By John Keegan
Visit Critical Myth for an archive of John's TV Review archives, with more than 1100 entries.
This episode was a step up from the two previous installments, which brings a sigh of relief. There was less of the sloppy editing, a problem that has plagued the series of late, and more actual characterization. Even Kara was more substantial, which came as a pleasant surprise.
It’s nice to see the writers deal with Chloe’s reaction to her “meteor freak” status. That part of the episode was the highlight of the story, in fact. I would have expected Dean Cain’s appearance to bring more heft to the production, but Dr. Knox was poorly defined. Apparently he was an homage to a villain from the DC canon, which may explain my lack of interest.
As I mentioned, Kara was less intrusive in this episode, and I like where they’re taking the character in a general sense. Keeping her status questionable is a nice touch, though I’m still concerned that the actress may not have the chops necessary to make it convincing. I may be proven wrong, however, since I got the distinct impression that Kara has been acting the part of the spoiled brat to hide a more sinister side. Such a revelation wouldn’t change my opinion of earlier episodes, but it would give me a reason to like Kara.
Clark’s Kryptonian family legacy is definitely interesting, and it is beginning to replace the Kent family legacy that fell to the wayside after Jonathan’s death. This makes sense, especially since it will also make Clark question some of his choices within the human world. His relationship with Lana is doomed as it is. What if his decisions regarding Kara and her moral choices bring him to question Lana’s current activities?
Speaking of that subplot, the writers may have found a way to make Lana more interesting in the short-term. I still believe that the character’s time has all but passed in the story, but unlike the previous few seasons, Lana is acting out of her own agenda instead of serving as an object to be possessed. It could be very revealed, especially in terms of Clark’s psychology, if he finds her less attractive when she’s taking her life into her own hands.
This episode also reinforces the idea that Lex is acting out of a higher purpose. It’s always better when a villain’s motivations can be understood. Lex still believes he is acting out of the greater good, protecting the world against an alien invasion, and from a certain point of view, he’s not wrong. His methods are the real issue. This is something the writers should reinforce, because at the end of the day, Lex and Clark could still be on the same side. It reminds us of who they were when the series started, and that’s never a bad thing. |
