Air Date: February 26, 2002
Director: Robert Singer
Writers: Philip Levens & Michael Green
“Kinetic” shifts the focus toward themes of betrayal, redemption, and second chances, while also exploring the consequences of using extraordinary powers for selfish purposes. In this episode, Clark faces a new kind of threat as he deals with a group of former jocks who have gained powers through kryptonite and are using them to commit crimes. The story also puts a spotlight on Whitney Fordman, whose struggles with identity and purpose add emotional depth to the narrative. It seems like Whitney’s feeling down in the dumps after losing his football scholarship. Maybe joining a gang of meteor-infected thugs who can walk through walls is not the best way to cope. Especially when they decide to rob Lex Luthor, putting Chloe right in the middle of the action. Clark’s got to stop them, but can he do it without revealing his own super-secret?
Also this week: Lana’s got plans for the Talon, but will Lex be on board? And just how many times can Chloe end up in the hospital this season? Find out in this week’s exciting episode!
Episode Review
Starring: Tom Welling (Clark Kent), Kristin Kreuk (Lana Lang), Michael Rosenbaum (Lex Luthor), Allison Mack (Chloe Sullivan), Sam Jones III (Pete Ross), Annette O’Toole (Martha Kent), John Schneider (Jonathan Kent), and Eric Johnson (Whitney Fordman)
Freak of the Week: This episode features a whole gang of meteor freaks, led by Derek Fox (David Lovgren). They’ve got a unique ability thanks to some meteor rock-infused tattoos – they can phase through solid objects! It’s a cool power, visually, though the special effects definitely show their early 2000s limitations. We even sort of get Whitney as a freak for a little bit before he sees the errors of his ways. I wonder if his meteor tattoo will come back in future episodes?
In “Kinetic,” Clark must confront a group of criminals who are exploiting kryptonite tattoos to gain superhuman abilities.
- The Thieves: The episode revolves around three former Smallville High football players who have turned to a life of crime after their promising athletic careers were cut short by injury. The trio—Wade, Scott, and Derek—use meteor rock (kryptonite) tattoos to give themselves the ability to phase through solid objects, enabling them to commit robberies. The tattoos imbue their bodies with a kinetic energy that allows them to become intangible, making them nearly impossible to catch.
- Whitney Fordman: Whitney, Lana Lang’s boyfriend, finds himself at a crossroads after losing his college football scholarship due to a shoulder injury. Feeling lost and insecure about his future, he becomes susceptible to the influence of Wade and his crew, who promise him a way out of his troubles. Whitney’s vulnerability makes him easy prey for their recruitment, especially since he feels betrayed by his fading athletic career.
- The Robbery: The plot kicks off when the thieves break into Luthor Mansion, stealing valuable artifacts. During the heist, they injure Chloe Sullivan, who is in the mansion working on a school project. Chloe’s injuries add urgency to Clark’s quest to stop the criminals, as her close call raises the stakes for Clark and his friends.
- Clark’s Investigation: As Clark begins to investigate the theft, he discovers Whitney’s involvement with the gang. Feeling a sense of responsibility to help his rival, Clark attempts to pull Whitney back from the brink. Meanwhile, Lex Luthor takes the break-in personally, and his desire for justice adds another layer to the story, especially as his relationship with the town continues to evolve.
The episode reaches its climax as Whitney realizes the dangerous path he’s on and ultimately chooses to help Clark take down Wade and the others. The final showdown occurs in an abandoned building, where Clark uses his strength and quick thinking to outmatch the kinetic thieves, while Whitney redeems himself by assisting in their capture. Clark uses his super speed to save Whitney, but Whitney doesn’t notice?
Special Effects: Speaking of special effects, the phasing effect is a bit of a mixed bag. Sometimes it works, sometimes it looks a little cheesy. But hey, it was 2002, we can’t expect miracles! The fight scenes are pretty decent though, with Clark using his super-speed in some creative ways.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars. A solid episode with a decent villain and some good action. The plot is a little predictable, but it’s still entertaining.
Synopsis and Plot Breakdown
Whitney is understandably bummed out after losing his football scholarship due to his dad’s illness. He falls in with a bad crowd led by Derek, who has figured out a way to use meteor rock to gain phasing powers. They use their newfound abilities to pull off a series of robberies, culminating in a daring heist at Lex Luthor’s mansion.
Unfortunately for Chloe, she’s at the mansion interviewing Lex for the Torch when the robbery takes place. She gets caught in the crossfire and ends up seriously injured after a fall from what appears to be about 5 stories from the camera work. (it wasn’t). Clark, of course, has to step in and stop the thieves, using his super-speed to outmaneuver them and their phasing powers.
In the end, Clark manages to defeat the gang and save Chloe (again!). Whitney, realizing the error of his ways, turns back to the good side himself. Meanwhile, Lana convinces Lex to invest in the Talon, which is great news for her coffee-loving ambitions.
Lessons and Superman Connections
This episode explores the theme of making bad choices when you’re feeling lost and vulnerable. Whitney’s desperation after losing his scholarship leads him down a dark path. It’s a reminder that even good people can make mistakes, especially when they’re hurting.
We also see Clark continuing to struggle with his powers and the responsibility that comes with them. He’s still figuring out how to use his abilities to help people without revealing his secret. This is a key part of Clark’s journey to becoming Superman, as he learns to control his powers and use them for good.
Betrayal and Vulnerability
“Kinetic” focuses on the theme of betrayal, particularly in the context of friendships and self-worth. Whitney’s arc in this episode highlights how betrayal—whether it’s losing a scholarship, feeling abandoned by friends, or being let down by life—can make individuals vulnerable to negative influences. The former football players are driven by a sense of betrayal after their dreams were shattered, using their powers for revenge and financial gain. This contrasts sharply with Clark’s moral compass, which guides him to use his abilities for good.
The Temptation of Easy Solutions
The episode explores the temptation of taking shortcuts or resorting to illegal means to solve problems. Whitney’s initial willingness to join the thieves reflects a momentary lapse in judgment driven by desperation. The kryptonite tattoos represent a quick and dangerous fix—offering power without the need for effort or ethics. This idea parallels Clark’s journey, as he often faces situations where using his powers could provide easy solutions, but he resists because of his strong moral values.
Redemption and Second Chances
A major aspect of “Kinetic” is the opportunity for redemption. Whitney is given a chance to choose a different path after falling in with the wrong crowd. His decision to help Clark stop the criminals not only redeems him but also reinforces the show’s theme that people can change for the better. The episode conveys that redemption is always possible, but it requires courage and the will to make the right choices, even when it’s difficult.
Friendship and Rivalry
The complex dynamic between Clark and Whitney is further explored in this episode. Although they are often rivals due to their mutual affection for Lana Lang, Clark’s actions demonstrate his belief in helping people, even those he might not personally get along with. His efforts to save Whitney from making irreversible mistakes show his empathy and growing sense of heroism. Meanwhile, Whitney’s struggles make him a more sympathetic character, offering insight into the pressures faced by young athletes who tie their self-worth to their physical abilities.
The Ethics of Power
“Kinetic” continues to build on Smallville‘s recurring theme regarding the use of power. The kinetic abilities gained through the kryptonite tattoos are used selfishly and recklessly by the former jocks, illustrating how power can corrupt when it’s not grounded in a strong moral foundation. In contrast, Clark continues to learn how to use his abilities responsibly, even when faced with challenging moral dilemmas.
Memorable Moments
- Chloe’s Injury: The injury to Chloe during the robbery adds a personal element to the story, increasing Clark’s motivation to stop the criminals. Her vulnerability emphasizes that even though Clark has extraordinary abilities, those he cares about can still be harmed.
- Whitney’s Recruitment: The scene where Wade and his gang persuade Whitney to join them is a powerful moment that captures the young man’s internal conflict. His temptation to escape his problems by using illegal means is palpable, making his eventual decision to help Clark feel all the more significant.
- The Final Showdown: The climactic confrontation in the abandoned warehouse is action-packed, with the thieves using their phasing abilities to evade Clark’s attacks. The creative use of the kinetic tattoos during the fight makes for a visually engaging sequence, while Clark’s persistence in saving Whitney underscores his heroism.
- Lex’s Reaction to the Robbery: Lex’s anger over the break-in at his mansion demonstrates his evolving views on justice and security. His determination to catch the culprits foreshadows his future as someone who will go to great lengths to protect what is his, hinting at his darker tendencies.
Character Development
- Whitney Fordman: This episode gives Whitney more depth by showcasing his struggles beyond just being Lana’s boyfriend. It provides a look at his vulnerability, fears about his future, and the desperation that nearly drives him down a dark path. His redemption arc not only adds layers to his character but also reshapes his relationship with Clark.
- Clark Kent: “Kinetic” shows Clark’s growing understanding of what it means to be a hero. His efforts to help Whitney, despite their previous tensions, highlight his compassion. The episode serves as another step in his journey toward accepting his role as a protector, regardless of personal grievances.
- Lex Luthor: Although Lex is not the primary focus of the episode, his reactions to the robbery show his protective nature over his belongings and his pride. These moments continue to build on the duality of Lex’s character, foreshadowing his transformation into someone who is both a friend and a potential adversary to Clark.
Final Thoughts
“Kinetic” is an engaging episode that balances action with meaningful character development. It presents themes of redemption, the temptation of easy solutions, and the struggle to maintain integrity when faced with setbacks. Through Whitney’s arc, the episode delves into the emotional toll of unfulfilled dreams and the desire for a second chance, while the kinetic-powered thieves illustrate how power can corrupt when used for selfish purposes.
The episode serves as an important chapter in Smallville’s first season, advancing character relationships and exploring ethical dilemmas that continue to shape Clark Kent’s journey toward becoming Superman. With compelling stakes, strong performances, and a blend of action and emotion, “Kinetic” delivers a solid narrative that resonates on both a personal and thematic level.
Review Notes
Bad ass car.
Nailed the freak of the week phasing through walls.
WTF meteor rock tattoos!
Lex kind of shows his bad guy side here with his lines like
“will be dealt with accordingly”
“you’re not theonly ones who can go through walls”
Chloes reaction to Clark apologizing for letting her get hurt is perfect. “Well, I am perturbed with you, Clark. I’m also mad that you didn’t put out the Chicago fire of 1871, or prevent the fall of the Roman Empire, making you directly responsible for the Dark Ages”
Lex being a dick again… fuck you teenager, its a garage now.
Jonathan: Son, becoming an adult means learning difficult lessons, one of which is you can’t save everybody, no matter who you are.
Lex with another great quote: ‘ You cant save the whole world, you will end up with a messiah complex and a lot of enemies.”
How the hell is Whitney oblivious to Clarks super speed?
Lana presents new plan and wins Lex over with a little foreshadowing in that exchange.
Next Episode “Zero” My guess… duh going to have to go with Mr. Freeze like freak of the week.