While the 10th and final season of Smallville begins on a high note, it should be noted that it is not quite as good as the cream of the crop of season 9. Though it some ways it feels like "Salvation, Part 2" it lacks the action element or the epic feel of that episode. Nothing, not even our first true glimpse of the Superman suit, is as amazing as the pre-credit sequence from the season 9 finale. But I digress....Lazarus is a great episode, filled with returning characters and some interesting plot turns. Jonathan Kent, Jor-El, clones of Lex Luthor, and Darkseid promise interesting story lines to come as Smallville finally begins to draw to a close.
5 Reviews
Lazarus
Colcatron5 May 2011
Warning: Spoilers
For the first time in several years, a Smallville premiere acts as a direct continuation of the previous season's finale. "Lazarus" picks up exactly the second where "Salvation" ended. I prefer the direct continuation premieres, as I think it's evidence of a much stronger story being told in both seasons. There's no need to start with a clean slate, because the finale was told properly in the first place.
This is the final season of Smallville, and the producers knew it. I always got the impression that the reason seasons 8 and 9 had so many down moments is partly because they were running out of ideas, and even more so because I think the producers have always had an idea of how the show would end, but they had to save so many of these ideas for a final season. "Lazarus" introduces season 10 as if they'd been planning it for years. The best example is having Lois know about Clark's secret, but hiding her knowledge of it from him. This added a new dynamic to their scenes together. Another good example of stories that I feel like the producers have been saving is the return of Lex Luthor. At the time they obviously had no idea that Rosenbaum would return, and needed a way to reintroduce the character without him. The Lex clones was a fantastic way to work around his previous exit from the show. I don't know if I was a huge fan of the older Lex clone. The actor did a good job, but it's too much to accept another actor in Rosenbaum's role for only a short guest spot. I did enjoy his master plan of giving Clark a dilemma with 2 saves to make at the same time. It reminded me of Lex's plot in the original Superman movie. Handled better however is the young Lex clone. The possibilities were endless for where the show could take this, and by the end of the season they threw a great twist in there.
This episode also features returns and departures. The departure in this episode is Chloe, who would be back for a handful of episodes later on in the season. This was obviously the one thing the producers didn't count on, otherwise they would have either done something with her in season 9, or found a more clever way of writing her out. The way she's written out comes across as being rushed and poorly planned.
John Schneider returns as Jonathan Kent for the first time since season 5. Like when Martha was brought back at the end of season 9, these scenes with Jonathan were a great reminder of the earlier seasons, and the unbeatable dynamic between Clark and his parents. The show was always built on that, and the drama that comes out of their scene together was just what season 10 needed remind viewers of what made Smallville great to begin with. Between Jonathan, the return of Lex (or at least a version of) and a repeat of the iconic corn field shot in the original pilot, there are plenty of reminders of Smallville's history as they head into the final season.
This is the final season of Smallville, and the producers knew it. I always got the impression that the reason seasons 8 and 9 had so many down moments is partly because they were running out of ideas, and even more so because I think the producers have always had an idea of how the show would end, but they had to save so many of these ideas for a final season. "Lazarus" introduces season 10 as if they'd been planning it for years. The best example is having Lois know about Clark's secret, but hiding her knowledge of it from him. This added a new dynamic to their scenes together. Another good example of stories that I feel like the producers have been saving is the return of Lex Luthor. At the time they obviously had no idea that Rosenbaum would return, and needed a way to reintroduce the character without him. The Lex clones was a fantastic way to work around his previous exit from the show. I don't know if I was a huge fan of the older Lex clone. The actor did a good job, but it's too much to accept another actor in Rosenbaum's role for only a short guest spot. I did enjoy his master plan of giving Clark a dilemma with 2 saves to make at the same time. It reminded me of Lex's plot in the original Superman movie. Handled better however is the young Lex clone. The possibilities were endless for where the show could take this, and by the end of the season they threw a great twist in there.
This episode also features returns and departures. The departure in this episode is Chloe, who would be back for a handful of episodes later on in the season. This was obviously the one thing the producers didn't count on, otherwise they would have either done something with her in season 9, or found a more clever way of writing her out. The way she's written out comes across as being rushed and poorly planned.
John Schneider returns as Jonathan Kent for the first time since season 5. Like when Martha was brought back at the end of season 9, these scenes with Jonathan were a great reminder of the earlier seasons, and the unbeatable dynamic between Clark and his parents. The show was always built on that, and the drama that comes out of their scene together was just what season 10 needed remind viewers of what made Smallville great to begin with. Between Jonathan, the return of Lex (or at least a version of) and a repeat of the iconic corn field shot in the original pilot, there are plenty of reminders of Smallville's history as they head into the final season.
Hiding Fears
tomasmmc-771984 May 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Thr tenth season of Smallville had probably the best possible start. It had a few flaws, some confusing parts, but overall, was excellent.
Following the strange season finale where Clark falls almost dead from the heights, Lois, who was around waiting for him, appears to take out the dagger of blue kryptonite. In the middle of the rain, she saves his life, and hides the moment he wakes up. This first scene was magnificent, and I loved Erica's role here. She looked amazing, being the best Lois Lane she could be. It was simply beautiful. I've seen others, but no one does it like her.
Clark had a near death experience where he talked to Jor-El. Obviously, there was disappointment, because he had chosen the martyr's path (which was ridiculous). If it wasn't for Lois, where would Superman be? Anyway, Clark gets out alive, apparently renewed and eager to become Earth's savior. He wrongly thinks that Jor-El gave him a second chance, and is oblivious to Lois' intervention. Plus, he had a vision of Lex. This prompts him to meet Chloe, and seek for information from Lex's secret projects. He ends up seeing Lois at the Daily Planet, where she was just checking out all the articles of Smallville detailing Clark's earliest heroic actions. They have a brief talk, but she doesn't let him know that she knows his secret. Instead, she plays to see his handling of the situation. She even pretends to drop her pen so he can do his research fastly (which was stupid from him, like if she wouldn't sense his superspeed), and then says they need to talk. They agree to meet at the barn later. By this point, Lois doesn't intend to go to Africa, but what happens next changes her mind. In Cadmus lab, a recovered Tess finds several Lex's clones locked in. She inadvertently releases a kid, and the old bad one, who burns every other clone and leaves Tess cuffed to a table. With Chloe's tip, Clark saves Tess, and is told that Lex's clone is waiting for him at Lawson field. The bald man had tied Lois to a cross (echoing Clark in the Pilot), and sets the field on fire, while also planting a bomb at the top of the Daily Planet. Clark confronts the clone, and almost strangles him upon learning what he did, but stops when sees his nose bleeding. The clone will die soon, so Clark rushes to save both Lois, and the people outside the Daily Planet. He succeeds, but pride steps in, and makes Jor-El think that he's not ready to face the darkness within his heart. Lois fears putting Clark's life in danger, and flees to Africa to clear her doubts, not before leaving him a goodbye letter. In the meantime, Chloe exchanges herself for the caught Oliver, and Tess rescued the kid Lex. All while plays Vast-One more day. This scene was perfect, and memorable. I always remembered it, and I saw it for the first time 11 years ago. This season premiere was somehow sad, not flawless, but it was emotional. Heartfelt. Clark is not ready yet to become Superman (he needs the push of Homecoming). He has to pass one more stage, and that includes opening up to Lois. Nobody can do it alone. Not even him.
And so, it comes the ending scene, showing the awaited return of Jonathan Kent. A spectacular moment, where it doesn't matter if it's real or not, it's just there to enjoy, and feel. "Not a day goes by Clark, when I don't regret being able to be right there for you. I would do anything, I would give anything to get a second chance to get it right. You got that second chance, son. You could be the greatest hero the world has ever known." The words of one of the best characters in history of TV. He's inspiring. "Chores, son... Work keeps a man honest. Got to protect the things you work hard to build". Jonathan Kent has many lessons for everyone, not only Clark. Unforgettable. Every time he appears on screen, the episode becomes special. A nine turns out a ten. The flaws become meaningless. The mistakes doesn't matter much more.
To praise the acting overall, even Mackenzie's, who had a tough job having to portray Lex Luthor, considering that is Michael's role on this series. It made more sense this way, and was sad to be reassured that the true Lex died in Requiem. Then, the casting revelations (Chloe being a guest and not regular), are simply great. Because season 10 will focus exclusively in the creation of Superman, and the story of Lois and Clark. They will have the deserved protagonism, especially Erica Durance. It's fair. The ending showing Darkseid, serves to introduce the mysterious villain of the season, who will challenge Clark in different ways than the rest. It's all set for a powerful finale.
Following the strange season finale where Clark falls almost dead from the heights, Lois, who was around waiting for him, appears to take out the dagger of blue kryptonite. In the middle of the rain, she saves his life, and hides the moment he wakes up. This first scene was magnificent, and I loved Erica's role here. She looked amazing, being the best Lois Lane she could be. It was simply beautiful. I've seen others, but no one does it like her.
Clark had a near death experience where he talked to Jor-El. Obviously, there was disappointment, because he had chosen the martyr's path (which was ridiculous). If it wasn't for Lois, where would Superman be? Anyway, Clark gets out alive, apparently renewed and eager to become Earth's savior. He wrongly thinks that Jor-El gave him a second chance, and is oblivious to Lois' intervention. Plus, he had a vision of Lex. This prompts him to meet Chloe, and seek for information from Lex's secret projects. He ends up seeing Lois at the Daily Planet, where she was just checking out all the articles of Smallville detailing Clark's earliest heroic actions. They have a brief talk, but she doesn't let him know that she knows his secret. Instead, she plays to see his handling of the situation. She even pretends to drop her pen so he can do his research fastly (which was stupid from him, like if she wouldn't sense his superspeed), and then says they need to talk. They agree to meet at the barn later. By this point, Lois doesn't intend to go to Africa, but what happens next changes her mind. In Cadmus lab, a recovered Tess finds several Lex's clones locked in. She inadvertently releases a kid, and the old bad one, who burns every other clone and leaves Tess cuffed to a table. With Chloe's tip, Clark saves Tess, and is told that Lex's clone is waiting for him at Lawson field. The bald man had tied Lois to a cross (echoing Clark in the Pilot), and sets the field on fire, while also planting a bomb at the top of the Daily Planet. Clark confronts the clone, and almost strangles him upon learning what he did, but stops when sees his nose bleeding. The clone will die soon, so Clark rushes to save both Lois, and the people outside the Daily Planet. He succeeds, but pride steps in, and makes Jor-El think that he's not ready to face the darkness within his heart. Lois fears putting Clark's life in danger, and flees to Africa to clear her doubts, not before leaving him a goodbye letter. In the meantime, Chloe exchanges herself for the caught Oliver, and Tess rescued the kid Lex. All while plays Vast-One more day. This scene was perfect, and memorable. I always remembered it, and I saw it for the first time 11 years ago. This season premiere was somehow sad, not flawless, but it was emotional. Heartfelt. Clark is not ready yet to become Superman (he needs the push of Homecoming). He has to pass one more stage, and that includes opening up to Lois. Nobody can do it alone. Not even him.
And so, it comes the ending scene, showing the awaited return of Jonathan Kent. A spectacular moment, where it doesn't matter if it's real or not, it's just there to enjoy, and feel. "Not a day goes by Clark, when I don't regret being able to be right there for you. I would do anything, I would give anything to get a second chance to get it right. You got that second chance, son. You could be the greatest hero the world has ever known." The words of one of the best characters in history of TV. He's inspiring. "Chores, son... Work keeps a man honest. Got to protect the things you work hard to build". Jonathan Kent has many lessons for everyone, not only Clark. Unforgettable. Every time he appears on screen, the episode becomes special. A nine turns out a ten. The flaws become meaningless. The mistakes doesn't matter much more.
To praise the acting overall, even Mackenzie's, who had a tough job having to portray Lex Luthor, considering that is Michael's role on this series. It made more sense this way, and was sad to be reassured that the true Lex died in Requiem. Then, the casting revelations (Chloe being a guest and not regular), are simply great. Because season 10 will focus exclusively in the creation of Superman, and the story of Lois and Clark. They will have the deserved protagonism, especially Erica Durance. It's fair. The ending showing Darkseid, serves to introduce the mysterious villain of the season, who will challenge Clark in different ways than the rest. It's all set for a powerful finale.
Sensational Lois & Clark ; impressive acting ; puzzling, intriguing and surreal story ; immersive production ; conventional editing
igoatabase25 September 2010
And now, the final season of Smallville. What a relief to hear these sweet words, told by Tom Welling. After a mashup of past scenes, that should stimulate your nostalgia, the story started right after the dramatic events of Salvation. It's like the show never stopped because inspired by its captivating story and friendly characters I couldn't help dreaming about it in the last past months.
The first thing that really stroke me is how Lois & Clark have grown on me. When Erica Durance entered the arena some seasons ago I never expected her to reign someday right beside Teri Hatcher. You have to see her run in the rain or sweat when the temperature rises dangerously. Her acting, sex appeal and charisma are so wired that she should make you realize the impossible. The person you picture as Lois or Clark could be the one ! And you definitely don't have to be them to touch its heart. That's why their love story should never stop to move you. As perfectly pictured in Charade it's just timeless. A neverending ballet where the differences between the smart beauty and super beast have faded. Lois isn't an Hostage anymore, she's her own hero. Free from the chains that prevented her so far to express her love she can consider Clark for what defines him, his humanity, and help him to become the superhero he is.
Beside our irresistible duo I was also quite impressed by the acting. As usual Durance's performance was stellar but Welling did an excellent job too. In fact the episode probably featured one of his most convincing scene. How would you portray your inner demons ? The duality growing in Clark's heart was very well portrayed and I found him darker and even more mature that in the past season. It's not just about the black suit anymore, he has embraced his destiny and it's like his resources were infinite. As for Cassidy Freeman she gave birth to a glamorous and tortured Tess Mercer. Moreover her role wasn't anecdotic and actually reminded me of the twisted Conspiracy installment. Justin Hartley's chest was also featured and his lines were hilarious, specially considering the context. Last but not least Allison Mack was less present than the others but it was sweet to have our lovely Chloe back but I really regret that she will only guest star during the whole season. Let's hope the writers have planned something dazzling for her few appearances !
An other major element we have to consider obviously is the story. Last year I questioned the whole Zod mumbo jumbo at the beginning but it quickly developed as a jaw dropping odyssey. Here it felt like a blindfolded journey at times because you should often wonder if what happens is real or not. Are you watching Smallville or dreaming of it ? The experience was puzzling and some sequences quite touching. The visual effects were well rendered and the production was immersive. But my main complain would be that the editing wasn't creative enough. They chose the easy escape of switching between the arcs instead of blending them in a surprising fashion. It's what happens once you've lived the Lost incident. However it shouldn't prevent you from following their epic adventures. Otherwise even if the writing was exciting I couldn't help noting a few shortcuts. Like in Kandor things happened too fast when one arc really deserved to be covered among multiple episodes. In fact it could happen so we better stay tuned. If not it's probably for the best because Zod made me believe in the show dream team. I know they have the power and talent to make it happen. Moreover I'm quite intrigued by their new nemesis !
One down. Twenty something to go. Lazarus was a brilliant way to introduce the tenth and last season. It wasn't flawless but overall it had everything a long time fan can expect from Smallville. How could you be disappointed by a science-fiction recipe that has aged so well ? We all have the potential to become the Lois & Clark of tomorrow. Become the hero you are !
The first thing that really stroke me is how Lois & Clark have grown on me. When Erica Durance entered the arena some seasons ago I never expected her to reign someday right beside Teri Hatcher. You have to see her run in the rain or sweat when the temperature rises dangerously. Her acting, sex appeal and charisma are so wired that she should make you realize the impossible. The person you picture as Lois or Clark could be the one ! And you definitely don't have to be them to touch its heart. That's why their love story should never stop to move you. As perfectly pictured in Charade it's just timeless. A neverending ballet where the differences between the smart beauty and super beast have faded. Lois isn't an Hostage anymore, she's her own hero. Free from the chains that prevented her so far to express her love she can consider Clark for what defines him, his humanity, and help him to become the superhero he is.
Beside our irresistible duo I was also quite impressed by the acting. As usual Durance's performance was stellar but Welling did an excellent job too. In fact the episode probably featured one of his most convincing scene. How would you portray your inner demons ? The duality growing in Clark's heart was very well portrayed and I found him darker and even more mature that in the past season. It's not just about the black suit anymore, he has embraced his destiny and it's like his resources were infinite. As for Cassidy Freeman she gave birth to a glamorous and tortured Tess Mercer. Moreover her role wasn't anecdotic and actually reminded me of the twisted Conspiracy installment. Justin Hartley's chest was also featured and his lines were hilarious, specially considering the context. Last but not least Allison Mack was less present than the others but it was sweet to have our lovely Chloe back but I really regret that she will only guest star during the whole season. Let's hope the writers have planned something dazzling for her few appearances !
An other major element we have to consider obviously is the story. Last year I questioned the whole Zod mumbo jumbo at the beginning but it quickly developed as a jaw dropping odyssey. Here it felt like a blindfolded journey at times because you should often wonder if what happens is real or not. Are you watching Smallville or dreaming of it ? The experience was puzzling and some sequences quite touching. The visual effects were well rendered and the production was immersive. But my main complain would be that the editing wasn't creative enough. They chose the easy escape of switching between the arcs instead of blending them in a surprising fashion. It's what happens once you've lived the Lost incident. However it shouldn't prevent you from following their epic adventures. Otherwise even if the writing was exciting I couldn't help noting a few shortcuts. Like in Kandor things happened too fast when one arc really deserved to be covered among multiple episodes. In fact it could happen so we better stay tuned. If not it's probably for the best because Zod made me believe in the show dream team. I know they have the power and talent to make it happen. Moreover I'm quite intrigued by their new nemesis !
One down. Twenty something to go. Lazarus was a brilliant way to introduce the tenth and last season. It wasn't flawless but overall it had everything a long time fan can expect from Smallville. How could you be disappointed by a science-fiction recipe that has aged so well ? We all have the potential to become the Lois & Clark of tomorrow. Become the hero you are !
A promising season!New enemies, old enemies, love story, and many action!
al-ki-biadis25 September 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I believe this episode was very good.It was like seeing an old episode of smallville!I liked very much the idea of bringing Lex back, but i disappointed when i didn't see Michael Rosenbaum. It's a good thing that Lois finally finds out Clark's secret. One of the best scenes was seeing Clark's father again. Chloe finds Oliver and sacrifices her self to save him! Tess wakes up in a lab full of Lex and Clark pushes himself harder than ever to save everyone, only to have Jor-El inform him that Earth's greatest threat will be him if he cannot extinguish the darkness within himself. To sum up, the final season started very good i think, but we will see how it would end up! Finally we have to see Clark with the suit!
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