|
Sunday, 16 March 2008 |
|
|
By John Keegan
Visit Critical Myth for an archive of John's TV Review archives, with more than 1100 entries.
| This episode marks the return of once-series-regular Pete Ross, one of the first of Clark’s friends to discover the truth about his origins. Pete was originally an integral part of the status quo, so many long-term fans will no doubt enjoy seeing him again. On the other hand, more episodes have been produced since his departure than included him, so to a certain extent, his relevancy to the overall story is minimal.
The concept is simple enough: Pete chews some kryptonite-laced gum and develops temporary superhuman powers. Rather than hide his abilities, Pete chooses to “out” himself and pursue an openly heroic life. Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done, and Pete finds himself on the wrong side of the delicate balance between secrecy and disclosure. Pete comes to appreciate the difficulty of Clark’s position.
Two key points come to mind. Whatever else might have gone wrong, Pete taught Clark a valuable lesson. Pete’s decision to be an open hero was largely embraced by the public, which shows Clark that it’s possible to act for the public good without resorting to Green Arrow-style antics. This is another good step towards the Superman future, adding to what the sixth season arc intended.
Additionally, Pete serves to shed a light on the many changes in the Smallville status quo, most of which are in stark contrast to the earlier seasons. Pete’s life was ruined by the Luthors and living with Clark’s secret (at least from his point of view). A few years later, Lionel and Clark are uneasy allies, and several people seem to be living with Clark’s secret rather casually. His bitter reaction made perfect sense; if anything, it wasn’t played strongly enough.
This episode also continues, via short and sweet subplot, Lex’s attempt to uncover Kara’s Kryptonian past. This also seems to connect with Lex’s sudden interest in the Luthor family crest, particularly the “V” surrounded by a constellation pattern. Recalling that Lionel Luthor manufactured the family legacy, my prediction is that the “V” is connection to “Veritas”, mentioned in the previous episode. (This would be in keeping with my theory that Veritas is the Swann/Queen/Luthor/Teague alliance.)
Of course, the strengths of the episode were deeply compromised by the blatant and overbearing product placement. Kryptonite-laced gum is a silly idea in the first place; tying that to an existing product betrays how corporate interference can undermine a writing staff. It’s hard to believe that Clark didn’t save the day by chewing non-laced Stride, just to put the icing on the advertising cake. “Smallville” has been infested with product placement for several seasons now, but this example is particularly egregious. |
|
|
