Here’s the next installment of Dueling Anvils for "Apocalypse". Recall that the Chlois Theory is the theory that Chloe Sullivan is actually iconic Lois Lane in disguise (no morphing necessary). Credit for much of the analysis goes to the folks at TWoP.
In the previous installments I looked at the pro and anti ILL anvils for both Chloe and Lois in the following episodes: "Kara", "Action", "Wrath", "Blue", "Gemini", "Siren", "Veritas", and "Descent".
"Apocalypse" considers what would happen had Clark never come to Earth as a baby. At first glance, it appears that the episode is chock-full of pro-Lois-as-ILL anvils. And to be sure there are quite a few. The underlying meta however is all pro-Chloe-as-ILL. There are a few parallels to the real world (RW) as well.
Pro-Chloe is ILL Anvils
Anti-Chloe is ILL Anvils
Pro-Lois is ILL Anvils
Anti-Lois is ILL Anvils
Here is an interesting parallel between the RW and the AU. The AU had two Clark Kents. AU Clark is blonde with the right background (son of Martha and Jonathan Kent, farmer) but he’s not a Kryptonian/superhero. But, RW Clark (that doesn't exist in the AU) is a brunette, Kryptonian who was not raised by Martha and Jonathan Kent. But the Clark that doesn’t exist in the AU is the one that’s paired with AU Lois.
In RW, there are two Lois Lanes. Chloe is a blonde who has always wanted to be a reporter at the DP; went head-to-head with a Luthor and won; and fights for truth alongside the hero. She loves all sides of Clark, the heroic and the not so heroic. She was fired from the DP by the villain and doesn’t want to work at a tabloid-y DP. Lois is a brunette with the right background (General’s daughter, sister Lucy) but she failed to graduate high school, got kicked out of Met U, was uninterested in journalism until the Barn Door of Inspiration, wrote lies at a tabloid to earn a paycheck/sell papers, stumbled into the DP because the editor had the hots for her, had an affair with said editor and chose affair over career, is incompetent and has yet to have anything published at the DP. She is unimpressed by the hero although he was a high school star quarterback and saved her life on more than one occasion. So to parallel the RW with the AU, the character that doesn’t exist in the mythos (i.e. Chloe) is paired with RW Clark. So who’s the real Lois Lane in the RW?
Here’s another interesting parallel. In the AU, the Clark that doesn’t exist (our RW Clark) is shot and killed by the villain while wearing Lois Lane’s DP badge. In "Action", Penelope is shot and killed by the villain because she’s in over her head. Those could be death anvils for RW Lois Lane (i.e. the fake Lois).
One final point: The AU had a recognizable Lois and Jimmy (i.e. similar to their comics character counterparts) if and only if Clark Kent had never existed. But Clark Kent exists in the RW...
Thursday, May 15, 2008
SV: The Chlois Theory and the Case of the Dueling Anvils (Part 9)
SV: 3-20 "Arctic" Review
"Arctic" didn’t feel like a season finale. It was kind of slow in spots *cough*LoisJimmy*cough*. The good? Lex found the Fortress and believes he is saving mankind from alien threat (namely Kal-El). Clark and Lana may be over for good... for now. The Fortress is destroyed! No more crazy Jor-El AI. Chloe’s still awesome. She showed courage and determination and insisted on going after Kara-Brainiac alone.
The sad: This was Michael Rosenbaum's last episode. We'll miss you, Michael!
The happy: According to Ausiello, Allison Mack is signed for a full season in s8!!! Woohoo!!!
Twenty thousand feet up in a jet: A shaky hand picks up a drink. It’s Edward Teague minus the monk garb. He takes a sip and takes out his passport. The passport reads Alejandro Santos with Teague’s picture. He gulps down the rest of his drink. The flight attendant comes up to him. It’s Kara. She asks if Teague has another secret identity. Teague is surprised. Kara asks why people run to South America when they’re in trouble. Teague replies that he was promised a discrete journey and he’s not interested in conversation. Kara says that she’s not into small talk, she’d rather hear about Veritas. Teague demands to know who she is. Kara replies that she’s someone who knows the Traveler and knows that Teague tried to destroy him. Teague feigns ignorance. Kara smiles. She mockingly tells him that for a last member of a secret society, he’s not a good liar. She does the patented Kryptonian move – she grabs Teague by the throat and picks him up. She demands to know where the device to control the Traveler is. Wouldn’t the device that controls the male Traveler also control the female Traveler? Teague asks to be let go. Kara punches a hole in the side of the plane and pushes Teague’s head in the hole. She yells at Teague to tell where the device is or he’ll be starting his descent earlier than expected. The co-pilot comes up to her. He asks her what she's doing. Kara hits him and he goes flying. Kara gives Teague one last chance to tell where the device is. Teague replies that Lex Luthor might have the answers she’s searching for. Kara tells him to enjoy the rest of his flight. She flies out of the plane. The plane self-destructs in the most obvious CGI effects ever.
Daily Planet: Lex has his hand on a globe. Minion enters. Lex asks if the team reached the target. Minion replies that they lost contact about an hour ago. They might have run into bad weather. Lex notes that the satellite shows clear skies over the Arctic. Minion says that they were less than 10 miles when the signal went out and he couldn’t get a visual. He says there is no sign of them just like the last team. Lex counters that he thought the Bermuda Triangle was more tropical. Lex adds that people don’t vanish off the face of the planet. He tells minion to find them. Can I say how much I love Lex (and MR)? He cold, smart, calculating.
Jimmy comes in like he’s best buds with Lex. He tells the boss that if it’s about his article proposal, he’s got a great idea. Jimmy has an article proposal? Since when is Jimmy a reporter? Jimmy continues that it’ll be a two page spread with color glossies from the Kawatche caves; it’ll make National Geographic look like a ten cent travel brochure. Since when is the Daily Planet in competition with National Geographic? Lex replies that they’ll talk about his proposal later. He reminds Jimmy that his phone call to the DDS kept Chloe out of prison. Why the heck doesn’t Chloe question how Jimmy Bond got the DDS off her back? Lex says that he needs Jimmy’s help. He wants Lois Lane off his back. She’s been asking too many people too many questions. Hey, Lex, here’s an idea. Why don’t you fire her? She wouldn’t be able to get another job at a respectable paper with her (non)resumé. Jimmy says that Lois isn’t a pushover. Hahahahaha. *breath* Hahahahaha. Poor Aaron Ashmore; having to deliver that line with a straight face. He’s a better actor than I thought. Lex says that he’s aware of Jimmy’s limitations (all 20,000 of them?). He tells Jimmy to feed her false information. Jimmy asks if Lex wants him to lie. What’s the problem, Jimmy? Two episodes ago you didn’t have any problem lying to your girlfriend. All of a sudden you’re squeamish. Jerk. Lex replies to do whatever it takes. When Jimmy hesitates, Lex adds that it would be tragic if the DDS decided Chloe was a threat to National Security after all.
Kent farm: Some lunatic is ringing the doorbell over and over. Clark clomps downstairs (no, he doesn’t super speed). Oh, it’s Lois. That Lois... she’s saucy. Lois walks in. She tells Clark to get the lead out; opportunity is knocking on his door. No, that would be you, Lois. Clark needlessly asks Lois to come in. Lois says that an intern was promoted to Chloe’s old desk. Clark asks if he should be happy someone took his best friend’s job. Good point, Clark. Lois joyfully answers absolutely because it opens a spot in the bullpen for Clark. She hands Clark an application. Why would Lois Lane, the General’s daughter, be happy that Chloe, her cousin, got fired? Why would the she think Clark would be interested in working at the Planet in the first place? Why would she want Clark to work under Lex Luthor, his ex-best friend who married Lana the woman Clark is obsessed with and who Lois hates with a passion? Finally, why would Lois want Clark to work with her at the Planet? Lois... good for T&A, comedy, and anvils. Oye. 
Clark replies that it’s never going to happen. He puts on his red jacket and adds that he’s got chores to do. Lois thinks Clark is destined for greater things than working on a farm. Oye. Another anvil. Shut up, Lois. Clark says that even if he wanted the job, he’d never work for Lex Luthor. Lois sighs dramatically. She asks why Clark was such great friends with him. Er, Lois, you lived with Clark for a year. You’ve know him for four years and you’ve never bothered to ask this before? Did you miss the part where they were both gaga over Lana? Did you guys talk at all in the last four years? Lois says that looking into Lex’s past, she found out how far back he and Clark go. What’d you do, Lois, ask Chloe? She wonders why they were so close for so long. And I wonder why you and Chloe were so close for so long. Clark says that sometimes people don’t turn out to be what you thought they were. Clark makes Lois promise to be careful if she’s going to continue to work for Lex. Lois replies that if she didn’t know any better, she’d think he was worried about her. Same line she used on Grant/Julian. Er, Lois, is there any guy that you think doesn’t have a crush on you? Clark looks exasperated.
Chloe comes in. She asks to talk to Clark. Lois replies that they’re done. She tells Clark to think about his future and leaves. Chloe tells Clark that a private jet went down over upstate New York, three bodies were recovered; one was identified as Edward Teague. 
Isis Foundation: Chloe sits at Lana’s command central while Clark paces around. Chloe says that she used all her hacking skills and made her way into the NTS mainframe. They were on their way to Buenos Aires; about an hour in the air when something shot out of the cabin like a missile. Chloe adds that the co-pilot went in back to find out what was going on but was knocked unconscious. Clark asks if they have any idea what it was. Chloe says that no but they found the black box and she was able to download the audio. Chloe says that she tried to clean up the audio but came up with noise. Clark asks her to play it again. He uses his hearing to listen to the audio. He says that Kara threatened to bring the plane down. Chloe says that Kara can be reckless when she’s angry. She guesses that Kara found out that Teague was after Clark. Clark says that there must be some other explanation. She’s not a killer. Chloe replies that unless Clark is hearing things, it sounds like Kara caused the accident. Chloe reminds Clark that he said that just about every Kryptonian he’s ever met turns out to be a coldblooded killer. That’s a little extreme, isn’t it, Chloe? Clark replies that Kara is his cousin. She’s not a killer. Clark says that he needs to find her. He asks if there’s any more audio. Chloe plays the rest of the audio. Clark listens. He says that she’s going after Lex.
Luthor Mansion: Kara walks down a hallway. Where the heck is security? She walks up to a painting on the wall and x-rays it. She spots the purple globe thingy that can control the Traveler in a safe behind the painting. As she reaches for it, she is somehow stopped. She angrily closes the safe. Clark is standing at the end of the hallway. He asks what she’s doing in the mansion. Kara replies that she’s trying to protect Clark. Clark asks if she’s protecting him by threatening to kill Teague. He heard the recording and those men are dead. Kara says that it’s Teague’s fault. If he hadn’t gone after the Traveler, he’d still be alive. Clark grabs Kara’s arm. "We need to talk", he states. They zip out of the mansion and into the barn.
Kent barn: Kara shrugs Clark’s arm off her. Clark says that he’s been worried about her but he should have been worried about everyone else. Clark asks if she’s come in contact with Red Kryptonite; a ring or necklace. Kara replies that she’s stopped wearing jewelry (what about the El bracelet?). Clark insists that something happened when she went back to Krypton. He asks if she remembers anything strange. Kara says that she’s fine. Yes, she’s Professor Fine. Oops, sorry. Clark reminds her that three people are dead because of her. Kara counters that if someone figured out how to control him, a lot more would die. Clark would be the most powerful weapon on the planet. Clark replies that no one is going to control him anytime soon. Lex didn’t find what he was looking for. Are you sure, Clark? Kara, disgusted, asks if Clark really thinks it’ll stop a man like him. Clark says that something is wrong with her and she needs to stay put till they figure out what it is. Kara says that Clark can turn a blind eye but she’s going to do whatever it takes to save Earth. She starts to fly but Clark grabs a hold of her foot. Kara kicks Clark in the face and he goes flying (no, not the good kind of flying). 
Ace of Clubs: Music is blaring. Lois sits at a table with a beer in front of her working. The Planet lets her work at a bar?! What am I thinking? Of course. She’s Lois Lane. Jimmy comes up to her. He says that the Planet may not be as hip but last he checked her desk was in the bullpen. Lois doesn’t think Lex would be thrilled if she spilled all his secrets in the same place he signs her checks. Huh? Where are you planning on publishing your findings, Lois? Maybe you’re just planning to yell them out at the Ace of Clubs? Lois adds that this place has an epic happy hour. Jimmy says speaking of secrets (who was speaking of secrets?), he found out what Lex was doing with the mystery expeditions to the North Pole. Lois looks really interested. She grabs Jimmy and walks away from the table. She whispers that either Lex is planning a hostile takeover of Santa’s workshop or he’s doing something illegal. She wants to know what the scoop is. Jimmy replies that Lex is scouting for places to drill oil. Jimmy says that he heard a reporter talk about it on the third floor. When Lois asks which reporter, Jimmy replies that he just kind of overheard it. Lois seems to consider this. Jimmy hands Lois the file of surveyor photos of potential drilling sites Lex gave him. Lois still looks suspicious. Jimmy looks ill. Come on. He doesn’t think twice about lying to Chloe, his supposed girlfriend, but is torn about lying to Lois? What a schmuck. This is really contrived and unbelievable. Lois asks how he managed to score such top secret stuff. Doesn’t Lois know about Jimmy Bond Olsen? Jimmy says that Lex was having them sorted and scanned in the photo lab and he saw his opportunity and took it, just like she taught him. Huh? Lois taught him? Have the writers forgotten "Descent"? Jimmy is the brains in the J-Lo team-up. Lois apologizes. She thanks Jimmy and walks off. Jimmy Bond looks really torn up.
Luthor Manor: Lex walks cautiously into his study. He spots Kara sitting on his chair staring at the Veritas symbol in the stained glass window behind his desk. She says that the little "V" with the stars has something to do with Veritas. Lex feigns ignorance. Kara turns around. She wonders why every time she brings up Veritas, people seem to suffer from sudden amnesia. When Lex doesn’t answer, Kara gets up. She reminds him of the secret society, formed to control a powerful alien from another planet. She adds that Veritas also means truth and suggests they have some right now. Kara says that she knows about the transmissions sent to Virgil Swann telling him about the device to control the Traveler. Lex wants to know how she heard about that. Kara replies that she’s from the same planet as the Traveler. When Lex looks doubtful, she starts a fire in the fireplace with her eyes. Lex remembers that she’s the one who saved him at the dam. He asks why she’s telling him now. Kara says that she saved Lex for a reason. It’s his destiny to defeat the Traveler. She knows he has the device and all the pieces are in place. It’s now up to him. Lex asks why she doesn’t take the device and do it herself. Kara says that the orb was created to protect the human race; only a human can use it. Lex tells her about the coordinates somewhere in the Arctic. Kara reveals that they are directions to the Traveler’s Fortress. Lex needs to take the orb there to control the Traveler. Lex says that two of his teams disappeared trying to get there. Kara takes Lex’s hands. She says that they didn’t have a Kryptonian helping them. Lex wonders why Kara would want to destroy one of her own kind. Kara replies that she always thought that the Traveler was meant for good; even he thinks he is; but on Krypton she learned the truth about his fate. The Traveler will destroy mankind. Lex wants to know who it is. Kara says that Lex already knows.
Kent home: Clark sits in front of the fireplace with a box of Kryptonite on the table in front of him. Chloe is surprised to see him clutching a box of Kryptonite. Clark says that it’s the only way to stop her. Chloe guesses that face time with Kara didn’t go well. Clark gets up and looks out the window. Clark says that Kara is convinced that someone will try to use him as a weapon. Isn’t that why Teague tried to kill you, Clark? To prevent that from happening. Kara thinks Clark isn’t doing enough to stop it. Clark wonders if she’s right. She is right. *Flashback* "Sleeper": Chloe reminds Clark that if Lex gets his hands on Veritas, he could control Clark. Clark insists that the only thing important right now is Lana. Chloe tries again. She says that if Lex finds out Clark’s the Traveler it’s game over. There is no saving Lana, no saving the day, hello Apocalypse. Clark repeats that he doesn’t care about Lex. *EndFlashback* Chloe plays cheer the alien. She assures Clark that Kara is reckless, headstrong, maybe psychotic, but she’s wrong about Clark. Chloe says that Clark’s done everything and more to stop Veritas. Ah, Chloe, you lie so convincingly. Clark picks up the lead box. Clark says that Chloe’s the only one who can help him. Chloe says that she’s always there for him. Clark tells Chloe that she won’t do it alone. He’ll be right by her side. Chloe argues against Clark being with her.
Luthor Mansion: Lex puts the orb in a briefcase. Minion and Jimmy come in. Minion tells Lex that the jet is ready. Jimmy asks where they are going. Oh, Jimmy. Jimmy says that he did as Lex asked. Lois believes that Lex is interested in oil up north. Jimmy figures that wax on, wax off they are even now. Lex says that their arrangement has just begun. He wants regular reports on Lois’ activities. Isn’t he her boss? Doesn’t he hand out her assignments? He could have her running ragged looking for the Chupakabra in Florida. She’d be a natural at it. Jimmy says that it’s not fair. He did as Lex said. He shouldn’t have to spy for Lex. What happened to Jimmy Bond – Mr. SuperSpy? Lex tells Jimmy that life is rarely fair (just ask Chloe). Jimmy says that while he’d like to help, lying is not his thing. Shut up, Jimmy. Just shut the heck up. You are a backstabbing, sleazy coward. Lex replies that it’s never too late to learn a new skill. Jimmy says that he can’t do it. Well, now. You’ve sealed your girlfriend’s fate, you moron. Jimmy assures Lex that he won’t tell anyone about Lex’s oil drilling. Jimmy adds that he can’t spy on his friend. His girlfriend it’s okay but his friend? No way. Idiot. Lex sneers. He puts a hand on Jimmy’s shoulder and tells him that he respects his integrity. Jimmy, the dolt, believes him. He wishes Lex a great trip. Do you want to shine his shoes too, Jimmy?
Talon apartment: Chloe calls Kara. She tells Kara that there something wrong with Clark. He’s convinced that if he destroys the Fortress, no one will be able to control him. Kara zips over. She asks where Clark is. Chloe starts to walk away then suddenly turns around holding the Kryptonite. Kara just looks at her. Chloe wonders why it’s not working. Kara sarcastically asks if she’s checked the expiration date. Chloe tries to explain that it was the only way; there is something seriously wrong with her (Kara). Kara, finally catching on, says that Chloe lied. Clark is not here. Chloe tries futilely to run but Kara easily catches her. Kara hand turns to metal. When Chloe turns around, she’s face to face with Brainiac. Brainiac is impressed. He never thought a weak human, a friend of Kal-El’s, could use Kryptonite against Kara. Brainiac remembers Chloe. She’s always sticking her pretty little head where it doesn’t belong. Brainiac does the spiked finger thing and taps into Chloe’s mind. When two more spiky things go to her eyes, the room goes bright with white light (is Lana in the room?). When the white light stops, Chloe is lying on the floor and Brainiac looks ill. He asks Chloe what the heck she is. Is it Jor-El? Manhunter?
Luthor jet: Lex looks at his watch. Minion comes in. Lex orders him to tell the pilot to start the engines. Minion asks about the extra passenger. Lex replies that he doesn’t need her and he’s not sure he should trust her. Minion reminds Lex that the last few teams have disappeared. Lex says that he’s got everything he needs to reach his destination. He has the briefcase on his lap. He says that it was meant to protect all humanity, it should protect him. Minion replies that Lex doesn’t know that for sure. It’s extremely dangerous. Lex believes it’s worth the risk. They’ll leave now. Minion looks defeated. He walks away. Lex looks at the orb.
Smallville Medical Center: Clark walks into Chloe’s room. She’s lying in a bed attached to a ventilator. Clark sits next to her. He looks very stricken. He apologizes to her and takes her hand. He bows his head. When he looks back up, Chloe’s eyes are open. They are clouded over like Lana’s. Clark realizes that it’s Brainiac. 
Power plant: Brainiac staggers to a power plant. He activates his heat vision to make a hole in the fence. He looks really out of it. He walks over to two electrified nodes to charge up. Clark super speeds and punches him. He goes flying in an electrified structure and falls to the floor dazed. Shouldn’t that power him up? Clark asks if Kara came back from Krypton. Brainiac slowly gets up. He says it was quite an impersonation. He says it was the only way he could return to Earth without Clark damaging him. Clark thinks Brainiac killed Kara. Brainiac reveals that it’s something much worse. Clark pushes him. He demands to know where she is. Brainiac reminds Clark that he warned him. If Clark had done things his way, no one would have gotten hurt; no one but Clark. Clark asks if this is all about revenge. Brainiac replies that it was a matter of self preservation. When he couldn’t kill Clark, he knew he had to control him (Clark). Clark yells that he’s in control now. He demands that Brainiac release Chloe and Lana. Brainiac says that the only way to save them is to kill him in cold blood. It goes against everything Clark stands for. Huh? This Clark? Brainiac adds that Clark could never deliberately take another man’s life. Brainy, you lose. Clark had no compunction about stabbing you with a Kryptonian dagger in "Vessel". Clark says that Brainiac’s not a man. He’s a machine. Clark electrocutes Brainiac. Brainiac warns that Clark’s end is near and there’s nothing he can do to stop it. Clark replies that Brainiac will never hurt anyone again. He electrocutes Brainiac again and Brainiac disappears.
Kara is floating around in the Phantom Zone.
Asylum: Clark tells Chloe that he’s glad she’s okay as he walks toward Lana’s room. He says that he’ll call her back after he’s checked on Lana. But Lana’s room is empty. A nurse asks if he’s Clark Kent. Clark asks if Lana is okay. The nurse says that she’s already checked out but she wanted the nurse to give Clark a DVD. Uh oh. A "Dear Clark" video. Well, at least there’s continuity. Lana used the breakup video with Whitney too.
Kent home: Clark watches Lana’s video. Lana blathers on about needing Clark but the world needing him more. She adds that she’s holding him back. Clark looks devastated. Emo music plays. Lana tells Clark not to come after her. In the background, Lois softly and quietly comes in. Hey, Lois, why the sudden finesse? Lana meanwhile says that she loves Clark. Clark and Lois hug. *sniff* *sniff* Yeah. Clark showed more emotion at viewing the breakup video than at finding out Lana was dead. And on what planet does breaking up with a girlfriend = losing your dad in grief? Stupid Clark. Stupid show.
Talon: Jimmy is fussing over Chloe. He offers to get her some coffee, water, tea. He trips over a chair. He figures some sparkling because it matches her smile. Shut up, Jimmy. Chloe wonders what’s wrong with Jimmy. He says that until that night he thought he could be happy knowing Chloe’s in the world. But he realized that it’s not true. He backtracks. He says that he’s happy that she’s in the world and he wants to spend the rest of his time with her. He gets down on one knee (and I scream at the tv). He takes out a toy ring he bought from the hospital gift shop. He says they can have breakfast at Tiffany’s in the morning. He asks Chloe to marry him. DDS agents burst into the Talon with guns drawn. Whew. That was close. Jimmy says that this isn’t right. An agent pushes Jimmy out of the way. Another pins him to the ground. Chloe yells for Jimmy as an agent cuffs her. As Chloe is dragged away she yells at Jimmy to call Clark. Yes, Jimmy, because when Chloe’s in trouble (because of you), Clark’s the guy she counts on. Life’s a bitch ain’t it?
Barn Loft: Clark looks morosely out the window. Eh, the mopey dopey. Jimmy runs in. He tells Clark that Chloe’s been arrested. Her hacking caught Uncle Sam’s eye so Jimmy went to Lex and Lex is holding it over his head. Clark can’t believe that Jimmy made a deal with Lex Luthor. Jimmy says that he told Lex to get another lapdog but Lex put Chloe back on their most wanted list. Jimmy adds that Chloe went from life support to life without parole in day. That’s if the DDS can prove its case. Last I heard, you’re innocent until proven guilty. Plus you failed to mention that it’s Kara’s hacking that alerted the DDS, not Chloe’s. Clark wants to know where Lex is. Jimmy says that he’s jet setting around the Arctic Circle. Clark looks worried.
Fortress of Solitude: Lex walks around in awe. He approaches a glowing console and looks at the orb glowing in his hand. Clark whooshes in. They eye each other. Lex quips that it’s a big step up from the barn. Clark attempts to explain but is unable to get near the orb. Lex says that for the first time, he does understand. Clark lives among them as a mild mannered farm boy but secretly he’s a strange visitor from another planet plotting the Earth’s demise. Clark denies it. Lex says that it’s a brilliant disguise. Clark doesn’t even need a mask. The anvils are really flying tonight (unlike Clark). Clark says that he’s never done anything to hurt Lex. Lex counters that Clark didn’t trust him. He asks if Clark ever thought of what they could accomplish together. Lex would have helped him become a hero (not with Lionel as a father!). Clark says that Lex never thought of anyone but himself (oh, how quickly they forget). Lex replies that he’s doing this for the world. He has to protect the human race. Clark says that it’s his life. Lex has no right to control it. Lex yells that it’s his birthright. After all his sacrifices and pain, he was being prepared for a much greater destiny. Clark says that no one is controlling Lex. No one is forcing him to do this. Lex asks who he is to turn his back on his fellow man especially after Clark turned his back on him. Lex says that he’s sorry but Clark is the Traveler. Clark looks like he’s in pain. Lex walks over to the console. He says that Clark holds the future of the entire planet in his hand and he’s (Lex) here to take it back. Lex adds that Clark will never threaten the world again. Clark yells for Lex to stop but Lex puts the orb in the console. Clark falls to the floor and Lex walks over to him. He tells Clark that he loves him like a brother but it had to end this way. The Fortress self-destructs and disappears...
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
SN: 3-15 "Time is On My Side" Review
Whoa. This episode was just whoa. The line between good and evil is totally blurred. It’s downright scary. Sam and Dean don’t think twice about burying an immortal man alive forever. Sam toys with the idea of making Dean and himself immortals even if it means turning into the monster they’ve just buried alive. Bella made a deal with a demon and her time is up. Well, actually that’s not that bad... Bella was getting on my nerves. And Sam and Dean now know who holds Dean’s ticket; the creepy Lilith. Whoa.
Erie, Pennsylvania: Two guys come out of the Cristal Spa & Racquet Club. Guy1 asks if Guy2 wants to go for a drink. Guy2 says that he’s got to be up at the crack of dawn. He’s got a crabby old broad that wants the works. He adds that he’ll need a forklift to get it all back up. Nice plastic surgeon. Guy1 says all that work to shave 15min off their faces. Guy2 replies that staying young is a brutal business. They split up and Guy2 goes to his car. He’s puts his bag in the trunk when suddenly he’s pushed in and the trunk is closed. He yells for help. A gloved hand picks up his keys.
Hospital: A guy staggers in dripping blood on the floor. It’s Guy2 holding his bloody hand over his stomach. The nurse asks to see what happened. When Guy2 hesitates she assures him that it’s nothing she hasn’t seen before. He removes his hand from his stomach and she screams.
Unknown location: A demon is tied to a chair and holy water is poured on him. He yells. Sam and Dean interrogate him. Demon says that he doesn’t know anything. Dean makes him drink the water. Dean angrily demands that he tell them who holds his contract. The demon looks like he’s ready to talk. He says your mother. Dean starts to threaten him. Demon says that what they’re doing to him is like a flea bite compared to what’s coming if he talks to them. Demon adds that they can do what they want; the only one he’s scared of is the demon holding Dean’s ticket. Sam starts the exorcism chant. Demon tells Sam and Dean to send him back to Hell; he says that when Dean gets there he’ll be waiting for him with some pals who are dying to meet and greet Dean Winchester. He laughs maniacally. Sam continues the exorcism as Dean looks on.
Later: Sam talks to someone on the phone. He asks if they ran the prints twice then says to chalk it up to lab error. He says that he’ll inform the lieutenant and hangs up. Dean comes in having buried the demon’s human body. He asks what Sam the phone call was about. Sam replies that it’s about what they read in the paper the other day. Dean guesses wrong; then guesses it was about the guy who walked into the ER with his liver tripped out. Sam says that the body was covered in fingerprints. He says that the fingerprints match a guy who died in 1981. Dean guesses it could be a walking dead or walking killing dead. He wonders why Sam is interested in zombies. He says that Sam’s been on soul saving detail for months then 3 weeks out he’s interested in zombies. Sam says that Dean was gung-ho to hunt; he was doing him a favor. Dean says that he doesn’t mind hunting zombies. Did Sam sidestep the question?
Morgue: The coroner confirms that the body was intact but the liver was missing. Dean asks if the doctor happened to notice any teeth marks where the liver was ripped out. The doc asks to see their badges. They take them out. The doc says that that they are cops and morons. Dean replies that they are very smart. Oh, Dean. The doc ignores Dean. He says that the liver was not ripped out. It was surgically removed by someone who knows their way around a scalpel. He asks if they read his report. Uh oh. Dean glances at Sam and replies that the report was riveting – a real page turner; delightful. Oh, Dean. The doc asks if Dean is done. When Dean replies yes the doc begs them to go away. I’m surprised he doesn’t have them thrown out.
Sam notes that the use of a scalpel puts a hole in the zombie theory. Dean quips it’s a zombie with skills; Dr. Quinn Medicine Zombie. Ha! Sam thinks they’re on the wrong track. They should be looking for survivors instead of corpses. He thinks it’s not zombie lunch; it’s organ theft. 
Hospital room: A patient tells Sam and Dean that he spoke to the cops and he doesn’t want to talk about it anymore. Sam tells him it’ll only be a couple of questions. The patient reminds Sam that he just got his kidney stolen and he’s tired. Dean says it’ll be quick. He asks if Patient wants to get the guy. Patient asks if it’ll get back his kidney. Nice guy. What about the other potential victims, dingdong? Sam asks what the last thing the guy remembers is. He says feeding the meter; he was knocked out from behind; he woke up strapped to a table; then the worst pain imaginable; then he passed out and woke up in a motel/hotel in a bathtub full of ice. Huh? Why save this guy’s life when the other guy was left to die? Dean asks if Patient remembers what attacker looked like or any room details. Patient replies that something’s coming back to him – getting his kidney cut out of his body. Everyone’s a comedian. 
At the hotel, Sam looks at an article on suturing procedures on his laptop while Dean eats a hamburger. Sam has a theory. He says that the guy’s incisions were sewn up with silk which was the suture of choice in the early 19th century. It was problematic though as patients would get massive infections and the death rate was high. Doctors did what they could to keep infections from spreading and one way was maggots. Dean reminds Sam that he’s eating. Sam continues. Maggots work because they eat bad tissue and leave good tissue. He says that when the patient was found his body cavity was stuffed full of maggots. Dean reminds Sam again that he’s eating. He adds that it sounds familiar. Sam replies that it’s because Dean’s heard it before; when he was a kid. Sam shows Dean their dad’s journal. 
Doc Benton, a real life doctor who lived in New Hampshire was obsessed with alchemy especially immortality. In 1816, the doc abandoned his practice and wasn’t heard from for 20 years. Then people start showing up dead or missing an organ or a hand. Dean adds that whatever the doc was doing kept on working. Whenever something wore out, he’d replace it. Eww. Dean remembers that their dad hunted Benton and took his heart out. Sam figures the doc plugged in a new one. Why does the doc need to plug in a new heart if he’s able to live without one? Dean asks where the doc did his killing. Sam replies that the Doc liked dense forest with access to a river or stream because it’s where he liked to dump the bile, intestines and fecal matter. Sam smiles; pretty sure he’s completely grossed his brother out. He asks if Dean lost his appetite yet. Dean hesitates for a second and then takes a big bite of his hamburger. I hope this scene wasn’t shot multiple times with JA eating and eating and eating while they discuss maggots and bile. Eww.
A jogger runs in the dark, foggy night. He stops to take a breather and checks his heart rate on his watch. Suddenly he’s attacked from behind with chloroform. When he opens his eyes, he’s strapped to a table. He looks around and spots a jar full of maggots. A man wearing a dirty surgical mask comes into view holding a scalpel. He cuts into the jogger’s chest. Okay this is seriously gross. The guy yells and begs. He watches as his still beating heart is surgically removed from his chest. The heart monitor on his wrist goes to zero beats per minutes.
The Erie Motel: Sam and Dean look at a map. Sam points out an area with old hunting cabins that have been abandoned for years. Dean is raring to go. Dean’s cell phone rings. The phone call is important as the scene blocking is odd as the camera focuses on the cell. Bobby tells Dean that he’s got a beat on Bella. Rufus Steamer was a hunter turned hermit. He called Bobby to say a woman got in touch to buy some stuff. She has a British accent and went by the name Nina Chandler. Dean says that she’s used that alias before. Bobby says Canaan, Vermont and suggests Dean takes a bottle of Johnny Walker Blue. 
Dean starts to put his jacket on and pack. He informs Sam that they are going after Bella. Sam wants to follow up on the case they are working on. He tells Dean that Bella probably sold the Colt the moment she got it. Dean says then he’ll kill her; win/win. Hehehe. When Sam tries to say something else, Dean interrupts to say they’re going. Sam refuses. Dean asks why not. Sam says that what they’re working on is what will save Dean. Dean surprised asks chasing Frankenstein. Sam clarifies that they’re chasing immortality (what about immorality, Sam?). Sam explains that Benton can’t die. They just need to figure out how he did it and do it to Dean. Dean is confused and I’m deeply disturbed by what Sam is suggesting. Sam says that Dean has to die before he goes to Hell so, if he never dies... Dean interrupts him. He asks if Sam knew it was Doc Benton from the get go. Sam says no but he was hoping. Dean asks if Sam was lying to him about the zombie thing. Sam replies that he didn’t want to say anything till he was sure. He wants to find a solution. Dean says that what he wants is to chase Slicey McHacky and instead of killing him, Sam wants to buy him a beer and study him. Dean reminds Sam that if he welches on the deal, Sam will die. And living forever is welching. Sam says that whatever the magic pill, he’ll take it too. Has Sam lost his mind? What is he planning on doing? Killing innocent people for their organs so he and Dean don’t die? That is just sick and wrong. Dean replies that their best shot is to kill the demon that holds the deal. Sam says that even if Dean had the Colt, they don’t know who to shoot. Dean angrily says that he’ll shoot the Hell Hounds before they slash him up. He asks if Sam is coming. Sam says that he’s staying behind. Dean argues against it. They decide to split up. Dean tells Sam to be careful.
Canaan, Vermont: Dean approaches a house and knocks on the door. A camera follows his movements. Inside, Rufus asks what he wants. Dean explains about Bella and asks if Rufus knows where she is. Rufus answers yes. When Dean asks where, Rufus refuses to tell him. This isn’t going as planned. Dean mumbles "Oh, man" under his breath. Rufus opens the door and tells Dean that he’s not his man. Dean, for the first time I can remember, meekly apologizes and calls Rufus sir. Rufus tells Dean that Bobby asked him to look out for Bella; he saw her and called Bobby; end of story. Dean asks where Bella is. Rufus asks if he (Rufus) looks like he’s here to help Dean. Dean, sensing a trick question, answers no. Rufus tells him to get off his property. Dean takes out a bottle and asks if the scotch is good. Rufus smiles.
Inside Rufus’ house, Dean and Rufus sit at the kitchen table drinking. Rufus admits that he doesn’t drink unless it’s this stuff; the nectar of the gods. Dean asks what Bella wanted. Rufus replies that she wanted to buy a few things that are going to take him some time to round up. Dean asks where she is. Rufus asks why Dean is wasting his last three weeks chasing after some stuck-up English girl. Dean is surprised. He asks how Rufus knows about the deal. Rufus says he knows a lot of things. He knows that the Colt isn’t going to save Dean. When Dean asks what makes Rufus so sure, Rufus replies that it’s the job. For folks like them, there’s no happy ending. Dean calls him a bucket of sunshine. Rufus says he’s what Dean has to look forward to if he survives... which he won’t. Rufus takes another sip of whiskey. Dean looks like he might cry.
Sam parks a rented SUV in a forest and checks the map.
Dean asks about Bella. Rufus replies Hotel Canaan, room 39. He warns Dean to watch his back. Dean says he can handle Bella. Rufus replies that there are things Dean doesn’t know about her. Dean asked if Rufus got Bella’s fingerprints. Then he guesses that that got Rufus nowhere. Rufus agrees. He replies that Bella burned her fingerprints off. Dean figures that Rufus is right where he is. Rufus asks if Dean did Bella’s ear. Dean looks confused. He says he’ll try anything once but it sounds uncomfortable. Rufus explains that ears are as unique as fingerprints (Monk taught me that!). Rufus says that a friend of a friend of a friend faxed him ten pages on Bella. Rufus hands Dean a folder. Dean opens it and reads.
Meanwhile, Sam walks cautiously into one of the hunting cabins holding a flashlight. He looks through the books. He sees one that looks like a how-to book and puts it in his jacket. He then spies the door to the basement. He walks down the stairs and comes upon a body lying on a table. He checks for a pulse. There is none. He sees another body. It’s a woman whose arm is covered in maggots. Eww. Sam goes to check for a pulse when the woman suddenly wakes up. Sam whispers that he going to help her. He covers her arm with a dirty rag. Upstairs someone walks in and heads down the stairs. Doc Benton is covered in scars. He looks like he’s been patched together. He looks around but Sam and woman are gone. Does Sam really want Dean to look like and live like this?!
Sam runs towards his SUV with the woman in his arms. He sits her on the passenger side and runs to the driver’s side. He starts the car and tries to calm the woman. Suddenly Doc Benton breaks the window on his side. The woman screams. Sam puts the SUV in reverse and floors the gas. Doc falls to the ground. Sam puts the SUV in drive and runs over him. Doc Benton stands up as Sam and the woman drive off. He snaps his neck back in place. Blood comes out of his eye.
Hotel Canaan, Room 39: Bella comes into her room. Dean ambushes her. He puts his arm across her neck and points a gun at her. He demands to know where the Colt is. Bella replies that it’s across the world; it’s gone. Dean doesn’t believe her. She suggests he call the buyer and asks if he speaks Farcies. Dean grabs her; but only to take her gun. He warns Bella not to move and looks through her stuff for the Colt. Bella assures him that she doesn’t have the Colt. As Dean looks through drawers, Bella looks like she’s about to try something. Dean fires the gun beside her. Bella freezes. Dean warns her not to move. He goes through her suitcase. Bella tells him that it’s gone. Dean walks back and points the gun at her. Bella asks if he’s going to shoot her. Dean answers yes. Bella counters that he’s not the coldblooded type. Dean asks like her. He says that he couldn’t imagine killing his parents. Bella claims she doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Dean says that Bella was fourteen and her parents died in a shady car accident. The police suspected a cut brake line but it was too crispy to tell. He says that little Belle, or rather Abby, inheriting millions.
Flashback to fourteen year old Abby: Her father comes into her bedroom and closes the door. Abby sits on the bed with tear streaked cheeks.
Present day: Bella says that they were lovely people and she killed them and got rich. She says that she doesn’t care about anything including Dean. Dean is clearly disgusted. He’s about to pull the trigger when he notices something hanging above the door. He thinks better of shooting her. He tells her she’s not worth it and leaves. Bella opens a crumpled piece of paper. It has the name of Sam and Dean’s hotel. Bella grabs her cell phone and calls someone. She says that it worked. They found her. She adds that Sam wasn’t with Dean but she knows where they are.
The Erie Hotel: Sam’s cell phone rings. It’s Dean (driving the Impala). Sam asks if Bella is... Dean says that he couldn’t do it. He says that he’s screwed. Sammy was right. Bella was a goose chase. Colt’s gone. Sam says that he found Doc Benton’s cabin and he found his lab book. He adds that the secret of immortality doesn’t require black magic; it’s just science, extremely weird science but it’s doable. Sam starts to say that they’re not in the clear yet when a hand puts a chloroform cloth on his face. Sam drops his cell phone. Dean calls for Sam.
Sam wakes up strapped to a table. His eyes are taped open. It’s too Clockwork Orange for me. Benton assures Sam that his chances of coming out of the procedure alive are very high. Sam wants to know how Benton knows his name. Benton just says he knows. He adds that while Sam thinks he’s some kind of monster, he’s never done one thing that he didn’t have to do. This whole eternal life thing is high maintenance. Something goes bad, like his eyes, he has to replace it. He adds that sometimes things get damaged like when John Winchester cut out his heart. He says that he enjoyed reading all about himself in John’s journal. He says it makes this like a family reunion. He prepares to surgically remove Sam’s eye. Sam looks completely freaked out. So am I.
Two gun shots hit Benton. He turns around slowly to see Dean holding a rifle. Er, how did Dean know which hunting cabin to go to? Benton tells him to shoot all he wants. Dean shoots again until Benton hits him and he falls to the floor. Benton approaches and Dean stabs him with a knife. Benton laughs. He asks "What part of immortality does [Dean] not understand?" Hehehe, who’d have thought. An monster with a sense of humor. Benton says that it’s a pity about the heart. It was a brand new one. Dean reveals that he dosed the knife with chloroform. Benton falls down unconscious.
The doc is strapped to the same table Sam was on. Dean coaxes him awake. Benton says please. Dean says that he’s been killing people for over 150 years and now he has a request. He tells him to shut up. Benton says that he can help Dean. Dean ignores him. He says that they’ll have to cut him in little bits. Immortality is a bitch. Benton says that he can read the formula for them. Sam looks interested. He motions for Dean to follow him. Sam whispers that they are talking Hell in three weeks; it’s not perfect but it buys them more time. Is he nuts!? He begs Dean to think about it. Dean replies no. What Benton is isn’t living. Alright, Dean! He says for him it’s simple – black and white – human, not human. Dean walks back to Benson. He says that the doc is a freaking monster. Dean says he’d rather go to Hell. He pours chloroform on a rag and holds it to Benton’s face. Dean tells Sam that he’ll take care of Benson and Sam can help or not, it’s up to him. I think Sam’s lost his humanity or just his senses. He really believes this is a solution to Dean’s deal. It’s insane.
What’s even more insane is the way Sam and Dean deal with Benton. They bury him alive. I question whether they’ve crossed the line as well. It’s extremely disturbing to listen to Benton scream while Sam and Dean bury his coffin. While Sam seems to hesitate, I get the feeling that he sees his chance of saving Dean slipping away; he doesn’t feel anything for Benton.
The Erie Hotel: Woman’s footsteps walk down a hallway toward a hotel door. It’s Bella. She jimmies the door; takes out a gun and shoots at two the figures sleeping in the beds. She turns on a light. It’s 11:54PM. She uncovers the figures in the beds. They’re both blowup dolls. She looks stunned. The phone rings and she picks it up. Dean says that he felt her hand in his pocket when he swiped the hotel receipt. Dean adds that he noticed the herb tacked above the door in her hotel room. The devil’s shoestring. It’s used to hold Hell Hounds at bay. So Dean looked up her folks' obit and they died exactly ten years ago. Dean guesses that Bella didn’t kill them; a demon did. She made a deal and it’s come due.
Flashback 10 years ago: Bella sits on a swing. The "girl" on the swing beside her says that she can take care of them. It’s Lilith. Lilith says it won’t cost Bella a thing for ten whole years. 
Present Day: Dean asks if Bella stole the Colt to try and wiggle out of her deal; their gun for her soul. Bella says yes but they changed the deal. They wanted her to kill Sam. Dean snarks that demons are untrustworthy. Dean notes that it’s almost midnight – time’s almost up. Bella cries that she needs help. Dean says that if she’d come to them sooner and asked for help, they probably would have taken the Colt and saved her. "And saved yourself" adds Bella. She admits that she knows about Dean’s deal from the demon that holds his deal. It’s the same demon that holds Bella’s deal. Her name is Lilith. Dean tells Bella that this can’t help her now. He asks why she’s telling them this. Bella replies that maybe they can kill the bitch. Dean replies that he’ll see her in Hell. The clock beside Bella reads midnight...
Thursday, May 8, 2008
SV 7-19 "Quest" Review
There was a lot and I mean a lot of exposition in this episode. Every character including Lex’s minion had a shot at exposition. After two filler episodes, this was a welcome change although it was really long to recap/review. The episode attempts to tie together the Kawatche caves, Numan, Sageeth, Veritas, the Teagues, Swann, the Queens, Lionel, the Traveler and the Destroyer. The good – Lex is getting closer to Clark’s secret. Chloe saved Clark again! And Clark... was Clark.
An antiquary, Milash, looks at the coordinate map, cryptogram, from "Sleeper" while Lex looks on. "Unbelievable. Immaculate", he says. He’s never seen anything like it. Lex wants to know what it does. Milash apologizes. He says he doesn’t know. Lex replies that he didn’t come to the North American expert in antiquities for more ambiguity. Milash says that he needs more time. He wants to take it to his workshop to take it apart. Lex disagrees. The cryptograph isn’t leaving the room, he says. Lex adds that it holds great sentimental value and it’s priceless. Milash counters that if there is no way to decipher its meaning, the priceless heirloom has no value. Lex says nothing. Milash takes the cryptogram and leaves. Lex orders a minion to have him watched 24/7. The minion leaves. It occurs to me that this is one of the last times we’ll see Lex Luthor in his mansion and it makes me sad. Lex leans on the fireplace looking at the fire. 
Suddenly someone comes up behind Lex holding a knife. Lex quickly grabs a fireplace poker and the two spar. Lex is stabbed in the side and falls unconscious. The guy tears Lex’s shirt open and carves a symbol onto Lex’s chest. The guy runs off when he hears Lex’s minion come back. Minion yells for security to call an ambulance.
Smallville Medical Center: Lex lies in a bed. The symbol on his chest is crudely stitched together. Lex wakes up. Minion tells him not to try to get up. He’s taken care of everything. Lex notes that that wasn’t the case earlier in the evening. Minion looks sheepish. Lex asks what the police have. Minion replies that the police know nothing. Minion knew Lex wouldn’t want him cooperating with them. He has a private team tracking Lex’s assailant but they don’t have many leads.
Lex says that it was the manager from the bank in Zurich. He must have been stationed at the bank waiting to someone to open the safety deposit box. Lex figures he’s not the only one interested in its contents. Lex sits up. Minion looks concerned (I miss Gina!). Lex says that the guy tried to kill him. Minion replies that he wanted more than that. Lex grabs a tray off the table and uses it as a mirror to look at his chest. Lex says that it’s the symbols; the guy knows; he’s after the cryptograph.
Talon: Jimmy sneaks in. Chloe is waiting for him on the bed with a book. Jimmy looks guilty. Chloe says she won’t ask where he’s been or why he stood her up. Why the heck not, Chloe? He should have called to say he wouldn’t show up. Man, you put up with a lot from this jerk! Chloe adds as long as he picked up cheesecake to say he’s sorry. Eh, you’re looking at cheesecake, Chloe. Jimmy replies that the hospital cafeteria isn’t known for its desert list. Chloe looks concerned. She asks if he’s okay. Jimmy says that he’s great; he’s making page 2. But Lex isn’t doing so hot. He jumps on the bed (literally). Chloe asks if there was an accident. Jimmy replies not if tripping causes multiple stab wounds. He says that while it sounds sleazy, ambulance chasing pays off. He’s holding his camera. He says he’s got a candid shot of Lex being admitted to the hospital. Chloe says that she’ll pass on the peep show. She says that there are other ways for him to make up being late. I think I’m going to be sick. She kisses his cheek, chin. Jimmy is oblivious to Chloe’s advances (I guess he needs whipped cream to get in the mood). Shouldn't Chloe be more curious? She's been pushing Clark to get the Veritas keys from Lex. Shouldn't she want to know what Lex has been up to? It makes no sense.
Jimmy says that Lex’s security isn’t cooperating with police. He asks if Chloe finds this suspicious. Chloe moves away from Jimmy. Oh, thank goodness; I’m feeling better. She says that given the large number of dead bodies, she thought Lex had eliminated all his enemies. Huh? Chloe wonders why someone would attack him. She makes a motion for Jimmy to hand her the camera. Jimmy says the why isn’t as interesting as the how. Along with a stab wound the attacker chiseled a calling card in Lex’s chest – some freaky symbol. Candid shot?! It looks like you were lying on top of him, Jimmy! Chloe recognizes the symbol.
Smallville Medical Center: Chloe walks up to Clark. She apologizes that she couldn’t get there faster but she had to drive. Clark looks exasperated. He asks if Chloe dragged him out of bed because someone hurt Lex. Oh, for...! Have they forgotten Lex has the keys! Chloe explains that they didn’t just hurt Lex. She gives Clark the picture of the carving on Lex’s chest. She asks what it says. Clark says that they are symbols for Traveler and savior. Chloe reasons that there is only one group that appointed themselves the savior of the Traveler. "Veritas", says Clark. Chloe notes that all the Veritas members are dead. Clark wonders who else knows about the Traveler. Chloe says more importantly who knows how to control him. Chloe thinks that maybe Lex was attacked because he had both keys and he used them. She adds that while Clark was away ("Apocalypse"), she tracked Lex and the keys to a safety deposit box in Zurich. She’s only mentioning this to Clark now? Is this on a need-to-know basis? Clark asks if they are too late. Chloe replies that Clark is still steering his own ship which means that whatever was in the box hasn’t taken the wheel... yet. "That’s comforting", quips Clark. Chloe thinks it’s because Lex doesn’t know who the Traveler is. Clark says that there is only one way to find out. He barges into Lex’s room... but the room is empty.
It’s dark and pouring rain outside. A car stops in front of an antiques store. It’s the guy who attacked Lex (let’s call him Attacker). In the window of the store, Milash sits at his table working. Attacker calls someone on his cell. He says that he found him. The person on the other end, who looks like he is in a church, orders Attacker to retrieve the cryptograph. 
In the antiques shop, Milash works on the cryptograph while a security guy paces back and forth. Milash says that it can’t be; he should have seen it before. He asks if security guy wants to take a look. The guy says he’ll pass. Milash asks security gal if she wants to take a look. She walks over. Suddenly the door opens. Attacker shoots the security gal. Milash hides under the desk. Security guy finally makes a move. He shoots the Attacker but misses. Attacker doesn’t miss. Milash is crawling on the floor. Attacker points a gun on him. Milash begs him to take it (the cryptograph). A shot is fired. Attacker falls to the floor. Lex stands at the door holding a gun. It’s pouring outside, yet Lex looks dry. Now that’s evil!
Isis Foundation: Clark paces as Chloe types away. There are images of Lex’s chest on all the monitors in the room. Clark repeats savior, traveler. Clark thinks that the person who did this may have kidnapped Lex. Chloe replies that if they did, they did it to save Clark. Clark replies that’s the last thing he needs – someone killing people in his name. Chloe says that it’s probably how God felt about the Crusades. The parallels of Clark and Christianity are making me uncomfortable. Clark wonders why someone would carve Kryptonian symbols in Lex’s chest. Chloe thinks that Lex got himself into this. Clark says that he let him. You’re both right. Clark sees something on the screen. He tells Chloe to go back. Clark says that where the symbols overlap creates a third symbol – sanctuary. Clark explains that there is no Kryptonian word that translates to "church". Sanctuary is the closest match. "Looked at that way savior could be..." starts Clark. "Angel or saint", finishes Chloe. Chloe looks up the Patron Saint of Travelers – it’s Saint Christopher. She says that there is only one St. Christopher’s Cathedral on this continent and it’s in Montreal. There is no such cathedral in Montreal. She asks Clark to hand her his phone. She downloads a map to St. Christopher’s Cathedral.
Milash and Lex are in a car. Milash says that the man was going to kill him. He was after the cryptograph. Lex can’t resist an I-told-you-so. He says that he underestimated its value. Milash says that he’s not surprised considering what he found. Every artist leaves his mark. This piece was designed by a renowned German watchmaker named Dietrich Brower. Lex doesn’t look impressed. Brower catered to European noble families making hundreds of timepieces. One day he went into seclusion. Rumors said that an unknown patron had commissioned a magnificent clock. Only one sketch of the clock existed. It disappeared during the Second World War. The gears from the sketch match the cryptograph gears exactly. The clock was given as a donation from a wealthy philanthropist – Dr. Swann. Swann posthumously donated the clock to a church – St. Christopher’s Cathedral in Montreal.
St. Christopher’s Cathedral, Montreal: Clark checks the map on his cell phone. He goes in the church. At the head of the church is a large urn with Kryptonian symbols in it. Clark picks up the top of the urn and looks at the Kryptonian symbols carved underneath. As he places the top back, a man in a robe holding a cane approaches. He tells Clark that it appears he found what he was seeking. He’s been expecting Clark. He says that there are few who can read the inscription and only one has the ability to follow the instructions (well, maybe two. Kara?). The man reveals that he is Edward Teague, last surviving member of Veritas. Teague gets on his knees before Clark. He says he’s waited a lifetime to serve the Traveler. He bows his head. I find this scene disturbing. Teague is bowing before Clark who is standing in front of a crucifix. I realize it continues the imagery started in the Pilot but did SV have to shoot this in a church?
Teague says that Lionel wanted Clark all to himself. He killed the Queens, Swann. Teague went into hiding after he lost his wife and son. Clark says that they died because of him. Teague corrects him. He says that they died for him. Clark says that they didn’t even know him. Good point. Teague says that’s the difference between believers and non-believers. Believers believed that he’d be the next savior. They took an oath under Swann to protect him (Clark). This is really disturbing. Clark asks if attacking Lex was Teague’s way of protecting him. Teague replies that Lex is a non-believer. How can Lex be a believer or non-believer if he didn’t know about the existence of the Traveler much less that he was supposed to be a savior? Teague asserts that Lex can’t be trusted and his intentions are harmful. I don’t understand how Teague can jump to that conclusion. 
Clark wants to know what can control him. Teague replies that Swann kept that secret to himself; he scattered clues around the world in the hopes that whatever controls Clark wouldn’t wind up in the wrong hands. This story is extremely convoluted. Teague adds that one of the clues is in the church. He’s afraid Lex knows where. Clark says that’s why Teague tried to kill Lex. But he wants to know why Teague carved his name in Lex’s chest. Teague says that Lionel kept the identity of the Traveler secret. It was the only way for Clark to come find him. Couldn’t he have burned the symbol on a barn? Put an ad in a newspaper? 
Teague says that he had to warn Clark about how evil Lex is. Huh? How does he know? Clark says that he knows who Lex is and what he’s done. Teague is confused. He doesn’t understand why Clark didn’t take care of him (Lex) before. Teague angrily reminds Clark that they sacrificed everything; years of their lives; their families for Clark. Teague realizes that Clark doesn’t want to fulfill his destiny. No shit, Sherlock. Teague looks disgusted. He says that Clark doesn’t even want to save himself. Did he watch "Apocalypse" too? Teague opens the top of the cane he’s holding. It has a Kryptonite stone in it. Clark drops to the floor. Teague says that people want to see Clark as their savior but he is naïve. For every beacon of light, there is a pit of darkness. They must fight to keep the darkness from overwhelming them. Lex Luthor cannot be allowed to control Clark no matter what the cost. Clark loses consciousness.
Lex’s jet: Lex pops some pills and takes a sip of alcohol to wash it down. Pills and drinks don’t mix, kids. He tells Milash that they land in three hours. Milash wants to know what Lex has gotten him into. Lex looks really out of it. He replies that it’s better if Milash doesn’t concern himself with it. Milash insists. He says he’s got a right to the truth. He expects that he’ll be killed before he gets off the jet. He asks why he should help Lex. Lex reminds him that he saved his life. Milash thinks that’s because Lex needed him. 
Milash says that in antiquities provenance is everything. The history of an object and the reason it was made is its true value. Milash reveals that there was rumor Brower was commissioned to make the clock by a secret society of wealthy patrons. He asks if Lex knows anything about that. Lex says that Lionel was one of them. Lionel was fixated. Everything he did was aimed at finding the truth no matter the cost. Lionel’s obsession made Lex an orphan long before he died. Lex always wondered why. He says that the cryptograph will give him the answer. Milash goes back to work.
Talon apartment: Chloe calls Clark. She informs him that the Luthor jet just left for Montreal. She suggests that whatever he finds, he finds it fast. Jimmy comes in. He says that Chloe won’t believe what he found. Symbols like the one carved into Lex have been appearing around Smallville for years – in barn walls, as crop circles, in cave walls. Chloe tries to steer Jimmy away from symbols. She tells him that it’s a hoax. Chloe says that people have been playing with the Kawatche cave paintings for years, trying to get on the 6 o’clock news. Jimmy replies that Chloe gets a little competition in the story department and suddenly Chloe goes all Scully on him. Chloe says that she doesn’t believe Smallville is destined to be the next Stonehenge. Jimmy asks even if it turns out that it’s a site of ritualistic killings. Jimmy says that he pulled this pic from research on the cave. It’s an exact match to the carving on Lex’s chest and it’s above a drawing. Jimmy shows her a drawing of a man with an "S" on his chest. Chloe says that it looks like a guy in a doorway. Jimmy says that according to the number one website on human cryptography, it’s actually a human sacrifice (or a Kryptonian sacrifice?). Chloe realizes that it could be Clark. That’s a really ugly drawing.
Clark is strapped to a stone altar. A Kryptonite light glows around him. He asks Teague why he’s doing this. He thought Teague was supposed to protect him. Teague says that Clark let the secret of Veritas fall into the wrong hands. This is the only way to guarantee that Clark won’t come under someone else’s control. Does Lana count? Clark insists that it won’t happen. He can stop it. Teague doesn’t believe him. He says that he’ll bestow on Clark an ancient Kryptonian ritual. Er, how does he know about ancient Kryptonian rituals? Teague unwraps a chalice and a knife. He says that before Clark’s race were scientists they were warriors. This ceremony was a sign of respect for the mightiest of their enemies. Clark yells that Teague doesn’t know anything about Krypton. Teague says that as Swann’s disciple he was taught everything. Clark replies that Swann must have taught Teague that he (Clark) is not a threat. Yes, but if the wrong person controls you, Clark. Teague replies that Swann was an idealist. He said that Clark would rule them with strength but for every passage there was another interpretation that cast Clark as their destroyer. Teague concludes that if Lex takes control of Clark, that’s what will happen. 
Teague opens a stone bowl (for lack of a better word) filled with liquid Kryptonite. He says that it’s something Clark’s father could not have foreseen. Jor-El had high hopes (he was an ant?) when he sent Clark to Earth. Teague fills the chalice with the Kryptonite and pours it in grooves in the altar. Teague explains that Jor-El understood the risk of sending a god among men. If Clark turned against humanity, humanity wouldn’t stand a chance. That’s why Jor-El sent the device. The only other option was to destroy Clark but he couldn’t bear the thought of killing his son. Wha? Huh?
Teague takes the knife and stands before Clark. He says that he hopes Clark finds peace in this act of selflessness. He cuts Clark’s t-shirt and proceeds to carve something in Clark’s chest. These Kryptonians were barbaric. Clark looks really uncomfortable until he passes out.
Lex walks into the church. He walks over to the clock and fits the cryptograph into it. The gears spin and align. Music begins to play. We go CSI-like into the clock gears as the music continues to play and Lex looks on. The clock hands automatically move to five to two. Above the clock face a plate rotates into view. Lex takes the black and white artifact in the shape of the House of El. When he turns around, Teague is waiting for him. He tells Lex that he’s too late. Teague says that it’s strange to see Lex without the Warrior Angel figurines. Lex recognizes him. Teague says he’s sorry Lex inherited his father’s obsession. Lex opens his shirt and angrily states that Teague is the one who did this. He tried to kill him. No, Lex. He used you as a bulletin board. Teague replies that the prophecy states the Traveler would have a powerful adversary but he would never have foreseen that it would be little Alexander. Lex realizes that Teague knows who the Traveler is. Lex says that knowing the identity of the Traveler is everything to him. He’s lived his life feeling like he was just an afterthought and he’s sacrificed too much. Teague replies that Lex’s sacrifice has just begun. The world exists only in balance. If there is no Traveler there can be no Destroyer. Lex takes out his gun but Teague hits it away. Lex grabs a sword off the wall. Hey, they’re both left-handed. 
Chloe walks into the church. She runs when she spots Clark unconscious and bleeding on the altar. Chloe takes a crucifix(!!) and smashes the top of the altar. The liquid Kryptonite surrounding Clark leaks back into the bowl and Chloe covers the liquid Kryptonite. Clark starts to come to. His chest heals and he breaks free of the straps. Clark starts to ask how Chloe got there. Chloe says Ollie’s jet.
Lex and Teague continue to sword fight. Just as Lex is about to skewer Teague with the sword, Clark goes into superClark mode. He hits the sword out of Lex’s hand. It flies into the clock, destroying it. Lex and Teague fall to the floor. As Lex looks at the destroyed clock, Teague spots Clark. Clark speeds away. Lex asks how Teague did that. Teague answers that he didn’t. That's it? Lex and Teague suddenly decided the fight is over? Lex picks up the black and white artifact from the floor.
Lex’s Jet: Lex asks if Milash is safely on US soil. Minion says that he put him on the first commercial flight to Metropolis. He hands Lex a drink. Minion asks if they’ll need Milash in Scotland. "Not if you did your homework", replies Lex. Minion asks what’s so compelling about a small island off the west coast of Scotland. Lex says that the clock played a melody from an old Scottish folksong - The Birks of Saint Kilda. He says that when he was learning to play the piano, Lionel made him play it over and over. Lex adds that Birks means Birches. Minion says that the island is now a bird sanctuary. He says that according to literature there was a small town built up around a castle until a rich American bought the castle and hauled it back to the US. He shows Lex a picture of the castle. Guess which castle it is.
Lex reveals that Lionel brought the castle to Smallville stone by stone but never found what he was looking for. Lex orders minion to tell the pilot that they’re going home.
Chloe walks into the Talon apartment. Jimmy has the table set up with candles (eh, another Lana trait). Chloe says that she was only gone 24 hours. She’ll stay away for a week next time. Jimmy says that he’s celebrating himself (yep, like Lana). He says that he sold his first article. I thought he was a photographer. Jimmy says that he kept digging into the symbols in the Kawatche caves. It turns out Lex is interested in the symbols too. Chloe looks panic stricken. She asks what the article is about. Jimmy says that the stories on the cave walls are about Good versus Evil; Numan, the savior of the people, and Sageeth, the bringer of darkness. Chloe says the story is familiar. Clark wrote a paper about it in high school. Jimmy says that in the beginning Numan and Sageeth have their own symbol. He shows Chloe a picture depicting a combination of the two. Jimmy says that according to a professor at Met U who specializes in hieroglyphs the symbol of Good versus Evil is common. It embodies the push and pull; yin and yang. "The hero/anti-hero conflict", adds Chloe. Jimmy reveals that Lex is jazzed because that image represents a resolution of the conflict. He says that in the Kawatche legend the hero’s journey ends in a final battle. Duh. Chloe asks who is supposed to win according to the professor. Jimmy doesn’t know.
Kent loft: Chloe holds the picture of Numan and Sageeth. She tells Clark that the writing is literally on the wall. Clark scoffs. He asks if she buys into the whole Numan/Sageeth mythology. Chloe says that after she saw Clark strapped down like in one of the drawings in the cave... yes. Clark counters that it wasn’t a myth that tried to kill him, it was a man. A man that’s still on the loose, Chloe notes. Clark says that when Teague was performing the ritual; on some twisted level he thought he was doing the right thing; protecting everyone from Clark. Clark says that as long as there’s something that can control him, he’s a threat. Teague reminded him how dangerous his abilities are. Argh!! More guilt. Clark adds that in the wrong hands, they can destroy everything. Chloe says that that’s why he can’t let Lex walk away. She says that Lex won’t hesitate to destroy Clark if he gets the chance. Clark asks if Chloe wants him to kill Lex. When Chloe doesn’t answer, Clark says that if he does that, he’ll be turning into him (Lex). Chloe warns Clark that whether he likes it or not, one day he’s going to have to play god. Now that's scary.
Workers are all over the mansion looking for another part of Veritas. Lex walks to the piano and plays a few notes from the melody he heard at the church. Lex recites a poem(?) or lyrics. He asks minion if the castle was on the west coast of Saint Kilda. Minion says yes. Lex asks if it was facing west. Minion replies that the castle faced south. Lex orients himself in the mansion. He continues the poem/lyrics. He suddenly orders everyone to leave immediately. He takes out the artifact and looks at the fireplace. He notes the symbol on the artifact is on the top of the fireplace. He breaks the symbol on the fireplace and takes out a bag containing a purple Kryptonian crystal globe. The artifact fits in the globe. The globe floats from Lex’s hand and emits a light in the shape of the Earth. Latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates are highlighted on the globe.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
SN 3-14 "Long Distance Call" Review
I liked this episode. It's a typical Supernatural eppy. The boys chase down a demon/spirit/bad thing and get rid of it. Dean's desperation at finding anything that will break his deal with the demon is heart wrenching. He's willing to believe and do anything to get out of his deal. Sam, on the other hand, was more logical; more analytical.
A man paces around a room while lightning and thunder can be seen/heard outside. He seems to be thinking about something. The phone rings and he stares at it for awhile before picking up. A woman’s voice, Linda, asks Ben if he’s thought about it. Ben replies that he can’t, his wife. Linda begs him to come to her. He replies no and hangs up. He finishes a drink. The phone starts ringing again. He picks up and begs Linda to just leave him alone. Linda says that she’s not going to stop. They can be happy together. Ben says that this is crazy. Linda says that she’ll love him forever and asks if he loves her. He replies that he loves her more than anything. He says sorry and hangs up. The phone starts ringing again. He bangs the receiver and yanks the phone from the wall. The phone starts ringing again. Ben takes a gun from the top drawer of his desk. He tells Linda that she wins. He puts the gun below his chin and pulls the trigger. Blood spatters everywhere.
Dean sits on a bench eating and talking on the phone. Sam walks up and Dean throws him a pop/beer can. Sam says that the professor doesn’t know crap. Dean’s not surprised. He tells Sam to pack his stuff they are hitting the road. Bobby called to tell them of a banker guy who killed himself in Ohio. Sam looks surprised that Dean and Bobby were talking about a case. Dean snarks that they were talking about their feelings and their favorite boy bands. Hee. A banker was complaining about an electrical problem for about a week; phone going haywire, computer going on and off. Sam reminds Dean that they are on a case. Dean asks whose. “Yours”, answers Sam. Dean thinks they’ve been chasing their tails talking to every professor, soothsayer, witch, two-bit carniac in the lower 48 and they’ve come up with nothing. Dean adds that they can’t find Bella and the colt and until they find something, he wants to do his job. Sam suggests summoning Ruby. Dean tells him that she can’t help him. Nobody can. Sam looks hurt. He asks if Dean is keeping secrets from him. Dean reminds Sam about who is keeping secrets. Sam starts to walk away and Dean asks what he’s doing. Sam says he’s going to Ohio.
Milan, Ohio: The Impala pulls up to Ben’s house. Ben’s wife, Mrs. Waters, shows dressed-up Sam and Dean where she found her husband. Dean asks her to describe everything she saw. "Besides my dead husband", she sarcastically answers. Sam is quick to say everything else she saw. She says that there was blood everywhere; the phone was ripped from the wall and his favorite scotch on the desk. Sam wonders why the phone was ripped from the wall. Sam goes to check it out. He sees that the last incoming number is SHA333. He signals to Dean who asks whether Ben got any strange phone calls. When Mrs. Waters says no Dean reminds her that withholding evidence is a capital offense. Sam clears his throat. Mrs. Waters adds that a few weeks before Ben got a phone call from a woman named Linda. She says that when she picked up the extension, there was just static on the line. Sam asks if Mrs. Waters asked her husband about Linda. She replies that it didn’t matter as there was no one on the line.
In the hotel room, Dean searches for information on Linda. She and Ben were high school sweethearts. A drunk driver hit them head on. Ben survived, Linda didn’t. Sam guesses that Linda is calling to chat. Dean replies that Linda was cremated so her spirit shouldn’t be floating around. Dean asks about the Ben’s last phone call. Sam replies that the number is a phone number from a century ago. Sam says that they should put a trace on it. Dean wonders how they’re going to trace a number from a hundred years ago.
Sam and Dean visit the phone company. They are introduced to Stew Myers, who’s not into hygiene and into porn. Stew is told give "Mr. Campbell" (Dean) and "Mr. Ramey" (Sam) whatever they need. Stew, feigning ignorance, is trying desperately to get rid of the porn that keeps popping up on his screen. Dean wants to know if it’s bustyasianbeauties.com. Sam shows Stew the caller id number and asks him trace it. Stew says that the number is prehistoric and nobody is using that number. Sam asks him to trace it anyway. Stew snarks that he’ll rearrange his life first. Dean replies that Stewie has six kinds of employee code violations, not to mention the "sickening" porn. Oh, Dean. Dean warns him that when his partner tells him to run the number, he better run the number. Threatening Dean is always a plus. Stewie does as he’s told. 
Stewie does as he's told. "Holy crap", he exclaimes. He says that he doesn’t know where the number comes from but he can tell them where its been going. Stewie gives Sam a printout of a list of 10 houses that got calls from the same number. When Sam and Dean don’t leave right away, Stewie smugly asks if they’re done because he was sort of busy.
Sam comes out of a fancy rental car and sets the alarm. He walks over to a house and knocks on the door. A man and his young son answer the door. Sam says that he’s with the phone company. He says that they’ve received many complaints from the neighborhood; dropped calls, static, strange voices. The man’s teenage daughter comes to the door. The man says they haven’t had any problems.
Sam heads toward his car. He’s about to go in when the teen tells him that she doesn’t believe he works for a phone company. She asks since when does a phone guy drive a rental or wear a cheap suit. Touché. Sam figures that they are both keeping secrets. The teen asks why Sam asks about strange voices on the phone. Sam replies with a question of his own. He asks if she’d heard something. She replies no. Aside: I have a weakness for JA, but JP’s dimples are so cute. Sam says that he’s been where she is; hearing and seeing things that can’t be explained. He adds that maybe he could have helped out a bit. Sam has the caring, emo look down pat. When Sam starts to get in the car, the teen admits that maybe she’s been talking on the phone with her mother, who’s been dead three years. Sam asks how often she (the mom) calls. The teen says a few times and it started the week before. She thought she was going crazy. Sam assures her that she’s not crazy.
Sam’s phone rings. It’s Dean. He tells Sam about a grandmother who is having phone sex with her husband who died in Korea. Dean adds it rocked his understanding of the word necrophilia. He hangs up the phone and starts to get into the Impala when his phone rings. It’s John Winchester. Dun dun dun.
In the hotel room, Sam asks if Dean really believes it was their dad. Sam asks what the voice sounded like. Dean snarks that he sounded like Oprah. Now that was a dumb question. Dean says that John just said his name and the call dropped out. Sam wonders why their dad would call. Dean doesn’t know but he figures other people are hearing from their loved ones, why can’t they. Sam’s not convinced. Dean is losing it. He asks Sam what he should say if their dad calls again. "Hello?" suggests Sam. Dean is not amused. He grabs his coat and leaves.
Three hours later, Dean comes in as Sam is sitting searching for info on the laptop. He says that he’s found no reason why anything supernatural would be going on here. Dean snarks that he thought a Sanford education and a high school hookup rate of 0.0 would produce better results. "Hilarious", Sam deadpans. Dean says that Sam’s looking in the wrong places. He takes out a pamphlet stating that Columbus, Ohio is the birthplace of Thomas Edison. Sam doesn’t believe what’s in the pamphlet.
Museum: A really annoying guide is showing Sam, Dean and a few other people the museum’s most treasured possession – Thomas Edison’s "Spirit Phone" (she uses quotey fingers). She annoyingly reveals that Thomas Edison was also a devout "occultist" (using quotey fingers again). Dean wonders what’s up with the quotey fingers. Ha! The guide annoyingly says that Edison was convinced he could use it to "communicate" with the "dead" (more quotey fingers). Sam and Dean stay behind when the guide and the other visitors are "walking and walking" away.
Sam takes out the EMF device. It shows nothing. Dean asks what Sam is thinking. Sam replies that it looks like an old pile of junk. Dean notes that it’s not plugged in. Sam replies that it might not work like that. Dean says that the Spirit Phone is the best reason they have for the strange phone calls. Yes, but why did Ben commit suicide? Dean thinks that it might just be their dad.
Later at the hotel, Sam is asleep while Dean stares at his cell while drinking a coffee. The phone rings and Dean takes the phone to the bathroom. He asks if it’s really his dad on the line and the voice answers that it is. Well, what did he expect? No it’s not your dad; April fools? Dean asks how he can be sure and the voice answers that he can’t. It asks how he could sell his soul. When Dean says that he was looking after Sammy like John wanted, the voice says that he never wanted that; Dean is his boy and he loves him. He says that he can’t watch Dean go to hell. He asks if Sam dies if Dean breaks the deal. Dean is momentarily confused. The voice says that he knows a way out. The demon that holds the contract is here now.
The teen, Lanie (as long as it’s not Lana), Sam spoke to types on her computer. She gets a text from SHA33 asking if it’s Lanie. Lanie asks if it’s her mom. Her mom wants to know if Lanie thought the question over. She says that she wants to see Lanie. Lanie types that she went so see her at the cemetery. Her mom types back that it’s not what she meant. When Lanie types that she’s scared, her mother tells her not to be scared because she’s with her (Lanie). The screen goes blank. Lanie can see her reflection in the black monitor. She sees a reflection of her mother behind her. When she turns around spooked, there is nothing there. She backs away from the computer. The monitor starts to display "Come to me" over and over.
Dean is at the laptop when Sam walks into the hotel room. He says that Lanie’s mom’s ghost really spooked Lanie out. Dean says that their dad is right. The demon really is here. He hands Sam some printouts. Dean says that the electrical storms are demonic omens. They’ve been following them for the past two weeks. Sam says that he doesn’t remember any lightning storms. Dean sarcastically replies that he doesn’t remember that Sam studied meteorology as a kid. Dean is sure that the demon’s been tailing him using some poor dude’s body. Sam doesn’t look convinced. He asks why the demon would be following Dean. Dean thinks it’s because he’s big game. His ass is too sweet to let out of sight. Yep, it makes sense... What? It does. Fine. It doesn’t.
When Sam is not convinced, Dean gets upset. Sam is suspicious of their dad giving them an exorcism that kills demons. Dean says that he looked it up. It’s a 15th century exorcism. Sam replies that he looked it up too and so did Bobby. It’s definitely an exorcism but there is no evidence that it can kill a demon. Dean replies that there is no evidence it can’t either. Dean thinks that John may have picked up a few tricks in Hell. Sam says that he wants to be sure. He doesn’t understand what is going on. Ben committed suicide and Lanie is scared. Dean angrily says that civvies are supposed to be freaked out by ghosts. Sam looks defeated. He asks if their dad told Dean where to find the demon. Dean yells that he’s waiting on the call. Sam quietly says that he told Lanie he’d check up on her. Dean sarcastically says that he’ll be here getting ready to save his life. Sam starts to walk away. Dean angrily says that for months they’ve been trying to break the deal, now their dad is about to give the address and Sam can’t accept it. Dean adds that their dad is dead and Sam is still butting heads with him. Sam says that they’ve got nothing. Dean is going on blind faith. Dean yells that that’s all he’s got. Sam begs Dean to wait until he gets back and leaves. Dean sits and waits at the kitchenette table. The first time I saw this, I was angry at Dean for being so gullible but, on re-watch, I felt bad for him. I realized that he’s so desperate to get out of his deal that he’s willing to try anything. On re-watch I thought why don’t the boys switch phones. Sam should hear static if the call is meant for Dean just like Mrs. Waters heard static when Linda was talking to her husband.
Lanie’s House: Sam asks if Lanie told her father about her communication with her mother. Lanie says that she doesn’t want to bother him at work; and he wouldn’t believe her anyway. He’d put her into therapy. Sam asks what Lanie’s mother said. Lanie explains that her mother wanted to see her so she went to the cemetery. But nothing happened. Then her mom asked her to do bad things.
Cut to Lanie’s brother, Simon, playing with a toy car. His toy phone rings. It’s his mother. He says that he wants to see her and asks her where she is.
Dean is still sitting at the kitchenette table. The phone rings. Dean picks up and asks where the demon is.
Back to Lanie and Sam: Sam pleads for Lanie to tell him what her mom asked her to do. Lanie crying says that her mom asked her to take all of her dad’s sleeping pills. Sam asks if Lanie’s mom wanted her to kill herself. Lanie tearfully nods her head and wonders why her mom would want her to do that; just so she could come to her. Sam perks up. He asks how Lanie’s mother said it exactly. Lanie says her mom said “Come to me” a million times. "Lanie, that’s not you mother", replies Sam.
Dean stops his Impala in front of a house and takes out his gear.
Sam tells Lanie not to answer the phone, touch the computer or do anything unless he says to. Lanie notices that Simon’s disappeared.
Dean walks into the house and yells hello. There is no answer.
Simon crosses the street oblivious to any cars or trucks.
Dean prepares himself for the demon. He spray paints the demon trap on the floor.
A man in a truck is distracted as he’s driving. Simon is in his path. He notices too late to stop. Sam comes out of nowhere and grabs Simon. The idiot in the truck doesn’t slow down or stop.
Sam, back in his car, calls Dean. He says that it’s not dad it’s a Croccata. It’s a kind of scavenger that mimics loved ones and says come to me. It lures a person to the dark and swallows their soul. Eww. Dean asks if those things live in filth. When Sam says yes, he reminds him of the flies at the phone company.
Sam saunters into the phone company. It looks deserted. He spies Stew sitting at his desk. He is momentarily distracted. When he looks back, Stew’s gone. Sam runs back to the parking lot. Stew is heading toward his car. He calls Dean to let him know where he is. As Stew unlocks his door, Sam sneaks up with a knife and holds him down on the car. Sam tells him that he knows who he is and he knows how to kill him. Stew looks scared and confused. He says that if they are overcharging for call waiting he can fix it. He begs Sam not to kill him. Sam looks unsure. His boss, Clark, appears behind Sam and knocks him unconscious with a bat. Stew is happy to see Clark until he uses the bat on him.
Sam wakes up tied to a chair. Do I see I see a pattern here? Sam’s always waking up tied to a chair. Stew is also tied to a chair. He whimpers to Clark that he’s sorry. Clark hovers around Stew holding a knife. Stew says that Clark’s not a killer. There’s a good man inside him. Clark asks Sammy if he (Clark) is a good man. Sam asks Clark to let him go. Clark answers that he would except he’s only had a salad for lunch and he’s starving. Sam yells no as Clark stabs Stew. Sam watches as Clark open his mouth revealing the ugliest, longest, yellowest teeth. He draws Stew’s soul out and swallows it. Okay it was gross just typing that. Yuck! Why does Clark need teeth? He doesn’t use them?
Sam realizes that Clark led him here. Clark replies that he makes some calls and he takes some calls. Clark says that he had Sam fooled with all the Edison phone crap. Clark goes to the phone exchange box and puts his hands on it. Sam asks what he’s doing. He says that he’s killing Dean or maybe another guy.
A guy puts his coat on in a locker room. His cell phone rings. It’s his daughter; his dead daughter. She says that she had to call because she knows who killed her. She adds that the man who killed her is at the house now. The man wants to kill him too.
Clark takes the knife out of Stew’s chest. He wheels Stew away. Clark explains that once he made Sam and Dean as hunters it was easy. He found Dean’s number, Sam’s number, e-mails, voicemails, everything. He says that people believe that the stuff just gets erased, but it doesn’t. Sam works furiously to free himself. He says that Dean is not going to fall for this; he’s not going to kill the guy. Clark replies that the guy will kill him.
Dean waits in the house while a car comes up the driveway. Dean opens a bottle of holy water (I guess). When the guy fails to come in, Dean starts to walk around. The guy opens the back door, aims a rifle at Dean and shoots. While he’s reloading Dean rushes at him. They beat each other and kick each other...
Clark tells Sam that technology makes things easier. Clark says that he used to hide for days, weeks whispering to people to draw them into the night. But they had community, they looked out for each other, and he’d be lucky to eat one or two souls a year. If he can live off of one or two meals a year why has he turned into such a glutton? Does he enjoy eating so much? Sam continues to work at freeing himself. Clark says that now when he’s hungry (all the time?) all he does is make a phone call. He says that everyone is so connected yet so alone (deep). It’s funny how when it’s Sam’s turn to be eaten, killed, whatever, the demon, spirit, whatever stops to explain everything to him.
Clark opens his mouth wide. Er, shouldn’t he kill Sam first? Sam tackles him and the knife goes flying. Clark pushes Sam away and picks up the knife...
Dean, meanwhile, gets the guy’s gun away from him. They guy is on lying the devil’s trap. The guy looks down at the floor and asks what that is. Dean replies it’s his funeral and starts the exorcism. The guy walks over the trap and yells if Dean did this to his daughter too. Dean quickly realizes that something is wrong. The guy grabs him...
Sam grabs the hand with the knife. They struggle until Clark is skewered in the neck by a hook in the wall.
The guy pushes Dean to the floor. He yells that she was nine years old. Dean tries to tell him that he didn’t. He grabs the guy’s rifle and hits him away. Dean holds the rifle pointed at him. He tells him that he didn’t kill his daughter. When the guy asks what Dean is doing here, Dean replies that he doesn’t know.
Dean holds a wet cloth to his face. Sam walks in sporting matching scrapes and bruises. They really are brothers! Dean says that they improved Sam’s face. Sam replies right back at you. Dean looks in the mirror and shrugs. They sit each on a bed. Sam says that he’s sorry it wasn’t dad. Dean replies that he gave Sam a hard time on this one. Dean says that Sam was right. He wanted to believe so badly that there was a way out of this. He’s staring at the barrel with this. Hell, forever. Dean admits that he’s scared. Sam replies that he knows. Dean says it was the last act of a desperate man. There’s nothing wrong with having hope, Sam replies. Dean says hope give him nothing. He can’t expect their dad to show up with some miracle at the last minute. He can’t expect anyone to because the only person who can get him out of this is him. "And me", Sam adds. Dean breaks the moment. He mocks Sam’s "and me". Sam asks if Dean wants a poem. Dean replies the moment’s gone. He turns on the television and hands Sam a beer. Aww. I love those guys.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Metropolitain Museum of Art Unveils Superhero Exhibit
Guess who was at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's new exhibit: "Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy" (Hint: his initials are TW). The exhibit features three types of superhero costumes on display. First, there are original superhero costumes that were worn by actors in the major superhero movies — Superman, Spider-Man, Batman, Iron Man, Catwoman (from Batman Returns, not Catwoman), and Mystique.
The "real" superhero costumes are juxtaposerd with fantastical outfits put together by today's hot designers, including Versace, Armani, Docle & Gabbana, and John Galliano. Finally, the curators included some contemporary sportswear that has clearly been influenced by superhero costume designs.
The exhibit runs from May 7 to September 1.
Check out DVICE's gallery for more pics.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
SV: 7-18 "Apocalypse" Review
Meh. Another filler episode. Clark finds out what would happen if he’d never been sent to Smallville when Krypton exploded. Nothing really changed except the PTB might have inadvertently changed Clark’s memories of his mother in "Memoria".
Lex was great. Now that’s Lex Luthor. Clark is still obsessing over Lana... although he refuses to tell Lex about Brainiac when Lex offers to help Lana if only Clark would tell him what happened to her. I don’t understand why Clark would keep that to himself. Lex has met Brainiac. I guess Lex could put 2 and 2 together if he found out Brainiac is after Lana. I mean, why Lana? Because of Clark – the Traveler. Unless Lana's the Traveler! Clark in effect chose his secret over helping Lana (unless he didn’t believe Lex could help).
This is interesting. If Clark had never come to Smallville, Lois would not only be a reporter (How? No Barn Door of Inspiration), she’d have a brain and a Pulitzer. It makes no sense and it’s giving me a headache. This observation is from TWoP: Is AU Lois Lane destined to be with blond teenage Clark Kent, son of AU Martha and Jonathan Kent? They grow them young in Kansas!
Warning: Watch out for the anvils!
Kent Loft: Clark sits staring at Swann’s journal with a picture of Lana nearby. *sigh* Even when Lana is not in the episode, our protagonist has to obsess over her. Chloe comes up the stairs. She says she must have tripped every speed trap in Smallville getting there. She wants to know what happened. Clark replies that he got another SOS from Kara. It says "Krypton will be destroyed any minute. Brainiac is getting closer. Please hurry. Your life depends upon it." Chloe says that Brainiac used Kara to time jump back to the day Krypton exploded. All Brainiac has to do is stop the ship that carried Clark from Krypton. "And you’d be standing alone in an empty barn", finishes Clark. Chloe thinks that if Brainiac and Kara made the quantum leap (hee!), he should be able to also. Clark admits that Kara mentioned that the Fortress has the power to send him back. If he takes the octagonal disk to the Fortress, Jor-El can make it happen. Chloe grabs the book with the key. She asks what Clark is still doing here. Clark replies that he’s not going. Chloe reminds him that he has to stop Brainiac or he’ll fade away. Clark says that he understands that. Chloe says that she understands his hesitancy. The last time he meddled with the past it cost Jonathan his life. She says that he doesn’t have a choice. Clark replies that he does have a choice and he’s making it now. Ever since he arrived he’s brought death and destruction, meteor freaks, phantoms, Brainiac. Chloe plays cheerleader again. She tells Clark that he’s done plenty of good and he can’t blame himself for all the bad in the world. Can I say how tired I am of a whiny, self-pitying, lanafied Clark Kent? I’m also tired of Chloe cheering the stupid, obsessed, oblivious intergalactic traveler on. After two duds in a row, I think I’m tired of Smallville.
Clark replies that it’s not blame. He’s taking responsibility for all the lives he’s ruined... including Lana’s. Don’t you mean especially Lana’s, Clark? Be honest. Chloe is slowly losing it. She says that it’s not time to be stubborn. They need him, she needs him. Clark insists that she’ll be fine. Once he’s gone, she’ll have no idea that he was here. Chloe angrily says that she’s not letting him off that easy. She puts the key in his hand and insists that he’s going back to Krypton now before it’s too late. Clark says that the planet will be better off if he never existed. Suddenly, a light comes from the key. It envelops Clark as Chloe looks on. 
Kent Barn: Clark is lying on the floor. He gets up and calls for Chloe. It’s kind of cool. The barn slowly lights up as he turns around. I love when Tom Welling directs. A young blond guy wearing a Crows jacket comes in the barn. He wants to know what the hell Clark is doing on their property. Did Clark ever use the H. word? Clark asks who he is. The guy replies that he lives here and he’s Clark Kent. Duh, duh, duh.
Clark runs to the house. He picks up a picture of "Clark", Martha, and Jonathan. Hee. It looks like a pic of TW!Clark, Martha and Jon with TW’s face Photoshopped out. "Clark" comes in after Clark. He asks what Clark is doing. Clark says that he’s not in this picture. He figures out that "Clark Kent" is their son. "Clark" says that Clark’s lucky that his dad didn’t find him in the barn or he’d be pulling out his twelve-gauge. Clark looks hopeful. He realizes that Jon is still alive. Clark starts yelling for his dad. "Clark" is confused by Clark’s outburst. He says that no one is home. He threatens to call the sheriff. Clark realizes that he never made it to Earth; he never got on the ship and shouldn’t be here but somehow he is. At hearing about a ship, "Clark" tells Clark to relax; he’ll get him some help. Clark says that he wants to talk to Jon and Martha. "Clark" replies that they are on a cruise celebrating Jon’s birthday. Clark returns to his obsession. He asks if Lana Lang is okay. "Clark" replies that he doesn’t know a Lana. You don’t know how lucky you are, "Clark". He offers to call the sheriff. Clark says that he just wants to know if his friends are okay. He needs a phonebook. 
Clark is crossing a street looking down at a paper. When he looks up he spots Chloe. The guy she’s walking with says that he’ll be right back and walks away. Clark walks up to Chloe. He says her name, Smallville High, class of ’05. Chloe doesn’t recognize him. Clark tells her his name. He says that they went to high school together. When Chloe still looks confused, Clark adds that he was a bit of an outsider. He says that he’s trying to find a mutual friend, Lana Lang. Chloe says that they didn’t hang together and she lost track of her on graduation. Clark asks if she was a reporter at the Torch. He suggests she uses her investigative magic to help track Lana down. Chloe says that she’d love to help but they have to be somewhere. Clark asks if "they" is her and her boyfriend. The hottie in question comes up behind Chloe and says that he’s her fiancé. Hottie is a police officer for the MPD. Cool. He wears a Superman crest on his t-shirt (check the pic!). Clark notices the engagement ring and looks pleased (maybe a little wistful?). Hottie says that the wedding is on Sunday. Clark congratulates Chloe. Hottie says that Chloe’s dad is waiting at the tuxedo shop. Chloe hopes Clark finds Lana (and I hope he doesn’t). Clark says he’s really happy for her.
Daily Planet: Jimmy is focusing his camera on a busy Lois (a busy Lois?! I never thought I’d put those two words together in a sentence!) when Clark gets in his line of vision. Jimmy lowers his camera. Clark compliments Jimmy’s bowtie. Jimmy says that it’s a present from an old girlfriend. She took his heart but left him with a sense of style. Clark asks if he’s Jimmy Olsen. When Jimmy says yes, Clark says that every time he sees a picture he likes in the paper, Jimmy’s name is on it. Laying it kind of thick, aren’t you Clark? Jimmy is surprised. He wishes Clark was his editor because his editor says he’s got focus issues. Jimmy asks if Clark works there. Clark says no and he’s lost track of an ex-girlfriend (I wish). He wants to use the DP archives to find her. Jimmy offers to help Clark. Jimmy finds out that after high school, Lana studied art history; she met and married Pierre Rousseau; they married and they have two kids. Clark looks pleased.
As he’s about to go, he walks into Lois. Lois is impressed. Jimmy asks if Lois needs a photographer. Lois answers that she needs Jimmy to make another delivery (why doesn't she make her own deliveries?). She introduces herself to Clark. She asks if he always bowls women over the first time he meets them. Jimmy tells Lois not to be too hard on Clark. He just found out his girlfriend is with a French philanthropist. Clark starts to say that it’s not that bad when Lois interrupts. She says that she knows all about unrequited love (isn't that Chloe's gig?). She says she’s had more heroes exit stage left than a Greek tragedy. Lois adds that talking about things usually helps and offers to meet Clark at O’Malley’s. Wow. That’s Lois Lane?! She’s easy.
Some men come up behind Lois. They ask if her name is Lois Lane. Lois replies that that’s what it says on her Pulitzer. Kara walks up to Lois. She says that Lois is in possession of property belonging to the US government and arrests Lois. Clark asks what Kara is doing. Kara tells him that it’s official government business and to stay out of it. Clark wants to know what’s going on. Jimmy explains that that was Linda Danvers, head of the DDS (Department of Domestic Security). She was appointed the month before. Clark asks who appointed her. Jimmy says the only person who can. He picks up a copy of the Daily Planet showing picture of Lex on the the cover. Jimmy says the President of the United States.
Clark can’t believe that Lex Luthor was elected president. Tom pronounces Luthor as Luther. It bugs me. Jimmy says that ever since he branded out the meteor freaks he’s been a national hero. Clark asks if there was a meteor shower. Jimmy replies that it made the headlines and Luthor saved the day. Clark wants to know if Lois’ arrest has anything to do with Lex. Jimmy snarks that Clark is on a first name basis with the president. Clark replies that Lois is his friend and he wants to help. Jimmy reminds him that he and Lois just met. Yeah, Clark, keep your head in the game. Clark says that there must be some way to help her. Jimmy replies that he’s trying to keep his butt out of an orange jumpsuit (eh, like he did in "Sleeper"). Jimmy is about to shred the envelope Lois gave him when Clark snatches it away from him. Clark reads it and asks what it means. Jimmy replies that he’s just the messenger. Clark wants to know where Jimmy was taking it. Jimmy asks why he should tell Clark. Clark picks him up and slams him against the shelves. Jimmy says the Ace of Clubs; look for the suit at the end of the bar.
Ace of Spades Club: Clark looks around and spots Sheriff Adams in a suit at the bar. Clark asks her if she’s Sheriff Adams. Adams replies that it’s a long time since anyone’s called her that. She asks if she knows Clark. He answers that he grew up in Smallville. Adams asks what Clark’s business is here. Clark puts down the envelope and says he’s making a delivery. Adams is upset that the envelope’s been opened. Clark threatens to out Adams to the government if she doesn’t tell him what’s going on. Adams reveals that she is the government. She suggests that Clark go back to Smallville before she arrests him. Clark counters "like you did to Lois Lane?". Adams is surprised that Lane was arrested. Clark says that the DDS picked her up that morning for being in possession of something that belonged to the government. Adams looks uncomfortable. Clark catches on. He realizes that Adams is Lois’ informant. Adams threatens Clark. He says he just wants to help and asks where the DDS took Lois. Adams tells him to give up and turns around only to see Clark in front of her again. He says that he doesn’t give up and demands that Adams tell him when Lois is.
Two official looking vehicles stop at a building. Kara comes out and tells the others to bring Lois in and not to let anyone talk to her until she (Kara) returns. As Lois is being led out, a blur hits one of the agents, then the other. Lois starts to run but the blur picks her up. It’s Clark. Lois looks smitten. She says talk about sweeping a girl off her feet. Clark smiles. I don't get this scene. Why did Clark pick Lois up? From the promo pics, I thought Lois was hurt or something. Instead he just randomly picks her up. Strange.
Olsen’s Loft: Clark wonders why Lois is public enemy number 1. Lois replies that she’s not. She has a classified document that proves that Luthor is putting the country in jeopardy. She shows Clark a video of Lex telling the nation that satellite images revealed that their enemies have deployed nuclear missiles within striking distance of the country. Lex says that the threat will not be tolerated and leaves them no choice but to respond with force. Lois stops the video. She says that she’s got proof that there is no threat. She says that when she was with the DDS guys, they mentioned that they were "moving the Eagle to the mountaintop". Clark thinks it’s some kind of code. Lois says that it means that they are moving Luthor to the Norad bunker in anticipation of a nuclear war. Lois says that since it’s a fake threat, Lex wants to give the enemy a sucker punch with a preemptive nuclear strike. She adds that she has to post the truth on the Planet’s front page before Luthor presses the button.
They wonder why Luthor is gung-ho to annihilate the Earth. The video behind Lois shows an image of Milton Fine, the Chief of Staff. Clark thinks that it’s because of Fine. Clark wonders how Fine managed to get to Earth. Lois is confused. Clark says that Milton Fine doesn’t care what happens to the planet because he’s not human; he’s a machine. Clark says if he’d been here to take him on, none of this would have happened. Clark says that he thought everyone would be better off without him, but it’s worse than he ever imagined. Okay, now that you’ve learned your lesson, can we go back to reality? I guess not.
Lois is still confused. She guesses that Clark is an android. Clark says that he’s the one person who can defeat Fine. Lois says that Luthor is holding a press conference in Smallville and the only way to stop his plan is to get to the briefcase with the nuclear attack codes. Clark says that he’ll get past security. Lois tells him that even if he gets in he’ll still stick out like a red and blue thumb. Lois opens Olsen’s roommate’s closet. She says that he’s about the right size. She hands Clark a suit and tie and tells him to strip. At Clark’s uncomfortable look, she leaves and closes the door. She starts to peek when the door opens and Clark’s all dressed up. She gives Clark her press badge and tells him to say it’s a typo – his name is Louis. Lois eyes Clark for a bit. She says something is missing. I realize that this scene was shot because of the anvils but really, Clark could have snuck in wearing his red jacket seeing as he doesn't bother with the reporter pretence when he interacts with Lex and co. Oh, well. We must have our anvils.
Clark walks in with other journalists. He’s wearing the Clark Kent signature glasses that he quickly ditches. He listens into a conversation between Lex and Kara. Lex is surprised that with Kara’s abilities, Lane was able to escape. He accuses Kara of turning on him. Kara says that he’s like a brother to her and she’ll always be loyal to him. Lex counters that letting his enemy escape is an odd way of showing it. Kara says that Lex’s enemy is Milton Fine. Lex doesn’t believe her. He says they are so close and she betrays him the very moment he needs her the most. Kara says that she’s already seen one planet destroyed and she’s not going to let it happen again. She hands Lex a document found in Lois’ office. It’s a document signed by Fine authorizing false reports. She says there are no missiles threatening them. Kara says that she’d never doubt Lex, just Fine. 
Lex takes the document and sets it on fire. Kara is confused. She asks what Lex is doing. Lex explains that Fine was following his orders. He is disappointed that Kara is questioning his judgment. Lex says that since Lionel found Kara’s ship at Reeves Dam, he raised her as his daughter and protected her secret. Kara starts to say something but Lex interrupts. He reminds her that she is an alien and he is the President of the USA and by striking the enemy first, he is ensuring their survival. Kara looks down. Lex says that they will prevail. He yells at Kara to look at him. He adds that he expects Kara to stand by his side. Kara agrees.
Fine comes in. He tells Lex that the press has arrived. Lex tells Kara that great leaders are defined by the difficult decisions they make. Lex goes to greet the press with Fine. Kara walks out another door. She sees Clark. She warns him that it’s a restricted area and reporters are not allowed here. Clark calls her Kara. Kara is surprised. She asks how he knows that name. Clark says that he’s from Krypton, he’s her cousin Kal-El. Kara says that she was sent to kill him and takes a swing at him. Clark easily dodges her. She says that she searched the globe but couldn’t find him. She asks how he can be here now. Clark replies that he never existed in this world, but somehow he’s here. He says that he can’t explain what happened but they need to get the briefcase with the nuclear codes away from Lex. Kara says that she trusts Lex. Clark replies that Milton Fine is Brainiac. He says that together they can stop Brainiac once and for all. They both look determined.
Lex is in his office spinning the globe on his desk. Kara and Clark come in. Lex wants to know who is with Kara. Kara says that he’s from Krypton. Clark tries to convince Lex that everything he’s done is because of Fine. Fine is manipulating him with the goal of getting access to the country’s nuclear arsenal. Lex walks around to a statue. He says that sometimes things go so horribly wrong that the only way to fix them is to start over. Clark insists that Fine’s goal is to destroy mankind. Lex replies not everyone. America’s best and brightest are safe. They’ve been shuttled to bunkers. Clark says that it doesn’t make sense. They’ll be nothing for them to come back to. Lex says when the dust settles they will rebuild and he’ll lead the survivors to a new world. He turns around and shoots Clark. Clark just stands there. He puts his hand to the wound on his stomach and looks at the blood. Lex shoots him again in the shoulder. Clark falls to the floor.
Kara goes to Clark. She demands to know what Lex is doing. Lex replies that he thought one day he’d have to protect himself from her (Kara). He shoots her in the shoulder – and she just stands there and takes it. Oh brother. Kara basically has lost her memory, been abducted, and been shot. She’s like Lois – useless to the plot. Fine and two goons come in. Fine gives one of the goons some Kryptonite laced handcuffs and orders them to take Miss Danvers to the chopper and get her medical attention. The goons drag a handcuffed Kara way. 
Fine brings Lex the briefcase. Clark yells for Lex not to do this. Fine tells Lex that the future is his. Lex puts his thumb on a scan. He picks up the phone and says "on my mark". He gives the code. Clark yells that this is insane. Lex gives the order to initiate launch. Fine says that the team will assemble at the Norad bunker; he will deal with the intruder. Why? Just leave him there. He’ll be annihilated. Fine says that security will meet Lex and take him to Air Force One.
Missiles are launched. Fine tells Clark that he will not keep him from the mission he was programmed for. Clark guesses that Zod is around. Fine says that he’s trapped in the Phantom Zone. With the humans gone, he’ll use Kara to release him through her Fortress and use Lex as the vessel for Zod. Together they will repopulate the planet and Krypton will rise again. Yes, yes, but what about Lana?!! Fine points the gun at Clark. He tells Clark that he can’t change the course of history and shoots Clark.
Clark finds himself at the Fortress. Jor-El says that he’s disappointed in him. No kidding. Jor-El says that Clark can’t question his destiny on this planet. Jor-El adds that the disk in his (Clark’s) hand revealed his misguided intentions. He was forced to show Clark the error of his ways. Clark asks to be sent back. Jor-El warns him to stop the Brain Interactive Construct. He says that Clark can’t fail; there will be no second chances.
Clark is back in the loft with Chloe. Chloe wonders what happened. She hugs him. She says that she thought he was gone forever. Clark says that there’s still time; he has to make it right; he has to go to Krypton.
Krypton (same special effects as in "Lara"): Brainiac puts baby!Kal-El on an illuminated table. He’s such a cutie!! He starts to cry. Aww. Brainiac takes a spike and is about to skewer baby!Kal-El. He tells baby!Kal-El that not every boy grows up to be a hero. Kara stops him. He hits her. She goes flying holding the spike. Brainiac says that Kal-El will die on Krypton and so will Kara. Clark says that he won’t let that happen. Clark says that Brainiac is going to release Lana. Yes. Because it’s All. About. Lana. Kara distracts Clark and Brainiac gains the upper hand. He grabs Clark by the throat. Brainiac reminds Clark that there’s no yellow sun to charge him. Brainiac throws Clark. He holds up a spiked finger and says that Clark’s not in Kansas anymore. Hee. Suddenly the spike Kara was holding pierces Brainiac’s chest. Brainiac falls to the floor. Kara yells for Clark to put the baby (himself) on the ship and she’ll take care of Brainiac. 
Clark v e r y s l o w l y puts baby!Kal-El in the ship. Kara takes a large piece of rock and throws it on Brainiac as he laughs. Clark and Kara stand around as Krypton crumbles around them. This scene is endless. Superman music plays as Krypton explodes and baby Kal-El’s ship escapes. That part was cool.
Kent Farm: Kara comes down the stairs as Clark hangs up the phone. He says that the nurse told him that Lana is worse than ever. Kara is sure that she destroyed Brainiac. Clark says that he thought that if Brainiac died, his grip over Lana would be broken. He was wrong. Kara suggests they reopen the portal to Krypton. Clark replies that there’s no going back. Kara replies that if they go back they could save their home. Kara says that if they find the right point in time, they can fix everything. Clark asks how they’ll know that they won’t make it worse. Good point, Clark. Clark says that they can’t change the past only affect the future. Kara says that whatever the future, she’ll always be there for Clark. Weird.
Clark comes up the stairs to his loft. Lex is there waiting for him. Yay! Another loft scene I like. Lex says the place hasn’t changed since he last saw it. Clark asks what Lex is doing here. Lex throws a football to Clark and Clark catches it. Lex says that Clark was the last person to see Lana well. Oh. I was premature with my yay. This conversation is going to be All. About. Lana. Lex says that Clark’s the one to talk to if Lex has any chance of helping her. Clark throws the football on the ground. He says that no one is asking for Lex’s help. Lex says that he had the best medical minds examine her. Clark meekly asks if there is anything the doctors can do to help her. Lex replies that the doctors said that it’s like nothing they’ve come across; almost alien. The doctors have come to the conclusion that Lana’s state is irreversible. Riiight. Lex says that if they could figure out what triggered Lana’s syndrome they could have hope. Lex asks if there is anything that might explain how this could have happened. Clark lies no. Lex says that if Clark remembers anything, he knows where to find him (Lex).
Daily Planet: Clark sits at Lois’ desk. Lois says that it’s a new side to Clark Kent; mild mannered reporter for a great metropolitan newspaper. Clark says that he’s not after her job, he’s just borrowing the Planet’s database. Lois asks what Clark’s looking up. Of course, it’s about Lana because it’s All. About. Lana. Clark has an article about comas on the screen. Clark says that he’s sure there’s someone out there that can help Lana. Lois replies that with all her years of watching Dr. Phil, she’d know what to say but she’s drawing a blank. She doesn’t do well with sad. Clark tells her not to beat herself up over it. Lois says that Clark was there when she needed a shoulder to cry on. She adds that she wishes she could make everything alright. Clark says that she’s a good friend. Doesn't take much, eh, Clark? Lois suggests that they go drown their sorrows. Yeah, booze. Lois says that Clark’s legal now. Clark replies that he’s not into the nightlife scene. Lois says that she’ll take that as a challenge.
Kent Kitchen: Kara walks to the fridge and takes out the milk bottle. She’s about to drink (from the bottle!) when she feels pain in her head. The bottle falls to the floor. Kara drops to the floor from the pain.
