Smallville S2 E4: Red

Hello and welcome back to Smallville Reviews! Tonight, we’re diving into the crimson chaos of Season 2, Episode 4: “Red.” Get ready for some super-speed shenanigans, a love triangle heating up faster than a microwave burrito, and Clark Kent’s latest bout of teenage angst. Will red kryptonite turn our farm boy into a full-blown super-menace? Or will Lana’s green-eyed gaze be enough to bring him back to his senses? Let’s find out!

This week’s episode promises a wild ride as Clark’s exposure to red kryptonite throws his moral compass for a loop. We’ll see him ditching his chores, mouthing off to his parents, and generally acting like a rebellious teenager on steroids. Meanwhile, Lana’s dealing with the fallout of her kiss with Clark (or was it Red Clark?), and Chloe’s journalistic instincts are tingling as she senses something is seriously off with Smallville’s golden boy. Buckle up, folks, because things are about to get rediculous!

Episode Review

“Red” delivers a fun, albeit slightly cheesy, exploration of Clark’s darker side. Tom Welling does a decent job portraying the “bad boy” Clark, even if it feels a little forced at times. Kristin Kreuk shines as always, showcasing Lana’s conflicted emotions. And Allison Mack continues to steal scenes as the ever-curious Chloe. This week’s “Freak of the Week” is, well, Clark himself, transformed by the red kryptonite. No guest stars to report on this week, unless you count Clark’s inner demons.

The special effects are a mixed bag. Clark’s super-speed is depicted with some blurry visuals that haven’t aged particularly well. It’s like they filmed him running really fast and then added a “whoosh” sound in post-production. The effects are somewhat forgivable given the show’s budget. Musically, the episode features some early 2000s rock anthems, including “Stop Crying Your Heart Out” by Oasis. The rest of the music fits the rebellious mood of the episode.

The introduction of red kryptonite is a game-changer for the series, providing a way to explore Clark’s darker impulses without making him truly evil. Tom Welling’s performance as “bad” Clark is particularly noteworthy.

The episode effectively shows how Clark’s normal moral constraints and fear of exposure disappear under red kryptonite’s influence. His actions are essentially his regular desires without any inhibitions. It does serve to show how dangerous his powers would be in the wrong hands.

The relationship dynamics are particularly interesting:

• Clark standing up to his parents
• His aggressive pursuit of Lana
• His manipulation of Lex’s friendship
• Pete witnessing his friend’s transformation

The aftermath forces Clark to confront the darker aspects of his personality and deal with the consequences of his actions, even though they were influenced by red kryptonite.

Overall, “Red” is a pivotal episode that introduces an important element of Superman mythology while exploring Clark’s character in a new way. It shows us what Clark might be like without his strong moral compass and sets up red kryptonite as a recurring threat throughout the series.

The episode also serves as an interesting metaphor for teenage rebellion and the loss of control that comes with growing up, themes that Smallville frequently explores through its supernatural elements.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a fun episode, but not exactly a masterpiece though it does introduce a completely new element in red meteor rock that I have a feeling will be returning again.

Synopsis and Plot Breakdown

The episode opens with Clark having some serious mood swings after coming into contact with red kryptonite. He’s ditching chores, talking back to his parents, and generally acting like a jerk. Meanwhile, Lana is confused about her feelings for Clark after their kiss, and Chloe is suspicious of Clark’s sudden change in behavior. Red Kryptonite Clark starts using his powers for personal gain, like winning football games and getting back at his enemies. He even tries to win Lana’s affection with his newfound boldness, which obviously doesn’t work. Eventually, Jonathan and Martha realize something is seriously wrong with Clark. They discover the red kryptonite and manage to get it away from him with Pete’s help, restoring him to his usual self. Clark has no memory of his red kryptonite rampage, leaving him confused and a little embarrassed.

Lessons and Superman Connections

“Red” explores the theme of temptation and the corrupting influence of power. Clark’s experience with red kryptonite serves as a metaphor for the challenges Superman will face in the future, particularly when dealing with his immense abilities. It highlights the importance of self-control and maintaining a strong moral compass, even when faced with temptations. This episode also touches on the theme of identity, as Clark grapples with the darker side of himself. It’s a reminder that even heroes have internal struggles and that true strength lies in overcoming those struggles.

Detailed Plot Notes:

Jessie mentions Clark as wearing primary colors which is hilarious as its a direct reference to the Red, Blue, and Yellow of Superman.

A sort of twist where Lana kissed Clark while being affected by the Nicodemus flower and Clark kissed Lana while being affected by red kryptonite.

Clark gives into curiosity and X-ray’s Chloe, this time he cant claim an accident 🙂

The Class Rings:

• Students get their class rings.
• Unknown to everyone, they contain red kryptonite.
• Clark puts on the ring and his personality immediately changes.

“Bad Boy” Clark Emerges:

• Clark becomes rebellious and reckless.
• Starts standing up to his parents.
• Shows increased interest in Lana.
• Makes expensive purchases using the Kent’s credit card.

Lana and Clark:

• Clark becomes more aggressive in pursuing Lana.
• Shows no concern for her feelings or boundaries.

Parents’ Reaction:

• Jonathan and Martha notice Clark’s personality change.
• They struggle to understand and control his behavior.
• Eventually the Scooby bunch discover the red kryptonite connection.

Pete’s Involvement:

• Pete tries to help Clark but gets pushed away.
• Witnesses Clark’s increasingly erratic behavior.
• Helps the Kents figure out what’s wrong.

The Resolution:

• Jonathan manages to get the ring off Clark with Pete’s help.
• Clark returns to normal, horrified by his actions.
• Has to begin to deal with the consequences of his behavior.

Music:

• “Unexpected” – Sprung Monkey
• “Break Off Your Wings – Bosshouse
• “American Made” – Sprung Monkey
• “In California – Bosshouse
• “Breakable” – Fisher
• “It’s Time To Party” – Andrew W.K.
• “Tattoos” – Jackpot
• “Breathe In” – Frou Frou
• “Stop Crying Your Heart Out” – Oasis

Talkville Episode on RED (S2E04) with Writer JEPH LOEB: Clark Goes Bad, Red-K Mischief & Lana Sick of Clark’s 💩