After a lengthy hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kent Family is back and better than ever. To be honest, I was afraid of how the shutdown would affect my favorite television show, but after witnessing episode 6, the only thought I could muster is that I need more.
For those who don’t know, “Superman and Lois” is a fresh new chapter built upon the foundation of realistic integrity with enough Sam Raimi camp and a dose of Synder movie magic. Of course, even though the series is part of the once decorated and spread-out multiverse born from the creative genius of The CW and Greg Berlanti, it brings originality and unique perspectives to certain characters of DC Comics lore and mythology.
Though this is where the series flourishes, and it’s clear the fans are welcoming it, it doesn’t feel bogged down or constrained by flaws of writing or narrative-based direction.
Instead, it’s vibrant, beautiful, paved from passion and utterly human. I noticed every episode feels fresh and serialized but leaves room for a moral to showcase the humanity and hope of what Superman embodies.
It’s clear to see this a Clark who has everything he always dreamt of, and the challenges of being Superman and Clark Kent are put to the test. There are times where one has to focus and balance being human and a hero with fatherhood. Tyler Hoeclin continues to play the role to extreme perfection. The fact that the narrative allows Clark to blend in and find placement among his sons as a parent volunteer on the high-school football team is brilliant. It builds a foundation to see a father get close to his children while tackling real social issues while simultaneously invoking commentary on a challenging subject.
The series is foundational of Lois, and she does get her well-deserved recognition in the spotlight. We see her sleuthing ability take center stage, and it leads to an exciting story thread (Which I can’t spoil because it’s ingenious how the writers are pulling this off). It does raise the question of whether the series will go onto a different path while not straying too far from the comics. I need to praise Bitsie Tulloch for playing Lois Lane with a sense of grit reminiscent of the animated series while remaining endearing and truthful.
Still, it’s the super sons and the dynamic between Clark and their personal growth that is the most intriguing, in my opinion. I noticed that even though Jordan and Jonathan come off significantly different, it’s the chemistry between the two that gives a foundation for a multi-layered dynamic — leading to my point of how the writers get these characters. For example, even though Jordan is the one who inherits Clark’s powers, it’s clear to pick up that Jonathan cares and supports his brother even when it indeed doesn’t seem like it. He comes off cold and distant, but he longs to “get the girl, be a quarterback,” which leads to the character being portrayed as questioning his place in the Kent family.
Of course, the second you see him lurking in the darkness of jealousy, he is pulled out by his family. I mean, it only makes sense because moral justice instills the Kent Family, which is only a trait that Clark and Lois can pass down. Just another prime example of paying respect and showcasing the passion for what makes this series special.
Another thread that deserves praise is how the series pays attention to the source material of showcasing what makes Smallville unique and iconic. Nothing ever feels shoehorned or out of place. We see Lana and her family grow along with the Kents, and we see their flaws and struggles they find themselves entangled in. As someone who loves the small town influence and humble commentary of what Smallville truly represents for the character of Superman, the presence of human relatability is ingrained in the mindset of Clark Kent is appreciated.
I think it’s only fair to flesh out the small things. For example, the football team who once ostracized Jordan now coming to his support, the mining community with Kyle Cushing and how he believes Morgan Edge truly cares about the town is eye-opening. What I’m trying to say is that Superman is iconic and a beacon of hope. He is still Clark Kent, raised by morals and what it means to be human, which he instills to his kids. I feel both sides need to respect one another, and this episode showcases the balance of duality and identity.
I enjoy the series in the balance of character development, which grows and builds throughout every episode. At times, I was surprised at how characters you never thought possible would cross paths that lead to mystery and intrigue that is reflective of suspense.
The next point which deserves praise is the quality of the series and its growth in the budget and production to bring this world to life. The cinematography feels reminiscent of a movie, and the color aesthetic is a much-needed inclusion to give separation.
“Superman and Lois” continues to build in tension and excellent story-telling while staying grounded and utterly human, and it works on every level. I feel going forward, the series does have the potential to be one of the best Superman adaptations of all time.
