Smallville S2 E5: Nocturne

“Nocturne” centers on a mysterious poetry-writing stalker who leaves romantic verses for Lana at her parents’ grave. The episode explores themes of loneliness, family abuse, and the power of connection while revealing another meteor-affected individual with unique abilities.

Detailed Plot Breakdown:

The Mysterious Poet:

• Byron Moore leaves poetry for Lana at the cemetery
• His romantic verses intrigue Lana despite their unsettling delivery
• Clark becomes concerned about Lana’s safety
• Byron is revealed to be a shutin who only emerges at night

Byron’s Backstory:

• Parents kept him locked in the basement for years
• Subject of meteor rock experiments as a child
• Transforms into a violent creature in sunlight
• Normal, gentle personality emerges at night

Lana’s Investigation:

• Forms connection with Byron over poetry
• Sees him as a kindred spirit due to their shared love of literature
• Defends Byron against others’ suspicions
• Tries to help him escape his confined life

Clark’s Involvement:

• Initially investigates Byron as a potential threat
• Discovers truth about Byron’s condition
• Works to protect both Byron and Lana
• Must stop Byron’s violent daytime persona

Parent-Child Dynamics:

• Byron’s abusive parents justify their actions as protection
• Contrast between Byron’s parents and the Kents
• Exploration of different parenting approaches to special children

Review:
“Nocturne” delivers a solid dose of Smallville weirdness, blending a classic whodunit with a touch of the supernatural. The episode shines in its exploration of Clark’s growing powers and his struggle to balance his normal life with his destiny. Kristin Kreuk as Lana continues to captivate, and this week’s “Freak of the Week,” Byron, adds an intriguing layer of complexity to the story. The special effects are a bit of a mixed bag; the rose-related powers are visually interesting, but some of the other effects feel a tad clunky. Overall, a fun and engaging episode that keeps you guessing.

The episode effectively uses Gothic romance elements while exploring themes of isolation and misunderstood youth. Byron’s character serves as a dark mirror to Clark – both are special individuals whose parents respond to their conditions in radically different ways.

The poetry aspect adds a unique literary element to the series’ usual science fiction framework. The episode successfully balances horror elements with genuine emotional depth.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Overall Character Development:

• Lana shows compassion and understanding for outcasts
• Clark continues to develop his protective instincts while learning not to judge too quickly
• Byron represents the tragic consequences of fear-based parenting
• Parents’ different approaches to special children is highlighted

Thematic Elements:

• The impact of parental choices on children
• Beauty and monstrosity
• Literature and self-expression as escape
• The darkness within versus external appearance
• Isolation and connection

The episode effectively combines horror movie elements with romantic poetry, creating a unique tone for the series. It continues Smallville’s tradition of using meteor-affected individuals to explore deeper human themes while maintaining its core focus on Clark’s journey and moral development.

The contrast between the Kents’ nurturing approach to Clark’s differences and Byron’s parents’ fearful containment of their son provides powerful commentary on parenting special children.

Special Effects: The special effects for Byron’s rose-related abilities are generally well-executed, particularly the way the roses grow and manipulate objects. However, there are a few moments where the CGI looks a little dated, even for the time.

Music: The episode features a mix of early 2000s alternative rock, including “Hemorrhage (In My Hands)” by Fuel, and “Everything” by Lifehouse. The music effectively sets the mood and underscores the emotional beats of the episode.

Lessons and Superman Connections:

“Nocturne” explores themes of responsibility and the burden of power. Clark learns that his abilities come with a great responsibility to protect others, even when it means facing difficult choices. Byron’s story serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of using powers for personal gain and revenge. This episode reinforces the idea that Clark’s journey to becoming Superman is not just about physical powers, but also about developing the moral compass and sense of responsibility that will define him as a hero. He’s learning to balance his desire to help with the need to remain hidden and protect his secret. This constant struggle is a key element in his development into Superman.

Photos:

Review Notes:

Opens looking like a horror movie

Lana calls him the “Man of Steel.

Ha Byron is Rampage!

Recurring Lana is pissed at Clark theme:
Lana: If you really like someone, you accept every part of them, but you can’t do that until they are willing to share every part with you.