Loved It? hated it? what did you think of Descent?

[shy175223]

please do not post until after the airing of this episode.

[superhippie2000]

hope its good. looks good.

[shy175223]

sounds good so far...

[GENERALzod777]

woot tomarrow. i bet that lionel survives the fall but crushes lana when he hits the ground. Then BRAINIAC takes credit.

[Thrill_Seeker]

this episode i s awesome !!!!!
I wont say anything to ruin or spoil it but i was EXTREMELY happy with this episode. It's not just the death and the lex goes completely evil thing. Its the things that were also going on apart from that. alot of suspense, and the word I would use to decribe this eppy is POWERFUL.

powerful scenes from chlex, clex, chlark, and just WOW !!
the episode rocked !!!
enjoy it !!

[shy175223]

Thanks for 'spoilers' there Thrillseekerand thanks for not entirely spoiling it for the rest of us here in the US. By your post, it sounds like it's definitely going to be awesome. Can't wait.

[Thrill_Seeker]

I most definetly enjoyed it :D
although ive always felt one day im gonna get heart problems due to the stress and anxiety the show gives me.

[AlwaysRight]

It was alright, the previews sort of ruined it a bit though. ment to give it an 8 but bi-acidently gave it 7

[dunkman]

It's good to hear you Canadians liked it so much. I couldn't understand why the CW gave so much away, but it sounds like there's a lot more to it than that. Also, sometimes knowing what's going to happen helps you appreciate it more when you see it happen. Kind of like with Star Wars, how they had the last 3 episodes before the first 3.
Anyway, 10 hours & 3 minutes left!

[GuardianAngel]

They probably gave a lot away because fans have been waiting for this episode since season 1 and the CW wanted to bring old fans which have stoppped watching the show back.
If I'd stopped watching Smallville, I would tune in to watch it. Rest assured!

BTW, one of the best episodes ever, IMHO. From the first to the last second!

[Jaderoyale]

They probably gave a lot away because fans have been waiting for this episode since season 1 and the CW wanted to bring old fans which have stoppped watching the show back.
If I'd stopped watching Smallville, I would tune in to watch it. Rest assured!

BTW, one of the best episodes ever, IMHO. From the first to the last second!

Oh the excitement.

[LoveHurts38]

Watched the episode LOVED it :D Gave it a 10!!

[GuardianAngel]

Me, too. 10!

[TheANIMAL (marcus)]

Even being massivly spoiled didn't spoil it for me, i couldn't have loved it any more, i think there were about 50 seconds out of the whole episode that weren't pretty much perfect.


The intensity of the scenes was awsome as was the power and for once, everything really, REALLY mattered. The darkness, both in lighting and the overall tone, not to mention one particularly sadistic scene near the end that wouldn't have been out of place in a horror film, was almost oppresive. (well atleast by Smallville standards)

[ClarkNLanaTogether4Eva]

One of, if NOT, the best episode out of the entire series. I was on edge of my seat the entire time. Every scene was so suspenseful, exhilarating, and action-packed.

I give a round of applause for the writing team. STELLAR EPISODE. 10/10 from me.

;)

[Thrill_Seeker]

It was alright, the previews sort of ruined it a bit though. ment to give it an 8 but bi-acidently gave it 7

It really WAS annoying how poor the CW advertised, but even then the episode still rocked.
but did you really think this was just alright ??
I would have it in my top 3, no less. with justice and reckoning.
the episode was so good, everything clicked together perfectly

[Lexgirl33]

This episode was excellent. It had everything going for it. WOW. I loved the Clex scenes. Brilliant acting my Michael Rosenbaum. I voted 10

[reobeem]

This was the best episode by far. With the loss of Lionel Clark has no one left to guid him and Lex is now beyond saving. It's up to Clark to stop him before he unlocks the truth that could destroy everyone, it's a 9/10 this week.

[Heilige]

10/10 Best episode of Smallville ever!!! Stellar performances by Welling and Rosenbaum. Lex is now truly beyind redemption. Man, awesome episode!

[superhippie2000]

great episode. so cool it showed Lexs "Descent" and im so sad lionel is dead. great episode. didnt need the special effects at all. great story even if it was an episode made after the strike and was probably only made as a longer version of the scene that was cut out off Veritas. awesome episode.

[rissaroo689]

really really good.

[Lexgirl33]

Tell us why you voted a 5, anyone?

[STFanatic]

Tell us why you voted a 5, anyone?

Some people will not give the reason for fear of being attacked.


I usually don't vote until I watch it the second time.

[Heroes4Hire]

I only saw the last thirty minutes of the episode and I thought that part was excellent.

[xHerox]

It is relatively rare for me to give an episode a score of '10' - especially this season, which has been great overall but because of the overarching plotlines and not because of individual episodes. However, "Descent" is completely worthy of a perfect score - and then some. I completely believe that, once the show has finished its run, "Descent" will stand out as one of the top episodes.

The first thing I have to point out are the special effects; I'm not completely sure why, but all of the effects used seemed excitingly fresh, from the creative portrayal of heat vision to the instrument Lionel left for Clark. The opportunity to delve into Lex's psyche was also very interesting, and though I believe it had the potential to look terrible if executed poorly, it was pulled off perfectly and added something special to the episode.

In addition, I liked that the death of Lionel occurred during the teaser and was not the climax of the episode, because I was looking forward to "Descent" but was upset that the promos for it had pretty much ruined the surprise element. Luckily, I don't think that it was the actual moment of Lionel's death that made the episode, but rather the repercussions felt by all of the characters. Speaking of which, I felt that every character was used perfectly, and the acting was top-notch from each cast member. There really are no moments that stick out in my mind as being out of character, a problem which seems to have plagued the show recently.

Finally, I must point out the excellent parallelism to "Reckoning"; while I know some people aren't fond of it, "Reckoning" was and still is one of Smallville's defining episodes, and playing "Descent" off of it was a great idea by the creative team. The similarities between the two deaths in each episode were good enough, but the final funeral scene was what really sealed the deal for me; although the two scenes were almost identical plot-wise (the death of a father) this episode really showed the contrasts between Jonathan and Lionel using subtle techniques from the weather to the amount of people at the funeral.

"Descent" is one of the few episodes of Smallville that I believe should have pleased every single fan, as it included some mythology elements, great action and effects, and short but poignant relationship moments. This episode suddenly makes each and every episode leading up to it even better, and I believe the saga told in season seven will remain one of Smallville's greatest achievements.

[ClarkyBoy14]

10/10

Wow. Just wow. MR's and TW's performances were beautiful. The episode was tragic and heartbreaking, but we still had Clark rush in and save Lois and Jimmy (which was awesome, btw) and promise to stop Lex which gave us a light at the end of the tunnel.

Everyone did an amazing job -- the writers, actors, the DP, the director, etc. -- from start to finish.

[Lexgirl33]

Some people will not give the reason for fear of being attacked.


I usually don't vote until I watch it the second time.

Gotcha, but I guess you are right, some people will get offended. I just want to know why because I usually vote pretty low :lol: but this episode was just great.

[loistickyfingerz]

I thought it was a pretty good episode. I was glad I avoided *extra* spoilers, as it was pretty hard to avoid spoilers in general for this one. Some good visuals, pretty decent writing, and lots and lots of good, old fashioned evil!

I was nervous when Clark started whining, but Chloe seemed to help snap him out of it. Good ending, but no update on Lois? I can't wait to see all the fallout next week. Continuity is very good this season!

[jordeant1200]

omg best episode ever 10

[Yankeefan]

OMFG!!! What a good f*ck*ng episode. One of the best of the series! 10, I would have voted it a 20 if that was an option

[CallMeClark]

Pretty frakking fantastic.

It was like an adrenaline rush. Had to be the best structured yet fast paced episode yet. It had all the great things of Smallville. Gun shots. Death. Hero complexes. Pissy women. No Lana.

10/10.

[Bizarro345]

I loved it! Finally we get to see Lex go REALLY bad. Ironic how he could have learned about Clark if he hadn't killed what's her face. And I loved how he essentially destroyed the remaining good in him by killing Alexander.

[spideyfan]

solid episode with a finale feel minus the usual cliffhanger.

pros:
lionel died plot long term movement
no lana
chloe / ck great
lex fully evil
lionels intentions revealed

cons:
lionel died
little good lex died

[wolverine316]

In my opinion the best ep in years. If not the greatest episode of the series.

[Superman's Princess]

A definite 10 for me. WOW! One of the best if not the best epi of Smallville ever. The whole episode was so intense. The heat vision effect looked awesome! Great performances.

[Markd329]

Everything about "Descent" was top-notch, in fact, this episode did a much better job tying the mythology together than "Veritas" did.

Lex's turn to the "dark side" is complete, and I see more trouble for our Clarkie in the future [did you notice that he may have found The Fortress?],especially next season [maybe Clark will FINALLY take that "next step" on the road to being Supereman!], when Lex finally put 2 and 2 together.

As far as computers go, I hope that some vestige of the photos Chloe was working on at Isis survive somewhere. Maybe Chloe copied a few and probably sent them to you know who's system [for protection]?

[SVfan4ever]

Absolutely fantastic! I loved Descent. MR & TW were awesome tonight. I will totally miss Lionel. It was soooooo good!! 10/10

[Krypton935]

10! It was amazingly awesome! Definitly one of the top svs ever! I keep saying that but its true-they just keep getting better!

[RJLCyberPunk]

Wow I love how everyhting is coming to a close now! Cannot wait for the next episode as this one was awesome...

[petitemimi]

I just saw the first 20 minutes of it but it was really REALLY great. The acting was top notch, especially MR. I totally liked what I saw so far, it was fresh, the music, the angles of the camera; I can't wait to see the rest!

[Lexgirl33]

You know its a good episode when you look at the results and see no 1 :lol:

[Mar-El]

I gave it a 9, only because we were deprived of John Glover's acting for most of the episode. But I think it's great how they did it, so the rest of the episode was an aftermath. I'm just a huge John Glover fan.

It was extremely well done. Loved when Clark used 3 different powers (nice for a change). Any criticism I had for Clark in Veritas completely dissipated after this episode.

My only fear is that Lex will become one-dimensional now. A lot of people claim that he needed to kill Lionel and how this needed to happen. I, for one, liked Lex's character a lot more when he straddled both sides of the good/evil fence. But I guess it was inevitable.

Altogether great episode. I thought Gina was kind of a lame character, and have since she first appeared in Bizarro but at least she made sense with the way the plot was directed. This episode just completely restored my faith in Clark. It was in my top 5 for this season.

[Mr.lexy]

i Loved it! it had lots of expression and emotion. i Liked how a lot of past issues were bought up. it was sad when clark put the dirt on lionel coffin. made me tear up.
by far the best episode so far!

[bonvon]

I can't believe I was almost in tears over Lionel but I was. And the conflict Michael showed in Lex, awesome. And for the first time, at the end of the show at the funeral, when Clark stared at Lex I saw Superman This episode is a ten and a keeper on my dvr.

PS Why did Lionel disappear from Lex's eye when he blinked "hmmmm"

[Darth Pipes]

10/10

I thought it was great. Rosenbaum did a great job here as Lex finally steps into a much darker universe. Loved the scene between Lex and Clark in the mansion. I liked the "enemy" scene too at the end. Clark should really kill him and be done with it.

RIP, Lionel Luthor. Smallville is going to miss him but there's no doubt he'll be returning in some form.

Clark blaming himself for Jor-El's death...gotta love when he blames himself for something he had no control over whatsoever.

[SnowBird]

Great episode! I can't wait to see how everything plays out in the future. I gave it a 10!!!

[MrsK]

Wow! Definitely a 10 - and I rarely rate an episode that high. It lived up to, and possibly surpassed my expectations, and that is rare. Outstanding episode.

[smallvillelogan]

What an INCREDIBLE episode. One of the best in the series! I would have given it a 20.

Lex Luthor is now Lex Luthor, if you know what I mean. I have also decided that Michael Rosenbaum IS THE Lex Luthor- better than Spacey, WAY better than Gene Hackman. What an amazing actor.
Clark Kent really is in so many ways already Superman. Maybe he doesn't always listen to Jor-El, but that hasn't always been a bad thing. I mean, Jor-El told Clark to avoid Kara. That would have been a major mistake.
I feel like Tom Welling has come so far as an actor.
The confrontation between Lex and Clark in the Luthor mansion was incredible. The first real good-evil interaction between the two. That scene was emotionally impactful for me. I felt insulted when Lex suggested that Clark is the reason for Jonathan's death, just like Clark did. A ton of emotion just swelled up in me at that moment, just as it did when Lionel was killed, and when Chloe was fired.
Did I mention that Michael Rosenbaum is just amazing as Lex Luthor? I can't say that enough. Perhaps his finest performance on the show.
I was pained to see Lex destroy his good side. Demonstrating that good side with a child was a smart move. It made it even harder to bear when Lex actually PUT HIM IN THE FIRE?! Wow. I couldn't believe it. Lex has destroyed the good in him. He's got no hope of being redeemed like Vader; that part, which has been begging at him the whole series, and was most of his character the first two seasons, is now gone.

I am going to miss John Glover. His acting and charisma were fantastic. At least we can say that it looks like he has truly passed down the acting as a villain to his "son" Michael Rosenbaum.

I can't wait for next week's episode. I literally jumped from my bed and did a spin when I saw Lex approaching the Fortress in the trailer. :lol:

[txluvstom]

Wonderful...WONDERFUL episode. Michael and Tom were awesome. But I am even more impress with the lack of Clark-bashing. I was concerned about the reaction the loft scene would generate,reguarding him blaming himself. But I think...or HOPE people finally realize that this isn't a flaw in him,it's just his nature. He cares so much about a race that took him in. There's nothing wrong with that.

[Keymaster]

I've never posted but was compelled to because this episode was so good. Definately the best of the season. I have to admit that this season has been a little bit disappointing for me, mostly because it felt like the pace of the show had come to a crawl. Tonight had so many elements that had been missing as of late:

1. Intensity - from the picture of Lionel falling to Lex trying to find the key
2. Tension - this may have just stemmed from everyone giving their A-game tonight, but the scenes with Lex and Clark just made you feel like you were in the room.
3. Nostalgia (for a lack of a better word) - I REALLY liked the staff that Clark found in the vault with the symbols. Lionel's voice being digitized in that way made it sound very cryptic. They could have easiy just had Lionel put that message on a tape recorder, but know that they could use that staff as a vessel that only Clark could open was spot-on.
4. Urgency - Finally....or should I say "hopefully", something to resolve that will take more than one episode. With Lex now having the keys and Lionel out of the way, Clark has another reason to step up and become the hero we've been waiting for. There is some "real" desperation for Clark to stop Lex from finding out his secret.
5. Mystery - I'm actually a little intrigued by this information in the vault that will enable someone to "control" the traveler (Clark). First, I thought it was just the whole "kryptonite" angle, but they're making it sound even more controlling than that. What could it possibly be. The previews at the end of the show has a scene of Lex at the Fortress of Solitude, so maybe that has something to do with it.
6. No Lana - I have never had a problem with Lana on the show or her involvement. But I do feel that the writers have dropped the ball on her, especially this season. I guess they gave up and they figured they would just comatose her for the time being. I'd like her back in the storyline if they could do her some justice.

A+, 10, 2 thumbs up!:D

[BadToad]

Really strong episode. Epic, in fact. Amazing performances by MR and TW. It felt like the show remembered that it was supposed be focused on Clark and Lex. And watching this, what a fabulous show it is was when it does.

I loved the graveyard scene.

I gave it a 9 though, just for some annoying continuity errors that irked.

[quietone]

10/10

Excellent episode! Good show all around. When this show gets it right it knocks it out of the park. Great acting by TW & MR.

Favorite part: The Clex graveyard scene. The choice to go with no dialog was brilliant.

RIP MB. John Glover will be missed.

[addictedtogummibears]

AMAZING EPISODE!!! ... but i'll miss JG :( He's delivered some of the best lines/scenes in the whole series.
Who the heck killed the assistant?!?! I know a lot of people are saying it was Lex cuz she knew about him... but to me it looked like Braniac because of the way she froze up (just like the way Lana looks now)

[jimmyolsenblues]

i loved this episode so much , i just want to stay up all night and post about all the good things, but i got work tomorrow :(.....

love you guys. love the episode.

I could not be more happy with the episode, i give it an 11.

[Lexgirl33]

I know me too! I can't really remember the last time I spent this much time in the SV section. Yes it sounds bad but its true. The episode was just so great.

[ksesler]

Best episode of the year. Reverses a trend of several weak episodes. Solid 9.

[Alexander III]

Gave it a 9, the highest rating I ever gave to an episode. It was a dark, powerful, sad and intense episode. GOOD GOOD!

[Anklh]

Great episode! If they all were like this who knows how long this show would go on for. But then again, I would rather have quality then quantity. This was a sad one, that answered some questions but it was a natural progression for Lex. Even his look and demeanor was different at the end.

When Lex was asked to identify the body I believe he was shocked to see that even in death his father did not blink, when Lex had. He is evil but not the MB.

The lighting, the pace the music...I hope they can keep this ride going.

[smallvillelogan]

Yeah, and I've gotta study for a test! Dang, Smallville. Stop doing this to me! :lol:

[zachary77]

I know me too! I can't really remember the last time I spent this much time in the SV section. Yes it sounds bad but its true. The episode was just so great.

i normally wait till the following day to check this site, but i have a rare feeling of excitement over this episode. i just felt like a blockbuster movie and i'm really pumped up for the final years of smallville.

[Kirstycol]

I thought this was an amazing episode. I don't wish for anyone to be murdered. But it seems like killing Lionel is the first time Lex has ever had any kind of justice.
The way he killed his inner child was heart wrenching. Now there's nothing to hold him back from going completley into the dark side. I still have compassion for Lex. I just wish that someone, at some point throughout his life had shown him some kind of compassion and mercy. Lex is lacking in love because he's never been shown love a day in his life. I can't help thinking Lionel had it comin.
Clark was quite cliche as usual, acting like the victim and feeling guilty over things that aren't his fault. Again! I didn't like the fact that Lex's assistant was killed right after finding out Clarks secret.... Lex better find out Clarks secret.... seriously. If this season ends without him finding out I'm going to be really pissed off.

[AngelaV]

10!

[ITIMAN]

Have not posted in a while but this one deserved it!

GOOD EPISODE EVERYONE!!! YEAH BABY!! Maybe this is the kind of stuff we can expect for season 8!!!!

[BWOracle]

Absolutely perfect. Every scene was intense (even scenes I didn't think would be). And the final scene with Lex and Clark not wanting to look in each other eyes plus Lionel's plain pine coffin and Clark dropping the dirt. Awesome.

Also, loving the new heat vision effect.

On the negative side, my DVD recorder bought it at the end and I lost the disc...ugh.

[Lightning Flash]

This episode is defining for the series as a whole, thus it proves significant, and it did. It was excellent in the way the death was portrayed, and subsequent scenes.

[LexLuv180]

I voted 8. Great episode but there are a few things I wasnt crazy about, the Lex vs Lex scene being one of them, and how abrupt the Lionel death was at the beginning with little build up. Overall it was a SUPERB episode and I loved it.

[jazel]

I'm neither here, nor there.:(
Sorry, but I do NOT understand WHY, most are "pleased" w/ this epi. We ALL knew......much like Darth Vader, where Lex was headed.
This epi was dark, dreary, morbid, AND depressing.....adjectives I rarely equate with SUPERMAN.:(
My BRO, is a fan of Zombie movies.....he'd go out fighting, while I'd be like..... "let them have me".:p
If I was CK after watching Descent, I'd be like "why not turn myself over to Lex, NOW, and save some misery ?":lol:

[Spirit Detective]

This was definately Smallville's finest hour!

Thank goodness the Writer's Strike ended and we have this episode!

I can finally redeem portions of Veritas after watching Descent. It was awesome from beginning to end.

I loved the Lex and Lionel confrontation in the beginning. It was really interesting for Lionel to say that Lex was the traveler. Did anyone notice that Lionel died striking a Christ pose?

I loved the Lois-Jimmy teamup. They have really great chemistry.

The best part of this episode though, was when Clark found Lionel's message and realized that he really was trying to protect him. I loved how he mentioned his three "fathers" who died for him at the end and declared that "Lionel deserves better".

Clark's confrontation with Lex was spectacular. I love their tete-a-tete. Clark had the upperhand though when he said "I have proof!". The look on Lex's face was priceless.



10/10

[coco#1]

this was/is the best episode of smallville ever. it has everything. clarke being heroic in a really cool way that bears several viewings. suspense,pathos,action, resolution.this episode was like a great meal. awesome:rotfl:

[ginnyfan]

I absolutely loved it. I've been waiting for an episode like this for so long! Usually the Lex/Clark episodes are some of the best but... this episode was fantastic. It was the best episode of this season and one of the very best of the series.

[coco#1]

[QUOTE=STFanatic;3728959]Some people will not give the reason for fear of being attacked.

i have to admit that i would probably have to restrain myself from not attacking a person who would rip apart this episode.its the whole "i dont suffer fools lightly" thing with me.if anyone does tear it apart though, i will show restraint though for i havent killed my inner "good Lex" as of yet;)

[ClareKent]

Amazing episode, really, it was much better that what I hoped.

[coco#1]

Perry was probably my favorite episode until now. what was your favorite episode before this one showed up?

[Spirit Detective]

I love how the episode ends with there "being light at the end of the darkness"....the notion of hope.

[GuardianAngel]

^Nice observation. did you also notice how Clark looked more like Superman on that hill? I mean, from that shooting angle.

[love_smallville]

Absolutely amazing-the only thing that irked me was the dramatic music-it was like "dun dun dun" when somebody would say something powerful-and it was LOUD. Still didn't stop me from giving it a 10...

[dotsie23]

I loved this episode too! it was great! I thought about Hourglass when Clark's and Lex's destiny was seen by that blind woman and how when Lex was standing in that field of Sun Flowers and touched them only to have them die and show all those bones. When both Clark and Lex were at the cemetry I thought Lex was going to say something because it looked liked he either smiled or smirked? when he saw Clark. Then when Lex was walking towards him he just walked right past him. What made me kind of sad for Lex was when he told Clark he had always wanted his friendship in the begining. Okay I'm through babbling here.

[GENERALzod777]

im shocked that lex killed mini lex in the fireplace. i was expecting that mini lex was gunna drive lex even crazier for the rest of his life. also did anyone notice the line " you make me weak. evil lex said the same thing in Onyx.

[brando_2185]

I just watched this about an hour ago (recorded it) and I have to say this was the most exciting episode for me as a fan of Superman and Smallville. Just the descent of Lex alone was great and the confrontation of Lex from Clark was amazing.

I gave a 10 out 10 because after the episode was over, I couldn't stop thinking about it. The end scene with Clark and Lex was so symbolic in so many ways...the episode was awesome. If the remaining few are as good as Descent...I will do a Tom Cruise freak out on my bed. LOL!

[ChrisRPDX]

What an awesome episode!! While the "who dies" answer was not all too surprising, it was how everything occurred afterwards that was so great. For a few moments, it almost felt like I was watching one of the Superman movies, with Jimmy and Lois getting in trouble together and Clark/Superman having to save the day. The only thing missing from it was Perry. Pretty nice how they tied this episode with "Reckoning" and deaths of the fathers... cant wait for next week for more!!!

[Este]

Oh...

I didn't expect Smallville to ever be that good again. This is one of the best episodes in years.
"Veritas" was awful for me ; made me dislike Smallville. "Descent" just swept all this disappointment away. If only the writers could let Clark act and think for himself from now on...

Apart from some lines where Chloe stated the obvious to Clark, everything was good for me : the dialogues, the acting, the writing (finally!) Maybe the strike was good for them.:)
I was impressed with the way they handled Lionel's death scene. And in the end of the episode, this sunshine - I guess Lionel has got his redemption, after all.
No Lana and no Kara... and the quality of the show soars. :p
Jimmy was actually watchable, and so was Lois.
This single bell tone after Lex burned what good was left in him gave me goosebumps. A funeral of sorts, I guess.
Clark was so different from "Veritas". His character was quite useless and not even sympatetic there. Here, his stance changed completely. He may not be Superman yet, but several shots showed the strength and the goodness in him. And I loved it.

It is 10/10 for me.

[Servayne]

I absolutely loved it. There were other episodes that I may "love" more because of other issues, but the fact that Lex became Clark's true enemy - the journey how he went from friend to enemy, the psychological impacts - all of it was GREAT.

[jazel]

*YAWN*.......WILL get back to ya, tomorrow.:)

[skully]

Wow. Possibly early days, but I don't think any episode has come close to the 71% of the votes being 10 out of 10s you guys have rated Descent so far. Justice managed a final count of 55% of votes being 10 out of 10s.

[moody12381]

Just a brilliant episode. Gave it a 10. I hope the rest are half this good.

----- Added 5 Minutes later -----

Oh and I haven't had the urge to post in these forums in a long time. I usually just read them. But tonight I felt the urge to post.

[Jack-El49]

In my opinion the best ep in years. If not the greatest episode of the series.

My sentiments exactly! 10/10

[TheShowstoppa]

I won't lie either - I've been registered here for a long time but rarely post - if ever. I absolutely loved this episode. Since everyone is speaking without spoiler tags, I shall too...

I'm glad someone other than me noticed the bell tolling. I thought that was very symbolic. Did anyone else notice the complete serene look in Lionel's face as he fell? It's almost like he knew from the very beginning this is where it was leading but that he has to let Clark's and Lex's paths cross like fate has always known it would. That - and it was kinda creepy that he wasn't like "OH SH**!!!" all the way down.

The stare down at the end of the show was proof there's no going back. This is their end. Lex knows that Clark knows, but Lex is still going to play innocent. The whole staredown was enough to give me chills.

I've said this on another forum, but this episode reassured me as to why I think this is the best show on TV. Yes - Without Lana it was SOOO much better because we could finally get on with Clark doing HIS thing and doing it himself.

Also - The VERY last shot of the preview for upcoming episodes was enough to make me jump up for joy. Arctic is going to hopefully be the best episode RIGHT after this one.

[Mar-El]

What I liked in particular that I forgot to mention was how Clark wasn't moping around with his guilt for Lana's condition, nor was he moping about not trusting Lionel until it was too late. I think he dealt with the guilt in a pretty good fashion by being more proactive on both counts. For Lana, he was concerned with locating Brainiac (we'll no doubt see more of this in Sleeper) and for Lionel, he was concerned with exposing Lex with Chloe's help.

I'm just really frickin' glad he wasn't bouncing his guilt ball against the barn wall.

[Yasise]

"Descent" was/is the best episode of season 7 so far!!

[dunlopc]

This was a great episode definately the strongest of the season good performances all round. I will certainly miss John Glover he created a wonderful character I truly wished he had not been the one chosen to die. Would have much preferred Lana or Chloe as much as I do like both women their not as good as Lional.

[Kryptonian-Ronin]

While I liked the episode and it was certainly a good one, I think that Lionel's character deserved a better send off.
Anti-climatic and rather disappointing.
The rest was fine.
Though I was thinking that Chloe was gonna drop the key in her bra, I mean, sin;t that where women hide all the good stuff? ;)

[skylar]

It was one of the better episodes of the season. The whole dark aspect of it was really good. This one is a 10!!!

[Izzysand]

Wow, I'm still so amazed by this episode! Great performances by JG, MR, TW, AM... Everyone... It was superb.. I haven't been this exited after an episode of smallville in awhile. I was so happy last night. Going to miss Lionel JG and his great acting. He will be missed in this show. MR superb, superb, superb, Bravo! TM, nice to see a proactive Clark, the Clark I want to see. AM always with the good lines. I give this episode a perfect 10, only because 100 is not an option and definitely one of the top three episodes of the series!

[nenaj]

i dident watch yet but i have filing that episode was geate

[2cclark50]

I also thought this episode rates a 10. I am new to the forum, but a HUGE fan of the show. I will miss John Glovers fine acting, but the show must evolve if it is going to continue, AND IT HAS TO!!!

[Promise]

One of the best episodes. My only thing is that they showed the killing in the trailers and I didn't really read the spoliers, so that really killed the, "Oh My, it's Lionel". I guess they needed to pull people in to watch after so many sweeps weeks. I don't know. I do like how they showed next weeks trailer, not too much was exposed.

Anyways, great episode and TW did a good job as usual to play a young Superman who doesn't yet realize that the World will need him. He was so focused on getting Brainic, the sirens outside didn't budge him. Great episode, finally some Super Powers(the heat) and TW is looking more like Superman, especially that look at the funeral, the face was perfect.

[Lelak]

It would have been a great episode, but the Boston OTA HD (Directv) signal had NO SOUND for the first ten minutes. Talk about frustrating :mad:

Any ideas about when it will be shown again?

[Humdinger]

Even being massivly spoiled didn't spoil it for me, i couldn't have loved it any more, i think there were about 50 seconds out of the whole episode that weren't pretty much perfect.


The intensity of the scenes was awsome as was the power and for once, everything really, REALLY mattered. The darkness, both in lighting and the overall tone, not to mention one particularly sadistic scene near the end that wouldn't have been out of place in a horror film, was almost oppresive. (well atleast by Smallville standards)

Totally agree with you, Animal. I only gave it a 9 because of the stupid way the preview was handled. Since I don't read or look at any spoiler material, I was pissed that TPTB allowed Lionel's death to be revealed in the preview. Kudos to Michael for the excellent portrayal of Lex descending. Nice tight ep - it was almost perfect.

[STFanatic]

One big plus for me was seeing Maggie Sawyer again, when she asked Lex to identify the body of Lionel, I had to bow to the continuity.

[GuardianAngel]

^And what about Lex's word to mini-Lex before killing him? "You make me weak" - Weren't they used in Onyx when we really saw Lex's dark side?
Or what about Lex pointing out how stressed Jonathan was?

Continuity-wise this episode was awesome!

[Mary Sullivan]

Just watched it. WOW, great episode. Lex killing Lionel was awesome, i waited for this for years! Loved it.

Lex, Lionel, Clark and Chloe all ruled.


No Lana? Even better. Lois getting shot? LOL just die!

[Azra-El]

By far my favorite episode of the season so far. The dialogue with Lex and Clark. The death of Lionel (even though I didn't want to see him die), the death of Lex's inner good. The further advancement of Lois and Jimmy becoming journalists. The closing scene. All in all I could not have asked for more! :D


:DAzra-El:D

[GuardianAngel]

Lois getting shot? LOL just die!

That's nasty.:mad:

[Mary Sullivan]

Nasty? Why? I just don't like her and i think she's useless, that's my opinion. If i was saying something about the fans of Lois, etc, then i'd agree but what's the problem in hoping she'll die?

[Theshadow129x]

best episode so far this season and one of the best of the series, which is a rare treat these days. well acted, well directed, well written. 10/10

[Jaderoyale]

Oh. My.

That was.
The best episode ever.
I can't even explain it.
Amazing acting by all. Especially Clark and Lex.
Wow.

Definete and deserved 10.

[Yasise]

.........Though I was thinking that Chloe was gonna drop the key in her bra, I mean, sin;t that where women hide all the good stuff? ;)

:lol: wow, that's exactly what I thought, too. :lol: But I'm afraid, Lex would have found it nevertheless.

[jordeant1200]

That's nasty.:mad: yeah it is. ppl are rly mean on here sometimes

[ezkl]

Great Episode !!!I gave it a 9 just because I am a big John Glover fan , its gonna suck not having him on the show but had to happen , but if it happens to Chloe I might have to stop watching the show since she isnt in the mythology she could go out like by moving and gettin married , sorry tangent ne way great episode !! loved it!!

[Rudd188]

I never read spoliers, but I couldn't help myself when it came to knowing who was contracted for season 8, and Kryptonsite had reported that John Glover was contracted for season 8. So, I guess I'm confussed as to weather Kryptonsite was leaked some false information, by the CW or others, or if the story was made up by Kryptonsite, or if John is really comming back in some way next year. If anybody knows what the deal is with John let me know please. And if you have some details I would really appreciate them.

[All about Clark]

Well, I voted 9. I know it was a great ep but I thought the beginning was filmed to dark. Too much Lex and mini-Lex for me.

Loved the Clex confrontation and graveyard scene. Loved the Clark rescuing Lois/Jimmy, very iconic, very much their future. Didn't like that Chloe let Lex get the key, she didn't handle that well. Why was destroying the symbol more important than keeping the key from Lex. Getting fired, surprised that didn't upset her that much considering how it was something she dreamed of since childhood.

Great seeing our police lady again, awesome.

Lex killing Gina before finding out what she found.

Disappointed that Clark didn't hear Gina in the background knowing someone knocked Chloe out.

Anyways, great ep, just not one of my favorites.

Maybe being spoiled with the trailer had something to do with that.

[queenelizabeth]

That episode just about tore me in two. The bad guys always seemed to be just one step ahead of Clark, Chloe, and crew, at least until Gina was murdered. And plus I'm really sad that Lionel is DEAD!! he was probably one of my favorite characters ever. And now I'm going to miss him. :-(

[DreadShamus]

Oh. My.

That was.
The best episode ever.
I can't even explain it.
Amazing acting by all. Especially Clark and Lex.
Wow.

Definete and deserved 10.

What she said.

[mrw66855]

Gave it a 10 out of 10. Fantastic episode!!! I think from now on we are going to see more Superman action than ever. I think Clark finally realizes now that people are dying for him and he can stop if he wasn't so selfish. The story plot for the last six episodes of the season is fantastic. I'm talking about Veritas and the traveler to clear up any confusion. I think we will see John Glover again in one or more episodes just like we saw Jonathan. I think the story plot is the beginning of Clark becoming Superman. I mean, we all know what he would be Superman, but up until this point in the story lines he has an active like Superman, he's acted like Clark Kent. I was pretty disappointed that John Glover had to die so soon in the episode. I mean it was his last episode after all. At least we think so. Once again, 10 out of 10 fantastic episode best of the season so far!! John Glover will be missed.:D:D:D:D

[Iluvgreen]

LANA WASN'T IN IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was great!

[svtwamedfan05]

Clark, Lex, Lois, and Jimmy! What more can you ask for :D

[Karafan1]

I loved it..I wish i could get that metal octogon bar with the kryptonian symbols on it that Clark used on the show..That's by far the best prop they've ever had on that show!!

[jqedward]

Wow what an episode! Lex is finally embracing his dark side and is finally like the Lex Luthor that I imagined he would be. I love the fact that Clark is finally starting to realize that this world truely needs someone like him to keep people like Lex in check. I loved the discussion at the very end of the episode between Chloe and Clark about how Lionel had come to embrace him like a son. The fact that he sacrificed himself to protect Clark speaks volumes about the lengths Lionel went to truly become a good man. Clark's love for Jor-El, Jonathan, and Lionel weren't enough to save them. Chloe says that these men add to the man that Clark has become and that their deaths won't be in vain if Clark embraces his destiny.

[bonvon]

Sorry I have to disagree Lois is useless, especially since she is one of the main characters in the World of Superman. Although part of me wish they would have stayed with Lois is really Chloe line, Erica Durance plays the perfect lois and I am hoping to see more interactions between TW and ED in the future. The chemistry between them is just a perfect CR and MK made.

[SparkleforSmallville]

Oh. My.

That was.
The best episode ever.
I can't even explain it.
Amazing acting by all. Especially Clark and Lex.
Wow.

Definete and deserved 10.

EXACTLY!

BTW, I checked the Ksite Forums after the EST showing and there were more than 1,200 people on.

[bonvon]

I thought John had signed on for one more year? If so is Lionel really dead or will we finally have a body for Jor El.

[Fly by guy]

Best episode since season 5. I have been a fan of J.G. for years and his portrayal of Lionel will be a bigger loss than losing Jonathon or Martha, IMHO.

[skully]

Wow!!! I have only just seen the episode. I diligently followed this thread until I could get access to Descent. Even though I knew exactly what was going to happen, it was just so GRIPPING!!

Kudos to the writers and producers, this show just keeps delivering.

And what a performance by MR. He thrives as evil Lex.

[clana4everfan2]

It was pretty good seeing Lex's descent to pure evilness. And the showdown between Clark and Lex. Along with the intense distain Clark now has for Lex knowing that he killed his own father.

[mrw66855]

Wow what an episode! Lex is finally embracing his dark side and is finally like the Lex Luthor that I imagined he would be. I love the fact that Clark is finally starting to realize that this world truely needs someone like him to keep people like Lex in check. I loved the discussion at the very end of the episode between Chloe and Clark about how Lionel had come to embrace him like a son. The fact that he sacrificed himself to protect Clark speaks volumes about the lengths Lionel went to truly become a good man. Clark's love for Jor-El, Jonathan, and Lionel weren't enough to save them. Chloe says that these men add to the man that Clark has become and that their deaths won't be in vain if Clark embraces his destiny.
you are right on.EXACTLY!

[monel49]

This episode deserved an unqualified 10! It was believable, well-acted, and as much as I hate to say good-bye to Lionel, the whole episode seemed well-placed and was the culmination of many plot twists and turns. If there is redemption in comic-book heaven, Lionel probably just slipped through those pearly gates. A good man gone bad and then gone good again, all to save a "son" he wished could have been his. What I thought was stunning was the open eye sequence as Lionel fell and then as Lex pulls the sheet back and looks on his dead father's body. The eyes are the windows of the soul and Lionel was accepting of his destiny, at peace, with a last challenge and prayer for Lex to turn aside before it is too late. Great storytelling! I really liked what I saw.

[KaraKent]

Great episode, but is Lionel really dead?????????????????????????????????????????????

[susangail]

I thought I was going to hate it, but I really liked it. Nine.

[dotsie23]

Sorry I have to disagree Lois is useless, especially since she is one of the main characters in the World of Superman. Although part of me wish they would have stayed with Lois is really Chloe line, Erica Durance plays the perfect lois and I am hoping to see more interactions between TW and ED in the future. The chemistry between them is just a perfect CR and MK made.


I gotta agree with you on this bonvon. I like the interaction between Tom and Erica too.:)

[globalbudd3]

I love this episode. It isn't perfect but it is one of the best this season. I am one of those fans who will definitely miss John Glover performance as Lionel Luthor. I believe that the character of Lionel Luthor has and will definitely add how we look at the character of Lex Luthor in the superman mythos.

However two things that bugged me about this eppy are: why Clark wouldn't hear that Gina was still in the room at the Isis foundation when he arrived in front of an unconscious Chloe and why Jimmy did not try to at least wrestle, kick Gina when she shot Lois. He was standing very close to Gina and I would think that he would at least try to.

[gategod]

Best episode of the season.

[zachary77]

i'm still pumped up, a day later. i still feel that it is the best episode ever, due to the epic feel of the situations. smallville's lex is an incredible character who i hope influences every medium of superman.

[CATCHMEIFYOUCAN]

I don't foresee Lex being able to destroy everything: its just a teaser like the Zod episode. The next episode will be intense I'm sure! I bet they'll keep Lana in this catonic state since she is busy filming a movie (makes sense - doesn't it!?) She'll come out of it eventually or maybe they will kill her off? After all Clark is soppose to be with Lois. I hate the thought, since Lana and Clark have alot of chemistry on this show. I'll miss Lionel but it had to be since Lex is Clarks nemesis.

[jazel]

HATED it !!! Can we PLEASE focus on a lonely alien, by the name of Clark Kent...aka...Kal-el ? LOL

[skully]

I'm looking forward to triplet's review.

[Lionel The Great]

Eventhough I haven't watched it, I certainly will not like it !!

That Overrated Bald Boy is trying to be made The Top Evil !!

In fact, Writers did a HUGE mistake by trying Lex to become evil.

To do that, they drawed Lionel down... Sooo lame !!



For God's sake, Lex can NEVER EVER can be able to REACH His Father's level !!

Lionel's Outstanding Genius ((whether he is evil or not)) is Unique.

It's a Shame for A Man Such Sophisticated & Elite & Intelligent, dies in his Loser Son's hands !!

The Show is Almost Dead to me after Lionel's death.

[STFanatic]

Alexander Joseph Luthor is to become the most ruthless maniacal and evil human on Earth.

He has no remorse over killing any man, woman, child or animal should they get in the way of his pursuit for absolute power and control.

And the Earth is only a stepping stone on his way to rule the universe.
Even The Joker is more of a humanitarian compared to him.

Although he has been portrayed as a caring person on Smallville, the "true" Lex Luthor is nothing of the sort, if it catches his fancy, he would not hesitate to torture a puppy until he grows bored with it.
That is what Lex Luthor is all about and half of the series Smallville is about him graduating from the young Lex into the complete monster that he is destined to be.

Lionel Luthor was created for Smallville to be the person who leads Lex down the path toward becoming that monster. If you recall seasons 1 through season 4, most people (note I did not say all) wanted Lionel dead because he was just downright rotten to Lex and we were supposed to feel sorry for Lex and hate Lionel until the spirit of Jor-el moved upon Lionel and led him down the path of righteousness.

Lex IS supposed to be the "villain of the story".

[skully]

Yup STFanatic. Bring.it.on.

[jazel]

:lol:
Alexander Joseph Luthor is to become the most ruthless maniacal and evil human on Earth.

He has no remorse over killing any man, woman, child or animal should they get in the way of his pursuit for absolute power and control.

And the Earth is only a stepping stone on his way to rule the universe.
Even The Joker is more of a humanitarian compared to him.

Although he has been portrayed as a caring person on Smallville, the "true" Lex Luthor is nothing of the sort, if it catches his fancy, he would not hesitate to torture a puppy until he grows bored with it.
That is what Lex Luthor is all about and half of the series Smallville is about him graduating from the young Lex into the complete monster that he is destined to be.

Lionel Luthor was created for Smallville to be the person who leads Lex down the path toward becoming that monster. If you recall seasons 1 through season 4, most people (note I did not say all) wanted Lionel dead because he was just downright rotten to Lex and we were supposed to feel sorry for Lex and hate Lionel until the spirit of Jor-el moved upon Lionel and led him down the path of righteousness.

Lex IS supposed to be the "villain of the story".

YET this EVIL genius, has a dim wit, by the name of Otis, as his Head of Security.:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:
Fiction is AWESOME, because it IS FAKE !!!:lol:

[STFanatic]

Otis in the movie was THE most terrible (IMO) thing they ever did. I felt sorry for Ned Beatty.

I did not like the way Lex was portrayed in the movies at all until Superman Returns.
Which was actually my favorite part of that movie.

[jazel]

Otis in the movie was THE most terrible (IMO) thing they ever did. I felt sorry for Ned Beatty.

I did not like the way Lex was portrayed in the movies at all until Superman Returns.
Which was actually my favorite part of that movie.
Sorry, but even in Supes Returns, Lex was a joke, in my opinion.....I missed Otis, AND Miss Tesmacher !:lol:

[skizzo]

I gave it a 6.

Found it Ironic that now everyone is going to Isis to use Lana's computers when they were so against it. And now all of them are going there to try and stop Lex from doing any more harm, which is all that Lana was doing all this time. Pretty ironic...

[jessef13]

Definately one of the greatest episodes of the show. Like others I was surprised he died so soon in the episode. But it worked great with the rest of the episode. I can't remember exactly how the line went, but when Lex said "You raised me to live in your shadow and now you'll die in mine. Nobody will even remember you." was a great line. Being that you never heard anything about his dad before Smallville. To the person who wondered why Lionel disappeared from Lex's eyes after he blinked, I think that was some added symbolism to the line he just said, was that people would basically forget about Lionel in the blink of an eye. Also, I noticed some people assuming the person who killed Lex's assistant was sent by him, I'm not so sure Lex sent the guy. The guy quickly killed her after she left Lex a message saying she knew who Lex was looking for makes me think it's somebody protecting "The Traveler". Though maybe he was sent by Lex and I'm just reading to much into it! But the acting was great in this episode. Though Kara and Lana can bring an episode down, it kinda sucks Braniacs storyline is so tied into Kara/Lana right now, but than again it's probably better he wasn't in the episode so that the main focus of the episode was Lex truly descending to evil. But definately top 5 episode of the series. But John Glover will be missed!

[Lionel The Great]

Alexander Joseph Luthor is to become the most ruthless maniacal and evil human on Earth...

...Lex IS supposed to be the "villain of the story".

Oh God... Again this ridicilous "comics" issue :/


Ok, you know what ... I don't care the comics.

I'm a ""SMALLVILLE"" FAN !! Not superman comics or anything else's...

Get the difference.


In ""Smallville"", There was 1 AND ONLY 1 MB around here...

And that was Lionel Luthor. NOONE ELSE !!

Come on... You can not seriously think that, Lex is / will be THAT Genius + Sophisticated + Farseeing.

He is just a Clumsy, Miserable, Usually Dumb and Extremely Overrated bald boy... that's all.


I WISHED WITH FULL OF MY HEART that,

That poison in the Lex's drink ((at the end of Covenant)) would kill Lex.

Smallville writers missed the point to create the Perfect Villain at that moment.

--> Lionel Luthor


Well... From now on, There is no MAN left... Such great news huh (!)

[lois_lane-kent]

Oh God... Again this ridicilous "comics" issue :/



Ok, you know what ... I don't give a [Mod Edit] to the comics.

I'm a ""SMALLVILLE"" FAN !! Not superman comics or anything else's...

Get the difference.

They're so different that every episode states that it's based on the comics of Siegel and Shuster...

Wait a minute...

[STFanatic]

Oh God... Again this ridicilous "comics" issue :/



Ok, you know what ... I don't give a [Mod Edit] to the comics.

I'm a ""SMALLVILLE"" FAN !! Not superman comics or anything else's...

Get the difference.



In ""Smallville"", There was ONE AND ONLY ONE MB around here...

And that was Lionel Luthor. NOONE ELSE !!

Come on... You can not seriously think that,

Lex will be THAT genius... that sophisticated... that farseeing.

Just a clumsy, miserable, usually dumb and extremely overrated bald boy... that's all.



I WISHED WITH FULL OF MY HEART that,

That poison in the Lex's drink ((at the end of Covenant)) would kill Lex.

Smallville writers missed the point to create the Perfect Villain at that moment.

-> Lionel Luthor



Well... There is no MAN left... Such great news huh (!)

Without the comics there is no Smallville, the lousy writing resulted in what we have.

No one is claiming that Lex will replace Lionel as the "MB".
John Glover earned that title from the way he portrayed Lionel Luthor.

Lex was created in 1940, Lionel in 2001, lets not get them confused.

[Mackdaddy]

Without the comics there is no Smallville, the lousy writing resulted in what we have.



I soo totally agree with you Steve! The writing on this show is awful, its been really hard for me to watch it. Descent though was one that I enjoyed this year, so I gave it an 8

[bonvon]

In fact according to the original cartoon movie shorts, which I have the copies for on DVD, Clark Kent was not raised in Smallville. He was dropped off at a orphanage by a "Rich Man" The story of Smallville didn't come until much later. This is where we also find Lex and Clark were friends. The creators of Smallville owe their idea to the creators of Superman. If Siegel and Shuster had not changed Clark from an orphan to a child raised by a loving family, there would be no Smallville. So you may not care about the comics but if you want to change Superman's history then you have no show to watch. In fact one thing I like about smallville, is they are able to add new characters or ideas such as the silver krypto, without taking away from the mythology. As John Jakes told me, add all the characters you want but do not change history.

[Farview]

I just watched the episode for the first time on DVR. Wow! I agree with all the people who have posted here about its being one of the best episodes of the the entire series. There were so many good scenes in this one doesn't really know where to start. I thought the graveyard scene at the end was really powerful. Lex and Clark are now mortal enemies without question.

I don't think anyone has posted about what happened to Gina... who was it that killed her?

[Kirstycol]

Part of what I loved about this episodes is that they started with a climax and kept it at that intensity the whole way through. They've gotta keep that up. However I think we could do without the comic relief of Lois and Jimmy. That's just my opinon.

[jessef13]

I think Gina was offed by somebody protecting The Traveler(Clark). Lionel may be dead, but that doesnt mean he hasn't gone to great lengths to protect Clark's identity. The fact Gina was killed RIGHT after she called Lex and left a voicemail saying she knows who he's looking for, which the killer had to of heard, makes me think he's not on Lex's payroll, but is on Lionels. Most anybody on Lex's payroll would know what he's obsessed with, and probably wouldn't kill somebody with valuable information for him without getting the information first. Unless I missed it. I dunno, was that the same guy that killed Patricia Swan? If so maybe it was Lex's henchman. As for Smallville, and some saying it's writing is "awful", I dont agree. It's writing just isn't the way I think that most comic freaks want it. I think they're writing has alot more universal appeal. Superman honestly wasn't my favorite comic book, though I didn't hate it, but love Smallville. And I've gotten alot of people into watching Smallville on alot of different grand schemes of tastes. I've gotten friends hooked on it, my mom hooked on it, plus my nieces and nephews. Which shows a great bridge of entertainment value when you go from age 54 to age 26 to ages 5-9. I think it's done a great job of blending better storylines from different comic interpretations while adding something fresh to it. Not leaving it with the same old stale version of the story you've heard before, again and again. Somethings may not have been perfect. Clark and Lana's relationship may have drug on to long. Lex's development may have been slow at first. But there's reasons for it all. It's pre-lois infatuation, pre-lex enemy. It's all supposed to lead up, and if Clark and Lana had been quick, Clark would have been more or less a man whore, and if Lex had became evil way back in season 2, it would have only merely been a pre-superman clark. I think they've done a great job on transitioning so many stories into what we know while adding some great new details. How much did we ever really know about Lex's father before Smallville? And they made up a great twist and back story of it, leading up to Lex killing his father and flat out telling him nobody will remember him. Plus, with what his dad did to protect Clarks identity kind of makes it more realistic that the identity of superman eluded Lex so much, giving reason why it may have slipped past him rather than making him look like an idiot by not being able to tell that Superman is Clark with no glasses and his hair different. I gave the episode a 10 though, and have loved the shows writing. Granted, there were episodes that weren't as good as the others, but come on, how many shows out there that lasted 7 seasons can you name where you can say "I truly loved every single episode." The X-Files lost its touch as it went along, Friends had episodes that weren't all that funny. For those who liked Seinfeld, I doubt you can say that when they got to season 6 you loved every episode as much as you loved your favorite ones from the earlier seasons. Bottom line is, cut the guys a break. To write a movie you have to keep somebody entertained for an hour and a half to 2 hours. To write a show that goes into an 8th season, you have to write episodes to the best of your ability to carry back and tie into something that may have happened 75 episodes ago, plus in smallvilles case they have to write knowing what they're carrying it into. Im sure many people feel "I could write up a more entertaining episode" but bottom line is, you probably can't.

[Cyn]

I loved the episode. I found the death of Lionel as well as the mention of the rest of Clark's father figures very moving. As much as I'll miss them, their deaths did advance Clark toward his Superman role. Also, Lex came to truly be his fully bad self in this episode as well. It was a very pivotal episode...Excellent! The only thing that bugged me was the mention of Lana. Despite being a current star of the show, she has been the dead albatross around the neck of this show since season 4 and I am beyond tired of hearing her name. Let the future unspool.

I can't wait to see how the rest of the season plays out. Also, I hope this season is the end of "Smallville". It is time for the show to become "Metropolis".

[FlashInSV]

It was, on the whole, a good episode. For many different reasons: Lex killing his own father, therefore showing us his darkest and most paranoid side, NO LANA SCENES!! (Thank God, get over her already!), Lois getting shot while doing some of the investigating reporting she will be doing in the future, the Veritas story progressing. I want to know what happened to Kara though!! I hope it shows in the next episode!

[kraami]

Ok MR performamce was the only thing worth airing this episode. Chloe looked stupid and got off easy considering lex killed everyone else linked to veritas or who came in contact with it. I wonder if he called her a BIG FAT DOOTIE HEAD too. I love chloe but she seemed out of char for me. Lionel looked stupid as well. Hmmm? let me place the key in Lex's Daily planet. If he really wanted to hide it from lex and let kal-el find it. There are about a billion better places. Why not hide it in that cryptic flashlight for one. True in the lex corp building but he kept the flashlight in there as well.

Why was lois in this episode....oh yeah she got shot. Jimmy was alright I guess. Clark and chloe dialogue was alright at the end but why weren't they at the hospital visiting lois to see if she was alright. I guess Clark don't like lois that much Man they have a long way to go if they are going to be together. Lets talk about the sunrise and not lois's condition.

I know i said i was leaving but im finishing this season. I am going to write this episode off as actors trying to get back into char after a long strike. I did not like this episode one bit. Thanks JG for your many numeroous great performances and I wish lionel could have died in a better episode. MR performance was good but wasted in this episode. Man in such a terrible episode I wonder what they cut out.

[Lil Pixie]

ok, i really liked this episode. it had me on the edge of my seat most of the time.
i was kinda scared at times that lex would finally know clark's secret, with the woman working for her seeing clark do his thing. but thank god, there was that unknown character popping out of the blue, saving Clark's secret. i don't know how i would have felt if Clark's secret was given away this soon.

however, i don't understand why Lana was missing in this episode. she has to be out of town to be completely absent when such a huge thing as Lionel Luthor being dead happens. did they show her going somewhere in the previous episodes? i can't recall.

it's actually interesting how a lot of the scenes reminded me of previous eps. like the one where lex throws his drink into the fireplace. and the one where Lois is shot, reminded me of the ep where she was stabbed. erica durance plays the almost dead perfectly. nice touch, there.

it was heartbreaking to see Lex kill the good in him. that child was utterly cute. and the way he was killed... just goes to show what Lex has become.

overall, this ep was one of my favorites of the show. great wardrobe choice for Clark (the end suit) and Chloe.

[GuardianAngel]

however, i don't understand why Lana was missing in this episode. she has to be out of town to be completely absent when such a huge thing as Lionel Luthor being dead happens. did they show her going somewhere in the previous episodes? i can't recall.


You should rewatch Veritas, especially the final minutes. Lana's catatonic now because of BRAINIAC. (and Kristin Kreuk's in Thailand filming the new Street Fighter movie)

[superpal1]

The episode was everything that it should have been-suspenseful, well acted, moved the series forward in the right direction. Michael and Tom acted so well off each other in this episode. I saved it on my DVR to watch again before next weeks episode.

[dayal]

One of the best episodes of Smallville to date. Great story line, no far-fetched plot, excellent special effects (was nice to see a change), and a powerful ending. I give it a 10.

[Ginx]

Finally got to see the episode today! Wow. 10/10 for me. Loved where they went with it and really just loved seeing the total transformation of Lex :) I have to admit I was sad about Lionel - he's such a complex and interesting character.

Can't wait for next week. :)

[Hopefulsuicide]

okay, you can call me the biggest geek in the world, but i made notes while i watched it :p

1. The death was right at the beginning... not really sure what i think of this. TBH my first impression was that it meant less build up and climax but looking at it in perspective of the rest of the episode i think it was actually a really good idea. Instead of having his death be seperate from it's investigation and funeral in terms of episode, it was all together, and i think this made for a more solid episode

2. Nice continuity note for the 'i told you in the helicopter you were destined for greatness'. The idea that Lex was the traveler made me laugh... bet someone will decide this could be true! :lol:

3. After watching the death scene and then the spinny effects that showed how messed up Lex was i was going 'that is so cool!' not the most eloquent comment i know, but i just couldn't help it!

4. Clark went back and forth for me in this episode - ignoring the sirens because he wanted Chloe to check something she had ALREADY checked, to try and save Lana (a little too late), was really un superman... but then the last scene, i found him totally Superman... the fact that he ignored Lex and was simply there out of respect to Lionel because he deserved better was incredibly Clark Kent and stoic. He had so much strength in his face, and had total control of his anger.

5. Gina's almost love for Lex nicely reminded me of Kitty and Miss T, which was nice

6. More Lois and Jimmy - and Lois in total rant mode was wonderful, reminded me completely of LnC which is definately what i want to see :p

7. Loved good old feisty Chloe yelling as she is dragged from the daily planet building. She has been loosing me a bit, but she's back to the Chloe i love

8. Lois' Line 'You shot me?!' made me laugh so much. Definately could see some hints at Jois, but only in a cute crush way. them being all cuddly (yeah okay i know they were dying) was sweet.

9. He used his heat vision to warm them up! god i've been waiting for that for ages. His heat vision isn't just about FIRE! Yes.

Basically i think this was the strongest episode all season. I thought they had lost it. I thought they would never make an episode i was totally happy with and slightly impressed by again. But they did it! It was well written/ well acted and well directed. Not only that but it was well structured, and psychologically interesting. I gave it a 9, because i rarely ever give 10. But this episode gives me hope. This episode is why i waded through 15 episodes of stinking sewage just to get to the light at the end of the tunnel!

p.s. to those of you who say i only ever complain and i just want to hate smallville.... naa naa na naaa na

[Yasise]

........... But this episode gives me hope.....

yeah, same here - and I hope, too, that the next episodes are finally dealing more with Clark's journey - pleeeeeeaaassssse :)

[MetroGirl06]

I voted 9. Not perfect, but pretty damn close!

[mildmannered...]

I also voted 9. It left me with a sense of sadness because Lex killed off the final last good part of him...

[Sweetie]

Great episode.Michael did a brillant job.I liked Alexander,that kid is so lovable.I hope,he comes back but,if he is gone it's ok also because the evil man is here.Tom was acting more supermanish,his voice was suddenly deeper.The finale Clex's scene was fantastic.The mean look they gave each other...The war is defenetly beginning:cool:

[slayfan]

Finally some forward movement with regards to Clarks destiny. I was beginning to think the writers had forgotten where he was supposed to end up but finally we're seeing a glimmer of Superman in Clarks eyes. On the whole I was a little miffed with Clark being more focused on 'his mission' of finding Kara then the sirens that were right outside the window and of Chloe hiding the key in the stupidist place imaginable but the Lex/young Lex and the Clark/Lex scenes made up for the things that irritated me. The only thing missing was the scene of Lex getting that voice mail, whether he killed Gina or not I wanted to see his reaction to hearing her news. Of course none of this could have happened if Lana wasn't in her coma, as everthing would have had to somehow revolve around her so thank goodness that she's out of the way and great things can now happen. (Okay that was a little low, sorry to the lanalovers) Anyway I am finally excited for the remaining eps of this season. Before this I was hopeful for next season but had pretty much written this one off.

[nhl2k]

I gave it a 10 because IMO, there is no episode during the season (meaning excluding the finales and premiers) that has even come close to the intensity of this episode. The death of Lionel is truly sad, but to me it gave such meaning to the episode by showing how Lex has become just as evil as Lionel used to be. Along with that, the Julian visions were insane! It was one of my favorite parts of the episode to me because it truly showed how Lex INTENTIONALLY wants to kill off the good in him, and does it in brutal fashion. I don't think they could have showed that happening any better than how they did.
Overall, it was just such a great episode. I am so glad Smallville has moved away from the continuous FOTW episodes in favor of great plots involving the main characters. Yes there have been some HORRIBLE episodes the past few seasons, but I feel the show has become much more mature, and episodes like this are what I keep coming back for.

[Mr. T]

This episode was PERFECT. I went into this episode (like I do the others) expecting the unexpected. Than again, you figured it would be Lionel that Lex would kill from the previews they showed. The ending was one for the ages, with Lex and Clark staring at each others like the enemies they were. Truly Classic!

[smallvillelogan]

Though Kara and Lana can bring an episode down, it kinda sucks Braniacs storyline is so tied into Kara/Lana right now, but than again it's probably better he wasn't in the episode so that the main focus of the episode was Lex truly descending to evil. But definately top 5 episode of the series. But John Glover will be missed!

Lana can definitely bring a show down, but why do you say that Kara can? I thought she has added to Clark's understanding of his purpose on Earth.

[Yasise]

Lana can definitely bring a show down, but why do you say that Kara can? I thought she has added to Clark's understanding of his purpose on Earth.

Yeah, really???? I must have missed that somehow. IMHO Kara didn't add anything to Clark's understanding, I don't even get the point, why she has to be in "Smallville" at all.
This is supposed to be about Clark/Superman and not about Kara/Supergirl.

I didn't miss her at all in "Descent" and I hope she'll not be around so much in the next episodes as well.

[smallvillelogan]

Yeah, really???? I must have missed that somehow. IMHO Kara didn't add anything to Clark's understanding, I don't even get the point, why she has to be in "Smallville" at all.
This is supposed to be about Clark/Superman and not about Kara/Supergirl.

I didn't miss her at all in "Descent" and I hope she'll not be around so much in the next episodes as well.

Well she helped Clark understand how much his parents loved him, especially his mother. That was pivotal because Clark has always been skeptical of his parents' love, especially based on what Jor-El has done to him in the past, and even this season when he was frozen. I think Kara said this in the episode 'Kara.' I think Clark has also had to take on a mentor figure often with her, since she is younger and really still has the mind of a 16-year-old since I doubt she developed much mentally in her three-year travel. I think being a mentor to an extent has helped him re-affirm what he already knows in that he was sent from Krypton with a greater purpose. Obviously he has known about this since Season 2, but conversing about it with someone else can only help engrain this idea in his mind.

As for your last sentence, I believe Kara will be integral to the final episodes of the show, if not at least the finale.

[SuperFan85]

Yeah, really???? I must have missed that somehow. IMHO Kara didn't add anything to Clark's understanding, I don't even get the point, why she has to be in "Smallville" at all.
This is supposed to be about Clark/Superman and not about Kara/Supergirl.

I didn't miss her at all in "Descent" and I hope she'll not be around so much in the next episodes as well.


Well, I think the reason for her being in this season, not only to keep spicing the show up, and making new additons, is to both play on the concept of Family, and for Clark to become a father-figure this season. The whole concept of Family, has been explored in a few ways this season, that's been interesting. Clark's longing for family, following the death of his father and departure of his mother, led to Clark trying to bring his birth mother back from the dead, which only lead to Zor-El being released as ws well. And we know how that turned out. Then you have Lex, who also attempted to raise a dead family member: his brother Julian...who didn't ultimately live up to what Lex had hoped, which led to Lex murdering his own Brother. Then you have Lex murdering his own Father. What I find really interesting, and very ironic, is that Lex had always desired a Family, and he ends up being responsible for it's demise, by pretty much killing them all. But anyway, back to the third example of Family this season. You have the Veritas family members, and we see how much of an impact that has had this season. This season seems to have had alot of almost, Greek Tragedy influence on it. Clark and Lex trying to bring their family back from the dead; Clark battling his Uncle; Lex killing his Brother and Father, and also of course, one of the most popular examples: the two best friends, who have now officially become enemies. There's been alot of interesting themes and storylines explored this season, and I think "Descent" was just another addition to the already growing excellent number of episodes that have been this season, along with: "Bizarro", "Kara", "Cure", "Action", "Gemini", "Persona", "Fracture", "Traveler", and "Veritas". LOL okay, thats just about the whole season, but what can I say? I've enjoyed this season quite immensely :)

[smallvillelogan]

Well, I think the reason for her being in this season, not only to keep spicing the show up, and making new additons, is to both play on the concept of Family, and for Clark to become a father-figure this season. The whole concept of Family, has been explored in a few ways this season, that's been interesting. Clark's longing for family, following the death of his father and departure of his mother, led to Clark trying to bring his birth mother back from the dead, which only lead to Zor-El being released as ws well. And we know how that turned out. Then you have Lex, who also attempted to raise a dead family member: his brother Julian...who didn't ultimately live up to what Lex had hoped, which led to Lex murdering his own Brother. Then you have Lex murdering his own Father. What I find really interesting, and very ironic, is that Lex had always desired a Family, and he ends up being responsible for it's demise, by pretty much killing them all. But anyway, back to the third example of Family this season. You have the Veritas family members, and we see how much of an impact that has had this season. This season seems to have had alot of almost, Greek Tragedy influence on it. Clark and Lex trying to bring their family back from the dead; Clark battling his Uncle; Lex killing his Brother and Father, and also of course, one of the most popular examples: the two best friends, who have now officially become enemies. There's been alot of interesting themes and storylines explored this season, and I think "Descent" was just another addition to the already growing excellent number of episodes that have been this season, along with: "Bizarro", "Kara", "Cure", "Action", "Gemini", "Persona", "Fracture", "Traveler", and "Veritas". LOL okay, thats just about the whole season, but what can I say? I've enjoyed this season quite immensely :)

Dude, I completely agree with everything you said. Exactly right. There's such a strong element of the wanting of family in this season. Clark has needed to be more responsible since he has had to take on this mentor/older brother figure. It's also an interesting complex to see that Clark has now lost three father figures, yet that is what he has tried to become to a degree this year with his now-younger cousin in the picture.
It was interesting earlier this season to see that despite the different paths Clark and Lex have taken, both took measures to resurrect their family and see them again. (In the same episode, both Clark tried to bring Lara back, and Grant Gabriel was revealed to be Lex's cloned brother).
Then we see that just as Lex was horrified by the loss of his brother in 'Memoria,' and being willing to be blamed for Julian's death to protect his mother, that in the long run he has ended up killing him anyway. This just illustrates how far down he has descended since the loss of Julian as a boy.

[SuperFan85]

I really think that the Lex/Clark dynamic throughout the 7 years has been some of the most interesting scenes to watch on TV. I know alot of people, complain that Lex Luthor is not the only villain in the Superman mythos, but this show has chosen to explore the character of Lex Luthor in a way thats never really been done in any other medium before to my knowledge. I don't really consider Gene Hackman or Kevin Spacey as representing the true versions of Lex Luthor. The way they've been portrayed is borderline ridiculous. They act like cartoon characters and are over the top, with no real depth. The Lex Luthor of Smallville has been a fascinating journey to watch. He's an actual person on the show. A need to control things and people. Desiring the power and resources to do so. He believes in the whole philosophy of a means to an end. He has good intentions, but when it comes to executing those good intentions, he goes about it in twisted ways, usually involving murder if someone gets in his way. And his justification is that it's for the greater good. In the long run, he will be saving humanity. I love the parallels between Lex and Clark on the show. Clark is someone, who is not Human, yet who possesses a great deal of humanity. And then you have Lex, who is Human, but really has reached a point of possessing no humanity. Both feel the weight of the world rests on their shoulders, and both see it as their duty to protect the world...ultimately from each other. It's interesting, how each has their own idea of what it means to be Human and a Hero.

[nhl2k]

I don't really consider Gene Hackman or Kevin Spacey as representing the true versions of Lex Luthor. The way they've been portrayed is borderline ridiculous. They act like cartoon characters and are over the top, with no real depth. The Lex Luthor of Smallville has been a fascinating journey to watch. He's an actual person on the show. A need to control things and people. Desiring the power and resources to do so.
So true unfortunately. They remind me a lot of the ridiculous villains in Lois & Clark, which almost made me cringe sometimes. Goofy villains just don't make any sense to me unless you're doing a comedy and I don't think that's what Superman was supposed to be about.
However, this Lex is completely different. It's the Lex that Superman type shows have always needed and is one of the reasons I'm loving the latter seasons.

[Yasise]

Well she helped Clark understand how much his parents loved him, especially his mother.

I think, he knew that already since "Memoria", when he had that flashback of his parents putting him into that spaceship. But you're right with Kara there, she helped him to learn more about his parents/family.



Well, I think the reason for her being in this season, not only to keep spicing the show up, and making new additons, is to both play on the concept of Family, and for Clark to become a father-figure this season. The whole concept of Family, has been explored in a few ways this season, that's been interesting. Clark's longing for family, following the death of his father and departure of his mother, led to Clark trying to bring his birth mother back from the dead, which only lead to Zor-El being released as ws well. And we know how that turned out. Then you have Lex, who also attempted to raise a dead family member: his brother Julian...who didn't ultimately live up to what Lex had hoped, which led to Lex murdering his own Brother. Then you have Lex murdering his own Father. What I find really interesting, and very ironic, is that Lex had always desired a Family, and he ends up being responsible for it's demise, by pretty much killing them all. But anyway, back to the third example of Family this season. You have the Veritas family members, and we see how much of an impact that has had this season. This season seems to have had alot of almost, Greek Tragedy influence on it. Clark and Lex trying to bring their family back from the dead; Clark battling his Uncle; Lex killing his Brother and Father, and also of course, one of the most popular examples: the two best friends, who have now officially become enemies. There's been alot of interesting themes and storylines explored this season, and I think "Descent" was just another addition to the already growing excellent number of episodes that have been this season, along with: "Bizarro", "Kara", "Cure", "Action", "Gemini", "Persona", "Fracture", "Traveler", and "Veritas". LOL okay, thats just about the whole season, but what can I say? I've enjoyed this season quite immensely :)

Well explained and you're right.
It's just that I don't like the acting of Laura V. very much and that might have influenced my understanding of that whole family arc in this season.

[SuperFan85]

I've liked her acting quite much this season, with the exception of those few episodes where she had amnesia (one of the few storylines I really disliked this season); I really don't like when a character suffers from amnesia; they become quite dull and uninteresting and unappealing to watch. Peter Petrelli was another example in Season 2 of "Heroes". Hated that amnesia storyline too. I mean, I'm not one to be against storylines involving characters trying to find themselves or understand their indentity, metaphorically speaking, but not when they literally have no clue who they are, down to the most miniscule detail of not even knowing what their favorite song is. And usually, amnesia storylines involve the character who is presented with the option of somehow getting their memory back, but are too afraid to, for fear of discovering some horrible past awaiting revelation. That ends up getting dragged out and repetititve. Again, see Peter Petrelli in Season 2 of "Heroes", with that whole stupid "box" subplot and his reluctance to open it. In my opinion, amnesia storylines feel almost like the character is taking steps backward instead of forward, which I don't like

[Hopefulsuicide]

Well explained and you're right.
It's just that I don't like the acting of Laura V. very much and that might have influenced my understanding of that whole family arc in this season.

gotta agree with you there... my apathy towards Kara is quickly turning into irritation...

it's no surprise to me that the best episode of season 7 so far was without Kara or Lana

[bonvon]

I have to agree too. Kara is a fresh breath of air this season. I love Chloe, Clark could have no better side kick, but there are things you can only share with family members.
I am not a Lana hater, she is very much an important part of the superman myth, but I do believe time has come for Clark to let go of his childhood and embrace the man which he is not only destin to be but wants to be. I also agree about Lex. In my opinion Smallville has done a great job in showing Lex as a brilliant man who has had his humanity beaten out of him, beaten out by those who he trusted most (not just his father) which has created this monster we know.

[Yasise]

I've liked her acting quite much this season, with the exception of those few episodes where she had amnesia (one of the few storylines I really disliked this season); I really don't like when a character suffers from amnesia; they become quite dull and uninteresting and unappealing to watch. Peter Petrelli was another example in Season 2 of "Heroes". Hated that amnesia storyline too. I mean, I'm not one to be against storylines involving characters trying to find themselves or understand their indentity, metaphorically speaking, but not when they literally have no clue who they are, down to the most miniscule detail of not even knowing what their favorite song is. And usually, amnesia storylines involve the character who is presented with the option of somehow getting their memory back, but are too afraid to, for fear of discovering some horrible past awaiting revelation. That ends up getting dragged out and repetititve. Again, see Peter Petrelli in Season 2 of "Heroes", with that whole stupid "box" subplot and his reluctance to open it. In my opinion, amnesia storylines feel almost like the character is taking steps backward instead of forward, which I don't like

Well, there ARE actors, who did a great job with the amnesia storyline, e.g. Tom in "Blank" :D. I think, he was amazing in that episode, it's one of my alltime favourites. I love how Chloe supports him and Tom's acting is superb.

But the amnesia story with Kara / Laura......well, as I said before, I guess Laura ist still in the beginning, concerning her acting career, that means, she still has to learn a lot, IMHO.
Some people have talent, some people have not and Laura, IMO, belongs to the latter. She is nice to look at and that's it, IMO. But I'm happy for you, that you like her:)


gotta agree with you there... my apathy towards Kara is quickly turning into irritation...

it's no surprise to me that the best episode of season 7 so far was without Kara or Lana

So true :D - it was all about Lex and Clark, even if Clark wasn't in so many scenes. Michael and Tom were amazing! It seems that Tom has almost found his former enthusiasm again. :)

[Kal26]

I loved the episode! I very much enjoyed the stare down between Lex and Clark at the end. I can't point out a single bit of bad acting. I thought everyone did very well. It was well written in my opinion, and everything played out very nicely. Can't wait for the next new one this Thursday!

[ARTBUNKER]

After that piece of turd episode Vertais before it, Descent has brought the show's 7th season back to where it belongs as one of the best ever. I loved this episode. LEX finally became LEX LUTHOR we know and Im giggling with gleee

[jessef13]

I guess I should have elaborated a little more on why Kara can bring an episode down. At the beginning of the season, she was a breath of fresh air, and her storyline at the start contributed to some good episodes. But the last few episodes she's been in, her character just hasn't contributed much to the overall season or Clark's journey. The closest Kara has come to contributing is for a whole 60 seconds trying to teach Clark how to fly, which she didn't even succeed at. When she first came, it was fresh air, but as of late the character has provided dead air. I love seeing fresh characters, and love seeing them contribute. I wish we could have seen more of the Green Arrow than we have so far this season. And don't get me wrong, I'm not saying ban Kara from episodes, I'm just saying don't use her if the character isn't going to contribute to the episode. She's gorgeous and all, but the other main actors have come along so far from season one, she's many steps behind them on portraying her character without a strong story for her to show it. When the other characters are doing what they're used to doing, and she's on but the character doesnt contribute, it pulls away from the episode a bit. If she'd come along a few seasons ago, she'd be at the point where Laura could handle portraying her without misdirection of not knowing what her character is really doing. She doesn't bring an episode down in the way Lana does. Lana brings it down, because since we all know hers and Clarks relationship isn't going to work out, and it's been drug out for so long, that savor a few scenes here and there that are exceptionally done, you just get lost from the journey of Superman with a love storyline that should be concluding. Laura(Kara) brings it down when her character just doesn't belong. Which neither her or Brainiac really belonged in Descent, though it's a shame, because if there was some way to have tied in a scene with Brainiac, James Marsters could have added even more value to the episode. It's really a shame that with Supernatural being a repeat that night that they couldn't have pushed for a 2 hour special to make up a little for the strike shortened season in a way, giving 21 episode time of length into a 20 episode season would have made it alot less of a downer that we only get 20 episodes this season.

By the way, I keep forgetting to add this in, but I'm pretty sure that if you watch carefully, I believe due to being startled Chloe more or less kinda clumsily fumbles the key into the crack of the desk drawer, and than worries more about destroying the envelope.

[smallvillelogan]

I guess I should have elaborated a little more on why Kara can bring an episode down. At the beginning of the season, she was a breath of fresh air, and her storyline at the start contributed to some good episodes. But the last few episodes she's been in, her character just hasn't contributed much to the overall season or Clark's journey.

Uh, except for the fact that his journey would have been OVER because he might have DIED in the kryptonite cell if Kara hadn't saved him.

Yes, I believe Kara has contributed to Clark's journey, if just for the fact that she has helped preserve his LIFE more than once this season.

[GENERALzod777]

Intense. No Other Word. Except Epic. And Wontubulous. I dont think the trailer ruined it. i thought they were gunna fake lionels death like they do everyones but i guess not.

In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida

----- Added 39 Seconds later -----

^^^^^
Its a song by iron butterfly

[Yasise]

Uh, except for the fact that his journey would have been OVER because he might have DIED in the kryptonite cell if Kara hadn't saved him.

Yes, I believe Kara has contributed to Clark's journey, if just for the fact that she has helped preserve his LIFE more than once this season.

I don't believe that Lionel would have let him die in that cage. Didn't he kill that torture guy? He would have released Clark after that guy died anyway - so actually Kara saved him only a few seconds earlier, that's all, IMO.

And the other time, Kara rescued Clark was in "Fierce" I guess....that wasn't THE rescue at all, IMO. Clark wouldn't have died there either.

[smallvillelogan]

I don't believe that Lionel would have let him die in that cage. Didn't he kill that torture guy? He would have released Clark after that guy died anyway - so actually Kara saved him only a few seconds earlier, that's all, IMO.


Except that Lionel's control over Clark was getting out of his hands when Pierce (the torture guy) thought that he needed to kill the "freak" that was Clark. Lionel didn't anticipate Pierce being that extremist. It threw a wrench into his plans of keeping Clark jailed there, but not dying.

Plus Kara's saving of Clark looked WAY awesome, I thought, from the wall busting open to her laser-shooting the control panel to her lifting the cell. I thought the whole thing was shot very superhero-like and the special effects were well-done. Plus, it was hot. :lol:

[magoo]

I thought it was one of the best episodes of this season so far. Well directed and well acted. I would have liked CK to have been much more concerned with Kara's kidnapping by Brainiac as well as trying to solve Lionel's death.

8/10

[jesslang]

I missed it :(

[clarkdent]

Lex had so many chances to knock off his dad over the last 7 years. I'm surprised he waited so long but I am sad to see Lionel go. He was a major character and that was a very dark episode.

[Cyclops1974]

Loved every minute of it. It was that good!!! 10! I skip ahead in an episode because it's really that bad or because I can't wait to see what happens. Had that with episode 15. But this time I watched every minute and I enjoyed every second of every minute!!

[Lionel The Great]

Lex had so many chances to knock off his dad over the last 7 years. I'm surprised he waited so long...


Actually It was Lionel who had many chances knock off his Loser son.

He actually did tried only once... At the end of 3rd season by poisoning him...

Other than that... he never used the opportunities.. I would be glad, if Lex died instead of Lionel.


But you know... Because of the lousy comics, The MB is the dead one now... unfortunately. :(

[Fly by guy]

This was a good eppy the first time around and the same is true in rerun mode. Of all the cast members that have left the show, I will miss JG the most. He was excellent throughout his time on Smallville. I never learned to like his character Lionel, but in the end I didn't want him dead. John made Lionel seem real and it's a real shame "they'er gone".
I think this is the best episode of the season. Lex has finally completed his fall and now his chararcter has no depth and with Lionel's demise who will fill the void???

[smallville0001]

I loved it. But it gave me another week were i cryed at Smallville, it was so sad to see him die like that-murdered by his own son! Evil Lex! I hate him!!!

[Flowergirl123]

This rocked. It was creepy but it had me glued to the T.V. the whole time.

[Bane]

I just watched this episode all the way through for the first time a few hours ago, and I loved it. It sucked to see Lionel bite the big one, but it was brilliantly put together.

[Nimkong]

Loved it!Liked the clex senes,MR did awsome acting and the ending made me want to cry

[SGuthrie27]

This was undoubtedly a very intense episode. All the major players were making extremely desperate moves. From the very beginning, with Lex murdering his father in cold blood for a locket that didn't even hold the key, to burning his conscience in the fireplace (played by the immensely talented returning Connor Stanhope as Li'l Lex v. 2.0), Lex's storyline of descending into absolute darkness was told very well. His animosity toward Clark, and Clark's toward him, showed that there is no turning back now -- for better or worse, these two were now and forevermore mortal enemies. Lois and Jimmy's scoobying team-up was fun to watch, and tense, too, considering they almost got turned into reporter-sicles. I was NOT happy that Lex fired Chloe, really for no legitimate reason, and I wish she'd had fought back more in response to that. :( It was a very sad day for my favorite tiny blonde, indeed. The funeral scene at the end, although wordless, was extremely powerful, as was the conversation between Chloe and Clark in which she told him that all the "father figures" who died for him died for everyone, in helping forge Clark into the world's mightiest superhero. John Glover's message using that kryptonian high-tech flashlight was pretty moving -- it's quite clear now how much Clark impacted Lionel's life for the better, and how much Lionel loved him, and would have done anything to protect him. I'll give this episode 8 out of 10 swan dives off of skyscrapers for being a powerful ending to Lionel Luthor's run on Smallville.

[SVFAN89]

Descent is definitely one of the best written and acted episodes of the whole series. I rewatched it recently and realized this episode has some of the very best dialogue of any episode. And the opening scene between Lex and Lionel is just outstanding. Definitely deserves a 10/10.

[Tylerr]

I love all smallville episodes, but the veritas storyline will always be the biggest plothole in the entire series, the whole thing just does not add up.