Smallville Review

From their modest origins in the 1930s as pulp fodder for children, comic book superheroes have evolved into a uniquely American mythology, and no character looms larger in that mythology than Superman. Through 70 years of comic books, movies, novels, and TV shows, the story of the Man of Steel has been mined again and again, each generation redefining the character according to its own values.

Originally created by Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel, the Superman comic was groundbreaking; pretty much establishing the modern comic book rules, and providing DC with its most well-known character. During his conception, it was fairly easy to see the real-life parallels that influenced Shuster and Siegel. A tale about a stranger coming from an alien world, and using his unique gifts to help others, it was clearly a riff on the immigration-heavy America of the 1950’s. It was a revolutionary time. A time of change. In the guise of Supes, the creators had all they needed to comment on their society. Over the course of the comic’s history, Clark Kent would struggle to hide his identity, and get by in a world that was a million light years from home. Little did they know, that the character would continue to go strong in the 21st Century...

Smallville, a TV series currently in its 8th season on the WB network, is the latest addition to the Superman mythos. Taking that obligatory superhero staple, the origin story, as its subject, Smallville focuses on the years before Clark Kent took up the red cape and blue tights. In doing so, the creators of the show have assumed a unique and daunting challenge. Smallville puts character development first. Though it isn’t just Clark who gets the glowing treatment - the writers have fashioned a great group of personalities here, which are aided no end by a pretty solid supporting cast. The beautiful Kristin Kreuk takes on the form of Lana Lang - Clark’s true love before the infamous Lois Lane appeared. The chemistry between her and Welling is one of the shows strongest points (though like many shows, the love angle is dragged out beyond belief). Adding to this teenage angst is Chloe Sullivan (Alyson Mack), Smallville High’s journalist, who holds a secret attraction to our hero. The young cast is rounded out by Pete Ross (Sam Jones III), who has been Clark’s friend for life. Will he discover Clark’s true self?

At least but not last this TV series give us, exciting, fun, and full of promise, the Superman legend continues to be redefined for new generations. Fans of that enduring comic will love Smallville - an action series with the production values to fully realise its potential. Fans will already own this box set, but newcomers are advised to take a look. An ideal taster for greater seasons to come...