The final episode of Smallville, titled “Finale,” saw Clark Kent finally embrace his destiny and become Superman, confronting and defeating Darkseid, thus saving Earth. This climactic event, however, was interwoven with poignant moments of personal growth and sacrifice, bringing the decade-long saga of Clark’s journey to a satisfying, albeit bittersweet, conclusion.
The Ascent to Superman: A Decade in the Making
For ten seasons, Smallville charted the coming-of-age story of Clark Kent, a young man grappling with extraordinary abilities and the responsibility that came with them. The “Finale” episode served as the ultimate culmination of this journey, forcing Clark to overcome his final doubts and step into the role of the iconic superhero. The central conflict revolved around the looming threat of Darkseid, the embodiment of evil, whose influence began corrupting key characters in Clark’s life.
This final struggle wasn’t solely about raw power. It was about the internal battle Clark faced – accepting his Kryptonian heritage, acknowledging his purpose, and having faith in his ability to inspire hope. The emotional stakes were incredibly high, making his ultimate triumph all the more rewarding.
Darkseid’s Shadow: Corruption and Confrontation
Darkseid’s arrival on Earth wasn’t a physical invasion initially. He spread his influence through the Omega symbol, corrupting the hearts of those closest to Clark, including Chloe Sullivan. This forced Clark to confront not only a powerful external enemy but also the pain of seeing his friends and loved ones succumb to darkness.
The episode skillfully depicted the insidious nature of corruption, showcasing how fear and despair could be exploited. Lionel Luthor’s return, resurrected and possessed by Darkseid, further emphasized the complexities of the situation and the personal cost of fighting evil.
The Ultimate Sacrifice: A Leap of Faith
Perhaps the most impactful moment of the episode was Lex Luthor’s redemption. Despite a decade of antagonism, Lex remembered his friendship with Clark and, crucially, his understanding that Clark was the Earth’s only hope. This flicker of goodness, ignited by the restored memory of their bond, allowed Lex to ultimately help Clark defeat Darkseid. Lex’s willingness to sacrifice his own ambitions for the greater good highlighted the theme of redemption that underscored the entire series.
Clark’s final transformation into Superman required him to embrace the symbol of hope that he represented. He had to truly believe in himself, to embody the ideals of truth, justice, and the American way. The iconic ripping-open-the-shirt moment, revealing the Superman emblem, wasn’t just a visual spectacle; it was a powerful declaration of Clark’s acceptance of his destiny.
The Final Scene: A Glimpse into the Future
The episode concludes with a flash-forward to seven years later. Clark, fully established as Superman, rescues Air Force One from a missile attack. This scene, filled with iconic imagery and accompanied by the classic Superman theme, served as a fitting tribute to the legacy of the character and a satisfying conclusion to Clark’s journey. The final shot, showing Superman soaring above Metropolis, symbolized the hope and inspiration that he brought to the world.
FAQs: Decoding the Smallville Finale
H3 Why didn’t we see Tom Welling in the Superman suit?
A common criticism of the finale was the lack of a clear shot of Tom Welling in the Superman suit. The producers made a deliberate decision to focus on the symbol of Superman rather than the literal image. This was due to several factors, including budget constraints and the desire to maintain the show’s grounded, character-driven focus, which had always been about Clark’s journey to becoming Superman, rather than the superhero act itself. Instead, the final shot of Superman was CGI, referencing the iconic look.
H3 What happened to Lex Luthor after the finale?
While Lex helped defeat Darkseid, he also regained his memories of Clark being Superman. The implications of this knowledge are left open to interpretation. The ending suggests a future where Lex, potentially grappling with his renewed understanding of good and evil, remains a powerful force in the world. Whether he becomes a benevolent leader or a recurring threat is left to the audience’s imagination. The restored memory chip provided by Clark, however, leaves room for hope that Lex will eventually choose the right path.
H3 What was the significance of the Legion ring in the finale?
The Legion ring played a pivotal role in bringing Clark back from the brink of despair. It served as a symbol of the future and the hope that Superman would inspire. The Legion, time-traveling heroes who admired Superman, reaffirmed Clark’s destiny and gave him the courage to embrace his role. The ring’s appearance was a callback to previous episodes and highlighted the interconnectedness of the Smallville universe.
H3 How did Clark finally learn to fly?
Clark’s ability to fly in the finale wasn’t simply a matter of unlocking a new power. It was a culmination of his growth, his acceptance of his Kryptonian heritage, and his unwavering belief in himself. He realized that his fear of failure and his reluctance to fully embrace his abilities were holding him back. By letting go of his inhibitions and embracing his destiny, he finally achieved the power of flight.
H3 Why did Darkseid choose Lionel Luthor as a vessel?
Lionel Luthor’s selection as a vessel for Darkseid speaks to the twisted nature of evil. Lionel, despite having moments of kindness and support for Clark, was ultimately driven by power and ambition. His complex history and internal struggles made him a vulnerable target for Darkseid’s influence. The choice highlights the idea that even those with the potential for good can be corrupted by darkness.
H3 What was the importance of the “S” symbol in the final scene?
The “S” symbol, displayed prominently on Superman’s chest, represents hope, truth, and justice. It’s a universal symbol of heroism and inspiration. Its appearance in the final scene was a powerful affirmation of Clark’s transformation and his commitment to protecting humanity. It signified that he had finally embraced his role as Superman, a beacon of hope for the world.
H3 Did Chloe Sullivan really lose her powers permanently?
While Chloe was corrupted by Darkseid and seemingly lost her powers, the long-term implications are unclear. The episode suggests that her connection to Clark and her inherent goodness helped her resist Darkseid’s influence and ultimately regain her free will. Whether her powers were fully restored remains ambiguous, allowing for future interpretations and possibilities.
H3 What message did Jonathan Kent deliver to Clark in the finale?
Jonathan Kent’s appearance to Clark was a crucial moment of guidance and support. He reminded Clark of the values he had instilled in him – honesty, integrity, and compassion. Jonathan’s message reaffirmed the importance of staying true to oneself and using one’s powers for good. His presence served as a reminder of Clark’s roots and the foundation upon which his superhero persona was built.
H3 Was Lois Lane aware of Clark’s identity as Superman in the flash-forward?
The finale strongly implies that Lois Lane is fully aware of Clark’s identity as Superman in the flash-forward. Their interaction during the Air Force One rescue is filled with knowing glances and subtle hints, suggesting a deep level of trust and understanding. This confirms their enduring love and partnership, showcasing Lois’s unwavering support for Clark’s dual life.
H3 How did the Smallville finale connect to the larger Superman mythology?
The Smallville finale directly references and honors the larger Superman mythology by including iconic imagery, characters, and themes. The appearance of the Superman suit, the classic theme music, and the depiction of Clark’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice all pay tribute to the character’s rich history. The episode serves as a bridge between Clark’s origin story and the established Superman mythos.
H3 Did any other Justice League members appear in the finale besides Clark?
While the finale primarily focused on Clark’s transformation, it did feature appearances from other Justice League members, including Green Arrow (Oliver Queen) and Chloe Sullivan, who served as the team’s Watchtower. Their presence reinforced the idea that Clark wasn’t alone in his fight against evil and that the Justice League would continue to protect the world. These appearances, though brief, provided a sense of continuity and foreshadowed the future of the DC universe within the Smallville world.
H3 What are the lasting themes explored in the Smallville finale?
The Smallville finale explores several lasting themes, including the importance of hope, the power of redemption, and the acceptance of one’s destiny. It emphasizes the idea that even in the face of overwhelming darkness, hope can prevail. It also highlights the transformative power of forgiveness and the potential for individuals to overcome their past mistakes. Ultimately, the finale celebrates the importance of embracing one’s true self and using one’s abilities to make the world a better place. The journey, not the destination, is what truly matters.