’t actively hurting someone. But I’m going to chalk it up to boiled over emotions from a pre-Superman which I’m fine with. What I really liked was that Clark really caught him and wasn’t just making half-assed accusations. You want to test me? You want to see what I’m really made of? Do it yourself you coward…….Satisfied?

OK, here it is, five years in the making THE CLANA SEX SCENE. I still find it incredulous that so much controversy was over something so normal. Next line: God, you’re a mess. Yeah, right now he is. I think this was filmed very well, they were both at their knees before each other. It could have been a bit more explicit and still be very tasteful. In any case I’m glad to see my boy finally get the girl next door and find happiness. But hey, like I said before, it’s just a dream. It won’t last, because unlike me he’s Superman.

This has been by review. If you like it don’t tell me, just send money. No personal checks please. ;)

[redhawk979]

mortal was a good episode, i mean the freak of the week were a little weird but overall it was well written and the whole pete reference was great and lana clark was kinda corny but overall it was good, i love how jonathan always get hsi ass kicked n comes out fine thats great makes my laugh everytime, clark was just really cool in this episode n the lex clark was great...lex def feels like such a dick

[mario masta]

I liked Mortal. I'll admit, when I first saw the teaser and the FOTW's, I was thinking "Ohh God..." but as the episode progressed, it made much more sense and tied together very well (Lex setting the whole thing up.) Also, despite the fact that I don't like Clana, I'm glad that Lana isn't a total ***** like she was last year. :p

8/10

[LifeFirst]

Here are some thoughts on this episode

- It was AWESOME seeing Lex turn more and more evil. I mean, everyone is just screwing with him. I can't believe he didn't kidnap Chloe and put a gun to her head. That would have made my day. But this guy really makes a very very convincing Lex. He looks like he is forced to become the villain. And I loved how he's trying to kill his father now.


- Clark is so stupid, I don't understand why would still want Lana after all that nonsense last season. Chloe is obviously the better girl for Clark. Lana doesn't even have a major role anymore, I mean, if she dissapeared we would have never known.


- The freaks were again, ridiculous and unnecessary. I hate how this show always have to depend on them to make the story go forward. And I didn't like how they were so weak, Clark punched him once and he was out?? That's ridiculous. I didn't like that.


- A lot of things didn't make sense, like how Chloe is also a computer wiz that can hack into Luthorcorp?? Isn't that place supposed to have state of the art security??


- But putting all the nonsense aside, it was a decent above-average episode.


4/5

[dhacker615]

Excellent post overall. Let me address your points in order:


Originally posted by TomsGirl42677
Now, I’ve never been a huge Superman fan. I’ve seen the movies but that’s about it. Yes, “Smallville” has many of the same characters as the Superman movies and takes much of its mythology from Superman lore and legend, and yes, Clark Kent eventually becomes Superman, but one has to remember that “Smallville” is a different story than that of the Superman movies. For example, as far as I remember there is no Chloe Sullivan at the Daily Planet in the Superman movies. If “Smallville” were to continue to the point where Clark starts working there himself, he would obviously already have a friend there. Also, in “Smallville” Clark and Lois are already friends. In “Superman”, if I’m remembering correctly, Lois and Clark didn’t meet until their days together at the Daily Planet. And didn’t Clark meet Lana for the first time at college in one of the Superman movies?

I think there was a 'Superboy" show a few years back that had Clark and Lana meet in college. However, that is not most versions of the story. In general, they meet in High School and she is his girlfriend. During the 1950s, Lana and Clark continued to see each other into adulthood. Those stories mostly had Lana serving as a romantic rival to Lois Lane.

I do not know of any prior version of the story that has placed Lois in Smallville. Mostly, she meets Superman when he saves her from some sort of disaster. More often than not, she is is both frightened of and attracted to Superman when they first meet. She then meets Clark Kent and has the opposite reaction.

Chloe Sullivan is a totally new character. She has never been seen at the Planet, nor around the adult Clark Kent. Maybe that means something, or maybe not.


(I don’t want to offend anyone who is a die hard Superman fan, so correct me if I’ve been mistaken regarding anything I’ve just said. I haven’t seen any of the Superman movies for a very long time.) Now, unless everyone’s memories get wiped out at some point in the future of “Smallville”, which I’m not saying couldn’t happen, if “Smallville” were to continue on until it “converged” with where half-way through the first Superman movie Clark ends up at the Daily Planet, which I’m not saying IS going to happen (although I’m sure many of us, myself included, would love to see “Smallville” continue indefinitely), it would end up being a completely different movie. Wouldn’t you agree?

In Season 1-3, I had assumed that "Smallville" was a loose prequel to the Richard Donner Superman films. It had mostly played that way and the writers had admitted their debt to those films early and often. The final episode of Season 3 and much of Season 4 were radical departures in that way.

(As an aside: Given how the series has chosen to play Jor-El, they blew an easy plot-line by introducing and quickly dropping a pseudo-Kryptonian named Kara was a waste. I mean, if the survival of the Kryptonian race is at stake, then wouldn't you send a male and a female? But, what if they aren't into each other that way? Wouldn't that be an easy complication in season that Clark & Lana are dating?)

Then, as good an episode as "Crusade" was (and no matter how well Erica Durance came to play Lois) I felt sort of betrayed. What made it worse was how badly Lois was used in most episodes. Taking all of that into account, I have no idea if 'Smallville' has anything more than a moderate similarity in production design in common with Superman I & II.


And, in general, I guess I’ve never understood why Clark Kent/Superman couldn’t have intimate relationships with mortal women unless he himself was mortal. (I’m sure there’s been an explanation, but I personally don’t remember one.) Now, regarding “Smallville”, until Clark was stripped of his powers by Jor-El, once he was able to get a handle on each of his developing abilities (sans magic or scientific phenomena), he has been able to control them (i.e. his physical strength and speed while playing football). So, why wouldn’t he be able to control this new “ability” (i.e. sexual intimacy) in a relationship with Lana once Jor-El returns his powers to him...?


I have mixed feelings about the whole 'no sex & powers at the same time' rule from Superman II. If I had to guess, I would say it came from the short story "Man of Steel, Woman of Kleenex" by Larry Niven that can be read here:
http://www.rawbw.com/~svw/superman.html

It is a concept that makes more sense to virginal teenage boys than to most adults, I think. However, it does add a certain aura of sadness to Superman. It makes his isolation a bit more literal.

[Lana_Lang #1]

This episode was a dream come true!!! It WAS everything I've been waiting to see and more!!! Plus CONTINUITY!!!

Smallville at it's best and the demographics prove it!

[j03superbat]

I'd like to start off by saying that this episode started off sloooooooooow. Which was okay. Thankfully, the episode picked up speed after the Trio of Villains find Clark goin' for it in the barn. From there on out, it's a suspenseful episode right up until Clark defeats the villain using his wits.

Now for the complaints:
- Kryptonite should still hurt Clark.
- At the end of Act III (I think it was), Chloe finds the flashlight Lex had touched and smiles. This goes on for about eight seconds and then commercials. Editors, we don't need that much time to figure out what Chloe's thinking. And compared to the previous Act Ender, it was pretty anticlimatic - now if she had found a gun, that would have been a helluva suspencful moment and a kick-ass time to go to commercials. Minor complaint.
- I don't like that Clark is happy that he's lost his powers. In Season One, it would have worked because he really wanted to be normal, but it's been four years and he apparently feels the same way. Ditto with the heights - not counting his flying session as Jor-El, Clark's been in the air plenty of times and IMO should have gotten over that by now. Why does this matter? It makes the viewer feel as if there has been no progression. It's been four years, and the Kents have still failed to drill into Clark's head that he's special because of how he chooses to use his powers and losing them will not make anyone love him any more. It shouldn't matter to him whether he has them or not.
- But it does, because as soon as he loses them, he decides to drop the hero act. Well being a hero is what he's best at and powers or no powers, being a hero is what defines him. The comment at the end about it "being a one-time thing" is a big step backwards for Clark. He's so focused on being normal that he doesn't want to help without his powers. Someone should smack you, Clark.
- Cardboard villains we're all used to.
- Wasn't Level 3 just a warehouse when the man with jitters broke into it? Maybe I just don't remember Lionel or Lex commenting on restarting operations there... or keeping Kryptonite cocktails handy.

But there are plenty of good things:
- No Lois.
- Evil Lex.
- Belle Reve.
- Heroic Jonathan.
- Sheriff Adams at her best.

It's the simple good things that keep "Mortal" good overall.

[NewAgeJesus]

Yeah.. I liked it.

[LoisNClark]

i really liked this episode

we could all see some continuity in this ep. There were Pete, Alicia, and Jason comments.

The chloe and Clark scene at Luthorcorp was excellent and funny.

I really liked the powerless clark and how even without powers he was still able to save the day. It was good to see that it's not just Clark's abilities that makes him a superhero, but his care for his family and those he loves, and more.

As a TC lover this episode was also a major plus, with clark getting punched, electocuted, burned, thrown, and punched again by Lex.

I was very nervous before this episode about the clana scene but i was surprised in a good way to see that they didn't go crazy with the scene and kept a lot of it off camera.

I have to say i really like the character of Lana during this episode. Much better than the past four seasons.

The highlight in the episode was the Clark/Lex fight. All the dialect from clark during it was amazing and i especially loved clark's face when he said "Satisfied"

The actors did an amazing job in this ep!!!! Especially Tom Welling and Allison Mack...Kristin also did very well i thought and her name was spelled right...:)

one complaint for this episode were the wonder twins. They were extremely annoying.

9.6/10....because of those stupid wonder twins:p

[last man of krypton]

Too tired to go into any great depth, but I loved this episode. A lot went on and none of the separate storylines suffered. Oh, and seeing Bo Kent fight! Awesome!

[clark25]

Ya it did start off kind of slow but it
got to the good stuff later on.Boy it finaly
happen the fight between Lex and Clark
we have all been wanting to see for five
years boy talking about giving Lex what
for finaly.I was rooting for Clark all the
way.But I felt bad for Lex though he
should have knew better then to be spying on Clark.And to I noticed a
few refernces to Superman IV like
no pain no gain I smiled at that part.
And also the Pete reference was great
I always wondered what Chloe's reaction would be to Pete knowing who
Clark really was.Anywho great episode
a little slow at first but it made up for
it in the end

[spideyfan]

Acting was flawless on all accounts...The characters are being developed extremely well...

Lex is a total bad ass and there is no turning back now.

Lana and CK, well it was inevitable,...now enough with the sexuality and back to Supes!

Chloe had the Midas touch in this episode. Every line was pure golden! Allison Mack is leagues above what she thinks she's capable of.

The mentioning of Pete, Alicia, Jason, and CK's ship was great! Good to see Pete is NOT fully forgotten.

The LEx/Clark fight was memorable! Very well done and very assertive Clark! Im glad Lex got the last punch and saw the "mortal" CK personally.

Did anyone else catch LEx say "impossible" when watching clark get hit in the video footage...Lex knows about atleast invurnablity!!!

Bo Kent is awesome and in great shape!

In the end this was a GREAT episode and I give it a 9/10.
One of the best I have seen from SV.

Season looks promising! Keep it up Al/Miles!

[Clarkified]

I particularly didn't like it.

Maybe is my very subjective perception, but this episode only helped to reinforce the feelings I had at the beginning of season four. I feel that I don't identify with these characters anymore.
The whole Twins/Tommy Lee/set-up plot was very contrived. I don't like Clark's attitude about losing his powers. We are in the fifth year and I still don't see the traits of the man he is supposed to become. If this year's Superman in training, he should be already accepting the legacy of his powers, the implied responsibility of said powers and his destiny.

He just acts like nothing happened, like he doesn't really care.

Also, the confrontation scene with Lex left me completely speechless. That is SO not Clark. He never uses violence to confront others about their actions. If anything, he uses it in case of self-defense/defense of others. That is a basic quality that makes Superman different from other superheroes.

Clark was totally out of character this episode, and apparently the excuse is that he is human now and therefore he is allowed to make mistakes. He may be powerless, but that doesn't mean that his views and values have to change. Being turned human is not a pill he takes so that he can do whatever he wants. That is just so wrong in so many levels.

And does he really think that punching Lex in the face is going to solve the problem? The future Superman thinks that if you hit someone you're going to solve your problems? The mind boggles. We are in the fifth year and we still have these character inconsistencies.

In regards to the Clana, if you see this episode for what it is, you'll really find it sweet, tasteful (kudos to TPTB for that) and believable. But if you take it into the context of the whole story of the show, you'll find another great inconsistency.

Lana is also out of character, of course, but maybe it's for the best. We don't really want to see the old Lana we are used to, but well...

The scenes with Clark and Chloe were the best. For me, Chloe is the most intelligent character in the show right now. I found it kind of sad and ironic that she (appart from his parents) is the only one who cares about Clark's abilities and destiny, when he is the one who should. She seems fascinated by it. She definately has vision.

Overall, I thought the episode was horrible. I'm not sure if I'll keep watching. Maybe Smallville is not for me anymore.

P.D: the acting was awesome. It is truly a shame that it's not backed up by great writing. :)

[F-Stop Blues]

Originally posted by GhostRider
Wow. What a great episode. And they didn’t even have Brainiac in this one. People, this season is going to be AWESOME.

If you remember last week I griped about screen time wasting recaps. They got rid of that this week thanx to me. Kneel before GR. :p

We start off with a shot of the same fence that Lex tried to climb over in Asylum. That set up the scene with Lex and Lionel in the sanatorium, a total juxtaposition of the end of Shattered with Lex putting his hand on the glass. So the son becomes the father. Next we get introduced to the obligatory FoTW’s. OK, I liked “Tommy Lee” since he had ‘tude plus it was cool how he redirected power instead of just creating it which will be important later on. However the other two were a tad silly. If you’re going to do a shout out to the Wonder Twins, at least make one a girl. A hot girl. If you’re looking for negatives this is the only one so read it twice. ;)

Next we see Clark at a good ole’ fashioned barn raising; I thought he was mortal now not Amish. :p Watching Clark being normal, and happy, was great. This entire scene had the feel of dream, what Clark has always wanted. Chloe seemed to symbolize Clark’s conscience, asking him if it was what he really wanted. (First good line Destiny is just another word for not having a choice.” Lana’s bitter comment about Lex being “a real hero” says she remembers his actions from before. And next Clark gives Lex one last chance when they are talking about rebuilding. It’s not has heartbreaking as I would have hoped though.

Ok, this next scene is a Clana fan’s dream. Or a Clark fan like me who just wants to see him happy for once. They are totally cute together and still very dreamlike. Lana wants to clear the air, Clark want to just let it go, so they do. They go to the loft and act like any young couple in love. Some of the dialogue is a bit cheesy but as I think back to my first time I’m pretty sure I said some cheesy things so that’s just realism. They mention Alicia and Jason to mark how rare occasion this truly is, at least on SV, you know continuity and all. The best part for me was when Clark thought his parents just showed up; been there, done that, got a backwards T-shirt. :lol: Of course it’s the FoTW’s Clarkie boy.

Tommy is seriously kicking Clark’s butt and licking his girl. Like I said, he has ‘tude.

Chloe and Lex are in the cave and I’m really hoping for some Chlex this season, not the romantic kind, but Chloe is stepping up to the plate intellectually speaking. And she looks hot. I’ve heard being a third wheel is very time consuming. Man, that’s brutal. Clark and Lana are finally together, they’re happy. That’s all that should matter to a real friend. But Lex isn’t a real friend is he? And Chloe knows it. The verbal judo about the ship was great.

The next scene gives the backstory on the freaks, Lex has restarted the Level 3 experiments and has been trying to increase their powers. And it puts some questions in Lana’s mind about Clark, if the stories are true that is. Anyway his parents show up and Clark throws a hissy fit which is probably the smartest thing I’ve ever seen him do, too bad it didn’t work. JK’s heart takes another hit when he gets shock. Don’t worry, his hair is still perfect.

Here we get a tiny recap like last week. I’ve finally figured out why; they’re trying to snag viewers when Everybody Hates Chris on UPN in over. Sneaky.

This next scene is just totally awesome. And Chloe looks hot, if I haven’t mentioned that already. :p She’s definitely the brains of the outfit. We get some explanation about how Chloe does what she does and Clark is amazed; he asks her why she never showed him before and she replies that we all have secrets. I actually saw a light bulb go on above his head. Next great line: So what you’re saying is that now that you’re human you have absolutely no useful skills. Nope. Nyet. Nada.

Back to the freaks; best line Baby, you’ll know when I freak out. Quite stealing my lines. :p

Chloe is soooo the brains here as she directs Clark through the duct system. And she delivers the one line we’ve all so wanted to hear: Gosh Clark, I didn’t realize super-whining was one of your powers. That made the entire episode right there. Being a guy Clark tells her that Pete was better at pep talks that her. The ship comes up and this was so cute, AM is great. And Clark can’t even manage to make a left. I guess since he’s human now he’s just a BD. :)

Back at the Kent house everybody’s fighting. I guess Clark won’t be the first guy Lana nails after all. :p I still don’t like the twins but Tommy ‘tude is great. Ain’t this the right pickle.

Chloe and Clark break into the inner sanctum. Notice here that Chloe says “Wow” with the exact same inflections that Lois did when she saw Clark’s strength in Blank. I don’t know if that was intentional or not but it was cool. Anyway Chloe is talking about Lex’s thumbprint and I find myself just staring at her chest. Does that make me a bad person?

At the Kent farm, the sheriff is finally starting to clue in all the weirdness going on. The best part here is when Lana says Clark will find a way to get them out of it as he always does. The look on JK’s and Martha’s faces was priceless; it said “we’re boned.”

OK, mark this day, Clark’s super brain has finally started to kick in. He actually outsmarts Tommy ‘tude here. Best lines: This is not the time to be a hero……I’m not!!!!!! But he is. What’s really cool is they link Chloe’s line about it being easier just to turn the power off to this, that’s good writing.

The aftermath. The dialog here was a little corny but I’m still staring at Chloe’s chest. Anyway Clark is still in his dream Chloe’s still playing his conscience, and gives him a big does of reality about Lex. I’m not sure what Lex meant here by “This is impossible.” but Clark comes in swinging. OK, this is somewhat OCC for Clark since Lex wasn’t actively hurting someone. But I’m going to chalk it up to boiled over emotions from a pre-Superman which I’m fine with. What I really liked was that Clark really caught him and wasn’t just making half-assed accusations. You want to test me? You want to see what I’m really made of? Do it yourself you coward…….Satisfied?

OK, here it is, five years in the making THE CLANA SEX SCENE. I still find it incredulous that so much controversy was over something so normal. Next line: God, you’re a mess. Yeah, right now he is. I think this was filmed very well, they were both at their knees before each other. It could have been a bit more explicit and still be very tasteful. In any case I’m glad to see my boy finally get the girl next door and find happiness. But hey, like I said before, it’s just a dream. It won’t last, because unlike me he’s Superman.

This has been by review. If you like it don’t tell me, just send money. No personal checks please. ;)

excellent review GR.

[coco#1]

Originally posted by LLJ
This was an average Smallville episode to me. No meaningful or progressive conversation between Clark and Lana. Anything important with Clark and Lana is swept under the rug.Lex still looking for proof of Clark's secret when Dr. Walden already told Lex who Clark is. Lex is extremely incompetent when it comes to Clark and his secret. Not very impressed this looked a lazy season four episode to me.

if you think this episode had no meaningful conversation between clark and lana than you must be crazy. after 5 years they finally consumated their relationship.now thats meaningful


Originally posted by crush41gb
I really admired the episode. This show has a totally different 'feel' this year and it's a good one. I was afraid this episode would be a filler ep and stressful because CK didn't have his powers returned yet. But, it was handled carefully and so much happened that progressed the story and the lives/paths of the characters. Great job, everybody! :D

absolutely


Originally posted by warriorrenegade
Im with the majority here, Loved this episode. Lex fight hello? that was awesome. Lana and Clark sexing it up.. done tastefully. Loved the Chloe and Clarks team work breaking into Lexcorp. Also laughed out loud when the bada** called Lana "sweetmeat" then licked her face. Oh and someone please tell Jonathan to stop budding in , man that poor guy always getting beat down. First Arrival doing the most viscious stunt I've ever seen on this show, to him getting his butt kicked yet again. Keep it up SV 2 great episodes keep them coming

the bada** is Lem from The Shield.when i saw he was going to be in this episode i knew it was going to be great i just didnt know it would be this good..do you guys watch the Shield?

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by Poetic Chaos
Yeah he saved the world, but there shouldn't be a quota when it comes to helping people. Not for a hero. Much less a superhero.

Im not saying theres a quota, I was just trying to get people see the scope of things and to just make my point. I'm not saying Clark keeps tabs on how many people he's saved or anything like that. My point is, He saved the entire world from something that couldve comletely Effed it all up.



Still the most important thing for all of this is that Clark believes he took care of what Jor-el wanted him to, he believes his job is done!

If he still had his powrs, you know he'd still be saving people with them, because they allow him to do so. The bottom line is he has no powers now!. Its ten time harder for him to be a hero. I mean look at him struggle to get that serum.. Saving people has been easy for him to do with his powers, not that hes normal (and remember he doesnt know hes getting his powers back like we do) he realizes how HARD its going to be to do the things he used to do. "Well, usually I'd bust the door down, superspeed by the cameras..." remember that line? Well that just shows How Clark feels right now.

I just cant believe that some people think he is beinmg selfish. I mean the dood has no powers anymore, hes normal. The things he has done in the past are now very very risky and if a mortal did them, they'd be goners. Same with CLark, a FOTW tosses him through a building now, hes dead guys. I dont think Clark wants that right now.. He realizes now that he cant do those things he used to do without risking his life every time. Thats the reason he said he's done with all of that. (A) its too risky for him to do that now and (B) he actually believes he stopped the threat that Jor-el warned him about, he believes the world is no longer at risk (from aliens that is) and that's that.

Maybe a little naive, but definitely not selfish

[constancelight]

Originally posted by GhostRider
OK, I liked “Tommy Lee” since he had ‘tude

I think his 'tude is what saved him from being another dumb jock/tattooed FOTW (see for instance, Witness)



This entire scene had the feel of dream, what Clark has always wanted. Chloe seemed to symbolize Clark’s conscience, asking him if it was what he really wanted.

This is an excellent way of describing it. It really did feel like a dream, with all the soft lighting and sweeping landscape shots.



Chloe is soooo the brains here as she directs Clark through the duct system. And she delivers the one line we’ve all so wanted to hear: Gosh Clark, I didn’t realize super-whining was one of your powers. That made the entire episode right there. AM is great.

Word. AM was fabulous in her line delivery this episode.



Chloe is talking about Lex’s thumbprint and I find myself just staring at her chest. Does that make me a bad person?

Nope.



In any case I’m glad to see my boy finally get the girl next door and find happiness.

Even though I am not all down with the Clana, I'm down with Clark being happy. And right now, he's happy with Lana and being a 'real boy'. And that's good enough for me.



This has been by review. If you like it don’t tell me, just send money. No personal checks please. ;)

Sorry I'm broke, so you'll have to deal with me just telling you it was a good review

[JerryKing]

The Kreuk Koncerto was in fuller bloom than normally during this episode... Kreuk normally makes "only" some 35% of her dialogue unintelligible by obscuring the ending halves of her utterances with awkward asthmatic noises, snorting and erupting into inane coughing laughter at random points; in this episode, however, she did that with at least 55% of her output. Signum futurum? If so, at one point the scripts should begin to resemble this:

CLARK: Lana, what happened here?
LANA: I grunt, grunt, snort, ha, ha, pfff!



It was, ahem, "interesting" to see the fifteenth or so "permanent" breakup with Lex ("oh, but this time it is permanent, trust us! Er, until the next month, that is, depending on the ratings") and yet another conveniently timed loss of powers. Will they now - oh, shock of shocks! - return at a time when they are once again going to be conveniently needed?

[SWJaggy]

There have all only been two episodes for season 5 and now I get the feeling this will be my all time favorite season out of all of them.

Oh man this was definately an awesome episode!!! Such great moments. The scene were Clark told Chloe about Pete knowing his secret and then seeing his spaceship was great. And Chloe's reaction was just priceless.

Loved the line that Lana said when the Kents and herself were being held captive, some where along the lines of "Don't worry Mrs.Kent, Clark will get us out of this. He alway's does."

And then of coarse I cherished every single Clana moment.

I couldn't believe Lex!!! Sure I had a feeling he would do something like that eventually but I didn't realize it would be that soon. Way to go Clark for beating him up. Lex has seriously got to let go of the past; he's consummed by it.

^- Does anyone have the conversation to that?

Does anyone know where I could find the transcript to this episode? It's my favorite by far.

[ryb]

Much like last week, I'm late to this party, but here's my review for what it's worth.

"Mortal" was a successful, exciting, well-written episode that further proves to me that this show is getting better with age (1).

Was anyone else spooked by the opening shots of Lionel? That scene was cleverly shot. Furthermore, it was the perfect intro to the show since, for the rest of it, that scene was in the back of my mind -- just as a reminder that this is something that will come up again down the road.

Steven S. DeKnight is probably the best writer on the show, and I think he performed at his best with "Mortal". Much of the character interaction was superb, especially between Chloe and Clark. Much of their conversation was charged with witty humor with just the right amount of earnestness given the circumstances surrounding their scenes. I think Smallville is at its best when scenes are one-on-one in nature (Just look at the great scenes last week between Clark and Chloe and Clark and Lex), and "Mortal" once again shows this particular strength of the show.

"Mortal" is also paced well. The show starts out fairly slowly but begins to add on layers of tension almost effortlessly. "Mortal" is a build-up, and a good one at that. DeKnight cleverly uses Clark's loss of powers to add a layer of suspense and mystery that is typically not found in Smallville episodes. For example, we are left to guess at what Clark's plans are when he returns to the Kent Farm. How will Clark find the serum, and what obstacles will he have to overcome? This episode played like a good suspense/action movie (I was reminded more than once of Die Hard in this episode).

Of course, even if the first 45 minutes were not enough to satisfy, the last 15 minutes would have sufficed. DeKnight adds a wonderful twist to the episode that gave the show another surge. The Clark/Lex scene was wonderfully portrayed, full of raw emotion and impetuous actions tainted by the suspicions grown out of the last four years.

I think the best scene of the episode was between Lex and Chloe; I'm really getting a feeling this pair will become a major focus of the series in later episodes. Given the ferocious tension the two talented actors evoked in this scene, I really hope this is true.

The Clark/Lana scenes were tastefully done, as I suspected. I especially liked the final camera shots toward the open curtains (reminiscent of Body Heat and other such charged romance movies) and then the final look to the stars (sort of a nod to the first two seasons frequent final camera shots, but more so a foreshadow of what's to come -- I found it as a look to Krypton and Jor-El and the events that are to come).

Some other notes on the episode: This is one of the few episodes where I think the absence of Lois is a positive. Chloe assuredly carried the comedy of the episode, and the appearance of Lois may have detracted from the Clark/Lana scenes. I love Erica Durance, and I look forward to her upcoming episodes -- but this is one show where her appearance probably would have done more harm than good.

Kudos to the witty use of words in this episode. DeKnight should instruct fellow writers Slavkin and Swimmer on the use of the term "super". Where last week's references seemed somewhat contrived, this week's were a good wink-of-the-eye.

I loved the Pete and Alicia characters as much as the next Smallville fan, but the references to them in this episode (albeit nice) were not wholly necessary. It's nice to have continuity from episode to episode, but I don't find it essential, especially since I think part of the reason behind the apparent lack of it in this series is that the writers would rather spend time developing the story of the current episode rather than rehashing. The writers shouldn't have to give the viewer every detail; some of the material is up to you to interpret and connect with previous episodes.

To recap:

Season 5 Episode Ratings:
Arrival -- A
Mortal -- A

***

(1) Unlike many a Smallville fan, I treasured Season 4. As Gough and Millar have said multiple times, Season 4 was the season they took risks. Some of them worked, and some of them did not. But at least they had the courage to experiment. And with some of the results being Crusade, Run, Transference, Onyx, Blank, Unsafe, and Spirit (to name just a few), I'm glad they did. In many ways, I feel the show has improved every season -- certainly with the acting, but also with character interaction/development, writing, direction, etc. Smallville is aging well, and there are not too many series where I feel this is true.

This may be a major bias I have with storyline arc TV series. I am generally more satisfied with "slower" storylines -- i.e., storylines that develop at gradual, more realistic paces. First of all, this makes the big events bigger (One reason I think the Clark/Lex scene in "Mortal" was so well received). Secondly, this adds suspense to the whole series and not just to a particular episode. I think Season 4's storylines developed at the nice, slow pace that I like to see. And when the storylines converged in Commencement, it planted many new seeds for Season 5 to exploit. And I haven't heard too many complaints so far on that front...

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by spideyfan
Acting was flawless on all accounts...The characters are being developed extremely well...

No doubt, the characters and the actors performances are the reason I tune in every week. The reaction shots are what sell the sometimes cheesy effects. In "Crusade" alone you had two classics with Annette O'Toole watching Clark fly away and Lex looking through the hole in the door try to see who ripped the door off his plane.


Lex is a total bad ass and there is no turning back now.

Lana and CK, well it was inevitable,...now enough with the sexuality and back to Supes!

I actually think that the sexuality is a pretty key part of Superman. The best Superman stories are about as far away from your classic Marvel style "versus" story as you can imagine. They are all about what is going on in this guys head. Part of that is necessity. If Superman can connect a punch, then 99 times out of 100 the fight is over right there.

But the other piece of it is that the Gold and Silver Age writers spent almost as much time developing his life away from the never ending battle as his life within it. What makes Superman unique are all the weird marginal things that the Byrne revamp swept away, like Supergirl, The Fortress of Solitude, Kandor, the Phantom Zone, etc. His best antagonists were so powerful and sociopathic that they are borderline terrifying when done right (i.e. General Zod, Brainiac) or they menacing in a creepy/lurking way (i.e. Lex Luthor, Darkseid). Superman is woefully short of second tier menaces that will put up a reasonable fight for one issue (i.e. Metallo, Parasite, Bizarro).

A lot of the best stories, therefore, revolve indirectly around the question of with whom the Last Son of Krypton is going to mate. It was a question that occupied the comic a lot in the 1950s and 60s. In that way, "Smallville" is sort of a return to the roots of the comic.


Chloe had the Midas touch in this episode. Every line was pure golden! Allison Mack is leagues above what she thinks she's capable of.

The mentioning of Pete, Alicia, Jason, and CK's ship was great! Good to see Pete is NOT fully forgotten.

Chloe knowing Clark's secret is playing out a lot better than I had expected. The actors have found a nice way of playing the comfort/discomfort of close opposite sex friends at that age. The Pete reference was nice, but it reminded me how much is missing now that Clark no longer has him to confide in.

The space-ship line was letter perfect. Probably my biggest hope for the season is that they use the Chloe character to keep going there. There are a lot of questions that a modern young person would have for Clark along the lines of "Did you ever use your X-Ray vision to look in the girl's locker-room?", but also practical questions like "Jor-El keeps talking about your destiny, what do you think he means?". Having Chloe know the secret gives the show a character who will ask those questions.

The most important one is "Clark, you say that your attraction for Alicia was based on being able to be honest with her and yet, you are continuing to hide your true nature from Lana. Why?" My theory is that Clark knows Lana is not the type of person who can accept that she is having sex with a superhuman from another planet, but I would like to see it addressed.

[LLJ]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by coco#1
[B]if you think this episode had no meaningful conversation between clark and lana than you must be crazy. after 5 years they finally consumated their relationship.now thats meaningful


Clark and Lana didnt address anything from the previous episodes or seasons, Clark just dismissed them as part of the past. In the episode Exodus Clark seen what happens ,first hand, when he tried to ignore who he is and Clark still hasnt learned from that.

Consumating your relationship donesnt count as conversation. That was a ratings gimmick.

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by LLJ
Clark and Lana didnt address anything from the previous episodes or seasons, Clark just dismissed them as part of the past. In the episode Exodus Clark seen what happens ,first hand, when he tried to ignore who he is and Clark still hasnt learned from that.

Consumating your relationship donesnt count as conversation. That was a ratings gimmick.

I disagree.

It was not as organic as possible, but it wasn't a pure ratings stunt either. Both characters had been in more adult relationships with other people in Season 4, which was refered to directly. More to the point, the build of them being a couple again has taken 3 episodes. That is not forever, but in the speed dating world of teen soaps it is a typical build up.

I was glad they didn't tease it, then hold it off. That would have been a ratings stunt. Now, they need to keep them together for more than two episodes in a row.

[Liriel]

Consummation is not conversation. Conversation could possibly occur while consummating (an amusing visual, actually), but we've seen no indication of serious conversation about their secrets since the relationship began.

[Chesay]

This episode was a let down after the previous week's episode for me. I did not find the Clana very believeable after all that has gone on from season one. For Clark to have loved Lana all this time their consummation of it was not very romantic, nor did it compare with Clark's relationship with Alicia or even Lana's relationship with Jason. It seemed to have a rushed-let's-get-this-over-with feel that offended me. If Clana fans thought it was adequate and enjoyed seeing it then that's fine with me. I really hadn't expected much anyway.

That said, I must applaud the emphasis given Chloe in the midst of all the Clana. Her scenes with Clark and Lex made the episode worthwhile. She works so well in her scenes that she makes me believe Chloe really exists. Continued use of her in such scenes will make Season Five fun to watch. Her ability to relate with every character enables her to move from one situation to another with believeability and essentally glues it all together. Allison Mack is a pearl of great price.

Lex, of course is still my favorite. I would prefer to have his evil side kept under wraps from Clark so they could continue the facade of friendship but it appears that is not to be. Hopefully it won't hurt Lex's screen time. He seems to be becoming evil faster than I had hoped but I enjoy Michael's take on Lex and find he keeps me watching. The multidimensional depth of Lex gives Michael a lot to work with and he does it extremely well. For me, Lex's story is a lot more interesting than Clark because I feel Lex is truer to the original than this Clark.

The "freaks" were the weakest part of the episode for me. The twins were so pathetic that I never really understood quite what they were intended to do. None of them seemed very bright to me and I found it had to believe Lex would enlist such incompetents to do such a sophisticated spy operation to expose Clark. They were clearly the weakest link as far as I was concerned.

Every time Clark acts less than his ideal Superman I cringe. He is not convincing me he is anywhere near being Superman, at least not the historical Superman I grew up with watching and reading. I realize this is a new take on things but Superman is supposed to be larger than life and a role model for young people. This Clark lies without any remorse or effort to dodge the lie, now he gives into his passions and doesn't even consider telling Lana who he is, and is not really a lot different from Lex in being deceptive and secretive. Not the kind of role model I would want for my youngsters. I guess I expect more from him than the writers want to give, but situational ethics don't fit my view of Superman.

The season is interesting and I am cautiously optimistic about it. As long as the Clana has its proper place and the show doesn't become a soap opera I can live with it. I enjoy the references to Superman and any aspect of the mythology surrounding him. That seems to be the show's strength and I think they will keep their viewers if they focus on that and character development. The photogenic quality of the show, special effects, and acting talent is still excellent and the writing has shown better effort at continuity, which was its weakness, so I'm hopeful.

[SuperVillian]

I thought it was an amazing episode!!!

Now, it's abvious that all the Clark/Chloe scenes were awsome, well written, and came across as very honest, "my best friend's an alien" chatter... definately one of the best parts of the episode. Allison is, in my opinion, besides John Glover, is one of the best actors on the entire show... and getting incredibly hot, too heh...

The Clark/Lana was a little cheesy (but I admit I have never been a real Chlana fan) but I thought they did a good job of keeping most of it off-camera.. and with the show trying to get those two together for so long it was actually a relief to see them actually "do it". Who knows, maybe this opens the door to kill Lana to make way for Chlois?? .. ya never know... the Lana character has got to die now... sometime....

What I don't understand is why a lot of people are so hard on the FOTWs this episode... I thought they were great!! After seeing 4 seasons of Clark finding and disposing of regular kids who drown, die, or just fall next to kryptonite, inhale it, or have some other kinda weak way of getting super powers these ones actually had depth!!! I mean, this is the first sign of actual Luthorcorp Level 3 experiments (after hearing about level 3 so many times i can't tell you how long i've waited for this)!!! And Lex himself releases them and sends them after Clark AND HIS FAMILY!!! Just to prove his obsession with Clark!!! Tommy had total attitude (love him from the Shield) and the twins were colorful, creepy, and actually very entertaining to watch (especially the whole fight scene with Lana where they get a nail in the hand)... as for the "Wonder Twins" reference I think it was just a cool DC shout out since they're powers were just remotely related to the actual (and less inventive) wonder twins... I thought it was hilarious (in a good way).

After 4 seasons this episode felt a little more comicbook style and I have to say I loved it!! Cool special effects, great dialogue (minus a few cheesy one-liners.. which actually fits a comicbook-stlye theme ironically enough heh), and some of the best FOTW to date (except Alicia.. but it's tough to beat a hot villian with cool powers).

10/10

Now bring back Tommy and the twins to kill Lana lol

[Sydafex7]

Every time Clark acts less than his ideal Superman I cringe. He is not convincing me he is anywhere near being Superman, at least not the historical Superman I grew up with watching and reading. I realize this is a new take on things but Superman is supposed to be larger than life and a role model for young people. This Clark lies without any remorse or effort to dodge the lie, now he gives into his passions and doesn't even consider telling Lana who he is, and is not really a lot different from Lex in being deceptive and secretive. Not the kind of role model I would want for my youngsters. I guess I expect more from him than the writers want to give, but situational ethics don't fit my view of Superman.


The difference between Clark and Lex is that Clark lies because he has to protect himself from people he can't trust. THe doods a friggin Alien! To me, that GIVES him the right to lie. He also lies to people he loves (lana) in order to protect them. Pete knowing Clark's secret almost cost Pete his life. Pete knowing the secret also cost Pete a best friend, forcing him to move away.

The Lies CLark tells his parents every once in a while he never gets away with them. They ALWAYS have come back to bite him in the ass.

Lex however, lies when there isnt any need to and he lies to cover up wrong-doings, like secret, illegal experiments. He Also lies to SAVE HIS ASS from being caught in the act.

Of course Clark lies to Lex, he has no choice but to because he realizes he is not trustworthy.

Look, people want Clark to develop as fast as he did in the movies. Movies last 2 hours guys.

Televison shows last for 7 years! Clark is STILL developing into Superman. He is still developing and STILL learning lessons that, trust me, will help him when he's Superman. Right now, he is STILL Clark Kent and this is the first time we've seen him in College (I dont know enough about the comics, so maybe this isnt the first time, I dont know, but its the first time we've seen it on screen). IN the Movie, he goes into the fortress as an 18 year old H.S graduate and comes out as Superman doubling as a reporter. We dont see college OR how he even gets the job at the Planet. (how did he get the resume to get a job like that?) We are seeing a lot more development with this show than we EVER did in the movies or Lois and Clark, or a lot of the comics.

[Summers]

Originally posted by Sydafex7
We are seeing a lot more development with this show than we EVER did in the movies or Lois and Clark, or a lot of the comics.

:eek: :lol:

Sorry, but I disagree. There is far more development of these characters in the comics with just 12 issues than we have in 22 episodes. LnC had plenty development as well. The movies have less time than this show. TV Shows have more time to go into detail because they can go on longer than a two and half hour movie. That's why they are far more criticized more because they do have the time to go into deep as compared to film.

The last act in "Mortal" I didn't see development. I saw plain regression of CK.

[ryb]

Originally posted by Summers
:eek: :lol:

Sorry, but I disagree. There is far more development of these characters in the comics with just 12 issues than we have in 22 episodes. LnC had plenty development as well. The movies have less time than this show. TV Shows have more time to go into detail because they can go on longer than a two and half hour movie. That's why they are far more criticized more because they do have the time to go into deep as compared to film.

The last act in "Mortal" I didn't see development. I saw plain regression of CK.

I think you are confusing "progression" with "development". Development of a character can certainly be regressive; i.e., a person does not have to "grow" to "develop". I think the most obvious example in this series is Lex, who is certainly in a deteriorating stage at this point in his life.

The problem is that a lot of viewers expect Clark's development to be pure progression when I believe that it is far more interesting to see regression intertwined with his growth. To me, this is a more realistic depiction of a character. Why can't a superhero's development be flawed (Flash certainly had this quality, and I haven't heard many complaints about that episode)? Don't his flaws and mistakes lead to better, more superheroic qualities? If not, shouldn't they?

Comparison with other forms of "Superman" depictions, while certainly valid, should not be absolute. The creators of Smallville have said from the beginning that Smallville is an interpretation. The thing I like about this interpretation is they've added complexity to each character's development by putting all of them in the gray area of good and evil -- certainly not black and white. And if that includes a hesitant, at-times-selfish youthful development of Clark, then maybe the final steps into Superman's shoes will be a much greater victory than it could have been.

[Liriel]

For me the problem is Clark is reacting essentially the same way now as he did in "Leech" - that's three and half years with no real progression.

"He's a kid" has been used over and over as an excuse for un-Superman-like behavior. And it, to an extent, valid. But he's not a kid anymore. I mean, of course, IRL, he'd be considered one. But this is tv. We're supposed to see him growing into man, into Superman. And he's 18 and he's graduated school.

At this point in the movies (and I think in the comics) he was learning how to be Superman, embracing his destiny (self-chosen, really, to help people - but this show has muddled that with the pseudo-evil Jor-El).

Here we just see him running from it for four years. It's getting old. It's time for him to moving towards being the kind of person Superman is, and we just see him running away from it. We've been seeing that for four years (three at least, anyway) and we're tired of seeing it.

He's travelling backward rather than forward, retreading ground already trod.

Lex as a characer is not regressing. He's not going back to something he was before - he's not even remaining static. He's is progressing, just progressing in the wrong (morally speaking) direction. Regressing would be going back to the defiant, spoiled, angry-at-his-father-but-not-willing-to-really-challenge-him person he was at the beginning of the series.

[Summers]

Originally posted by Liriel
For me the problem is Clark is reacting essentially the same way now as he did in "Leech" - that's three and half years with no real progression.

"He's a kid" has been used over and over as an excuse for un-Superman-like behavior. And it, to an extent, valid. But he's not a kid anymore. I mean, of course, IRL, he'd be considered one. But this is tv. We're supposed to see him growing into man, into Superman. And he's 18 and he's graduated school.

At this point in the movies (and I think in the comics) he was learning how to be Superman, embracing his destiny (self-chosen, really, to help people - but this show has muddled that with the pseudo-evil Jor-El).

Here we just see him running from it for four years. It's getting old. It's time for him to moving towards being the kind of person Superman is, and we just see him running away from it. We've been seeing that for four years (three at least, anyway) and we're tired of seeing it.

He's travelling backward rather than forward, retreading ground already trod.

Lex as a characer is not regressing. He's not going back to something he was before - he's not even remaining static. He's is progressing, just progressing in the wrong (morally speaking) direction. Regressing would be going back to the defiant, spoiled, angry-at-his-father-but-not-willing-to-really-challenge-him person he was at the beginning of the series.

Exactly. You said it better than me :).

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by ryb
I think you are confusing "progression" with "development". Development of a character can certainly be regressive; i.e., a person does not have to "grow" to "develop". I think the most obvious example in this series is Lex, who is certainly in a deteriorating stage at this point in his life.

The problem is that a lot of viewers expect Clark's development to be pure progression when I believe that it is far more interesting to see regression intertwined with his growth. To me, this is a more realistic depiction of a character. Why can't a superhero's development be flawed (Flash certainly had this quality, and I haven't heard many complaints about that episode)? Don't his flaws and mistakes lead to better, more superheroic qualities? If not, shouldn't they?

Comparison with other forms of "Superman" depictions, while certainly valid, should not be absolute. The creators of Smallville have said from the beginning that Smallville is an interpretation. The thing I like about this interpretation is they've added complexity to each character's development by putting all of them in the gray area of good and evil -- certainly not black and white. And if that includes a hesitant, at-times-selfish youthful development of Clark, then maybe the final steps into Superman's shoes will be a much greater victory than it could have been.

I would take it a step further. The Superman story is an American heroic story. In the past 75 years, we have found out a lot about the life of Clark Kent in the various media. However, we have never seen how the story ends, so we have no idea what his fatal flaw might be.

"Smallville" is playing around with some plausible flaws in the character of Clark Kent. We know from the comics that he has a real problem with intimacy, since he cannot be fully honest about his double life as Superman. In the Superman movie, he tells Lois that he never lies. That is a lie in itself, since he is deceiving her every day at the Daily Planet. The deception may be necessary, but it is still a lie. The fact that he believes he never lies, yet does it routinely is a flaw.

[jOEL_EL]

"Mortal" was great. It is noteworthy that the end result one would have expected from super Clark alone is exactly what one got with the combined efforts of normal Clark + Chloe.

[Christine C]

Grading this episode I'd probably give it a B, not a A+. This isn't the first time we've seen C.K. without his super powers remember when they were transferred to that other teen. Clark found not having them was not as great as he thought then. This time, his relationship with Lana being in reach seemed to overshadow any negative consequences of not having S.P. in his mind ,which is hard for me to believe. The Aliens of his home planet, were recently just causing destruction in his home town, and he narrowly defeated them. What if others come, and this being Smallville there's all the other mutants to deal with on a regular basis, so how can C.K. be cool with it and think its going to be so perfect? What was good about the episode was Clark's scenes with Chole, and Lex. These are the two most interesting relationships C.K. has, not his one with Lana. That interaction was the weak part of the episode, but necessary I guess because they've been dragging it out for so long. I'm really looking forward to seeing how things develop from here. I think Clark will have to gradually distance himself from Lana because we know he can't stay head over heels in love with her, if he's going to start to like a certain reporter some day.

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by Liriel
For me the problem is Clark is reacting essentially the same way now as he did in "Leech" - that's three and half years with no real progression.

"He's a kid" has been used over and over as an excuse for un-Superman-like behavior. And it, to an extent, valid. But he's not a kid anymore. I mean, of course, IRL, he'd be considered one. But this is tv. We're supposed to see him growing into man, into Superman. And he's 18 and he's graduated school.

At this point in the movies (and I think in the comics) he was learning how to be Superman, embracing his destiny (self-chosen, really, to help people - but this show has muddled that with the pseudo-evil Jor-El).

Here we just see him running from it for four years. It's getting old. It's time for him to moving towards being the kind of person Superman is, and we just see him running away from it. We've been seeing that for four years (three at least, anyway) and we're tired of seeing it.

He's travelling backward rather than forward, retreading ground already trod.

Lex as a characer is not regressing. He's not going back to something he was before - he's not even remaining static. He's is progressing, just progressing in the wrong (morally speaking) direction. Regressing would be going back to the defiant, spoiled, angry-at-his-father-but-not-willing-to-really-challenge-him person he was at the beginning of the series.

Look, I am as frustrated by the tendency of the writers to make a major step forward, then 'take it back' as the next person. I hated Lex 'forgetting' about seeing Clark use his abilities, Clark losing the ability to fly after "Crusade" and (in particular) the herky-jerky nature of the Clana.

However, this case is different. Clark has always had as his foremost desire to be 'normal'. Half the great Superman stories from the comics deal with exactly that. The guy has always and will always prefer a quiet life to the life of Superman. It is never going to happen. It is part of his nature. It is like saying Batman is progressing toward getting over his parent's death.

Moreover, Clark is never going to 'embrace his Kryptonian heritage'. He names the place "The Fortress of Solitude" for a reason, I think. The rocks from his home planet are poison to him for God's sake. Hard to think of a clearer symbol than that.

This is a guy who is going to spend the rest of his life trying to have a normal life only to have it ruined again and again by the fact that he is the most powerful person on Earth and he cannot help himself from saving someone in trouble.

[zhuuka]

At first I was very skeptical about this episode. I dunno, season 4 was one of the worst in my opinion. Too much non-existant jumbles be thrown all over the place. I've been posting here since '03, and I seemed to shy away from anything Smallville last season, except posting a little bit in the off topic forums. This episode brought me back into the World of Superman. The whole Clark/Lana coupling didn't get my excitement it. It was more Clark going with Chloe to find the chemicals that the FoTW's were looking for. THe action and graphics are superb this year. Looking forward to a good Season 5. Loved the end scene with Lex and Clark too. :)

[Liriel]

However, this case is different. Clark has always had as his foremost desire to be 'normal'. Half the great Superman stories from the comics deal with exactly that. The guy has always and will always prefer a quiet life to the life of Superman. It is never going to happen. It is part of his nature. It is like saying Batman is progressing toward getting over his parent's death.

We're going to have to agree to disagree on this point. Clark, as a character, has made no real progression towards behaving like Superman save that assumably before the pilot he didn't save lives every week.

Supes has always been the one that said "I have the ability to help - I'm going to help."

And he's lying to Lana. It'd be one thing if it was just keeping the alien thing secret from the girl he loves. But it's not. It's entering into a romantic/sexual relationship with her when he strongly suspects that her knowing that about him would change her willingness to be involved with him.

But more than all that, we the audience need to see Clark turning into Superman, becoming that person. But instead we're seeing the same avoidance tactics and mindset that we've seen for ages. What exactly is going to make him become Superman? Not a tragedy, please. I love Spidey (far more than Supes, truth be told), but Supes has always been to one to don the cape simply because he had the ability to help.


This is a guy who is going to spend the rest of his life trying to have a normal life only to have it ruined again and again by the fact that he is the most powerful person on Earth and he cannot help himself from saving someone in trouble.

No. If that was the case then he wouldn't have a costume. He'd just be Clark Kent who stopped trouble when he saw it. He actively chooses to be a hero - he doesn't just help whenever he sees someone who needs it. He made the choice to be the Superhero, to spend his life helping.

He can't have a normal life, it's true. But what it's about is finding the balance between "normal" and "superhero" - as we see both Superman and Clark Kent. Superhero and husband/reporter. He'd be incomplete without both facets.

[Summers]

It's the Fortess of Solitude because that is the only place he can go to get away from all his troubles besides going back to SV. FoS also keeps out the cries of the world. Clark Kent does accept his Krypton hertiage. This show is the first time that shows him not willing to accept(for darn too long).

The reason why kryptonite is poison is because he is in fact kryptonian. All kryptonians are hurt by it.

CK is never the guy who spends his life to have a normal life. That is not Clark Kent. Superman never sees his powers as a curse. That's Peter Parker. Superman sees his powers as gift. Clark Kent is Clark Kent. In the comics he is not ashamed of who is, nor does he spend all of his life to be normal because he will never be normal.


Originally posted by Liriel

Supes has always been the one that said "I have the ability to help - I'm going to help."

And he's lying to Lana. It'd be one thing if it was just keeping the alien thing secret from the girl he loves. But it's not. It's entering into a romantic/sexual relationship with her when he strongly suspects that her knowing that about him would change her willingness to be involved with him.

But more than all that, we the audience need to see Clark turning into Superman, becoming that person. But instead we're seeing the same avoidance tactics and mindset that we've seen for ages. What exactly is going to make him become Superman? Not a tragedy, please. I love Spidey (far more than Supes, truth be told), but Supes has always been to one to don the cape simply because he had the ability to help.

Sums it up.

[Cal-El123]

I haven't seen it yet because i dun't get the WB channel its on tomorow for me but lik was it better than arrival cuz some people said they luved it and others said they hated it. I'm not lik a smallville nerd lik i jus started watching it halfway threw season 4 ive seen all of season 3 and 4 adn most of season 2 and i fuken love the show! i think the characters and evrything are good but i agree there are some recycled storylines and does anyone else feel lik kryptonite is appearing a bit too much i kno there wa a meteor shower but lik evry villain is created by falling in or near some kryptonite its a little over used. but i loved arrival!

[LLJ]

Originally posted by dhacker615
I disagree.

It was not as organic as possible, but it wasn't a pure ratings stunt either. Both characters had been in more adult relationships with other people in Season 4, which was refered to directly. More to the point, the build of them being a couple again has taken 3 episodes. That is not forever, but in the speed dating world of teen soaps it is a typical build up.

I was glad they didn't tease it, then hold it off. That would have been a ratings stunt. Now, they need to keep them together for more than two episodes in a row.


Clark and Lana wanting to have sex is very belivable theyve had feelings for after each other for quite a while now. I wouldnt look at it as a ratings ploy if they would of atleast confronted some of what has happeneded in the past. Lana broke it off with Jason because of the lies and secrets and now she is having sex with Clark who is second only to Lex with lies and secrets. I know Lana has a secret with the whole GT situation but she seemed ready to open up to Clark before Clark said the past is in the past. With Clark and Lana having sex now they make certain fans happy and they leave the door open for more Clana angst and secrets and lies talk down the road. Thats why I say its a ratings stunt. Its like watching the same thing over and over again.

[Cal-El123]

yo was mortal better than arrival?

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by Liriel
We're going to have to agree to disagree on this point. Clark, as a character, has made no real progression towards behaving like Superman save that assumably before the pilot he didn't save lives every week.

Supes has always been the one that said "I have the ability to help - I'm going to help."

Yes, Superman helps just because he can. That is his motivation to be a hero. However, it is not like sought to become a hero or even wants to. It is just his nature. He was raised to help. He was given the ability to help literally everyone on the planet. Therefore, he does.

That does not mean he enjoys it (or hates it).

The nearest real world parallel to Clark Kent is super-talented athlete, or artist. Think about the number of them who quit at the top of their game to try to live another type of life. Jim Brown left football. Marlon Brando went to his island. J.D. Salinger stopped writing novels.

I am not going to get into a pre-crsis/post-crsis comic book discussion, but I will say there are an awful lot of Superman stories that have him quiting for good, or dreaming about his life had he never been Superman.


And he's lying to Lana. It'd be one thing if it was just keeping the alien thing secret from the girl he loves. But it's not. It's entering into a romantic/sexual relationship with her when he strongly suspects that her knowing that about him would change her willingness to be involved with him.

But more than all that, we the audience need to see Clark turning into Superman, becoming that person. But instead we're seeing the same avoidance tactics and mindset that we've seen for ages. What exactly is going to make him become Superman? Not a tragedy, please. I love Spidey (far more than Supes, truth be told), but Supes has always been to one to don the cape simply because he had the ability to help.

I am a Spidey fan as well, but I prefer Superman.

In a lot of ways the Spider-Man story is the opposite from Superman. Peter Parker acquires his powers as a gift, then learns a painful lesson about what they truly mean. Being Spider-Man is fun in a way that being Superman is not.

To paraphrase "Kill Bill", Superman wakes up in the morning as Superman. He has woken up every morning of his life as a person apart from the human race. His values are shaped slowly over his entire life prior to coming to Metropolis. There does not need to be a tragedy to change him into Superman. He already is.


No. If that was the case then he wouldn't have a costume. He'd just be Clark Kent who stopped trouble when he saw it. He actively chooses to be a hero - he doesn't just help whenever he sees someone who needs it. He made the choice to be the Superhero, to spend his life helping.

How they handle the transition to the costume is going to be interesting. The transition in the movie was pretty passive. Clark went to the Fortress of Solitude without any idea what it meant and emerged in the suit. The classic version was practical, the suit was made from the blankets he came to Earth in. That gave him a suit of clothes that could not be destroyed.

I cannot remember a version of the Superman origin story that has him making an affirmative decision to become a hero. In both "Lois & Clark" and "The Man of Steel", Clark is just helping people annonymously as he does in "Smallville", gets caught by the media and decides to create a double identity to protect his secret.

None of them feature the moment you describe where Clark actively makes a choice to become a hero. If you have a counter example, then I would be happy to hear it.


He can't have a normal life, it's true. But what it's about is finding the balance between "normal" and "superhero" - as we see both Superman and Clark Kent. Superhero and husband/reporter. He'd be incomplete without both facets.

Take a step back.

Clark has only been a husband for a few years. The character has been around since the 1930s. During the vast majority of those, he was in a love triangle with himself (Clark-Lois-Superman). Lois loved Superman, but he wanted her to love Clark. He would rather lose her than be with her as Superman. They did thousands of stories about that problem over several decades. It is not unreasonable to say that it is critical to understanding the character.

But (again as pointed out by "Kill Bill"), the Clark Kent in Metropolis is a disguise. It is how Superman views the human race. That is who he wants Lois to love. Why?


Originally posted by Summers
It's the Fortess of Solitude because that is the only place he can go to get away from all his troubles besides going back to SV. FoS also keeps out the cries of the world. Clark Kent does accept his Krypton hertiage. This show is the first time that shows him not willing to accept(for darn too long).

I will say this, "Smallville" is the first version of the story that has placed the question of Clark accepting his Kryptonian heritage front and center. Also, the portrait of Jor-El is frustrating in its inconsistency. One day, he is a nearly omnipotent villian. The next day, he is just a voice in a cave.

They should have followed up the events of "Exodus" more quickly and consistently.


The reason why kryptonite is poison is because he is in fact kryptonian. All kryptonians are hurt by it.

I am not talking about the "comic book science" explanation. I am talking about how Kryptonite is used as a symbol. Poisoned by rocks from home world is an extremely straight forward symbol of someone who finds their heritage to be toxic.


CK is never the guy who spends his life to have a normal life. That is not Clark Kent. Superman never sees his powers as a curse. That's Peter Parker. Superman sees his powers as gift. Clark Kent is Clark Kent. In the comics he is not ashamed of who is, nor does he spend all of his life to be normal because he will never be normal.

I am not saying that Clark views being Superman as a curse. I am just saying that he does not view it as a blessing. If I had to guess, I would say he views his abilities in more or less the same way you and I view our hair, or eye, color. Except, it gives him a feeling of obligation.

Imagine spending your whole life with a slowly dawning sense that you were going to have an obligation to do something extremely difficult with no material rewards. The imagine that someone told you "Never mind".

To me, that was what "Mortal" was about.


Originally posted by LLJ
Clark and Lana wanting to have sex is very belivable theyve had feelings for after each other for quite a while now. I wouldnt look at it as a ratings ploy if they would of atleast confronted some of what has happeneded in the past. Lana broke it off with Jason because of the lies and secrets and now she is having sex with Clark who is second only to Lex with lies and secrets. I know Lana has a secret with the whole GT situation but she seemed ready to open up to Clark before Clark said the past is in the past. With Clark and Lana having sex now they make certain fans happy and they leave the door open for more Clana angst and secrets and lies talk down the road. Thats why I say its a ratings stunt. Its like watching the same thing over and over again.

I hope that you are wrong.

Clark did the wrong thing having sex with Lana without telling her his secret. Having no powers is no excuse really. It would be a shame if they just used it as an excuse to retread the ground from the end of Season 2.

[LLJ]

Originally posted by dhacker615



I hope that you are wrong.

Clark did the wrong thing having sex with Lana without telling her his secret. Having no powers is no excuse really. It would be a shame if they just used it as an excuse to retread the ground from the end of Season 2. [/B]


I hope I am wrong too.

[ryb]

I think several of the arguments made by dhacker615, Liriel, and Summers are good ones. For example, Liriel was correct to note that Lex's character isn't necessarily regressing (a point I unfortunately alluded to without clarifying meaning in my earlier post), he's just progressing in the wrong direction. This means that progressing is not the opposite of regressing. We're taking regression to mean reverting to a behavior or personality trait previously used (which I'm fine with) while progression means development (which I disagree with, but I'll concede for the sake of arguing) (1).

Again, I find many of the points on both sides of the argument valid. On one side, some viewers are starting to tire of the relentless reluctance of Clark to "accept his destiny". On another, some see it as a realistic, complex look at a non-perfect superhero-to-be.

We're now 90 episodes into the series (Yep, that many), and I cannot fathom how one can interpret how Clark has not grown in some ways. For example, he is much more aware now of his origins than he was in Season 1. He is also beginning to learn what some expect of him. He is also learning powers. He is learning to use them for society's benefit. I'll call this part of his development "knowledge development". In this facet, his progression is undeniable.

But that, of course, is not where the argument lies. What about psychological development (i.e., how are Clark's feelings/emotions/desires developing?)? This is a bigger, tougher, and more complex question. On the one hand, Clark has asked in many episodes (Several of which were in Season 4, I might add) if he should begin to take on his destiny. He realizes he is "not normal" and that many of the things he is finding out are meant specifically for him. On the other hand, he continues his wish to be normal (Also many times suggested in Season 4). Clark's psychological development in Season 4 appears to me to be a reluctant realization of his destiny versus his desires (True this theme was beginning even by mid-Season 2, but Season 4 placed the final nails in the coffin).

And thus we get "Commencement". Clark has graduated high school, a symbolic form of "ending his youth". Is it a coincidence that the Fortress of Solitude appears shortly thereafter? I think the writers are too clever to let this potential metaphor slip away.

So why the "regression" in "Mortal"? Think about the time and place. Clark's "final free summer". The summer where his youth slowly slips away, where new challenges are about to begin. It's American Graffiti in Smallville form. All in the symbolism.

Of course, I really haven't answered the question. What about Clark's psychological development? Has it progressed? In some ways, yes. In some ways, it has not moved at all. I'm 23, and I can honestly say that some forms of my psychological development are comparable to my toddler years. My question to everyone is: Why can't Clark Kent be the same way? Especially if his desire is to be "human"? Is it bad/erroneous/blasphemous to give a superhero-to-be these qualities? Can he progress in knowledge first and then in mentality later? Can he try to avoid his destiny and still be heroic?

These are some of the questions that I think Smallville has asked. And the fact that this debate is occurring, I'd say, is testament to the success of the writers of this series. One of Smallville's themes, if not its primary theme, is that Clark Kent's destiny conflicts with his desires. Clark Kent will become Superman, but this process will not be cut-and-dry, black-and-white. And I'll take the slower, more complex, more realistic transgression to the Man of Steel over the too-simplistic, flawless, speedy approach any day of the week. But, of course, that's my opinion.

One final comment: I think another of the show's major themes is that what you have at one point should not be taken for granted. And I think Clark is learning that fact well. And not a bad fact to learn before accepting your destiny as a superhero. Thus, taking away his powers, taking away someone's knowledge, etc. is a part of that learning curve. Which is why I embrace episodes like Crusade, Onyx, Blank, and Mortal.

***

(1) For the record, I interpreted regression as a "negative growth" rather than a personality retread. With 20/20 hindsight, I realize that interpretation was incorrect on my part. However, based on this definition, Lex has certainly regressed (negatively grown). On the psychological definition, that statement would be wrong.

[crazymonkeys007]

LOVED IT. LOVED IT. LOVED IT :D...i'm watching it at this very moment!! Mortal was AWSOME!

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by ryb
Again, I find many of the points on both sides of the argument valid. On one side, some viewers are starting to tire of the relentless reluctance of Clark to "accept his destiny". On another, some see it as a realistic, complex look at a non-perfect superhero-to-be.

I think this is sort of a DC vs. Marvel issue. Marvel heroes are virtually all 'flawed' in the modern sense. They are neurotic. Spider-Man is the classic example of this, but it is really a quality of every character Stan Lee ever had a hand in creating.

Very few DC heroes are flawed in that way. None of the original seven members of the JLA are neurotic, but it does not mean they are perfect. They are more like the classic tragic heroes, who have one major flaw instead of a web of minor ones. Batman is the classic example is that case, since a one person War on Crime has an inevitable tragic result no matter how skilled the one person is.

However, there is always a resistence to portraying these characters as having the types of flaws that would drive real drama, since it implies an ending. They show Green Lantern as vain, or the Flash as impulsive, but immediately begin back-peddling. It is one reason comic sales are in a free fall.


Of course, I really haven't answered the question. What about Clark's psychological development? Has it progressed? In some ways, yes. In some ways, it has not moved at all. I'm 23, and I can honestly say that some forms of my psychological development are comparable to my toddler years. My question to everyone is: Why can't Clark Kent be the same way? Especially if his desire is to be "human"? Is it bad/erroneous/blasphemous to give a superhero-to-be these qualities? Can he progress in knowledge first and then in mentality later? Can he try to avoid his destiny and still be heroic?

The bigger question to me is: what is the destiny Jor-El wants Clark to embrace anyway? As viewers, we are assuming that means "become Superman", but what does that mean?

[fattire]

Id like to hear an insightful bad review. Some people says its crap - why? I thought it was awesome and so far everyone thats said it was awesome mostly gave specific reasons for that. so try to not say its crap without indulging


Originally posted by alphaomega618
For whatever reason, I found the episode somewhat boring. I believe it's because of the lack of superpowers. I found myself just watching it, when usually I really get into the epsiodes smiling and thinking "wow" alot. I did like the Lex and Clark fight and I thought Chloe looked hot in this episode. I was glad to see the sheriff playing a big role. There wasn't much of a story, or maybe it just wasn't thrilling. I'm also getting really tired of all the meteor freaks. It's really getting old. Overall I give it a b-.


the fact that he has no superpowers makes it so awesome. it stands out as sometime different - clark is challenged as being a mortal and stands to loose everything so easily. add that with a deliberate plot, they did good

[Superboy2]

I opened a thread about this, but I haven't got any replies. Was Clark tickling Lana when they were running to the farm? Or were they playing tag, and Lana was really happy? Please, someone answer

[F-Stop Blues]

Originally posted by Superboy2
I opened a thread about this, but I haven't got any replies. Was Clark tickling Lana when they were running to the farm? Or were they playing tag, and Lana was really happy? Please, someone answer

I think they were just chasing each other up the hill because they are young and inlove. Just a flirty little thing.

[ingy271]

Loved: Clana, Clark/Chloe friendship, Lex

No Love: Chloe and all the spy crap in the boot of the car. Now if posters can sound off over Lana running a coffee shop and her martial arts ability it would be hypocritical to accept the amazing computer skills and all the spy gadgets. I know it is fiction but Chloe Sullivan super spy is a bit much.

Mortal and Arrival have proved (to me anyway) that S5 had a good 1,2 punch.

[Ultron]

I liked Mortal alot. I thought in the beginning it was just going to be a decidedly normal show with a hint or two dropped in about some overarching plotline. In fact the whole episode is FUSED to an overarching plotline throughout the whole series: Lex's obsession with Clark's seeming invulnerability or other powers. It just took until Clark figured it out to make that evident. I'd call this a sleeper episode, where the first half disguises the events to unfold in the second half. By the end quite alot of things we've wanted to see did happen. But as true fans, we want more! :D


Originally posted by Jellie
I also liked the superman 4 reference ''no pain no gain '' :lol:

I didn't catch that until you said it! I love the homagery to the Superman movies. :D


Originally posted by Crazy4Smallville
Yet, I’m disappointed! Clark has once again showed that his word isn’t worth anything. He promised Lana a special time – not a convenient one.

I don't think it was merely convenient. Lana had candles and the fire going and everything when Clark showed up. I am pretty sure she was expecting him. :D

Regardless, I think the moment was still special.


Originally posted by dhacker615
What makes Superman unique are all the weird marginal things that the Byrne revamp swept away, like Supergirl, The Fortress of Solitude, Kandor, the Phantom Zone, etc.

I don't think those were neccessarily all his fault, considering DC wanted a total revamp of Superman's origins post-Crisis. I think it took awhile for DC to realize it could do better, as seen in how things shaped up in the Superman animated series. Even villains that Byrne revamped went through another makeover in that series, and all the current Justice League episodes have basically continued that history. I think they've got something deeper and more dynamic than what came in the aftermath of Crisis on Infinite Earths.

I also think that Byrne helped reinvent Superman successfully in other ways, but that had to be refined. I think Smallville is in one sense helping to redefine that history to make it better, as did the Superman animated series.


Originally posted by Liriel
...we've seen no indication of serious conversation about their secrets since the relationship began.

Actually I think they've probably talked about a lot of things except the past. They both seem willing to overlook the past.

That said, I think the past will not overlook them, and we'll see shades of the past come back to haunt them both, testing their relationship. From Clark's fanclub in Belle Rev to his father, other Kryptonians, and the Luthors. And Lana with her fear of aliens, meteor-shower fallout, Clark's secretive nature, the coverup of the Teague murder, and ... the Luthors.

Also, regarding the arguement on whether or not Clark is maturing as the series progresses, I'd say he's definitely doing that. I don't think Clark is regressing at all. I think he's showing adaptability, and courage. No doubt he'd prefer to be superhuman again. But he's willing to sacrifice for the sake of others. Classic Superman logic. Look at how worried his parents are. And Chloe. It looks like Clark is showing a bold face so as not to worry his family and friends who know his secret, as well as taking active steps to protect himself and his loved ones, such as from Lex or the three Freaks in this episode.

He might be a little naive, but it seems to me it's just more a matter of hope than foolishness.

One of the biggest moments that made me recognize Clark's growing maturity was in Jinx in season 4 (where he went up against Myxylplyk), and he talked with Jonathan Kent and made him see that Clark is up to the challenge of taking responsibility of not hurting others out there on the football field. Then later in Recruit he makes a totally opposite decision, but yet again with the same sense of responsibility, yet he took a stance of not going out there on the field with an unfair advantage, as well as having to hide his secret all the time.

[Black & White]

Except the scenes in the caves with Chloe and Lex, Chloe with Clark in Luthorcorp. and Clark and Lex's fight, the episode was a waste of time. I expected more from the second episode after seeing "Arrival" which was awesome...

[Cal-El123]

yeh i kno wat u meen. in recruit at the end wen lex takes Myxylplyk to that room on level 33.1 wat r they looking at?wats in that room?

er **** sorry not recruit jinx

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by ryb
I think you are confusing "progression" with "development". Development of a character can certainly be regressive; i.e., a person does not have to "grow" to "develop". I think the most obvious example in this series is Lex, who is certainly in a deteriorating stage at this point in his life.

The problem is that a lot of viewers expect Clark's development to be pure progression when I believe that it is far more interesting to see regression intertwined with his growth. To me, this is a more realistic depiction of a character. Why can't a superhero's development be flawed (Flash certainly had this quality, and I haven't heard many complaints about that episode)? Don't his flaws and mistakes lead to better, more superheroic qualities? If not, shouldn't they?

Comparison with other forms of "Superman" depictions, while certainly valid, should not be absolute. The creators of Smallville have said from the beginning that Smallville is an interpretation. The thing I like about this interpretation is they've added complexity to each character's development by putting all of them in the gray area of good and evil -- certainly not black and white. And if that includes a hesitant, at-times-selfish youthful development of Clark, then maybe the final steps into Superman's shoes will be a much greater victory than it could have been.

Very well said and I think that's what I wanted to say, just couldnt do it.

Clark shouldn't become the Superman we know him as that easily. He needs have weak moments, not just in the beginning when he was young,but throughout the entire series because when he finally becomes Superman, it will be a much greater accomplishment. BEcoming Superman shouldn't be easy for him.


Originally posted by Cal-El123
yeh i kno wat u meen. in recruit at the end wen lex takes Myxylplyk to that room on level 33.1 wat r they looking at?wats in that room?

er **** sorry not recruit jinx

Theyve already said that they have trashed that storyline because they didnt like where it was going. We wont see 33.1 again

[Summers]

As they called Level 33.1 was "too comic booky".

[F-Stop Blues]

Originally posted by Summers
As they called Level 33.1 was "too comic booky".

Yet they have the second ep of season 5 centered around it. I just dont get it.

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by Ultron
I don't think those were neccessarily all his fault, considering DC wanted a total revamp of Superman's origins post-Crisis. I think it took awhile for DC to realize it could do better, as seen in how things shaped up in the Superman animated series. Even villains that Byrne revamped went through another makeover in that series, and all the current Justice League episodes have basically continued that history. I think they've got something deeper and more dynamic than what came in the aftermath of Crisis on Infinite Earths.

I also think that Byrne helped reinvent Superman successfully in other ways, but that had to be refined. I think Smallville is in one sense helping to redefine that history to make it better, as did the Superman animated series.

I do not think it was even mostly Byrne's fault. The trend in comics at the time was away from the bigger, more mythical elements that the Superman story is filled with and toward more neurotic characters. By the mid-1990s, DC was doing a series of "real world" versions of these characters in which the more fantastic elements were literally all in the characters heads. Sort of interesting, but an utter dead end from a story perspective.

The Byrne revamp came right in the middle of that trend. Byrne dutifully removed all the elements of the Superman story that would not have appeared in a Stan Lee/Jack Kirby comic from the early 1960s. The six issue "Man of Steel" mini-series itself was utterly brilliant. I would rank with the greatest Superman stories ever told in any media. The revised Lex Luthor alone was worth the price of admission. The complex, three dimensional guy in "Smallville" would be impossible without the Byrne revamp. The early 80s Lex was a raving Republic serial mad scientist in some sort of space battle armor. Seriously.

The problem was that Byrne had no second act. He left after just a couple years on the title. He had improved the Clark-Lois dynamic to the point that it was adapted into the "Lois & Clark" TV series and his Lex was a vast improvement, but so what? If Lois, Clark and/or Lex were not the focus of the issue, then there was not much to say. In other words, Byrne revamped Superman out of the Superman story.

[Bumperjeep]

This was an amazing episode. Finally a good FOTW. The Situation that Clark was in was one of the best things that they did in smallville. I think the only reason that this episode was so good was because we only saw Clark not have his powers for an entire episode once before. I really enjoyed how Clark and Chloe went into Luther Corp. to steal the serum for the freak of the week. the fight between lax in Clark was something that I've been waiting for since the start of smallville. I was wondering why Clark can punch Lex before. if the writers can keep up this quiality in the episodes, smallville will kill all the other shows

[Prunk1121]

Originally posted by j03superbat
I'd like to start off by saying that this episode started off sloooooooooow. Which was okay. Thankfully, the episode picked up speed after the Trio of Villains find Clark goin' for it in the barn. From there on out, it's a suspenseful episode right up until Clark defeats the villain using his wits.

Now for the complaints:
- Kryptonite should still hurt Clark.
- At the end of Act III (I think it was), Chloe finds the flashlight Lex had touched and smiles. This goes on for about eight seconds and then commercials. Editors, we don't need that much time to figure out what Chloe's thinking. And compared to the previous Act Ender, it was pretty anticlimatic - now if she had found a gun, that would have been a helluva suspencful moment and a kick-ass time to go to commercials. Minor complaint.
- I don't like that Clark is happy that he's lost his powers. In Season One, it would have worked because he really wanted to be normal, but it's been four years and he apparently feels the same way. Ditto with the heights - not counting his flying session as Jor-El, Clark's been in the air plenty of times and IMO should have gotten over that by now. Why does this matter? It makes the viewer feel as if there has been no progression. It's been four years, and the Kents have still failed to drill into Clark's head that he's special because of how he chooses to use his powers and losing them will not make anyone love him any more. It shouldn't matter to him whether he has them or not.
- But it does, because as soon as he loses them, he decides to drop the hero act. Well being a hero is what he's best at and powers or no powers, being a hero is what defines him. The comment at the end about it "being a one-time thing" is a big step backwards for Clark. He's so focused on being normal that he doesn't want to help without his powers. Someone should smack you, Clark.
- Cardboard villains we're all used to.
- Wasn't Level 3 just a warehouse when the man with jitters broke into it? Maybe I just don't remember Lionel or Lex commenting on restarting operations there... or keeping Kryptonite cocktails handy.

But there are plenty of good things:
- No Lois.
- Evil Lex.
- Belle Reve.
- Heroic Jonathan.
- Sheriff Adams at her best.

It's the simple good things that keep "Mortal" good overall.

You had mentionted that Kryptonite would still hurt him, why would it still hurt him?

[Summers]

Originally posted by F-Stop Blues
Yet they have the second ep of season 5 centered around it. I just dont get it.

That's because that's Level 3 from S1. Level 3 and Level 33.1 are two different things.


Originally posted by Prunk1121
You had mentionted that Kryptonite would still hurt him, why would it still hurt him?

Because he is in fact still Kryptonian. He is not a human being. The only thing that different is that he has no powers. With powers or without he is still Kryptonian. The only reason why he had powers on Earth is because of our yellow sun.

[F-Stop Blues]

Originally posted by Summers
That's because that's Level 3 from S1. Level 3 and Level 33.1 are two different things.

Is it though? Its never really been sorted out.

[dhacker615]

Originally posted by Summers
Because he is in fact still Kryptonian. He is not a human being. The only thing that different is that he has no powers. With powers or without he is still Kryptonian. The only reason why he had powers on Earth is because of our yellow sun.

Steven S. DeKnight is by far the least interested in providing some pseudo science explanation for everything of the reqular writers. It is a convention from Silver Age comics that certainly can be tedious.

DeKnight's just focusing on the story has provided some of the best recent episodes. "Run","Onyx" and "Unsafe" were all innovative and well paced. On the other hand, "Spell" and "Ageless" were two of the five worst episodes of "Smallville" ever. They all seemed to view Clark less as a hero in a sci-fi story and more as a fantasy character. This is always dicey terrain for Superman, but it can work very well. That makes DeKnight a high risk/high reward writer.

To me, "Mortal" was an example of his good qualities. The visual of Clark picking up a piece of Kryptonite and just chucking it like a normal rock said a lot about the theme of the episode. Also, who is to say that Kryptonite effects Kryptonians irrespective of whether they have powers? The whole concept of a rock that is poisonous only to one race of people is more fantasy than science fiction to begin with.

However, it makes you wonder about "Thirst".

[President_Luthor]

I just watched this ep., and I liked it!

I'm glad they had hints of continuity (hey, they're raising the Kent barn because the meteor shower scorched the entire town!), including -brief- mentions of Alicia (the woman Clark 'married'!), Jason (Lana's steady) and Pete (the first bearer of The Secret, and royally screwed by Luthor cunning and Kent betrayal).

Promising signs, but giving Pete a two-line props doesn't let 'em off the hook, not by a long shot. If they are truly sticking with having more solid continuity, I reckon there's a reckoning comin' ... and it's got JK, Clark, Lex and Lionel owning up to the dirty little adoption secret somehow, some way. If continuity is sticking around, that means Pete (or at minimum, his issues) should. I'd bet a can of Green Giant creamed corn on it! ;)

Clark - Chloe tag team! Where to begin .....

It was all Chloe, and I loved how she made that remark about Clark not having any real skills without his powers. And I loved how she had to prompt the BDA to go 'left'. Chloe, girl, he's slow, he's slow and a bit short on the 'transferable skills' list with krypto-juiced god powers. And she truly is trying to call him on his new 'live for the day' philosophy. As if Lex, Lionel, every FOTW in Belle Reve, Sheriff Adams, Perry White and any enemy he ever made will simply drop everything because he now wants to!

"Just let it go, Chloe"? Yeah, right, Clark! If he were any more obtuse, he'd be a triangle! This lead us to ...

... the fallout of "no more secrets, no more lies". Clana on overdrive! It was bound to happen, the way the show's been evolving. Jason? He's nobody. Alicia? Just some chick he made out with in Vegas. I could have done without the longwinded angst, but at least Clark had the sense to shift into neutral when they blew off the barn-raising for some pent up Clana lip-locking. So, Clark hits it out of the park with Lana at the Talon -- driven to that point by .....

Lex Luthor. He has taken sooo much crap from all of them, and now he's got Clark slugging it out with him. Clark doesn't like being spied on? Well, guess what Clark -- some people don't like to be lied to, bold-faced, for four years. Clark really let him have it, and while he did have a LOT of frustration to let out over the past four years, who is he to pull the sanctimonious card when he's been shoveling secrets and lies all around town for years!

Lex got a parting shot - literally - and he drew blood. It was 'that' punch which was four years in the making, IMHO, and one Clark truly deserved. Sadly, Clark's mortal phase is messing with Lex's head. After what Lex has had to put up with, can we truly blame him for wanting to verify/disprove the facts -- since no one (the Kents, Lionel, Clark, Lana, Chloe etc.) wants to level with him? Sure, he can't be trusted -- but in his mind, they all owe him.

Clark just invited a world of hurt with his boxing match, but obviously he doesn't know what he just started (Clark: I gotta do the 'poor me' routine at the Talon!). If Clark's lies were the seeds of the Rift, then the fight was its fruit.

Okay, now the fun stuff. Sheriff Adams was great! She knew JK and Lana (among the town's worst liars) were shoveling it pretty thickly and she smelled it a mile away. She knows 'something' is up, but played it ice cold. She rocks! And even when Clark smugly basked in Lana-glow after the whole incident, Adams brought him down to earth. His 'just lucky I guess' routine is clearly wearing thin on her.

Watching JK duke it out with the Electric Hothead was simply hilarious. I was getting flashbacks of some good old fashioned Duke boy scrappin' back in Hazzard County. Great stuff -- and JK should be in more street brawls/bar fights if you ask me!

I liked this ep. better than the season premiere, which was more sizzle than steak.

"Mortal" was at least AA-grade prime. Add in continuity, a little Chloe gravy (cannot get over her dee-licious top!), extended Sheriff Adams quipping and we get one entertaining ep.

Thank Krypton for all of that, because otherwise it would have been known as merely a 'Clark and Lana do it' episode.

[angelfire east]

Originally posted by President_Luthor
Promising signs, but giving Pete a two-line props doesn't let 'em off the hook, not by a long shot. If they are truly sticking with having more solid continuity, I reckon there's a reckoning comin' ... and it's got JK, Clark, Lex and Lionel owning up to the dirty little adoption secret somehow, some way. If continuity is sticking around, that means Pete (or at minimum, his issues) should. I'd bet a can of Green Giant creamed corn on it! ;)

Clark - Chloe tag team! Where to begin .....

It was all Chloe, and I loved how she made that remark about Clark not having any real skills without his powers. And I loved how she had to prompt the BDA to go 'left'. Chloe, girl, he's slow, he's slow and a bit short on the 'transferable skills' list with krypto-juiced god powers. And she truly is trying to call him on his new 'live for the day' philosophy. As if Lex, Lionel, every FOTW in Belle Reve, Sheriff Adams, Perry White and any enemy he ever made will simply drop everything because he now wants to!

"Just let it go, Chloe"? Yeah, right, Clark! If he were any more obtuse, he'd be a triangle! This lead us to ...

... the fallout of "no more secrets, no more lies". Clana on overdrive! It was bound to happen, the way the show's been evolving. Jason? He's nobody. Alicia? Just some chick he made out with in Vegas. I could have done without the longwinded angst, but at least Clark had the sense to shift into neutral when they blew off the barn-raising for some pent up Clana lip-locking. So, Clark hits it out of the park with Lana at the Talon -- driven to that point by .....

Lex Luthor. He has taken sooo much crap from all of them, and now he's got Clark slugging it out with him. Clark doesn't like being spied on? Well, guess what Clark -- some people don't like to be lied to, bold-faced, for four years. Clark really let him have it, and while he did have a LOT of frustration to let out over the past four years, who is he to pull the sanctimonious card when he's been shoveling secrets and lies all around town for years!

Lex got a parting shot - literally - and he drew blood. It was 'that' punch which was four years in the making, IMHO, and one Clark truly deserved. Sadly, Clark's mortal phase is messing with Lex's head. After what Lex has had to put up with, can we truly blame him for wanting to verify/disprove the facts -- since no one (the Kents, Lionel, Clark, Lana, Chloe etc.) wants to level with him? Sure, he can't be trusted -- but in his mind, they all owe him.

Clark just invited a world of hurt with his boxing match, but obviously he doesn't know what he just started (Clark: I gotta do the 'poor me' routine at the Talon!). If Clark's lies were the seeds of the Rift, then the fight was its fruit.

Okay, now the fun stuff. Sheriff Adams was great! She knew JK and Lana (among the town's worst liars) were shoveling it pretty thickly and she smelled it a mile away. She knows 'something' is up, but played it ice cold. She rocks! And even when Clark smugly basked in Lana-glow after the whole incident, Adams brought him down to earth. His 'just lucky I guess' routine is clearly wearing thin on her.

Watching JK duke it out with the Electric Hothead was simply hilarious. I was getting flashbacks of some good old fashioned Duke boy scrappin' back in Hazzard County. Great stuff -- and JK should be in more street brawls/bar fights if you ask me!

Great post, wonderfully worded. I couldn't agree more with what I highlighted in darkblue.

I also loved, martha's leg still being hurt.:D Guess she not as lucky as Jonathan who leg healed superfast after being shot.

[Somebody Stop Me]

Originally posted by Prunk1121
You had mentionted that Kryptonite would still hurt him, why would it still hurt him?

Because Clark is from Krypton and just like Lionel said in Arrival; "Their home planet is their poison."

Just because he lost his powers, his blood is still from a Kryptonian race, and you can't change his blood. This was a writing blunder IMO.

[F-Stop Blues]

Originally posted by Somebody Stop Me
Because Clark is from Krypton and just like Lionel said in Arrival; "Their home planet is their poison."

Just because he lost his powers, his blood is still from a Kryptonian race, and you can't change his blood. This was a writing blonder IMO.

I agree. Just because Clark doesnt have any powers doesnt mean that he's not an alien.

[thenightcrawler]

I loved it!!! I didnt like the whole idea of an episode with Clark with out powers. But, it worked!!! Plus all the reference to Pete was great.

Cant wait until this weeks Episode!!!

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by F-Stop Blues
Is it though? Its never really been sorted out.
Yes.. it has been sorted out.

Level 33.1 is in Luthorcorp in Metropolis.

Level 3 was in "Jitters" and it is in the Smallville Plant. Lionel opened it up to do secret research and experiments and had it hidden even from Lex.

33.1 was created by Lex for his own things.

[supergurl88]

man, i cant believe jason, pete and alicia are mention. i thought it was a cute eps. but it wasnt my favourite.

I LOVE THE FIGHT SCENE BETWEEN LEX AND CLARK (I WANNA SEE MORE OF THIS)

i dont really like the clana scenes in here...if ur going to do it, then do it. they take forever to do the deed. do and get over it.
next week better get good

[Somebody Stop Me]

Originally posted by Sydafex7
Yes.. it has been sorted out.

Level 33.1 is in Luthorcorp in Metropolis.
33.1 was created by Lex for his own things.

And the writers better do something with this mystery.

[efilflah]

Originally posted by ryb
I think several of the arguments made by dhacker615, Liriel, and Summers are good ones. For example, Liriel was correct to note that Lex's character isn't necessarily regressing (a point I unfortunately alluded to without clarifying meaning in my earlier post), he's just progressing in the wrong direction. This means that progressing is not the opposite of regressing. We're taking regression to mean reverting to a behavior or personality trait previously used (which I'm fine with) while progression means development (which I disagree with, but I'll concede for the sake of arguing) (1).

Again, I find many of the points on both sides of the argument valid. On one side, some viewers are starting to tire of the relentless reluctance of Clark to "accept his destiny". On another, some see it as a realistic, complex look at a non-perfect superhero-to-be.

We're now 90 episodes into the series (Yep, that many), and I cannot fathom how one can interpret how Clark has not grown in some ways. For example, he is much more aware now of his origins than he was in Season 1. He is also beginning to learn what some expect of him. He is also learning powers. He is learning to use them for society's benefit. I'll call this part of his development "knowledge development". In this facet, his progression is undeniable.

But that, of course, is not where the argument lies. What about psychological development (i.e., how are Clark's feelings/emotions/desires developing?)? This is a bigger, tougher, and more complex question. On the one hand, Clark has asked in many episodes (Several of which were in Season 4, I might add) if he should begin to take on his destiny. He realizes he is "not normal" and that many of the things he is finding out are meant specifically for him. On the other hand, he continues his wish to be normal (Also many times suggested in Season 4). Clark's psychological development in Season 4 appears to me to be a reluctant realization of his destiny versus his desires (True this theme was beginning even by mid-Season 2, but Season 4 placed the final nails in the coffin).

And thus we get "Commencement". Clark has graduated high school, a symbolic form of "ending his youth". Is it a coincidence that the Fortress of Solitude appears shortly thereafter? I think the writers are too clever to let this potential metaphor slip away.

So why the "regression" in "Mortal"? Think about the time and place. Clark's "final free summer". The summer where his youth slowly slips away, where new challenges are about to begin. It's American Graffiti in Smallville form. All in the symbolism.

Of course, I really haven't answered the question. What about Clark's psychological development? Has it progressed? In some ways, yes. In some ways, it has not moved at all. I'm 23, and I can honestly say that some forms of my psychological development are comparable to my toddler years. My question to everyone is: Why can't Clark Kent be the same way? Especially if his desire is to be "human"? Is it bad/erroneous/blasphemous to give a superhero-to-be these qualities? Can he progress in knowledge first and then in mentality later? Can he try to avoid his destiny and still be heroic?

These are some of the questions that I think Smallville has asked. And the fact that this debate is occurring, I'd say, is testament to the success of the writers of this series. One of Smallville's themes, if not its primary theme, is that Clark Kent's destiny conflicts with his desires. Clark Kent will become Superman, but this process will not be cut-and-dry, black-and-white. And I'll take the slower, more complex, more realistic transgression to the Man of Steel over the too-simplistic, flawless, speedy approach any day of the week. But, of course, that's my opinion.

One final comment: I think another of the show's major themes is that what you have at one point should not be taken for granted. And I think Clark is learning that fact well. And not a bad fact to learn before accepting your destiny as a superhero. Thus, taking away his powers, taking away someone's knowledge, etc. is a part of that learning curve. Which is why I embrace episodes like Crusade, Onyx, Blank, and Mortal.

***

(1) For the record, I interpreted regression as a "negative growth" rather than a personality retread. With 20/20 hindsight, I realize that interpretation was incorrect on my part. However, based on this definition, Lex has certainly regressed (negatively grown). On the psychological definition, that statement would be wrong.

I'm in complete agreement with ryb. It's something that keeps popping up, that Clark is making the wrong decisions, not acting noble enough, lying to his closest of friends, casting aside responsibility without considering the consequences, and whilst some of it could be due to some flaws in the writing, a lot of it is intentional, and as ryb pointed out, a way of showing how things aren't as Black and White as most people would like to believe.

The biggest results in a person's development (for the postive and for the negative) are usually obtained through major events in their lives. Clark's events are significantly more major than most people's, but despite his great upbringing by loving parents who taught him well, he is still never going to be perfect, especially at this age.

Clark isn't supposed to become Superman until late 20s early 30s (that right?). At the moment he is still a teenager at the age of 18, and he still has about 10 years of education, decision making, failures and successes ahead of him which will shape him into the selfless hero we know he will be.

The show could be 6 or 7 years long, either way he will never become Superman before it ends, but he might just reach that place where he knows what it is he should be striving for in his life, and I think that that is a more realistic goal audiences should be looking for in our hero.

[Torgo]

Excellent episode, and easily goes down as one of my personal favourites from the show's entire run.

The Pete and Alicia references were pleasant surprises. I really did wonder why Pete knowing the secret hadn't been mentioned to Chloe in Arrival, so it was nice to have that here.

The main villain (well, unless you consider that Lex) of the episode was superb, giving a suitably unhinged performance. Definetly one of the better bad guys. Again, you get the feeling that they're beaten too easily, but that's the case so often on SV it seems a little unfair to single out this one instance.

Clark and Chloe made a great team, easily surpassing the Clark/Pete stuff from season 2, though it remains to be seen if Chloe can avoid becoming surpluss to requirements as the season progresses. That said, their dialogue in this ep was fantastic, and the actors seemed to relish it.

It's MR that steals the show though, and it really does seem as though Clark and Lex will never be friends again. And just like in season 1 when Clark lost his powers, it's used to brilliant effect to catch Lex completely off guard. Assuming of course, that the viewer doesn't mind convenient coincidences. But when the episode is this good, I think I can let it slide...

[Shadow09]

I liked it... a good start to the season... lets see it continue on this path

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by Somebody Stop Me
And the writers better do something with this mystery.


THey wont. I wish they would, but they wont. THey have already said that 33.1 was something they decided not to continue on with because they thought it was too out there.

[Somebody Stop Me]

Which IMO is very dumb.

[ryb]

Originally posted by Sydafex7
THey wont. I wish they would, but they wont. THey have already said that 33.1 was something they decided not to continue on with because they thought it was too out there.

Honestly, I'm about 50/50 on this issue.

There is no doubt that 33.1's introduction in Jinx was classic. The opportunity is certainly there for a major subplot or storyline arc to evolve, but I think a great deal of 33.1's popularity is due to its mystery.

Given what Al Gough had to say about how 33.1 came about, I can see why he'd want to avoid the topic in future episodes. It is a rather out-there idea, even for Smallville, and the usage of 33.1 in Smallville episodes would be rather challenging to pull off.

Having said this, I'm a bit disappointed that they haven't at least given more references to its existence (sort of like Edge City or Belle Reve) or even dabbled with a small subplot. I would think part of the fun of writing stories for a TV series like this is creating a stimulating storyline with an idea as mysterious and as ominous as this one could be. Al Gough's comments were more along the lines of, "What do we do with this?" To me, that's a challenge and not an obstacle.

And then I sway back. I like the intrigue surrounding 33.1. I like that it was mentioned and even glimpsed at. I like its mystery, and I like its skullduggerous (<-- my word for suspicious and underhanded) overtones. Why mess with that feeling?

So honestly, I won't be disappointed if I never hear about it again. And I probably won't be disappointed if I do.

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by ryb
Honestly, I'm about 50/50 on this issue.

There is no doubt that 33.1's introduction in Jinx was classic. The opportunity is certainly there for a major subplot or storyline arc to evolve, but I think a great deal of 33.1's popularity is due to its mystery.

Given what Al Gough had to say about how 33.1 came about, I can see why he'd want to avoid the topic in future episodes. It is a rather out-there idea, even for Smallville, and the usage of 33.1 in Smallville episodes would be rather challenging to pull off.

Having said this, I'm a bit disappointed that they haven't at least given more references to its existence (sort of like Edge City or Belle Reve) or even dabbled with a small subplot. I would think part of the fun of writing stories for a TV series like this is creating a stimulating storyline with an idea as mysterious and as ominous as this one could be. Al Gough's comments were more along the lines of, "What do we do with this?" To me, that's a challenge and not an obstacle.

And then I sway back. I like the intrigue surrounding 33.1. I like that it was mentioned and even glimpsed at. I like its mystery, and I like its skullduggerous (<-- my word for suspicious and underhanded) overtones. Why mess with that feeling?

So honestly, I won't be disappointed if I never hear about it again. And I probably won't be disappointed if I do.

I will be dissapointed because I hate when they bring it up but dont finish it.

Why even bother putting it into the episode? and its not lke it was just a mention, I mean the episode ENDED (huge ending if you ask me) with 33.1. Usuaslly IN smallville episodes a sudden end usually means something important. I dont know, it was just such a huge cliffhaner and they totally ignored it.

[fattire]

if its not productive - keep it out. id rather that they were responsive than felt like they had to adhere to a structure

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by fattire
if its not productive - keep it out. id rather that they were responsive than felt like they had to adhere to a structure

Thats what I'm saying! THey shouldnt have put the scene if there were ANY doubts AT ALL about it.

I mean TPTB said themselves that it was an idea they were never very keen on, so, why even bother if there is a slight chance they won't follow the story any further?

THey also couldve just shown them standing there, left lout the "You wont be alone" and shown the bight light on their face, and then they coulda easily made it into something else that they like better.

My point is exactly what yours is though, fattire. Its just that having a cliffhanger like that, and then NOT following up on it is just stupid.

Its kind of like on all of those 90's sitcoms where they would just get rid of a character and NEVER explain what happened to them.. Family Matters for instance, they had 2 daughters, after 3 seasons or so, they only had one and never said ANYTHING about what happened to the other! That same thing has happened in a ton of shows. Why even bother with something. To me, things like that somewhat ruin a show and its the same with 33.1. if you knew from day one that you didnt like the story, why allow them to shoot it? why not just shoot a scene real quick instead where Lex and Mxy are walking out of the police station together and have some kind of conversation between the two about a future meeting or something like that. That way it explains that Lx pulled strings to get him out, and it also leaves Mxy's character open to comeback.

Ahh, I think after this, we need to get back on topic with Mortal, Im also going to go start this thread in the episodes forum... this is NOT about Mortal. I apologize.

[sunshine1973]

Hated this ep. Lex and Clark fight was good!! As for the errrrrrrrr consumation I could do without that scene... Please, as much as it is Smallvile can the boy have back his powers now...TY

[Crazy4Smallville]

Nevermind - I found it.

[chloes]

i loved it especially breaking into luthorcorp at level 3, and clark realizes that he took his superpowers for granted, and he was completely lost without them and getting into luthorcorp was good.

chloe was excellent, great speech and well written of her dialogue of the show like clark, just as good as arrival.

[TKFlash]

This episode was great, I loved the krypto-villians powers, but didn't like the twins physical look and persona. Clark got on my nerves talking about he is glad that his powers are gone and he can finally be with Lana. I am really tired of his fixation on Lana.

[Countrygirl]

Well, thank goodness this is Season 5. I think the writers all got their butts kicked over the summer and finally realized how to write a good show.

Lionel is now at Belle Reeve with Lex having him watched over, controlled and isolated. It's just like 'Shattered' but reverse with Lionel in the Looney bin and Lex calling the shots. It's ironic, but I don't like how the writers use what was amazing in one episode then reuse it again just cuz fans loved it so much. Can't they think of something more original? I dunno. As fantastic as it may be that the roles between father and son are now reversed, I'm annoyed. I'm still trying to work through this one.

Clark and Lana are all lovey dovey in their relationship. Tom is an amazing actor because you can see his love for her in his eyes. The scene of them walking, kissing, holding hands, walking on the hill was sweet.

The cheese factor starts coming out in the barn though. I really hate the romantic mushy movies so this is where this is stemming from. Very rarely are romantic movies done well, usually a lot of cheesy lines that make me roll my eyes. That being said, this is what annoyed me.

Problem 1. Oohh, we are here to get the nails, lets look for them. Tom goes straight to them. Here they are! Ta-dah! Let's go. Let's stay. No....errr... OK...Let's stay. It was just awkward. Poorly written, poorly acted. Bugged me.

Problem 2: In 'Obsession', there was an amazing ass squeeze that Clark did to Alicia. It was HOT! Wow! So sexy. Loved the camera shot, amazing. The entire make out scene with Clark and Alicia was really good. Except good things can get old if it gets copied... AGAIN, it's copied, except this time not so well. They are kissing, then all of a sudden the camera shot is of Clark squeezing Lana's side? Not the same effect.

Tom's shirt gets ripped off first. Now, Tom does look hot don't get me wrong, the man is sexy. However, I think he needs to hit the gym to get more definition along his arms. He is suppose to be superman after all. Not like grotesque huge, just some nice definition in the triceps area. Also maybe in a little more definition in his chest as well. I'd like to see him looking ripped like he did in Exile. His back and abs look good. Fantastic. I really liked the muscle rippling along his back. That was nice.

So they are making out and thankfully I don't have to endure too long of watching them suck face. The only thing that made me roll my eyes was when he says, "I want to wait. I want this to be special just like you." (I'm paraphrasing) I laughed out loud. Gag me with a spoon. That was such a cheesy line. I suppose you can call it honorable, sweet, respectful, which it was... but it just sounded funny to me.

I like the force bubble effect, although I wonder if they stole the idea from "The Incredibles" movie.

The lick on Lana's face was gross. I just kept thinking, 'I wonder what he is thinking as he licks the make-up off her face. That can't taste good.' I also wonder how many times they did that scene cuz it would have to be gross for both the actors.

I hope Lana starts grilling Clark on why people say the things they say to him and not just let him off the hook with one of his lame-ass excuses. I'm tired of her not getting more aggressive with him and being so polite or letting things slide.

I also getting tired and annoyed of seeing Jonathan beat up in every episode. He is constantly being attacked and thrown around. It's getting old. The way he gets tossed around and beat up is really irritating me. He's got to have some nasty bruises and broken bones. I feel sorry for the guy. It's like his sole purpose on the show is to be picked on by the baddies.

With Lana's kick boxing knowledge, you'd think she'd use some moves on the wackos. I am very happy that she does put up a fight. Nothing I hate more than when a girl just stands there saying, "Oh, oh" as her man is being thrashed. Thankfully Lana gets in on the action. Good girl, but you can do better.

I love how Chloe stands up for herself, speaks her mind and is so smart. I just admire those qualities in a person. Allison really is a brilliant actress. I really liked the interaction between her and Lex. She's so defiant. She's also playing with fire so I really like the tension and the rift that is building between the two of them.

I really love Clark and Chloe interaction. They make such a great team. Alison Mack is a great actress and they have nice chemistry together. I found it funny how every few minutes Chloe would always remind Clark that she couldn't hack into blah, blah because it would take hours. The writers have obviously picked up on the fact that they were making Chloe do some impossible things before. One mention was good, but Chloe mentions it like 3 or 4 more times. Overkill.

I also giggle over the fact that the writers are turning Chloe into a mini MacGyver. I don't mind it, I just find it amusing. Good amusing for now, but I just hope the writers don't get carried away and go wrong with this idea. I guess it explains why she is able to 007 in and out of all kinds of places. I really like Chloe's snarks towards Clark. "I didn't know Super Whining was one of your abilities." Crack me up. That was good. I love how Chloe speaks her mind.

Clark falling through the roof was good, but I wanted to see how he dropped down. All of a sudden he is down and scampering about, but I wanted to see how me managed to get down. From the looks of things it was a long drop and there was nothing around for him to jump or drop to.

Lana tussling with one of the twins was great. The nail gun. HA! That's just so gross. I was thinking the crazy twin would turn the gun around on her, but no, she nails him to the wall. As gross as that was, it was also fabulous.

However, I don't remember why she stopped there. The twin hit her she goes down, but looks up at him. She was doing so good. She coulda kicked the other twin in the groin with her kick-boxing and punched him in the nose as he doubled over. I find it amusing because in this scene she's looking up at the twin after he smokes her then in the next scene when Jonathan comes in she's lying on the ground... HUH?

The leader of the crazies tells Clark he has 2 minutes to get to the house before he starts to whack mama Kent, the scene flips to Clark and Chloe not being able to get in to the vault. Clark tells Chloe he has another idea and leaves. Then all of a sudden he's at the farm? I think it would take longer than 2 minutes to get to the farm and psycho boy should have killed ma Kent by then, or threatened or something.

I like this Sheriff. She's a great character. The writers have done a good job with her.

My only problem I had with Clark smashing the crap out of the electrical box was:

#1. Why didn't he just flip main switch in the box. Doesn't that shut all the electricity off. I guess that wouldn't give us the Clark flexing his muscle and smashing the piss out of the electrical box.

#2. Wouldn't he get electrocuted if he smashed an electrical box? Just wondering. I'm not an electrician so I don't know the ins and outs of wiring etc. It just would seem logical that if you smashed an electrical box you'd get some sort of shock. Maybe I'm wrong.

Now my next problem was the fight sequence. I love action movies and watch a lot of them. When the psycho Tommy Lee goes to hit Clark, Clark blocks the punch. Good BUT then there's a pause. The pause always seems too long because in that time someone could get another hit in with their other arm. An upper cut maybe? Then the baddie just stands there like, "Yuk, yuk...DUH, OK.. now you hit me. I'll just stand here and wait while you hit me, cuz that's what's suppose to happen and I ain't gonna put up a fight cuz I'm too dumb or lazy and my adrenaline is not working...Duh, Yuk, yuk"

*sigh*

Then FINALLY the punch. And that too seems to slow. Like it's in slow motion. I dunno, but the last time I check real fights in real life don't happen like that. I know it's just a show, but I would like the fight scenes to improve. It can be better. No standing there waiting for the punch. Let's pick it up. Bam. Bam.

I LOVED THIS NEXT SCENE!
The Clark/Lex fight was great! WOW. I was happy! Oh so happy! I was cheering. It was a great scene. Excellent! Well done. Oh happy day! Did I say I loved this scene and the dialogue? YES, I LOVED THIS SCENE. It was shot wonderfully, directed great and the actors did an excellent job.

*sigh* Yet another small problem. Clark knows he's bleeding, why doesn't he wipe off the blood from his mouth during the drive from Lex's mansion to the Talon to see Lana? I don't get it. Is he looking for sympathy? I'm sure he'd get it anyway. Leaving the blood on for Lana to dab off was just cheesy. I didn't like it.

Then on to the make out scene and all that jazz. That was well done. Although I always wonder why Lana takes off Clark's shirt so quickly, yet Clark never takes off Lana's shirt or goes up her shirt? Must be written into her contract. Other than that small tidbit the scene played out quite nicely I thought. I like that they didn't draw out the kissing and do any fancy moves like with the Clark and Alicia or Joe and Louise scenes. It was simple, sweet and nice.

What made this show so good was the fact that this wasn't just a typical freak of the week show. It was all a set up by Lex. That's what made it so great! I loved the revelation of the video feed from Chloe to Clark and I loved the shot of Lex watching the video. It just played so smoothly together. The fact that it was set up by Lex just made me happy. It made the freak of the week not so annoying and it made sense. Fabulous. I love the curve that was thrown in at the end. It just made the show so good.

5 out of 5.

[chloe's pal]

I thought this was a great episode! So much happened, and all of it was great!

The part where Clark has to rely on Chloe (and when he saw all the cool stuff in the trunk of her car hehehe!) was fantastic ...especially the bit where he says how Pete was more supportive .... love the humour the writers put in!

I even enjoyed the stuff with Lana, cause it actually went somewhere, and now that she has a secret of her own she isn't so judg-y with Clark!

Sad to see the break down of Clark and Lex's friendship ... I know it's been building and been broken then fixed before, but this seemed like the first time that Clark really saw how devious and cold Lex can be :(

Was totally cool when he punched him tho! :p

[Vatusia]

I liked this ep for several reasons. First, loved the idea of Clark defeating bad guys without use of superpowers. Two, I loved the characterization in this ep, both by the writers and by the actors. I especially loved seeing the way Clark processed being power-less - it wasn't overdone or under done. And I enjoyed the way the Clana initiation was handled. So my brief review: kudos to all! :D

[Superboy2]

I loved the episode. I do have one question, was Clark tickling Lana when they were headed for the Kent farm? Up the hill, after Clark catches her so easily. I replayed it, but still can't tell.

[kryptoniangirl!2]

Yes! This was a great episode. I have to say one on the best. I loved how Clark and Lana finally had there adult moment, and how it was perfect. And with Clark dieing and everything, in was very dramatic, very on the edge of ur seat.

[ravidubey]

It was a perfect episode. Every important character (besides Lois, who kind of doesn't belong in this seriies anyway) played true to themselves.

Clark succeeding without powers and demonstrating the reasons why Superman is going to be the very best hero the world will see. Excellent epi.

Sometimes it's best to turn the power off!

[redraven]

LOVED IT!

[Sydafex7]

Originally posted by kryptoniangirl!2
Yes! This was a great episode. I have to say one on the best. I loved how Clark and Lana finally had there adult moment, and how it was perfect. And with Clark dieing and everything, in was very dramatic, very on the edge of ur seat.

Well, that was hidden, but I do agree.

[Mrs Kent]

I really liked this episode. I liked the Clark and Lana moments, it was like 'yes' finally! Done well!

[Mr. Wrong]

I thought this episode gave us a cohesive display of a Clark sans superpowers. The ep was very well orchestrated!

[t1090]

ONE OF THE WORST

[emsfan]

I like it!! it was to perfect!!!

[martuunia]

It was miraculous epsiode, cause' Lana was with Clark and Clark was really normal person. But if more you tihnk about it, than you realised that Lana not belongs to Clark anymore. Chloe is a person who's Clark should loved.

[Kelvins]

I liked it

[maryjanewatson]

omigosh, when chloe said "gosh clark, I didn't know super-whining was one of your powers" I about died laughing!! thats like the funniest thing chloe has ever said.

[supergirl28]

My favorite episode from all six seasions.

[cloisinmyheart]

clanas off the hook

[smlgrl1547]

I Loved It

[AG1211]

One of my favorite eppys! Steven D. Knight wrote this one and you can tell he is going to be a big plus for SV!

[Element36]

Something funny about this ep. is that they filmed the scene outside the luthorcorp lvl 3 all the way in savanah georgia at a huge sewage plant. Its a little weird that they would fly allison and tom and the film crew all the way to georgia to film a 40 second scene at a sewage plant...

[smallvillelover93]

i totally LOVED this episode, because clark was given a chance to be 'normal' and give himself up to lana for once and not have to lie about his abilities!!! also, the clana scenes were EXTRORDINAR, and also the clex fight was totally BADDUP... lex totally deserved that... i give mortal an A+++++ lol

[Bilza]

There are soo many great episodes in season 5 and Mortal is definitely one of them for good reasons. First because of the classic confrontation between Lex and Clark at the end of the episode. This was a key turning point in their relationship and a defining moment of this intriguing story. I was just shocked with the scene with Clark and Lex like many others. I had no idea that Lex was involved all this time even though I knew it was coming as Lex becomes more darker. It was perfectly delivered, well written plot in this episode with great acting namely coming from TW and ofcourse the best MR.

I guess it was only a matter of time before their friendship came to a tragic end because Lex's story and upbringing is a real tragedy in itself ..how "every relationship goes badly". It was always only a matter of time that Lex would do something soo reckless to put it kindly to test clark. While I'm not convinced he's totally evil just yet, there's no doubt that the whole thing was a setup out of desperation to find out Clark's secret. It was always going to be desperation on Lex's part especially he knows how much Clark has been lying to him since they met. His suspicions had already grown when he over heard the zoners that "Kal El would not bleed". Adding to the fact when he confronted chloe again at the beginning suspecting Chloe knows more about Clark than she's letting on. "I know you think you're being a good friend, but you're playing a very dangerous game" This new somewhat darker Lex attitude is trying to intimidate Chloe. By putting the pieces together he already assumed and somewhat believed it's Clark who is Kal El. He's always believed it and he knows Chloe and Clark are lying. Clark isn't particularly good at lying so it's always obvious to Lex. The problem there's always something that catches Lex offguard in many previous episodes or seasons gone by.

I dont blame him for wanting to find out the truth. I could understand his frustrations but he could have gone about it differently. What he did was completely unforgiveable and Clark had every right to come after him and completely distrust him. It was a cowardly act to use freaks from belle reve.

My biggest shock out of the whole thing is why would he put Clark's parents and Lana in danger?? Did he actually mean to put their lives in jeopardy?? Even if he hated Clark for his continueous lies, he still had huge amount of respect and admiration for him and those close to him. I guess he's always had this darkness inside him but now that he's leaning more towards his dark side, I can see why he did it. Clark I feel hasn't helped with the way he's been deceiving Lex. Lex's expressions always show how frustrated he can be with Clark. I think Lex's frustration has been bottled up for some time because he always believed clark to be unusual with all the mysteries that surrounds him. His raging apetite and obssession to know the truth about almost everything is what triggers this monster inside him. The people around him haven't helped his cause well enough.

My favourite lines this episode for once didn't come from Lex. It's clark who put it bluntly to a perplexed Lex:

Lex (with amusement, disapointment and a certain desperation in his voice/reaction): This is impossible?! (he had green refined meteor rock in that room too..perhaps Lex remembered how Clark gets sick around meteor rocks and then lies about his condition when Lex checks up if he's alright...remember Onyx with the "good lex)

Clark: Disappointed?!

Lex: Clark, I heard what happened...is everyone alright? (expertly lying again with that great expression of his)

(Clark gives a Lex a memorable ferocious punch in the face)

MR's acting in this scene is superb yet again. Almost priceless!

Lex: What you doing?

Clark (angry): What I should have done a long time ago?! Chloe checked the video feed from Level 3....you were watching us the whole time! (Clark also gave a great angry expression to Lex with a few pauses)

Lex responds with a typical brilliant lie (line) (only MR's Lex knows how to lie expertly..afterall he learns from another expert...his father Lionel..who's also great for this show)

Lex: I dont know what you're talking about?!

Few lines later, Clark couldn't have said it better (best line):

Clark: This whole thing was a setup...a test! And to do it, you put my family and lana in danger! ......(punches lex again as he tried to explain)..Noo!......I thought we could start over lex but you're too obssessed with the past...with me! But I'm different now and I quit playing games with you. You wanna test me...you wanna see what I'm really made of....do it yourself you coward!"

Fantastic line by Clark. Well done Tom Welling..so much intensity with that line alot like the whole scene. However, MR's lex (brilliantly acted) while looking dazed, doesn't look regrettably at Clark but almost with anger..still desperate to find out the truth. As he misses one Clark punch, he throws him one that Lex always wanted to give for a very long time...releasing all that frustration. To his absolute surprise, he finds Clark bleeding. Lex didn't even apologise but looked confused and THEN looked on regrettably knowing full well he's lost his friendship for good! Clark responds by rubbing it in..."Satisfied?!" Lex continues to look on regretably as he turns round watching Clark walk off and his friendship fading away. Fantastic emotionally tragic expressions by MR! For me it's a tragedy that their friendship has ended on such a bitter note but compelling nonetheless. To make matters worse for Lex, Clark heads off to Lana's place (the only real person left in his life that he has feelings for) to make love to her. Lex is now in a place of more loneliness with no friends. Even Lana doesn't trust him. He's left with a deceitful father with an abusive past and Lex's life is about to become darker.

Lex has been jealous of Clark for a long time ever since they met especially with the "happy couple" (i.e. his relationship with Lana). Lex in that scene again was superb and when speaks to clark he gives a brilliantly expert lie (as he was acting like a nice charity man "a real hero" in other words, rebuilding smallville whilst plotting againt clark with a devious plan) of how he would like to "rebuild more than just the town" (i.e. their friendship inc. Lana). He also says: "Look Clark, we've all made mistakes....that's in the past ..for whatever reason we've been given a second chance". Clark looks on with doubt if whether Lex can really change with all the darkness inside him. He has given him enough chances but Clark as naive as he can me sometimes, knows full well it's very hard to trust Lex with his history and the history between them and how obssessive he can be especially when it comes to his secret. Chloe perhaps told him more than we know about Lex. I love that line where he put it to Lex very well and quite sarcastically: "She doesn't trust you" (i.e. Lana)..."I'm sure you're used to that kind of reaction by now". That line made me smile (almost ridiculing Lex) because it reveals how much experience he's had with Lex's deception, many of the times he himself couldn't trust Lex because of his devious behaviour/actions like investigating him behind his back. Lex's jealousy is further revealed when he witnesses Clark and Lana embracing as they walk away. I sensed his feelings..a feeling of jealousy and loneliness at the same time.

I like the line when Clark at end scene with lana. He says: "After everything that's happened, I thought I knew what my life would be like..I thought that..it would be easier....but i guess you can never be certain what's going to happen tomorrow?" Clark summed up it perfectly. No matter how much he wants to live a normal life, there is always cloud hanging over him like Lex, Jor El and other mysterious problems in smallville and the world. Great line!

Amazing intense/classic scene with Lex and Clark! Great episode..one of the best of the entire series. Got to see something interesting and new on the show where Clark goes off to save the day without his powers which just adds to the excitement with two different twists (one for the audience and the other for Lex lol) at the end.

[lana 9]

love it 10

[9-SOSIHTWB]

Hated it!!!!!!!!!!!!

[4815162342LOST]

I loved it
Superman losing his V Plates

[Nimkong]

This episode is good,but not on my top.Liked the plot,chloe and clark working together was just sick and clark/lex friendship finally ended

[SGuthrie27]

I liked virtually everything about this fast-paced, action-packed episode, save for the last two minutes. The Chlark friendship stuff and their exploration of Luthorcorp was especially awesome and fun to watch.