Late thursday afternoon The CW issued a press release concerning The 10th season of Smallville. Let’s get right to it, shall we?

The CW Network has announced that its hit series SMALLVILLE will return in the fall of 2010 for a momentous tenth season.

SMALLVILLE was developed for television by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar (“Shanghai Noon,” “The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor”), based on the DC Comics characters.  Kelly Souders & Brian Peterson serve as executive producers, along with James Marshall, Mike Tollin, Brian Robbins and Joe Davola.  The series is produced by Tollin/Robbins Productions, Millar/Gough Ink and Warner Bros. Television.  SUPERMAN was created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster.

SMALLVILLE, a modern retelling of the Superman legend, stars Tom Welling as Clark Kent.  The series moved to Friday nights this season, where it currently ranks as network television’s #1 show in its time period among men 18-34 and men 18-49.   Additionally, SMALLVILLE has dramatically improved The CW’s ratings performance in its Friday 8:00-9:00p.m.time period by 67% among adults 18-34 (1.5/6), 200% in men 18-34 (1.8/7), 75% in adults 18-49 (1.4/5), 183% in men 18-49 (1.7/6) and 74% in total viewers (3.12million).

SMALLVILLE joins the five previously announced series – THE VAMPIRE DIARIES, GOSSIP GIRL, 90210, SUPERNATURAL, and AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL – which will all return for another season on The CW.

This is some really fantastic news that I think we all were expecting. The suprising thing for me was how well Smallville has done in the rating after being moved to friday nights. I follow the rating results after a episode airs, but I have not seen the numbers compiled to show how well it is doing on fridays.

We would love to see how excited you are about this news by leaving a comment below. Remember, if you are on “The Twitter” pay attention on fridays because there is usually a campaign to get Smallville on the top trends. It’s been very successful this year in making that happen and The CW interacts with the fans quite a bit when the trending campaign starts. Join in on the fun!

What did you think of tonight’s episode? Unfortunately we all have a long wait in store after that one… Smallville officially goes on hiatus and doesn’t return until April 2nd.  Until then, here’s the trailer the CW aired for 9×16, “Escape”

Thanks to SycloneFX for the clip.

ZOD IS SHOT — Bernard Chisholm (guest star J.R. Bourne), a doctor who died and was brought back to life by the Kandorians so they can experiment on him, escapes and kidnaps some Kandorians in order to prove aliens have invaded Earth.  Bernard tries to get Lois to write a story validating his claim, but when Lois refuses, he kidnaps her too.  In an effort to save his people, Zod poses as a reporter from the Daily Planet and uncovers Bernard’s secret lab.  Clark arrives at the lab just in time to see Zod get shot.

It’s the last episode of Smallville for five weeks!

Check back later for episode 144 of SHoE with your host Steve Glosson!

In the meantime, when the episode is over come back here and let us know what you thought, or email us so we can read your thoughts on the air!

LOIS MOVES IN WITH CLARK — It’s Valentine’s Day and while Clark is out on a date with Lois, he unknowingly becomes infected by gemstone kryptonite, which has magical wish-fulfilling properties. Clark mentions to Lois that he wishes they had a more traditional relationship, so Lois quits the Daily Planet, moves in with Clark and starts planning their wedding. Still unaware of his new power, Clark also casually tells Chloe he wishes she would spend more time watching out for him, so an infected Chloe takes his wish to heart and sets her sights on a new target, Lois.

Check back later for episode 143 of SHoE with your host Steve Glosson!

In the meantime, when the episode is over come back here and let us know what you thought, or email us so we can read your thoughts on the air!

Today’s SF takes us back in time to June 17th, 2008. In issue #17 of Smallville Magazine there was an origin story for Warrior Angel. Our very own Derek Russell was the writer for the article and and he was kind enough to provide me with the origin story. I see no need to rewrite or summarize the material, take a look after the jump and enjoy!

Early History
Speedier than the wind, brighter than the stars, and stronger than an airline jet, Warrior Angel is the most beloved comic book hero that you’ve never heard of. Created by Stephen Glosson in early 1947, the character was later sold to Fantasy Comics and appeared in their issue #1 in June of 1948. In subsequent years, the character of Warrior Angel has appeared in multitudes of media transitions, including radio, television, action figures, feature films, and breakfast cereals.

Humble Beginnings
Warrior Angel was born Lon-Gino from a planet called Altrizar in a distant other dimension.  With their galaxy facing inevitable apocalypse, Lon-Gino’s father, the brilliant technician Harth-Yon, developed a transport for altering his race’s genetic code for entering other dimensions and sent his son to the planet Earth in the final moments of their own dimension. Lon-Gino was 12 years old when Jeffery and Molly Dash found him wandering the streets of small town Coseyton, Ohio.  The older couple took the boy in and raised him as their own, naming him Thomas Dash. Thomas grew up more privileged than most in life and was want for nothing, not only due to the shear generosity of his adopted parents but also the amazing gifts he possessed as a result of the environment of his home world. Thomas gifts were only matched by his knowledge of his new surroundings. Dash’s abilities on Earth gave him the power to fly faster and farther than the strongest bird, and have the strength of the gods.
However, everyone knows everyone else’s business in Coseyton, and keeping these gifts a secret to stay off the radar proved challenging over the years.
Thomas’ best friend, Rick Riley, lived next door to Dash since they were kids. In college, the two were roommates at Grand Central University. Rick had always known of Thomas’ abilities, but vowed to keep them a secret until the fateful day when Thomas inadvertently had Riley arrested and expelled from the university. After years of studying criminal justice, Thomas joined the Grand Central Police Department as a detective, vowing to always put a stop to evil wherever he could.  However, Dash knew that a man can only do so much, but a force would show the criminals of his fair city that crime led nowhere but behind bars.  With the help of his parents, Dash created the alter ego of Warrior Angel, a hero for the masses and an inspiration for the citizens of Grand Central.
In jail, it didn’t take long for Rick Riley to take notice of Warrior Angel’s acrobatics and connect the dots. Upon release from prison, Riley vowed to hurt Dash and those closest to him and adapted the persona of Devilicus to destroy his former best friend once and for all, not by exposing him, but by defeating him and all that he stood for.
Over the years of detective work, Dash had taken notice of the number one television journalist for Grand Central, Dana Dane.  Dash and Dane had always had an on again/off again relationship for many years before Thomas finally came clean with her on his heritage, his home, and his real mission. Dana vowed to always keep Thomas’ hero ideal a secret, no matter how big a story and break it would be for her. After years of dating, it was announced that a graphic novel would be devoted to the Warrior Angel Wedding. Thomas Dash and Dana Dane were set to marry on New Year’s Eve 1999. The evil Devilicus shot and killed Dana Dane on her way to the ceremony, and Thomas arrived too late to save her life. Dash vowed to defeat Devilicus at whatever cost, not knowing his enemies real identity.  Warrior Angel retreated to his Isolation Bubble deep in space to find solace and solitude for several months while he grieved over the loss of his bride before returning to Earth to fight the evil forces that gathered against him.

Media Frenzy
Over the years, the character of Warrior Angel could be seen everywhere: from pillowcases to figurines, the face and crest of heavenly crusader was a common sight in any teenage boy’s possession.  After the initial Fantasy Comics run of the character, which had already caught up with a grown Thomas Dash and his alter ego, the hero was re-tooled a bit for a younger reading audience in the early 1950’s, and told the story of Halo Kid, a high school age Dash who fought for the same beliefs on a much smaller scale in his hometown of Coseyton.  This publication paved the way for multiple stories of the hero over the years, leading to a successful weekly radio program in 1954 that later was adapted into a television series entitled “The Warrior Angel Escapades” and starred Benjamin Murphy in the title role of Grand Central’s number one protector. However, the show had to be adapted for the primetime viewing audience, and certain changes were made for the American family’s viewing pleasure.  The main villain Devilicus was renamed The Mole, and the series featured the characters of Dash and Riley as detective partners for the police department, both seeking the attention of the lovely journalist, Dana Dane. The show ended after only two seasons, but the character of Warrior Angel lived on in the weekly comic strips and homemade costumes of every young fan.
In the late 1970’s several animated incarnations of Warrior Angel were developed, including a few team-up shows with him and other superheroes that called themselves, the GrandGuys. Each week they would battle an array of villains known only as The Elite, who were led by Devilicus. The Elite wanted only to rule the Guardian Realm, which was an orb of power from the transport that brought Warrior Angel to Earth’s dimension as a child. Whoever controls the Guardian Realm has the ability to travel to any dimension, and rule them all. Devilicus tried several times to convince Warrior Angel to rule the Guardian Realm with him, but the hero always prevailed.

Larger Than Life
In 1989, the first ever feature film was released, showing the genesis story of the hero, from his birth on Altrizar to his arrival of Warrior Angel. The film, starring Tracey Graham as the iconic hero, was a box office success, and spawned 3 sequels over the next 6 years that further expanded the story and fanbase for a whole new generation of Warrior Angel fans. Currently, the first feature film in over 15 years is being shot in rural Smallville, Kansas with famous actress Rachel Davenport starring as Dana Dane and unknown actor Lake Colburn suiting up in the cape as Thomas Dash/Warrior Angel. This new incarnation of the character will take a turn from the regular story, and will instead have Warrior Angel save Dana’s life at the hands of Devilicus instead of watching her die. This turn of events gained media attention and fan criticism in the past few months, when devoted Warrior Angel followers were soured by the story’s alteration and an employee on the set of the film almost had Rachel Davenport killed to prove his point. A local Smallville hero saved Ms. Davenport from the murder attempt, and the film is set to be released next year.

Thanks to Syclone FX for the trailer.

METROPOLIS HOSTS A COMIC BOOK CONVENTION — DC COMICS’ CHARACTER ZATANNA RETURNS — Clark meets Zatanna (guest star Serinda Swan) at a comic book convention, where she tells him her father charmed a copy of the comic book “Warrior Angel” and it holds magical powers.  A young man named Stephen (guest star Carlo Marks) steals the comic book and develops super powers, transforming himself into Warrior Angel and saving Chloe from a horrible accident. Meanwhile, Lois becomes jealous of Clark’s relationship with Zatanna.

Check back at the first of the week for episode 142 of SHoE, with TV Guide senior editor Damian Holbrook!

In the meantime, when the episode is over come back here and let us know what you thought, or email us so we can read your thoughts on the air!

]]> http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2010/02/12/warrior-airs-tonight/feed/ 32 http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2010/02/06/live-show-replay-absolute-justice/ http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2010/02/06/live-show-replay-absolute-justice/#comments Sat, 06 Feb 2010 23:45:06 +0000 Joe http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/?p=3141

DC COMICS’ CHARACTERS HAWKMAN, STAR GIRL AND DR. FATE FROM THE JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA MEET UP WITH CLARK AND HIS TEAM IN A SPECIAL TWO-HOUR EVENT; PAM GRIER GUEST STARS — A man named Sylvester Pemberton tracks down Chloe and tells her he knows about her team of superheroes and needs their help. However, before he can explain who he is, he is attacked and killed by Icicle (guest star Wesley Macinnes). Clark and Chloe’s investigation leads Clark to the former headquarters of the Justice Society of America where he meets up with Nelson AKA Dr. Fate (guest star Brent Stait), Carter Hall AKA Hawkman (guest star Michael Shanks) and Courtney AKA Star Girl (guest star Britt Irvin). Courtney pleads with Hawkman and Dr. Fate to help her catch the killer that is targeting their group but they are reluctant to resume their duties as superheroes. Clark, John Jones (guest star Phil Morris), Green Arrow and Chloe team up to help the JSA stop Icicle before he murders another member of the group. Meanwhile, Lois receives a package from a mysterious agency called Checkmate, run by Amanda Waller (guest star Pam Grier). Geoff Johns wrote the two-hour episode. Glen Winters directed the first hour & Tom Welling directed the second hour.

This is it: The 2hr Smallville Absolute Justice event, written by DC Comics’ on Geoff Johns. There is a TON of stuff to watch for tonight, so don’t miss one of the biggest Smallville experiences in nine years, tonight on the CW.

And after it’s over with, head on over to http://live.smallvillepodcast.com to join in on Starkville: Absolute Justice – a live episode event airing at 11pm/10pm CST and going through the west coast airing, where we will discuss in detail the episodes in question. Don’t miss it!

Well here we are with a new episode and a new character to discover their origin and backstory that was the basis for Vortigan on Smallville. The show only gave us snippets of what this character was all about, and I wish we could have seen a flashback scene or two explaining more about him. But at any rate lets see where the Smallville writers got their basis for Vortigan.

If you google “The Dark Archer” you will not find very much information about this character other than what we know from Smallville. Vortigan is bases on the DC Comics character Merlyn who was a mentor of Oliver Queen in his formative days of becoming Green Arrow.  Merlyn was created by Mike Friedrich, Dick Dillin, and comics legend Neal Adams and first appeared in Justice League of America #94 in 1971.

Merlyn “the Magician” was an accomplished archer who would often put on public displays for his skills. Olliver Queen was enamored by the archer and was his inspiration for his own archery skills.  When Oliver’s skills began to develop into a top-notch archer, Merlyn challenged him to a public archery contest and beat him.  Feeling good about his victory , Merlyn disappeared for many years, only to show up later acting under contract to kill Batman. Green Arrow was able to shoot his own arrow and deflect the one intended to kill Batman.  It is explained that Merlyn had become a part of the League of Assassins , which id the basis for the “League of Shadows” from the Batman Begins film.  Unable to compete his task in killing Batman and fearful that the league would hunt him down for failing, Merlyn goes on the run and does freelance assassin work.It is believed that Merlyn was with the League when David Cain’s daughter Cassandra was born and raised by the league to be a assassin. Cassandra eventually grows up to turn her back on the league and becomes Batgirl. (sidenote: The stories about Cassandra becoming and dealing with being Batgirl are some really fantastic stories)

Meryn’s appearances over the years have been spotty, usually popping up when a mystery assassin’s role is needed for the story.Ifd you haven’t noticed yet, there are many characters who are just “dark” versions of the hero. Merlyn is no exception and personally I find him very interesting.  One such story is that he appeared in Action Comics as a member of the “Injustice Gang” who were the arch enemies of the JLA.  He reappears as a member of the crime syndicate “The 100” who operates out of Metropolis. In one particular story, Merlyn squares off against Black Lighting and ultimately looses the battles to the hero.

Merlyn has another notable story in a crossover event called Underworld Unleashed that occured during the mid 1990’s. He joined a group called The Killer Elite with a group of villians, notably this included Deadshot who has connections to Checkmate. Checkmate is the title of an Smallville episode later this season and while I doubt Deadshot will get any kind of mention i think it was worth making the connection for you. This was a story where the group makes a deal with a demon to defeat the JLA. Thier plans fall through and the JLA end up successful in thwarting the groups plans.

The story that I most know Merlyn from is immensely popular “Identity Crisis”.  A hero’s wife is murdered and the villians go on the run as the JLA is thirsty for justice. If you like a good murder mystery and a ton of pivotal action involving the Justice League then I suggest you pick this story up or try and borrow it from your local library. Merlyn plays a rather strong role in this story and his look is really awesome.

In a recent story with Green Arrow, Merlyn was severly injured in a fight with another villian and is no longer able to speak.

All in all Merlyn is an interesting character, like I said before I like villians that are dopplegangers for their arch enemy. However I think the book is closed for The Dark Archer in Smallville. But wouldn’t this provide some good background for a Green Arrow spin-off series? I think so.

Leave a comment below and tell us what you thought of Vortigan or if you were already a fan of the Merlyn character.

NO LOVERS, NO ALLIES, NO DISCIPLES – INTRODUCING DC COMICS CHARACTER THE DARK ARCHER – Oliver’s past comes back to haunt him in the form of The Dark Archer (guest star Steve Bacic), Oliver’s former teacher, who seeks revenge on his student by taking aim at Lois and Chloe (Allison Mack). Oliver faces down The Dark Archer after his former mentor kidnaps Mia AKA “Speedy” (guest star Elise Gatien) but is pushed to his limit and Clark races to stop him from making another deadly mistake.

It’s 2010 and Smallville is back! We’ve had a fun day Tweeting all kinds of things Smallville related with fans in anticipation for tonight’s return, and we’re getting close to it! After the episode is over, come back here and let us know what you thought or email us for our next episode of SHoE featuring ‘Disciple’ director Mairzee Almas!

You might have been lucky enough to see DC Comics promoting Smallville’s 2hr event ‘Absolute Justice’ in one of your issues this week. If not, check out the full image after the jump.

With all the news bubbling to the surface in the past week or so concerning Smallville, there is yet another bit of news from Natalie Abrams of TV Guide. It is being reported that “The Silver Banshee” has been cast as the villan in episode 16 “Escape” .

The Banshee is a villain from the DC universe who is described as the spirit of a Gaelic Heroine. She gets accidentally released from the underworld and happens upon a romantic Bed and Breakfast. It just so happens that this very same B&B is where Clark and Lois will be spending a getaway together. The Silver Banshee is being played by Odessa Rae (Leverage).

I am very curious about this casting, the Silver Banshee has a very specific look and I am looking forward to see how she will look after the “Smallville treatment”.  Recently Smallville has done a fantastic job with getting the look of an established character right, so I am not concerned.

Do you know of this character? What feelings do you have about her coming to Smallville? Or is she new to you, what are your intitial impressions?

Sound off by leaving a comment below or visit our forums to discuss this and many of the other recent news stories with your fellow SHoE-ligans.

SMALLVILLE IS BACK THIS WEEK WITH A NEW EPISODE!!!

Smallville producers haven’t said when Martha would be returning. The timing of her return will most likely occur during the May sweeps. They also mention that she will have an “unexpected suprise” or two when she reunites with Clark. Martha has not been seen on screen since she left for Washington DC to fulfill her responsibilities as a US Senator in season 6.

Personally I think many fans (if not all) welcome her return with open arms. I am interested to see what she thinks of how Clark has been handling himself while she has been away. It should make for a fascinating reunion. Any ideas as to what her suprise might be? I know i have a few theories. Will Martha’s government connection shed any light to whether or not Clark and his “league” are being watched by big brother?

The second bit of news as I mentioned earlier is that Michael McKean will be returning as Perry White.  Michael Ausiello reported that Perry’s return will bring him closer than ever before to his destiny than ever before and we DO get to see the introduction of Mr. White to Lois Lane.  He also goes on to report that both Michael and Annette will be in the same episode 9×21. Thats right folks, the episode before the season finale. Perry White was last seen in season 3 of Smallville.

Does this excite you? Are you ready for Perry White on Smallvile? or do you think it’s too soon?

Michael Ausiello starts off his article by saying “could Michael Rosenbaum be next?”  I have to agree that with everything we have seen this year that ANYTHING is possible. Let’s just hope we get a 10th season, because bringing Lex back in any capacity would have to take place next season.

Let’s hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below.

DC Universe blog The Source has posted the official half-minute trailer for “Absolute Justice,” courtesy of The CW. Featured within the 30 second clip are numerous iconic artifacts, an aging piece of heroic artwork, and… well, we’ll just let you see for yourself.

To watch it at DC Universe blog The Source, click here.
To download the trailer, right click and “Save As” from here.

What did you think of this brief sneak peek at the special 2-hour event? Let us know in the comments!

It seems like it’s been an eternity since we have had a new episode of Smallvile. Well in a few short weeks we will have a new episode to get us excited about the second half of season 9. The CW has released an official description for the mid-season premier “Disciple” , and Speedy fans can rejoice because Mia will be returning to the cast for this episode.

NO LOVERS, NO ALLIES, NO DISCIPLES – INTRODUCING DC COMICS CHARACTER THE DARK ARCHER
Oliver’s (Justin Hartley) past comes back to haunt him in the form of The Dark Archer (guest star Steve Bacic), Oliver’s former teacher, who seeks revenge on his student by taking aim at Lois (Erica Durance) and Chloe (Allison Mack). Oliver faces down The Dark Archer after his former mentor kidnaps Mia AKA “Speedy” (guest star Elise Gatien) but is pushed to his limit and Clark (Tom Welling) races to stop him from making another deadly mistake. Mairzee Almas directed the episode written by Jordan Hawley.

So what’re you waiting for? Get to emailing in your questions! Get to donating in for great causes! And get ready to hear one of the most fun episodes of Starkville’s House of El ever!

Hey guys! I’m back in a very long and over due edition of Goodman Covers. This time we will take a long at the third issue in the retelling of Superman’s brand new origin in ‘Superman: Secret Origin”. Check out the full review after the jump!

Superman: Secret Origin #3

Written by Geoff Johns

Art by Gary Frank

After two great issues focusing on Clarks’ upbringing in Smallville, Johns and company flash forward to Clark and Superman’s first visit to Metropolis, and it’s an interesting visit to say the very least. Much like he’s known to do, Johns takes concepts and ideas that we are already familiar with and twists them ever so slightly to offer a new and interesting take on an established part of a character’s history. This time, it comes in two different variations; the Daily Planet and Metallo. I won’t spoil them for you, but it appears that Superman won’t only be saving people during his stay in Metropolis, and Metallo isn’t John Corben at all. At least not yet.

Outside of these two new twists, we finally get the introduction of Daily Planet crew, and everyone is here. From Cat Grant to Lois Lane, Johns makes us instantly like these characters, and I for one especially love his take on Lois in this issue. We also get some classic Lois and Clark interaction as the two sneak into Lex Luthor’s press conference. What’s interesting to note here is that Johns and Frank don’t actually show Lex’s face. We get a body shot, but all of Lex’s face is hidden from our view. This is an interesting decision, and I hope the big reveal is as interesting as it’s being made out to be. Of course, the issues ends with the reveal of Superman to the public of Metropolis, and it is every bit as grand and epic as it should be. Also, as I thought would be the case, Gary Frank’s art has much improved with the transition from Clark’s childhood to his manhood. Frank nails Clark/Superman’s resemblance to Christopher Reeve, which is something we’ve all come to expect from him.

It was another strong issue as we reach the half way point in this mini-series. What did you all think? Sound off in the comments below!

Brian Peterson recently had an interview with TV Guide writer and SHoE guest host Damian Holbrook to discuss the direction of the remainder of season 9 and the possibilities of a season 10. While the interview was filled with tasty morsels of Smallville news, there is nothing here that I feel would spoil you for the rest of the season. If you are interested to know about Zod, Absolute Justice, or  if we will see Clark will fly just click the link for the summarized interview.

In this interview Damian starts out by asking Brian “who and what” we will see in 2010.  Brian does give us some bits that should hold us over and keep us excited during the winter hiatus. He goes on to say that “Disciple” will be Mia taking it to the next level in becoming Speedy and that we will see her in a few episodes.

In talking about the Smallville 2-hour event “Absolute Justice”, Brian refers to it as a mini-movie and that it was not planned as such. He says that the story just became too big for one episode, and that from the intial footage it’s better than any Hero movie made in the last 2 years. Brian says that “this is one of the most exciting thing we have done in 9 years”. Michael Shanks has impressed everyone and they feel he is perfect for the role of Hawkman.  It is explained that the Society will show up at a time when our hero’s need them the most. They are not a cohesive group, they dont have a name for their group, and are going through quite a bit of growing pains. He would not go on to say what “leaguers” we would see in this movie as it depends a lot on the actors availability.  Brian goes on to say that the Society is from the past and previously worked underground and that is why no one has heard of them. When the JSA first meet the JLA there are quite a bit of sparks in the begining of the story.

Zod is addressed in the interview as well, and Brian explains that we will soon see what Zod is capable of when it comes to manipulation and coersion to reach his endgame of obtaining the Kryptonain powers he so much desires.

Damian asks Brian the question we all have been asking, when will Clark fly. Brian says that it will happen when the time is right, and I agree with him.  Superman’s power of flight is the most majestic of them all and shouldn’t be done without the proper situation. He say’s they’ve talked about it and they have a plan of how it should go.. The question is when.

Brian gets the other burning question and that is “if there is a season 10″. Brian says WHEN there is a season 10. He talks about how they envision the 10th season to be a reflection of the previous 9 and that it will be a time for Clark to stepo away from the black attire and the darker tones of season 9.  The loss of Jimmy, embracing his Kryptonian side, and finding his secret identity are all things that must happen before we see Clark step out of the darkness.

Like I said, not a lot of spoilery stuff here, but it does give us a peek behind the curtain to see what is planned. It also gives us some insight that alot of things are being thoughtfully planned out for the remainder of this season and the possibility of a season 10. To read Damian Holbrook’s interview in it’s entirety visit tvguidemagazine.com .

Leave a comment below. Is Smallville in good hands? Does this news make you happy? Can you wait for the proper moment to see Clark fly?

Simply launch iTunes by clicking here, and be ready to access all these great things with a simple touch of a button!

Updates will be added periodically to ensure a great experience for all of the app users!! Go download yours today!

]]> http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2009/11/20/the-shoe-app-is-now-available/feed/ 2 http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2009/11/20/pandora-airs-tonight/ http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2009/11/20/pandora-airs-tonight/#comments Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:11:12 +0000 Derek http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/?p=2919

BACK TO THE FUTURE — Tess kidnaps Lois to find out where Lois went after she disappeared for weeks. Lois’ memory of the future depicts a Metropolis under Zod’s rule and Clark powerless under the red sun, while Chloe forms a resistance group with Oliver. After learning of these future events, Clark makes an important decision about Zod.

It’s the last one of 2009, the Smallville mid-season finale! Seems like just yesterday we were counting down the hours til the premiere of “Savior”! But have no fear, SHoE will help you through the withdrawls, we’re even tentaviely planning a SHoE live show after “Pandora” airs tomorrow night to discuss between the hosts and fans what they thought of the ninth episode of the season. More details on that as they become available. We’ll also be back with your regular episode for ‘Pandora’ and hopefully one or two more before 2010 gets here. Hopefully we’ll get a glimpse of Smallville: Absolute Justice at the end of the episode tomororw night. Check back soon for episode 137, details on the SHoE live event, and Louis Febre’s ‘Scoring Smallville’ which we hope to catch up with over the hiatus.

Also, if you’re a Twitter user, don’t forget to include the #Smallville hashtag in all of your tweets today. It’s the last episode of 2009, and we’re trying our best to honor that by getting #Smallville into the trending topics! Join us in tweeting all Friday afternoon.

Kneel before Zod.

What do you think of the name change? Sound off in the comments below!

(Via Entertainment Weekly’s Ausiello Files)

Don’t miss the next to last episode of 2009, “Idol” tonight at 8pm/7pm central on The CW, discuss it here on the site or check out our forums where you can meet other Smallville and SHoE fans to discuss. Check back later for our latest episode, a new interview, and be looking for other goodies as well – including tonight’s trailer for the highly anticipated”Pandora” and Louis Febre’s “Scoring Smallville” for the past few episodes, which we’ll get posted soon – he’s a busy man!

Both episodes are written by DC Comics favorite Geoff Johns (directed by Glenn Winter and Tom Welling) but it’s unclear at this time if the episodes will just air as two separate installments (9×11 & 9×12) back to back, or if they will be edited together with “Part 1″ and “Part 2″ credits rolling in the opening minutes. More news as it becomes available!

What do you all think? Sound off in the comments below!

It’s time for another installment of “Goodman Covers”. This time we’ll look at the second issue of Superman: Secret Origin to see how the second issue compares to the first issue. The full review after the break.

Superman Secret Origin #2

Written by Geoff Johns with art by Gary Frank

What continues to amaze me about this mini-series is just how well Geoff Johns gets Superman and his supporting cast.  There are few writers in the comic book industry who can write Superman as effortlessly as Johns.  This same trend continues forward into the second issue, as we see the Legion appear to Clark and take him on a whirlwind adventure into the future. For those of you that enjoyed “Legion” last year, there are some more great moments with these characters, and it’s a great feeling to see Johns write Cosmic Boy, Lightning Lad, and Saturn Girl again.  Much like last issue, Johns is taking cues from all sorts of Superman mythos and incorporating it into this new origin, and there are plenty of Smallville references in this issue for fans of the show, and each one is done in such a way that even to hint at them would ruin the surprise and fun each moment brings.

On the art side, Gary Frank’s work looks better than last issue, but some of his faces still come off as weird and awkward. I hope by the next issue that some of these problems go away.

If you didn’t get a chance to pick up issue #1, don’t fret. Issue #2 is a great jumping on point for those that want to get in on the series.  It’s hard to find mini-series now a days were you can jump in and still feel like you haven’t missed anything, and Secret Origins does a great job of accomplishing this fact. Another fantastic issue by a fantastic writer and a fantastic artist. If you call yourself a Smallville fan, heck, if you call yourself a Superman fan, you owe it to yourself to pick up this issue and go a head and get on board with what potentially might be the year’s best mini-series. You won’t be disappointed.

Entertainment Weekly’s Michael Ausiello reported today about some brand new casting news out of the Smallville universe. Pam Grier will join Smallville for “multiple episodes” according to Ausiello. But who exactly is the Golden Globe Nominated actress playing? The casting and a bit of analysis after the break…

Pam Grier will join the cast starting in the episode “Legends” as the one and only Amanda Waller. For those unfamiliar with the character, Waller is a known villain in the DC universe, who often time works with Checkmate (a covert operation group) and the Suicide Squad (a group of supervillians that do top secret missions in exchange for pardons from their crimes). Waller is a tough woman, who is a formidable opponent, and a woman that should be feared.  I haven’t personally seen any of Grier’s acting, but the fact that she was nominated for a Golden Globe speaks volumes.  Pam Grier also looks the part, and that’s half the battle right there.  Needless to say, I’m excited for Waller to appear in the Smallville universe, and the fact that she’ll be staying around could be quite interesting as the second half of the season moves forward.

What do you all think? Sound off in the comments below!

(Via Ausiello at Entertainment Weekly)

Smallville will see the return of a character that was very well received in season 8. That’s right, Zatanna will be on the show sometime in  early 2010. In an interview with TV guide , Serinda Swan who played Zatanna in “Hex”, talk about the characters return to Smallville.

Swan talks about when she will be returning, but is very tight-lipped about why Zatanna will be back:

This time, Swan will appear in an early 2010 episode tentatively titled “Warrior.” As for the why of Zatanna’s return, the show is keeping super-silent. “But knowing the character and what she’s capable of, it’s going to be something pretty interesting,” the actress teases.

She goes on to mention how she was able to get the role for Zatanna by learning spells backwards (which is how Zatanna’s magic works) by using her ipod and practicing saying them backwards. She says that she will need to “brush up” on her incantations.

Season 9 has so far brought us a number of characters from the DC universe and the return of Zatanna just shows the direction of the show and possible building blocks for a team based confrontation at some point before the series comes to an end.(that’s my hope anyways)

Did you like Zatanna in “Hex” and does this news raise any excitement for the second half of season 9? Will she still bump heads with Oliver? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think.

JOR-EL APPEARS IN SMALLVILLE — Jor-El (guest star Julian Sands) mysteriously arrives at the Kent farm searching for his son, Kal-El, but meets Chloe instead.  Convinced the Blur is Jor-El, Zod enlists Tess’ help in finding him to force him to reveal the secret to his powers.  Clark realizes Jor-El is alive and on Earth and races to find him before Zod does.

Don’t miss “Kandor” tonight at 8pm/7pm central on The CW, discuss it here on the site or check out our forums where you can meet other Smallville and SHoE fans to discuss. This has been SHoE’s most sought after episode this season on Smallville and we can’t wait to talk about it! Check back later for our latest episode and be looking for other goodies – including tonight’s trailer for “Idol” and Louis Febre’s “Scoring Smallville” for the past few episodes, which we’ll get posted soon – he’s a busy man!

It’s time for another edition of Goodman Covers!  This time we’ll focus on the recently ended mini-series; Blackest Night: Superman. Check the full review after the break!

Blackest Night: Superman #1-3

Written by James Robinson with Art by Eddy Barrows

When DC first announced the Blackest Night event, which involves dead DC characters returning to life via Black Lantern Rings, one of the first characters I thought that would and should be affected by this event is Superman.  Turns out that DC and I where on the same page as Blackest Night: Superman came to a close last month.

As I said above, Blackest Night is DC’s big event for this year and started in the Green Lantern series, but has since moved on to its own title and spawned several tie-ins.  The basic idea is that all of DC’s dead characters, hero or villain, are given a power ring that downloads all the memories of that particular character.  After this, the Black Lantern is off to terrorize and kill anyone and everyone that stands in its way.  But first, the lantern must scan a person, and get them to emit an emotional response, and then the lantern rips out that person’s heart. It’s an intense process to say the least.

The story of mainly focuses on Superman and Superboy as they battle the Black Lanterns in Smallville, but we also get a moment or two on New Krypton.  I enjoyed both stories, but the events that transpire on New Krypton have a potential to really change things up in the on-going Superman family of books.  James Robinson does a great job of showing the reaction of Smallville’s citizens as the Black Lanterns terrorize the city, yet I found that some of the best moments of the book come from Krypto and Ma Kent as they face a Black Lantern.  The book reads very similar to a slasher movie not unlike the Friday the 13^th movies.  In fact, Jason has a small cameo in the first issue and helps reinforce the horror element that the Black Lanterns carry.  I should also mention the art by Eddy Barrows is serviceable, but won’t blow you away by any means.

Overall, fans interested to know what’s going on with Superman during Blackest Night should pick this up.  If you are just reading the main Superman titles (Action Comics, Superman, Supergirl, World of New Krypton) and enjoying those titles, stick with those as there really isn’t enough new information to warrant a purchase.

What did you think? Sound off in the comments below!

Here it is, next week’s promo for 9×07 “Kandor”.  Wow…..  If this doesn’t look epic, I don’t know what does.

OLIVER TAKES DC COMICS’ CHARACTER SPEEDY UNDER HIS WING — Oliver tries to help a young street girl, Mia (guest star Elise Gatien), get out of her dangerous life by offering to train her, but Mia double crosses him. Lois asks Clark to help her land a job as an on-air television host, but the two are shocked when the station wants to hire them as a team.

That descirption barely scratches the surface of everything you’ll find in tonights episode of Smallville.

Don’t miss “Crossfire” tonight at 8pm/7pm central on The CW, discuss it here on the site or check out our forums where you can meet other Smallville and SHoE fans to discuss. Check back later for our latest episode and be looking for other goodies – including tonight’s trailer for “Kandor” and Louis Febre’s “Scoring Smallville” for the past few episodes.

The images feature Tom Welling, Justin Hartley, Callum Blue, Allison Mack, and Julian Sands as Jor-El.

Here it is, next week’s promo for 9×06 “Crossfire”. As always, it’s looking awesome!

Kelly Souders recently gave an interview with TVguide.com, and this one will send the Smallville fans and message boards into a tizzy.

“You will see more people than you can imagine die in the first 12 episodes. Luckily, it’s Smallville, so not all of them stick.“

In a way that keeps us guessing, she goes on to say that these deaths will happen both in the present and in the future. Lois’ visions do play a role in the upcoming deaths and in what i believe is a very well crafted answer Kelly says:

” I promise you all the people you love to watch, you will still be loving to watch in episode 18, 19, 20, 21.“

What does this mean? Notice she doesn’t say ‘22′. Only time will tell, but let the speculations begin. We have been down this road in seasons past and while some deaths were predictable, others came as a true surprise. Who will it be?  Lets get the ball rolling and email your theories to mail@smallvillepodcast.com and discuss those theories with the rest of the SHoEligans at our forums.

source: tvguide.com

DC COMICS’ CHARACTER ROULETTE SHOWS OLIVER HER CARDS — Oliver is drugged and kidnapped by a woman named Victoria AKA Roulette (guest star Steph Song), who tells Oliver that he’s involved in a dangerous game and must fight for his life. After Victoria shows up dead and Oliver is arrested by the police, he turns to Chloe for help. Meanwhile, Lois berates Clark for not telling her about Oliver’s suicide attempt.

Don’t miss “Roulette” tonight at 8pm/7pm central on The CW, discuss it here on the site or check out our forums where you can meet other Smallville and SHoE fans to discuss. Check back later for our latest episode and be looking for other goodies – including tonight’s trailer for “Crossfire” and Louis Febre’s “Scoring Smallville” for 9×03 “Rabid” and 9×04 “Echo” coming soon!

We’ve been talking about it for months now, and minutes ago IGN TV confirmed the two remaining members of the Justice Society of America that will come to Smallville in the Season 9 episode, “Society”.  For spoilers sake, the announcement is after the break, but needless to say, we called this one folks.

That’s right folks. As we predicted last week, Hawkman and Doctor Fate will join the previously announced Stargirl in episode 12 of  season nine. IGN was also lucky enough to find out just who exactly would be playing these two characters, and I think the casting is spot on.  Hawkman will be played by Michael Shanks of Stargate SG-1 fame, while Doctor Fate will be played by Brent Stait whose past work includes an on-going role in the TV series, Andromeda.

This announcement has made me a firm believer that this episode has the potential to be one of the biggest things the show has ever done.  Hawkman and Doctor Fate are huge forces in the DC Universe, and the chance to see these characters come to life has me quite excited for this episode.  I think the casting of Shanks and Stait is perfect due to the fact that these men have already established themselves as legends in the Sci-Fi community, and now they get to show off to the Superhero community.

UPDATED: Fancast.com is now reporting that Aliens in America star Britt Irvin will be playing Stargirl. I personally haven’t seen any of Britt’s work, but since Stargirl is Johns’ creation, I trust that he made good judgment in the casting of Irvin.

UPDATED (10-23-09): Johns announced last night via Twitter that “Society” is actually the first part of a two part story.  The second part “Legends” will be directed by Tom Welling and written by Johns. Geoff stated that Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson wanted to make the JSA a massive deal and to do Stargirl, Hawkman, and Doctor Fate right, so they made the episode a two part episode. It seems that “Society” and “Legends” might arguably be the biggest and most ambitious episodes in Smallville history.

How do you think Irvin, Shank, and Stait will do playing some of the JSA’s best and brightest? Sound off in the comments below!

(Via IGN TV, Geoff John’s Twitter, and Fancast)

Here’s the promo that aired directly after Smallville tonight. This is for Episode 5- “Roulette”

THE TOYMAN RETURNS AND TAKES OLIVER HOSTAGE — Tess forces Oliver to come to a Queen Industries gala to put the Board at ease, but things go awry when the Toyman (guest star Chris Gauthier) shows up with a bomb and a plan to take revenge on Oliver.  The Toyman tells Oliver he must confess to murdering Lex or he will blow the place up.  Meanwhile, as part of his training, Jor-El gives Clark the ability to hear other people’s thoughts.

Don’t miss “Echo” tonight at 8pm/7pm central on The CW, discuss it here on the site or check out our forums where you can meet other Smallville and SHoE fans to discuss. Check back this weekend for our latest episode and be looking for other goodies – including tonight’s trailer for “Roulette” and Louis Febre’s “Scoring Smallville” for 9×03 “Rabid” and 9×04 “Echo” coming soon!

This batch includes Tom Welling, Erica Durance, Justin Hartley, and guest star Elise Gatien.

More after the jump!

Check out the other images after the jump.

It’s amazing just how much information gets passed via Twitter these day from actors and writers.  Last night, writer Geoff Johns Twittered several bits of knowledge about the twelfth episode of Season 9,  “Society” which Johns will write and will introduce the Justice Society of America into the Smallville Universe.   We’ve got the roundup and a bit of analysis after the jump.

As we stated, last night Johns posted several tweets all related to the current status of “Society”.

Went over costume designs for the JSA Smallville. They kicked ass on these!! Sticking close to the source is always the way to go. :)

Johns wrote JSA for 26 issues and has a fantastic handle on the characters, so it would make sense that Johns is involved with everything including the creation of the costumes.   Johns has stated before that these superheroes that we’ll see in this episode come from an older generation of heroes, so my guess is that the costumes might be more traditional superhero costumes instead of the newer more slick looking ones we’ve seen Green Arrow, Impulse, Cyborg, and Aquaman wear.

Oh, Smallville: Society airs January 29th. :) We shoot in two weeks so I’m packing up my winter clothes for Vancouver.

A couple of weeks ago, a casting call was sent out for a male, age 37-48 that was in that was in fantastic physical condition who would be playing “He is the most handsome and sexy of ALL the D.C Superheros”. In that release, it stated that the actor need to be available for shooting starting 10/26 through 11/3.  This lines up right with the info Johns provided.  Shooting will start on the 26th of this month. As for the hero the call talks about, I feel very confidently that this will probably be Hawkman.  Hawkman has a great history with the JSA and is one of the key members.  He’s also in fantastic shape, although I don’t know if he’s considered the most handsome and sexiest of all the DC heroes.

I can’t divulge the three members in the episode yet, but one of them is someone that should be obvious. A girl. Who likes stars. :)

Johns pretty much confirms that Courtney Whitmore aka Stargirl will be in “Society”.  Johns created the character in his “Stars and S.T.R.I.P.E. #0″ and since he is writing the episode, it makes perfect sense for Stargirl to be included. We will see an older version of Courtney since Johns has made a point of saying that these JSA members will come from an older generation of heroes that will be in their 40s.

This also confirms the fact that we will see 3 characters from the JSA in this episode.  Johns stated that we wouldn’t see Alan Scott (the first Green Lantern) or Jay Garrick (the first Flash). So if our predictions are right, we should see Hawkman, Stargirl, and then one other character.  We’ve also heard that one of the characters is known to often wear a helmet. There are several different characters in the JSA that wear helmets including Hawkman, Doctor Fate, and Atom Smasher, so there is a potential for any of these characters to show up in the episode.

To answer the Smallville inquiries: Glen Winter, who directed my “Legion” episode, is directing “Society.” So you know he’s AWESOME.

This is great news. Glen Winter did a fantastic job with” Legion”, and the fact that he’s paired with Johns again for “Society” can only mean good things.

So just to recap, “Society” will air on January 29th.  It will be written by Geoff Johns and directed by Glen Winter.  We will see 3 members of the JSA, roughly in their 40s, one of whom will be Stargirl, probably Hawkman, and another member we know no details about.  Shooting will start on October 26 (two weeks from today) and will last until November 3rd. If shooting starts in two weeks, we should start to get casting announcements for these roles very soon.

Needless to say, this is shaping up to be a fantastic episode of Smallville, but what do you think? Sound off in the comments below!

(Information via Geoff Johns’ Twitter, TV Guide, and KryptonSite)

Check it out after the jump!

OLIVER TAKES DC COMICS’ CHARACTER SPEEDY UNDER HIS WING — Oliver tries to help a young street girl, Mia AKA Speedy (guest star Elise Gatien), get out of her dangerous life by offering to train her, but Mia double crosses him. Lois asks Clark to help her land a job as an on-air television host, but the two are shocked when the station wants to hire them as a team. Posted on SHoE. Allison Mack, Cassidy Freeman and Callum Blue also star. Mike Rohl directed the episode written by Holly Henderson and Mike Whitehead.

Here’s the promo that aired after “Rabid” for episode 9×04, “Echo” – This season is looking great!

Don’t miss “Rabid” tonight at 8pm/7pm central on The CW, discuss it here on the site or check out our forums where you can meet other Smallville and SHoE fans to discuss. Check back tonight for our latest episode and be looking for a few other surprises – including Louis Febre’s “Scoring Smallville” for 9×03 “Rabid”.

If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe to SHoETube.

Hey everyone, it’s William here again to get you caught up what’s going on in Superman Comic Universe.  This month we’ll look at the Brainiac arc that takes place in issues #866-870 of Action Comics.  Remember these summaries are NOT spoiler free.

Action Comics #866-870

“Brainiac”

Written by Geoff Johns

Art by Gary Frank

When I go back and take a look at the Brainiac arc almost a year later, it’s amazing how much of a critical role this story plays into the current Superman status quo.  Johns really set out to redefine the character of Braniac, and by the end of this arc, you will fear Brainiac like you never have before.  And that starts in the opening pages as we see the true fate of the bottled city of Kandor.  Brainiac’s ship goes around to various cities on various planets all throughout the galaxy, bottles them up, and then destroys the planet’s sun, causing the sun to explode and destroy the planet.

Jump forward to present day as we see the return of Cat Grant and Steve Lombard to the Daily Planet staff.  During the new inductions, Clark hears a strange noise and rushes off to figure out what the noise is.

Superman arrives on the scene and finds a Brainiac scouting drone, which he quickly dispatches and takes to the Fortress of Solitude in order to inspect it.  Supergirl, aka Kara Zor-El, shows up and reveals to Clark that he has never really fought Brainiac before.  Kara also tells Clark that when Kandor was taken, she was on Krypton and was spared.  However, Kara now has a massive fear of Brainiac.

After a quick word with Ma and Pa Kent, Superman begins a galaxy wide expedition in order to track and hunt down Braniac.  After much searching, Superman finds several probes, and discovers first hand the bottling and destruction of a planet.  The explosion from the destruction of the sun knocks Superman unconscious and he is taken prisoner on Brainiac’s ship.

Superman, of course, escapes and begins to explore Brainiac’s ship.  Soon after, he finds the room where all the bottled cities are being held, including Kandor.  At this point, Brainiac shows his true form to Superman, and tells Superman that he’s been collecting data from each planet he’s destroyed, and his next target is Earth in order to capture the last kryptonians, Superman and Supergirl!

At this point, Brainiac’s ship arrives in Metropolis and sends out his drones to attack the city.  Of course, Supergirl comes to help and battles the drones while Superman fights Brainiac.  Superman eventually knocks Brainiac out and hears a voice coming from one of the bottle cities that turns out to be Zor-El who is very much alive and well inside Kandor.  As the two begin to talk, Brainiac ambushes Superman from behind, and Kara is captured and brought aboard.  Metropolis is bottled, and a solar-aggressor missile gets fired from Brainiac’s ship towards the sun.

An unconscious Superman is hooked up by the ship to all the bottled cities and is awaken by the cries of help from each bottle city.  Superman escapes again and attacks Brainiac while at the same time releasing Kara and grabbing the newly bottled Metropolis and the city of Kandor.  Superman tells Kara to stop the solar-aggressor missile before it destroys the sun.  Superman then finally knocks Brainiac out of his ship causing him to fall to Earth, where he is overwhelmed by various forms of bacteria and microorganisms.  Superman flies down and goes to finish Brainiac off, but the villain tells Superman that cities can’t survive outside the mother ship.  Superman races off to return to Metropolis back to it’s normal state, then heads to the area surrounding the Fortress of Solitude and releases Kandor.  At the same time, Kara is able to stop the solar-aggressor that was headed for the sun.  All seems to fine, and the world saved, but Brainiac then reveals one final trick that he’s saved.  While Superman was captured, Brianiac had read Superman’s mind, and know he knows everything about Superman, including where Ma and Pa Kent live.  At this point, Brainiac fires off a missile that is headed straight for the Kent farm.  The missile explodes on the farm, and no one is hurt, however, Jonathan Kent has a heart attack to the stress of the situation and dies mere seconds after Clark arrives.

The final pages show Jonathan Kent’s funeral.  Some of the guest include the normal cast of characters, Jimmy, Lois, etc, but Clark happens to catch Bruce Wayne and Alfred standing under a tree near by.

The Brainiac arc was not only one of the best story lines of last year, but I think one of the better Superman stories I’ve read.  Also, as we will see next time, this story line directly sets up the next event; New Krypton.

So what did everyone think? Sound off in the comments below!

We’ve got your first look at a zombified Lois from 9×03 – ‘Rabid’! It’s a fuzzy camera image taken from the Canadian trailer for this Friday’s episode, but if you need your Smallville zombie fix right now, it will have to do. Be warned, though. The image is pretty frightening.

Check it out after the jump!

Thanks to Alma for the image.

And also, don’t forget that “Metallo” airs tonight on the CW at 8/7 Central.

Don’t miss “Metallo” tonight at 8pm/7pm central on The CW, discuss it here on the site or check out our forums where you can meet other Smallville and SHoE fans to discuss. Check back tonight for our latest episode and be looking for a few other surprises – be sure to email in your questions for SHoE 130 featuring Brian Austin Green!

Check it out after the jump!

DC COMICS’ CHARACTER ROULETTE SHOWS OLIVER HER CARDS — Oliver (Justin Hartley) is drugged and kidnapped by a woman named Victoria AKA Roulette (guest star Steph Song), who tells Oliver that he’s involved in a dangerous game and must fight for his life. After Victoria shows up dead and Oliver is arrested by the police, he turns to Chloe (Allison Mack) for help. Meanwhile, Lois (Erica Durance) berates Clark (Tom Welling) for not telling her about Oliver’s suicide attempt. Cassidy Freeman and Callum Blue also star. Kevin Fair directed the episode written by Genevieve Sparling.

There has been a casting call for Smallville episode 9×11 or 9×12 “Society”. The description itself does not make it easy to figure out who it is, take a look after the jump 

[NEW SEXY SUPERHERO] Male – 37 – 48 yr. old. All ethnicities. He is the most handsome and sexy of ALL the D.C Superheros. Actor must have a fantastic physique. GUEST STAR. Dates are approximately 10-26 thru 11-3-09  (source: Spoiler TV)

I have my own ideas on the possibilities of who this could be and I am hoping to see at least a few more casting calls for this episode. The Justice Society of America has quite a few members who laid the groundwork for some of the most popular hero’s known today.

John Wesley-Shipp is no stranger to the DC Universe, once playing the title character on CBS’s short-lived live action series “The Flash”. I think it would be great to see him play the role of Jay Garrick. (The first Flash) However I do not think this call is for Jay. I believe it to be for Carter Hall, better known as Hawkman. Seeing a live action Hawkman would be awesome!

Mark Valley is another actor who I would love to see fill a role like this. He has been on a few ABC shows in the past, I remember him for his role on “Boston Legal”.

I would love to see what all the SHoE-ligans think about who this role is for and who would be some actors you would like to see fill the part. What other members of the Justice Society of America would you like to see?

Leave a comment on this post or visit our forums and start a discussion about it.

Please do not repost this as your own, simply link back to www.smallvillepodcast.com – thanks!

There’s been a lot of great villain centric episodes in the past eight seasons. Some people would agree there’s been better ones than others. I liked the introduction of Toyman in “Requiem”, Lex as “Zod”, Mxyzptlk and several others.

I don’t think one has ever had as much screen time, presence or capability as that of John Corben’s Metallo in the second episode of the season. While Brian Austin Green handles the role perfectly, he’s got some years worth of research from being a comic book fan on how to handle himself and the man pays off. Such a sympathetic character we were introduced to in the premiere, takes a dark turn in the opening seconds of the second episode. It’s a bit sad that a Metallo story can’t involve Lex Luthor in season nine, but It’d be hard for it to make sense now.

As much as I loved “Savior”, this episode is leaps and bounds better to me than the premiere. It felt like everything one would love about an episode of Smallville, plus a little extra for longtime fans. Not only do we get the appearance of Shelby and a mention of Martha Kent, we see what’s become of the Kent household in the void of Clark over the last four weeks.

The wedge between Chloe and Clark takes a greater strain, but Tom and Allison never miss a beat. Handling these characters in a new way is far too interesting to ignore since the friends have gotten along so well these past few years. The duo start off at odds but try to find some common ground before all is said and done. Unfortunately, like all things in Smallville, it’s not that easy. Luckily for us, the two realize some mistakes they’ve made and try their hardest to look forward, even though a grudge can’t disappear in forty-two minutes this time around. Where we end with the two makes me very anxious to see what lies after “Rabid”.

Erica shares most of her scenes with Brian’s “Metallo”, who with his newly found gifts sets out to take vengeance on the Blur, who he blames for his sister’s death. Lois is very Lois in this episode: curious about Clark, searching for the Blur, and trying to get the story. One of my main complaints in these two episodes is that Lois’ realization of the events from Doomsday never came to light. I’ll suggest that somewhere between Lois finding Oliver, and her phonecall with the Blur at the end of “Savior”, she has learned about the demise of Jimmy and Davis. I’ll go as far to say that it’s a scene that was filmed but didn’t make the cut. I’ll anxiously await the season nine DVD for that clip. Even in her scene with Tess (one of my favorite between the two characters) Lois keeps the upper hand in a calm, and cool behavior, especially after being challenged to a rematch.

Tess is on a search of answers herself, trying to locate the missing Kandorians who escaped the mansion. She has some help in that of Stuart, played by Ryan McDonell – some kind of whiz kid who we almost get a kid brother kind of vibe from. Or Lenny Luthor, depending on how you look at it. He knows his stuff though, and while Callum Blue doesn’t appear this round, the presence of Zod is very much felt, almost as if he were watching over our shoulders. Usually when an actor “goes to visit Aunt Nell” or “is in Metropolis” it’s really noticed but with Zod, it’s like he’s in the shadows the whole time and whether you see his face or not, you know he’s there.

We get to see more of Dr. Hamilton who has the unfortunate privilege of encountering Metallo at Metropolis General. His meeting with The Blur is handled great and really feels like something out of a Superman movie.

We get to see more aspects of the Watchtower which I’m growing more and more in love with. I think it’s the most fantastic set they’ve had in the series and I catch something new everytime I watch a scene that takes place in there. You can tell Chloe has been doing some training of her own there, catching the hang of the new Queen technology goodies quite well. I think Allison shined in this episode more than she has in a long, long time. Probably since “Abyss” or “Bride”. Her encounter with Clark at the Kent Farm is particularly noteworthy, as her disdain and judgement of Clark carry out quite well. While Brian has the most screen time and definitely steals the show, this episodes acting award goes to Allison Mack for showing us some sides of Chloe we haven’t seen before. There’s even a shot that will have Chloe fans cheering for more as she tries to protect her cousin.

Erica takes Lois to something that’s so familiar to us, but we haven’t really seen on Smallville, and that’s someone eager to help the hero, in this case being the Blur. Clark’s decisions to implicate Lois in the search for Metallo definitely don’t end well, but the final confrontation between the hero and villain is one of the longest, most heartfelt encounters we’ve seen in this series, and the two characters really make for a tense battle.

One instance between Tom Welling and Erica Durance is my favorite scene of the episode, if not my favorite scene between the two characters of the series. Clark’s playful banter to Lois’ inquisitive nature really brings everything home for the episode and I would have been perfectly fine with it ending right there….

…but we’re treated to more, and the cliffhanger for this episode is one of those things that makes Smallville great.

All in all, my favorite episode of Smallville since “Beast”, and now in my top ten of the series. It’s all so perfectly done. Lois and The Blur/Clark share a lot of scenes in this one, several phonecalls and their final encounter in the Daily Planet bullpen that will have audiences smiling. If there’s one thing Brian and Kelly do well, it’s continuity and from the looks of these two episodes, this season will be no exception. From Kara, to Jonathan and Lionel, to Martha and Shelby, it feels like a show we’ve known for years, while still looking forward to what every man and woman has to do, grow up. Living in the past is not an option for these characters, and while Lois’ dreams continue to haunt her in this episode, the realizations will be something that reach far into the weeks to come for herself and Clark, as they eventually cross paths with Major Zod, and, as funny as it sounds, battle Kryptonian Virus zombies next week.

Lots of people are saying Smallville is having its best season yet. Who am I to disagree? It’s probably the strongest start to a season ever and without a doubt the second strongest episode of a season since “Phoenix”, written by Kelly and Brian themselves. Personally, my favorite seasons go in order of 3, 5, 8, 2, 1, 7, 4, 6 – but I can easily see this one climbing the charts with iconic episodes like this one pulling out all the stops early on. They’re not running out of steam at all, they have a plan of attack that we’ve seen in the first two weeks that will be carried out in months to come. The show is in good hands, the characters are safe, and the story is as super as ever.

BRIAN AUSTIN GREEN (“TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES”) GUEST STARS AS JOHN CORBEN — Clark (Tom Welling) tells Jor-El he’s ready to start his training, but Jor-El sends him back to Metropolis to cut ties with Lois before he can begin.  Chloe (Allison Mack) is shocked when Lois (Erica Durance) suddenly reappears after having been missing for weeks, but Lois has no recollection of vanishing into thin air with the Legion ring.  While investigating a monorail crash, Lois meets John Corben (guest star Brian Austin Green), a new reporter at The Daily Planet, with a negative attitude toward the Red-Blue Blur.  Chloe begs Clark to use the Legion ring to go back in time to save Jimmy, but he refuses, driving a wedge into their friendship.  Meanwhile, Oliver (Justin Hartley) continues down a dark road, and Zod (Callum Blue) arrives at the Luthor mansion.

It’s finally here! Friday, September 25th marks the start of the ninth season of Smallville and it’s going to be an amazing ride for sure. There’s torns of trailers and pictures here on SHoE’s site to get you pumped for tonight, and even an advance review by Derek Russell of the premiere episode and what to expect.

In addition to watching, we want to make Smallville’s move to Friday nights known. If you have a Twitter account, we ask you to use the hastag #kneelbeforezod in your messages today. You can read more about that below!

Don’t miss “Savior” tonight at 8pm/7pm central on The CW, discuss it here on the site or check out our forums where you can meet other Smallville and SHoE fans to discuss. Check back tonight for our latest episode and be looking for a few other surprises, it’s a great day Smallville fans!

Check it out after the jump!

THE TOYMAN RETURNS AND TAKES OLIVER HOSTAGE — Tess (Cassidy Freeman) forces Oliver (Justin Hartley) to come to a Queen Industries gala to put the Board at ease, but things go awry when the Toyman (guest star Chris Gautheir) shows up with a bomb and a plan to take revenge on Oliver.  The Toyman tells Oliver he must confess to murdering Lex or he will blow the place up.  Meanwhile, as part of his training, Jor-El gives Clark (Tom Welling) the ability to hear other people’s thoughts.  Allison Mack and Erica Durance also star. Wayne Rose directed the episode written by Bryan Q. Miller

Please do not repost this as your own, reference www.smallvillepodcast.com Thanks!

Let’s make this very clear from the word go:

These are the two weirdest episodes of Smallville I’ve ever seen.
You know why? This isn’t Smallville anymore. It’s Superman

And it’s not because of the new suit, or Zod, or the defeat of Doomsday last season, or anything like that.

It’s the writing, it’s the heart, and it’s the adventure. Clark Kent is no longer the boy running from his training and his Kryptonian destiny, he’s the hero that the world needs.

I’m going to keep this very un-spoilery, just putting that out there now. I’ll also be saving my advanced review of “Metallo” for early next week.

This is an all new show this season, it’s the characters we know and love but the dynamic has shifted into something that doesn’t get wrapped up in a nice little bow from week to week.

That’s one complaint I always have with season premieres of Smallville…it feels like that huge cliffhanger we were left with several months earlier can be explained, justified, and fixed in 42 minutes.

Not this time.

If anything, every scene of the season premiere is a new and exciting cliffhanger in itself.

Clark has begun his training with Jor-El, a workshop he’s been skipping out on since season two. And even when the Fortress was formed in 5×01 and he got downloaded for all of 15 seconds, he still had to exit early to save Chloe’s life, who had been transported to the Arctic with him. Clark finally realized he needed to join Jor-El in the Fortress to continue his training midway through season 6, but not until he had righted the wrong of releasing the prisoners from the Phantom Zone. Once that task was complete, Martha had moved away, and he believed Lana was dead, Clark once again returned to fulfill his destiny and continue his training with Jor-El. The training didn’t begin quite like Clark (or we) thought it would, as his father explained that the appearance of Kara was a mystery, and that he must find the reasons she was on Earth before he could continue.

While that storyline progressed, others occurred. With the Veritas plot, Clark had to battle for his own answers, and have a final confrontation with Lex Luthor in the Fortress, which was destroyed in the process. As season 8 began, Clark and Lex were missing with the Justice League in pursuit. Once again, Clark is found in the premiere and most of the loose ends were tied up…but a new danger arose in that of Braniac and Davis Bloome (aka Doomsday). Once Clark was ready to begin training again, Braniac took control of the Fortress and damaged it, using it as a cocoon for Doomsday to emerge. Clark was able to rebuild the Fortress in an effort to split Davis from his Kryptonian monster side and send him to the Phantom Zone. When he was unsuccessful, he did all he could to destroy Doomsday and save Davis. Ultimately though, Davis was as terrible as the creature within him, and he killed Jimmy Olsen before dying himself.

Clark, riddled with guilt about trying to protect Davis and not defeat him and Doomsday in the process, decided that humanity was his weakness after all, and to be the hero he needed to be, he had to give up all that he’d known as Clark Kent and follow Jor-El’s instructions to become something more. Clark’s decision, however haste, came after the events of the eighth season finale, the falling out between him and Chloe, and the absence of Lois Lane.

Season nine begins three weeks later (on September 25th no less) and a lot has changed in the state of Kansas. Chloe now resides in the Watchtower, actively seeking her cousin after her mysterious disappearance. With the help of the ever loyal Dr. Emil Hamilton, she begins her own journey this season.

While I love Chloe she has remained pretty much the same since the end of season four, even taking into consideration “Chloiac”.  But this is a new Chloe. She’s not the innocent sidekick anymore, but not the loyal friend either. She’s been hurt, betrayed, and left behind. She wants answers and doesn’t want to wait around on her heroes anymore to find them. I really like the scenes between her and Hamilton (who I hope is seen a lot more this season) but at times I can’t tell if he’s flirting or just meant to be a little awkward.

Lois returns from her most excellent adventure, only to be pursued by something that followed her back. As she searches for answers, dreams begin to haunt her. We’ve all seen the flashes of Clark-Lois sex since the scenes were released at Comic Con…but those dreams are only the tip of the iceberg to the fallout of an overall season arc, and one that will not be concluded in the final seconds of “Savior”.

Clark and Chloe reconnect, but it’s not a Clark and Chloe we’ve ever seen before. He’s a hero, she’s been scorned. They are on very different sides of the table this season, and the resentment that’s been left behind makes for some very uncomfortable glares and silences that we’re not used to from the pair of best friends we’ve known all these years.

We get to see the introduction of John Corben, played by Brian Austin Green, who really shines in the second episode of the season, but we’ll get to that. John shares his two scenes with Erica’s Lois Lane and the two work really well off of each other. It makes you very sad to know what’s to come for the iconic Superman villain.
Oliver is in there as well, though his short scenes (which have now been released on the Internet) don’t offer much more than a look into his downward spiral over the guilt of Jimmy’s death. I’m very interested to see where his storyline goes this year.

Callum Blue. What can I say?

Callum Blue is Zod.

I’ll wait while you kneel.

Done kneeling yet?

Good. This guy is INSANE! I’ve never seen anything with him in it before, so I did not know what to expect. His arrogance is impeccable, and the way Blue delivers his lines is like he was made for the role. And he was. The mystery behind Zod’s appearance is another storyline that’s not easily answered in the course of the premiere. And like everything else that happens in this one, I love it.

An overall season arc like this has not been seen before in nine years. Sure we’ve seen a phantom appear at the end of an episode, or a body appearing from underneath a ship…but this is different. It’s fresh, and the twists and turns make for what I guarantee you will be one of the best thrillrides Smallville has ever offered as the season progresses.

Outstanding performance of the premiere? Cassidy Freeman. It’s rare you feel sorry for Tess Mercer, but her loyalty to a glowing orb at the end of last year was based on her trying to be the good guy. The wrong thing for the right reasons rarely ever work out well, and Tess learns that early on in this episode. Her scenes with Major Zod are the stuff of legend, and will only get better as time goes on.

So what’s the stuff people have been dying to know about? The suit.
Clark dons his family crest well, and wears it proudly as he protects the streets of Metropolis. I’ve seen a lot of people refer to this persona as a more Batman type of chivalry, but I disagree. The way Clark watches over the streets reminds me of something out of an Alex Ross painting, or the way Brandon Routh hovered in space, listening, waiting, helping. The red and blue may be missing, but the Blur is still out there, leaving his Zorro-like mark on surroundings of those he saved.

I cannot tell you how much it excites me to see the \S/ around town and on Clark’s chest. It’s the first major push in a long time to a destiny he’s been running from for far too long. Though Clark only shares his scenes with Chloe and Jor-El, he knows what he’s doing is right, and will stop at nothing to do the thing he knows is right.

Jor-El wants him to turn his back on everything, but Lois returning makes that very hard to do. And Lois’ dreams when only further complicate Clark’s destiny with Jor-El and with the Blur as the weeks continue.

I can’t wait to watch it again on Friday night with finished music and affects. One thing that was great to see at the end of this was the names of the remaining two showrunners Brian Peterson and Kelly Sounders. They’ve definitely taken fans to a new place this year, and the season premiere does not disappoint. The show is in good hands yet again and will only continue to thrive as Clark and Zod’s cross paths, with our other characters mingled in the mix.

Get ready, Smallville season nine premieres this Friday, September 25th on The CW.

“Hot on the heels of their acclaimed run on ACTION COMICS, superstars Geoff Johns and Gary Frank reunite to present a 6-issue event that spells out the definitive origin of Superman for the 21st century – and it all starts with a gigantic 48-page issue! Chronicling Clark Kent’s journey from the cornfields of Smallville to the skyscrapers of Metropolis, you’ll witness a whole new look at the beginnings of Lex Luthor, the Legion of Super-Heroes, Lois Lane, Metallo, Jimmy Olsen, the Parasite and more! It’s a look at the mythic past of the Man of Steel with an eye toward the future!”

Of course, anything written by Geoff Johns is sure to be a huge hit, and Gary Frank’s art is some of the best in the comic industry right now. Still not sold? DC has a preview of the first issue for you to read right here. As I said, issue #1 is on store shelves right now, so head out to your local comic book store and grab it before it’s gone!

Last Son

Written by Geoff Johns and Richard Donner

Art by Adam Kubert

Last Son, is an interesting arc to say the least. While the story itself is a pretty solid read, it took two years to finish.  Andy Kubert got sick during the run due to undisclosed health issues, and instead of wrapping up in 4 single issues like it was supposed to, the story look place over 3 issues (Action Comics #844-#846 during 2006), and then had to be finished in issue #851 (released in July of 2007) and Action Comics Annual #11 (July 2008).  The story was co-written by the Richard Donner  (the director of first Superman movie) and Geoff Johns (a name you all should have some familiarity with by this point).  The story focuses on the arrival pod from space to Earth containing a small child, (who Superman later figures out is kryptonian) and the ramifications that transpire afterwards.  Clark and Lois adopt the child and name him Chris Kent, but have little time to get to know their new adopted son as various forces (mainly Lex Luthor) all make their play to get their hands on and influence this new Kryptonian child.  To make matter worse, Ursa, Zod, and Non escape from the Phantom Zone in order to take back their son:  who we find out is none other than Chris or “Lor-Zod” as Ursa calls him.  At the same time, several more pods emerge from the sky including scientist Jax-Ur who sends Clark to the Phantom Zone.

While in the zone, Clark meets up with Mon-El, a Daxamite (who, under a Red Sun, has the same powers as Superman does) whom Clark sent to the Phantom Zone to save him from lead poisoning (Lead is Kryptonite to a Daxamite).  Mon-El helps Clark escape, but not before almost dying in the process in a battle against a Phantom Zone prisoner.  Clark uses a pod (the same that Zod, Ursa and Non used) to escape and return to Earth.

Clark returns to a Zod controlled Metropolis where he meets up with Lex Luthor and his Superman Revenge Squad (a team consisting of Bizzaro, Parasite, and Metallo).  Clark, Lex and this revenge squad team up to take out Zod and his troops.  As the “team” heads to the fortress where Zod is held up, Lex pulls a fast one, and activates the Phantom Zone portal in an attempt to trap not only Zod and Ursa, but Clark as well.  The portal opens; pulling Zod and Ursa back in, while Chris keeps it from sucking in Clark.  Chris then scarifies himself to save Clark, and heads into the Phantom Zone.

After the battle, Clark heads to the Fortress of Solitude and opens a communication portal with Mon-El who is searching for Chris in the Phantom Zone.  Mon-El hasn’t found Chris yet, but vows never to stop looking for him.  Mon-El then heads back into the zone, and Clark gives a simple “thank you” as he watches his friend fly into the chaos that is the Phantom Zone.

That’s the “Last Son” story arc.  While it was great to see Donner and Johns write something, the delays definitely hurt the book.  However, some of the characters used in this story have important roles to place in the current over-lapping story taking place in the Superman family of books.  Your best bet is to pick up the handy hardcover of the entire story, which is in stores now.

Next time: Brainiac like you’ve never seen him before!

Check it out out after the jump!

ZOD UNLEASHES A VIRUS INTO METROPOLIS — Zod (Callum Blue) and his soldiers release a virus into the air that turns humans into zombies.  The only way to stop it is to make an antidote from the blood of another Kryptonian.  After Lois (Erica Durance) is infected, Chloe (Allison Mack) pleads with Clark (Tom Welling) to donate his blood to stop the epidemic, even though it risks outing him to Zod. Michael Rohl directed the episode written by Jordan Hawley.

We actually don’t have any current plans for Superman,” said Nelson when asked if the new environment (and the recent legal decision regarding the character) made a “Superman” movie more or less likely in the near future.

Well there you have it folks. No plans for Superman. Now, granted DC does have a lot of other movie plans, whether it’s the Flash, Green Lantern or even Shazam!, but it seems with this new corporate restructure, Superman should be at the top of their list. While this is a huge disappointment, I’d rather wait and have a great Superman movie come out in the future. Which if Warner Brother is looking for ideas, I know of a pretty good one.

(Via MTV Splash Page)

We’ve known since the packaging for Superman/Batman: Public Enemies was released that the next title in DC’s Animated Universe line would be this, but we didn’t know what to expect until now.

Ain’t It Cool News is reporting that Warner Home Video will release Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths Spring 2010 with an all star cast that includes Mark Harmon as Superman, James Woods as Owlman, William Baldwin as Batman, Gina Torres as Super Woman and Bruce Davison as the President.

In this story, a Lex Luthor from an alternate universe arrives to enlist the Justice League to help save his world. Sounds promising and will be interesting to see how they work a “crisis” storyline into a 90 minute timeslot. What great DC story would you like to see them use next?

With less than two weeks before the premiere, The CW has released their official description for Season 9.

Soaring into its ninth season, this modern retelling of the Superman legend and its classic characters continues to blend realism, action and emotional depth to reveal a new interpretation of the enduring mythology. This season, as Metropolis’ clock tower tolls our characters’ darkest hour, we find Clark Kent (Tom Welling) finally making his first attempts to embrace his calling as a superhero.

After the events of last season, Clark takes on the mantle of protector of Metropolis, trading in his familiar red-and-blue for black-and-gray, sticking to the city’s shadows and rooftops to become a solitary sentry simply known as “the Blur.” While Clark wrestles with his identity, feeling forced to choose between his Kryptonian heritage and human past, he’ll encounter even more powerful enemies and allies from across the DC Universe. This season will feature new and past nemeses, including Metallo (Brian Austin Green, “Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles”), the man with the Kryptonite heart; Roulette, a sexy mastermind; the return of Toyman; and the always-treacherous Zod (Callum Blue) as a young Major and leader of an invading alien army, who befriends fellow Kryptonian Clark just as his venomous side is beginning to emerge. This season will also feature an appearance by DC Comics’ first all-star team of superheroes, the Justice Society of America, in an episode penned by renowned comic book writer Geoff Johns, who returns to the show after writing last year’s fan favorite episode, “Legion.”

After a year of protecting Metropolis as the “Red-Blue Blur,” Clark Kent finished season eight with the weight and fate of the world on his shoulders, facing down Doomsday. Clark emerged victorious, but his decision to ignore the Justice League’s warnings and save the human side of medic Davis Bloome (Sam Witwer) from the monster Doomsday came with a tragic cost – Davis turned out to be just as evil as the beast he’d been bonded to, and murdered Jimmy Olsen (Aaron Ashmore) in front of Chloe (Alison Mack), the woman they both loved. In the wake of Jimmy’s death, Chloe retreated into her Watchtower, the Justice League disbanded, and Oliver Queen (Justin Hartley) went into a downward spiral, retiring his Green Arrow persona. And Clark turned his back on his own humanity, leaving behind life as “Clark Kent” to exist solely as “the Blur.” Meanwhile, Tess Mercer’s (Cassidy Freeman) obsession with Clark’s Kryptonian origins came to a head when she confronted intrepid reporter Lois Lane (Erica Durance) about a mysterious alien orb that Tess thought Lois had stolen from her, resulting in the two women battling it out in the Daily Planet. During the fight, Lois touched Clark’s time-traveling Legion Ring and vanished in a flash of light, lost somewhere in time. And Tess returned home to discover the orb had released a young version of the villainous Kryptonian, Zod, as well as the entire population of the lost alien city of Kandor. But Clark finished the season unaware of this new threat. Instead, he remains haunted by Lois’ sudden disappearance, fearing the woman he cares about most could have been killed during his fight with Doomsday.

The season nine premiere takes place three weeks after Clark and Doomsday’s epic battle. Obsessed with becoming the hero the world needs, Clark is now literally leaving his mark on Metropolis – having fully embraced his Kryptonian side in order to finish training with his father Jor-El, Clark has started wearing the iconic “S”-shield on his chest, and spreads the symbol around the city in an effort to give its people hope.

Whereas Clark is working alone, Chloe feels driven to reunite the disbanded Justice League. Her biggest challenge is Oliver Queen, who’d rather lose himself in underground fight clubs and drunken one-night stands. Oliver’s friends will hatch a plan to bring him back from the edge. Reconnecting with the hero inside of him, Oliver will return with a renewed purpose, even searching out an apprentice in Mia Dearden, DC comics’ teenaged sidekick “Speedy.”

Clark and Oliver will find themselves caught up in a love triangle with Lois, as both men’s passions begin to burn brightly for her. Returning from her trip through time, Lois starts experiencing nightmarish visions of the future. Could they come true? If so, one not-so-troubling image is playing itself over and over in her head – Lois and Clark locked in a romantic, erotic embrace. Meanwhile, Clark continues to be conflicted over his own feelings for Lois. As the sparks fly, Lois and Clark’s relationship will deepen, leading to their first true kiss, and possibly something more.

Meanwhile, Clark and Chloe’s relationship is starting to become strained. No longer content just being Clark’s sidekick, Chloe uses Watchtower’s powerful computers to spin her own web of influence and intrigue, manipulating people like chess pieces in the name of the greater good. But when Chloe begins to believe the ends justify the means, it sends her on a collision course with her friend and ally Clark.

When it comes to master manipulators, Tess Mercer has emerged as the rightful heir to Lex Luthor’s legacy. Always inscrutable, Tess has her hands full this season with an army of Kryptonians, newly arrived from the lost city of Kandor and led by the infamous Zod. However, this incarnation of Zod is younger than the one we remember – he has yet to grow into the power-mad psychopathic dictator, General Zod. Season nine’s Zod may only be a Major, but he’s already a cunning strategist and charismatic leader who knows how to inspire his troops. But behind his magnetism and those piercing eyes, Zod is still very dangerous. When Zod and Clark eventually meet, Clark recognizes that if he can befriend his fellow Kryptonian, he might be able to influence Zod away from becoming an evil, twisted tyrant. While it’s true this Major Zod has certain vulnerabilities, it may only take a handful of betrayals to turn him into Clark’s deadly arch-nemesis.

“Smallville” was developed for television by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar (”Shanghai Noon,” “The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor”), based on the DC Comics characters. Kelly Souders & Brian Peterson serve as executive producers, along with James Marshall, Mike Tollin, Brian Robbins and Joe Davola. The series is produced by Tollin/Robbins Productions and Warner Bros. Television. SUPERMAN was created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Schuster.

Check it out after the jump!

More photos after the jump!

Check it out out after the jump!

BRIAN AUSTIN GREEN (”TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES”) CONTINUES HIS ROLE AS JOHN CORBEN — After being struck by a truck
, John Corben (guest star Brian Austin Green) wakes up alone in an abandoned apartment as a man-machine with a Kryptonite heart. Corben realizes he now has superhuman strength and sets out to exact revenge on the Red-Blue Blur, who he perceives to be an irresponsible vigilante. Against Clark’s (Tom Welling) wishes, Lois (Erica Durance) involves herself in the Red-Blue Blur’s investigation, and winds up getting kidnapped by Corben. Marizee Almas directed the episode written by Don Whitehead & Holly Henderson

So, what do you think? Do you think this new system will work? Or is it doomed to failure? It will be interesting at the least to see how this all plays out.

We won’t go into the head-scratching that will ensue, considering Tom Welling played the part of Jor-El in a season three episode, and Terrence Stamp does the amazing voiceover work for the character since season two.

It’s being stated that Major Zod (played by Callum Blue) was accompanied by Jor-El to Earth. Further head scratching ensues.

“Kandor” airs November 7th on the CW.

…On the Smallville comments? Not gonna happen. Creating my own stuff now and very happy. Sorry to bum ya out.

Well, there you go folks. As of right now, it seems Mr. Rosenbaum is quite content with what he’s doing.  However, anything is possible, so there is reason to keep hope alive.  Regardless, we continue to wish Michael success on his current projects.

Michael Rosenbaum (Twitter)

Brian Austin Green as John Corban. Check out the rest of the images after the jump.

Check it out out after the jump!

BRIAN AUSTIN GREEN (“TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES”) GUEST STARS AS JOHN CORBEN — Clark (Tom Welling) tells Jor-El he’s ready to start his training, but Jor-El sends him back to Metropolis to cut ties with Lois before he can begin.  Chloe (Allison Mack) is shocked when Lois (Erica Durance) suddenly reappears after having been missing for weeks, but Lois has no recollection of vanishing into thin air with the Legion ring.  While investigating a monorail crash, Lois meets John Corben (guest star Brian Austin Green), a new reporter at The Daily Planet, with a negative attitude toward the Red-Blue Blur.  Chloe begs Clark to use the Legion ring to go back in time to save Jimmy, but he refuses, driving a wedge into their friendship.  Meanwhile, Oliver (Justin Hartley) continues down a dark road, and Zod (Callum Blue) arrives at the Luthor mansion.
Kevin Fair directed the episode written by Brian Peterson & Kelly Souders (#3X5251).

Check out my thoughts on Smallville The Complete Eighth Season DVD after the jump.

Packaging:

Let’s start off with the first thing anyone is going to see when they look at this one, the box. It’s no secret that Warner Bros has had fun changing the design of our favorite Superman show over the years. The first four seasons were bulky sets with invidual plastic trays for each disc; they then upgraded to a sleeker design when Smallville wrapped it’s fifth season on the CW in 2006. Seasons 5, 6, and 7 all featured a bi-fold design that, when opened, featured a large (epic) image from one particular episode of each season. Season 5 featured Lex/Zod atop LuthorCorp Tower while Metropolis burned below, season 6 had the Justice League walking away from the iconic blast, and season 7 depicted Lex and Clark’s final confrontation in the Fotress of Solitude from that season’s finale. While I loved the images, I kind of felt like it might ruin the show for people who didn’t tune in until the DVD came out. I for one would have been VERY angry if I’d never seen season seven, bought the set to catch up on, and saw one of the last images of the year plastered across the set.

Season eight brings, yet again, a new look for the DVD’s, meeting somewhere in the middle of 1-4 and 5-7. A plastic case insert rests inside the box, and features indivdual trays for the discs yet again (and the crowds rejoice: no more “easy scratch edition” cases!) The plastic lining is clear, and a faint image can be seen of our season 8 cast in the background in the bullpen of the Daily Planet. As always, there is a booklet accompanying the set with a message from our new showrunners, Kelly, Brian, Todd, and Darren, that talks about the challenges of taking the reigns on Smallville in the midst of losing Michael Rosenbaum, Kristin Kreuk, John Glover, and Al and Miles. The booklet also offers a brief synopsis of all 22 episodes of the season, and which episodes/discs contain special features like audio commentaries, unaired scenes, and documentaries.

Content:

I think the episodes of this season speak for itself. It was a high charged change for the show, moving away from the barn and into the streets of Metropolis for Clark Kent aka the Red-Blue Blur. There are new faces and new trials and tribulations, all leading to a climactic battle with Doomsday in the end, and the loss of fan favorite Jimmy Olsen. All 22 episodes are featured, covering the season that aired from September 2008 – May 2009. One thing I love about the DVD’s is the unaired or deleted scenes. Sometimes they’re just fun little moments, but sometimes they are great dialogue that delves deeper into the mythology of the show, and I love that they are able to be seen and get some recognition. Deleted scenes included are from the episode Plastique, Instinct, Legion, Power, Requiem, Turbulence, Hex, Eternal, Beast, and Injustice, and are some great insights into some already fantastic episodes.

There are two episode commentaries this go around, one for Instinct featuring Cassidy Freeman, director Marizee Almas, and Executive Producer Brian Peterson. This one was of the best episodes of the season in my opinion and I’m very glad they devoted one of the features to it. The other was for a huge episode for Smallville in general, Legion, which was written by DC favorite Geoff Johns, who also is featured in the commentary alongside executive producer Todd Slavkin and supervising producer Tim Scanlan. The Legion commentary alone was, without a doubt, worth the purchase of this set. Hearing Johns describe the Legion, what he wanted to do, and where they wanted to go was incredible and a great listen for fans of Superman and Smallville alike.

Two documentaries grace this set, one on the evolution of Doomsday and what it took to bring him into the series, and another behind the scenes look at Allison Mack’s directorial debut with the episode, Power. This was a great look at the cast and crew and makes me wish there had been one for John Schneider, Tom Welling, and Michael Rosenbaum from previous seasons when they directed. The documentaries are great and having two this year was really a treat, though I would have liked to maybe seen a documentary focusing on lots of the DC characters from this year like Maxima and the Justice League, instead of just Doomsday.

The real thing that always bothers me about these sets, is the lack of features. In years past we had gag reels that always made for fun to watch, but I think some things should go deeper than that. It’s no secret that Smallville knows how to put out a trailer or TV spot for upcoming episodes, like the 2009 promo for Legion:

Or the one for Bride, which was particularly epic:

I’m a big fan in these trailers being on the DVD alongside their corresponding episodes, but I’m afraid that’s something we’ll never get to see. One other feature I think that would have been great was the Smallville panel from last months San Deigo Comic Con, which was the first that was attended by Tom Welling, but that might have been too close to the release of the DVD to put together.

In Closing:

A+. Smallvile always knocks it out of the park and there’s even more reasons to love this DVD as it’s one of the strongest seasons of the show. As far as the BluRay goes, the Audio and Video are spectactular and I strongly suggest watching episodes like Legion and Abyss in full resolution for some amazing eye candy. I love that Warner Bros gets these out towards the end of the summer to increase awareness for the upcoming season, and this is no different. Smallville season 9 airs September 25th on The CW so order your Complete Eighth Season today on DVD or BluRay today!

As of today you can get seasons five or six at $19.99 and season seven for $18.99, which is a lot off of the retail price. You can also pre-order your 8th season set on DVD or BluRay before it releases this Tuesday! Click any of the links above to purchase through Amazon via SHoE, and you’ll support this site in the process, and be looking for an advanced review of the season eight DVD set later today!

Smallville Season 9 Trailer from Derek Russell on Vimeo.

UPDATE: KryptonSite has a larger look at the image, located here.

From Rich Sands: He was killed by a robotic assassin in Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles last spring, and now Brian Austin Green is coming back to TV as a different kind of cyborg. In a two-episode arc on Smallville (beginning with the September 25 season premiere), Green plays John Corben, a new Daily Planet reporter who becomes the comic-book villain Metallo. In the aftermath of an accident, Corben is mysteriously outfitted with a heart made of kryptonite. Executive producer Kelly Souders won’t reveal the identity of his Frankenstein-esque savoir, but says Corben is turned into “a rough version of Metallo, a first attempt at the technology, and eventually he’ll get sleeker.” So might we see him again? “Well of course—it’s Smallville,” she says with a laugh. “We’re actually throwing some ideas around right now in the hopes that we might be able to bring him back for another episode.”

]]> http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2009/08/17/tv-guide-provides-first-look-at-metallo/feed/ 8 http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2009/08/15/pre-order-supermanbatman-public-enemies/ http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/2009/08/15/pre-order-supermanbatman-public-enemies/#comments Sat, 15 Aug 2009 14:48:14 +0000 Derek http://www.smallvillepodcast.com/?p=1971 This is the DC Animated Universe title we’ve all been waiting for! Superman/Batman: Public Enemies is based on the popular series by Jeph Loeb (former writer for Smallville) which pits Superman and Batman against President Lex Luthor and a ton of other DC villains, with some familiar faces thrown in as well!

And you’ll hear some familiar voices in addition to that! Not only will Tim Daly and Kevin Conroy return to the voices of Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne again, Smallville’s Allison Mack will be providing the voice of Power Girl!

Superman/Batman: Public Enemies hits stores on September 29th, but why wait? You can pre-order the DVD or BluRay today by clicking on the links in this post. And in the process, you’re supporting Starkville’s House of El. Amazon’s price guarantee locks you in at your pre-order price, so if the cost were to go up, you’re still getting the DVD at $16.99 or the BluRay at $19.99 if you order today! And while you’re at it, check out the other titles released over the past couple of years from the DC Animated Universe. We can’t wait to see what’s coming next (Justice League: Crisis on on Two Earths)!

Superman: Doomsday on DVD or BluRay Batman: Gotham Knight on DVD or BluRay

Justice League: The New Frontier on DVD or BluRay Wonder Woman on DVD or BluRay

Green Lantern: First Flight on DVD or BluRay

First up is The Ruby-Spears Superman cartoons that ran on Saturday mornings in 1988. These haven’t been available for sometime and now you can finally get your hands on this two-disc set released from the Warner Bros vault that will hit stores on November 3rd, 2009! If you remember the cartoon, you’ll remember each episode had a special segment that revolved around a young Clark Kent in Smallville called “Superman Family Album”! This is a must for any Superman fan as it’s one of the most popular animated incarnations of the Man of Steel to date. Pre-order yours through Amazon and lock in the low price of $24.49 today!

Next is another fan favorite, the Superman: The Complete Animated Series that ran on Kids WB for three seasons. This 7-DVD set features all 54 episodes of the popular show and contains great special features which include tons of episode commentaries, new featurettes you won’t find anywhere else and lots more! This was a great series from the creators of the early 90’s Batman The Animated Series, which also had a full series release last year. Now you can complete the set and bring the Man of Steel home in his adventures that chronicle his birth on Krypton, all the way to the two-part finale set in the future!

Finally, a set you won’t want to miss: Justice League: The Complete Series! This 15-disc set covers all five seasons of Justice League and Justice League Unlimited, which hits at just over 90 episodes! Like the Superman and Batman series before it, this set comes from DC and WB courtesy of creator Bruce Timm and is packed with a ton of special features, and some new things you haven’t been able to get before. We’ll let you know when both Superman: The Complete Animated Series and Justice League: The Complete Animated Series become available for Pre-Order through Amazon; both release on November 10th. Remember, ordering through SHoE helps support this site and this podcast, keep checking back for details!

But this is just the start of some big changes here at SHoE. It’s going to be an all new year of fun things that will go hand in hand with the weekly podcast hosted by Steve Glosson. We’ve got some great ideas, some new guests, and a few other surprises we’ll be starting to roll out over the next month – and even more stuff in store as the year progresses. So let us know if you have anything at SHoE you’d like to see happening soon, and keep coming back for your latest in Smallville and SHoE news. Thanks!

Download this video:

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One thing we HAVE to address right now is the suit you’ve all been hearing about from the season nine footage that premiered Sunday. Hopefully Warner Bros will be releasing that footage but until that time we will not be linking to any bootlegs around the internet – we repect the decision of WB that what was shown was for Comic Con attendees, for now. A picture is making it’s way across the big sites as we speak, and we feel the need to interject. This photo IS A FAKE.

It’s since been said that this was indeed made by a fan for a representation of the suit, and posted on a few sites as ‘fanmade’ – everything we saw said this was ‘official’ and the only reason we’re posting this is to make people aware that some fabrications are out there, and to point you to right from wrong.

I will bet money in the coming days one of the first official photos from 9×01 – ‘Savior’ will be Clark in the suit – but this ain’t it. I find it even funnier that some of the sites posting this are written by people who were actually at the panel on Sunday, saw the thing with their own eyes, and are still spreading this around. When a real picture becomes available, you’ll find it here. Until then, don’t even bother looking at the image to the left. It’s not nearly as cool as what I saw Clark kicking ass in this past weekend.

• Panel is getting ready to start. In the audience, a certain Mr. Geoff Johns is here. Safe bet he’s going on stage today.
• Writers are getting ready to come on the stage. This thing should be starting in mere seconds….
• The panel today will be moderated by Jeph Loeb. Nametags are Justin Hartley, Erica Durance, Kelly Souders, Brian Petterson, Allison Mack, Cassidy Freeman, Callum Blue, and of course: Tom Welling!
• Lights just dimmed. It’s starting!
• Friday September 25th is the official Season Nine premiere.
• We will see SDCC exclusive footage today: right now!
• The S-shield, fortress, Tom walking, Bizzaro…more or less great moments from the show.
• Nothing new right now. Lots of Clark leaping, being awesome, being the hero he is.
• Green Arrow footage now. Big cheer from the crowd.
• It’s footage from all of the Justice League members, Zantanna, Martain Manhunter, Green Arrow, the Legion, Supergirl, Black Canary, and Chloe as Watchtower.
• Darkest Hour – every son has to pay for the sins of his father. Footage of Zod!
• Lois didn’t come back from the future alone.
• Chloe with a gun, Brain Austin Green as Metallo! Lois and Clark getting close! Clark in some sort of black suit, with the S-Shield!
• Lots of footage. I tried to get as much of it as I could. But needless to say…wow. Just wow. Season 9 looks awesome.
• Loeb is out now. He’s shaking from the footage. And so am I…which is making it hard to type…
• Kelly and Brian are walking out now…
• All the writers are here. Big support from the crowd.
• Callum Blue coming on stage now. Next up is Cassidy, followed by Justin Hartley, then Erica Duarnce, next up Allison Mack, and finally, TOM WELLING! The crowd is on their feet.
• (I was sitting mind you)
• Welling asks if we liked the trailer…and everyone did.
• Loeb tries to ask a question, but was talking to Brian. 6,000 people are in the panel today.
• He’s now talking about what it’s like to be a producer, his interest in what takes place beyond the set was what drove him to wanting to become a producer.
• Loeb is asking Erica about what it’s like to be ::ahem:: a bit closer with Clark. “It’s going to be spicy”
• Allison “loves being in control” as Watchtower.
• Justin “likes being told what to do. Cassidy has enjoyed her time. Callum loves playing an evil character.
• Kelly Peterson is talking about the move to Friday, says thanks to the fans, and say “we are gunning for a season 10″. Peterson say they do read the blogs.
• And with that, questions from the audience. A guy dressed as Batman is asking the first question. Everyone who is kneeling is “kneeling before Zod”…er..Callum
• Batman wants to know when he is going to be on the show…and want’s Tom’s nameplate. Tom just signed it and shook his hand.
• Female fan thanks Tom for showing up, says he’s pretty, then asks Erica about her being on the show. Erica will be on 18 episodes. “Operation Wild Cherry” did work. (Not sure what that was). Fan then asks for Erica’s nametag, which she signs and gives to the fan.
• Another fan is asking Tom about the several attempts about him being on the show – what drew him finally settle on doing the show – Tom says they wouldn’t let him read the full script, took some personal and outside convincing to get him to read it. “different then what I thought”.
• Loeb is now asking each one of the cast about their script reading process, Allison brought some “attitude” to Chloe. Cassidy loved the script, Justin says after the failed Aquaman pilot “they took pity on me and brought me into the show”. Erica was upset with the industry, but the script turned her around. Callum did read for “Mason” but once he found out he was playing Zod, he forgot his lines.
• Lex – “not dead”, Fan asks what Tom as brought from his personal life to the show – Tom says it’s more his professional side than his personal side he’s brought to the show.
• Allison says that Tom is one of her favorite directors. (Tom’s directing two episode this year, and Allison will do one – which causes Cassidy to say that Allison is one of her favorite directors)
• Fan talks about the great music choices. Kelly says that post production helps with that. She thanks them for her work. The fan also wants to know when Clark will fly – “tune in on the season premiere”
• Fan says that he’s been to Smalllvile panel every year, thanks them for Legion show, wants a Green Arrow spin off.
• Another fan wants a soundtrack release – Brian Peterson wants to put out a score.
• Speaking of Legion….it’s time for Geoff Johns! He’s writing another episode – this time – it’s the Justice Society of America he’s bringing to the show. Johns then asks Callum to say “Kneel before Zod”
• Kelly wants Loeb to write an episode…and he’d be interested in doing so.
• Fan wants Wonder Woman, Erica says that “maybe I will dress up as Wonder Woman”
• Fan asks Tom a question..then sighs…wants the question to be long so “he (Tom) can keep looking” at her, Tom then stares her right in the face. He’s taking forever to answer her question – he’s being a pro. Tom loves doing the stunts and directing. (the question was what did Tom enjoy doing the most over the years)
• Fan asks about the stuff with the end of the season (about story lines and such) and about “installing” story lines towards to the end of the season.
• Brain Peterson says the have “two seasons” worth of story telling left.
• Fan wants to know about more DC character. Return of Toyman and several other characters including Metallo.
• There will be more Green Arrow  this season- Ollie will be struggling, and it will go on for the first 8 episodes. “He hits rock bottom”.
• Another fan wants to know how the cast gets into character. Justin says “drinking, lots of drinking” (kidding). Justin’s real process is lots of re-reading, he said the process is always different. Erica is the same way as Justin. Tom wanted to know about Kelly’s process. Allison works off other members of the cast, mentions Tom, looks at world events to see what the show is saying. Cassidy asks “what would Tess do”, she says the writers play a big role as well. Callum says he needs intensity, so he “listens to rock music and punches himself in the face”. Loeb makes up characters.
• Jimmy is dead – and it’s Tom’s fault. Kelly has great things to say about Aaron Ashmore.
• A guy dressed as Superman is asking about the “suit” then tells Tom that spandex is “comfortable”. The “suit” is explained more in the first episode.
• Lighting round!
• Fan wants production to move to San Diego, fan wants to know what Tom will bring to producing – “make the transition beteween show and production smoother”. Smallville movie? the fans want it, but the crew was tight lipped. More romance for Chloe? (not at the moment – fan suggests Chloe and Ollie). Season 10 called Metropolis? “It’s just a rumor”. Which actress does Tom like to work with the best? “next question!”.
• Young fan wants to know if Tom playing Clark is easy..Tom says “No”. Green Arrow sidekick story being explored. Rocky start with Lois and Clark as relationship goes. More Justice League, or at least the cast wants it.
• Kelly is giving lots of praise to the entire cast and crew.
• And with that, the panel is over! Thanks guys!

Derek will be in attendance again, and as we’ve said before, the best part about Comic Con is getting to meet and hang out with many of you while we’re all down in San Diego enjoying the great food, great weather, and the most amazing comic & pop-culture convention in the world!

We’re going to have many meet-ups/tweet-ups while we’re there. So, If you know you’ll be at Comic Con drop a comment on this post, send us an e-mail to mail@smallvillepodcast.com & follow us on Twitter. We’ll be tweeting & e-mailing regularly while we’re at the convention, and we’ll also be sending out notifications about when/where we’ll be meeting up with folks.

Stay tuned to smallvillepodcast.com for more Comic Con & Smallville info! And we’ve still got some limited edition Comic Con t-shirts available for those interested!

We’ve only got a limited number available to US residents only, so this is purely on a first come first serve basis and there’s a limit of two per order.

First thing you need to do is email mail@smallvillepodcast.com with your name, address and what size shirt you need (we have small through xx-l). If you are contacted by us, you’ll receive further instructions for PayPal payment. If you don’t hear back it’s because we ran out of our already limited supply, and we’re sorry for that. But don’t worry, the new SHoE t-shirts will go on sale in August – these are just limited edition Comic Con ones!

Not only do you get the shirt but you also get 5 Starkville’s House of El stickers to put anywhere you want!

Price is $32.50 including shipping and handling so go ahead and email mail@smallvillepodcast.com with the subject line ‘CC T-Shirt’ to get yours!

Click here to check out the shirts!

A source alerted Ain’t It Cool News of some POSSIBLE promotional material for Smallville at Comic Con, that might change the future of the series if it’s true.

The description of the poster, reads like the artwork you see at the top of this text (photomanip courtesy of Allie) – which hints to a final end to the show, in the form of a made for TV movie.

If season nine is to wrap in May of 2010, this would air some seven months later at Christmas, wrapping up the show. Nothing has been confirmed or denied, but we’ll keep you updated as we look to Comic Con next month for some kind of an official announcement.

Smallville Screening and Q&A – Comic-Con favorite Smallville returns, as showrunners Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson join cast members including Smallville’s Lois Lane – Erica Durance (House of the Dead) – Justin Hartley (Gemini Division), Cassidy Freeman (Finishing the Game: The Search for a New Bruce Lee) and others (yet to be announced) to talk about the year ahead, answer fan questions and give an exclusive sneak peek at clips from season nine. Award-winning comic book writer, Emmy®-nominated film and television writer/producer, and Smallville alum Jeph Loeb (Heroes) will moderate the session. From Tollin/Robbins Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Smallville will air Fridays at 8:00 p.m. this fall on The CW, premiering September 25. Smallville: The Complete Eighth Season will be released on DVD and Blu-ray™ Hi Def August 25. Room 6BCF.

It’s unclear at this time what the greater story arc will be, but this news does seem to confirm that Sam Witwer will not be appearing as General Zod next season, despite the looks of things from the end of the eighth season finale, and those set photos that leaked out earlier this year. Hopefully more news will come out of Comic Con next month.

In looks like for the Smallville-verse, John Corben (better known to DC fans as Superman villain Metallo) will be a journalist at the Daily Planet.

Episode titles are unknown but it looks BAG will be protraying Corben for the first two episodes of the season. Is it too early to start wishing he was a series regular? More news as it comes to us.

Amazon.com

In addition to all twenty-two episodes of the eighth season, extras are to include a featurette on bringing Doomsday to life (called it!), a behind the scenes look at Allison Mack’s directorial debut for episode 8×13, “Power”, cast and crew commentaries, as well as deleted scenes.

After the jump you can find the complete press release for the set, which also mentions that this will be available just in time for season nine, and with an earlier release date, that might mean we see the season premiere a bit earlier than usual this fall. Remember, ordering from Starkville’s House of El supports this site & this podcast so what’re you waiting for? It’s win/win! Pre-order your 8th season release of Smallville on DVD & BluRay today!

High Flying Adventures Continue with…

SMALLVILLE:
THE COMPLETE EIGHTH SEASON

Collectible Multi-Disc Set on DVD and Blu-ray™ Hi-Def
Features All 22 Episodes with Over Two Hours of
Amazing Never-before-seen Bonus Features

Available August 25, 2009 from Warner Home Video

BURBANK, CA (June 8, 2009) – Another season of Smallville means more exciting new characters, adventure and conflict, as the longest running “Superman” TV series continues to deliver great entertainment with the release of Smallville: The Complete Eighth Season on DVD and Blu-ray™ on August 25th. Fans will thrill to this collectible multi-disc set with all 22 episodes of the eighth season, plus amazing bonus features, including unaired scenes, cast & crew commentaries, and several never-before-seen featurettes including “Smallville’s Doomsday: The Making of a Monster.”

In Season Eight – starring Tom Welling, Allison Mack, Erica Durance, Aaron Ashmore, Cassidy Freeman, Sam Witwer and Justin Hartley – there’s a new reporter at the Daily Planet: Clark Kent, who shares a workspace with Lois Lane. There’s a new hero in Metropolis, too. No one knows who he is. But Jimmy Olsen was on the scene of one of the do-gooder’s exploits, and he snapped a blurred photo of the hero in superspeed action – a hero everyone now calls the Red-Blue Blur.

Red-jacketed, blue-shirted Clark Kent draws closer to his Superman destiny, and another Kryptonian destiny also takes shape as Davis Bloome begins to realize he is Doomsday. His mission on Earth: kill Clark Kent. So many new events (Will Jimmy and Chloe’s marriage last?), so many new faces (Tess Mercer, Saturn Girl and Cosmic Boy among them!), so many state-of-the-art effects – so don’t miss a single thrill-packed moment!

“Smallville is the longest running live-action ‘Superman’ TV series, a testament to its popularity and loyal fan base,” said Rosemary Markson, WHV Vice President, TV and Special Interest Marketing. “This is one of the most memorable shows on TV and a must-have on DVD. As with prior seasons, Smallville: The Complete Eighth Season is timed for release just in time for the Season Nine premiere of the series on The CW.”

Smallville was developed for television by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar, and is based on DC Comics characters. The executive producers for Season Eight are Kelly Souders & Brian Peterson, Todd Slavkin & Darren Swimmer, James Marshall, Mike Tollin, Brian Robbins and Joe Davola. Superman was created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The series is from Tollin/Robbins Productions and Warner Bros. Television. Beginning this fall, Smallville will air Fridays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on The CW Television Network
.

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES

* In the Director’s Chair: Behind the Lens and Calling the Shots with Allison Mack Featurette – We speak with the veteran Smallville star about taking the directorial reins after 17 years in front of the camera, and how she made the transition from actor to director.
* Smallville’s Doomsday: The Making of a Monster Featurette – Fans go behind-the-scenes for the creation of Superman’s most notorious foe as Doomsday comes to Smallville.
* Cast & Creator Commentaries.
* Unaired Scenes.

EPISODES FEATURED

1. Odyssey
2. Plastique
3. Toxic
4. Instinct
5. Committed
6. Prey
7. Identity
8. Bloodline
9. Abyss
10. Bride
11. Legion
12. Bulletproof
13. Power
14. Requiem
15. Infamous
16. Turbulence
17. Hex
18. Eternal
19. Stiletto
20. Beast
21. Injustice
22. Doomsday

DC Comics, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world and home to such iconic characters as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and the Sandman. These DC Super Heroes and others have starred in comic books, movies, television series (both animated and live-action) and cyberspace, thrilling audiences of all ages for generations. DC Comics’ Web site is located at www.dccomics.com.

SUPERMAN and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics.

With operations in 90 international territories Warner Home Video, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, commands the largest distribution infrastructure in the global video marketplace. Warner Home Video’s film library is the largest of any studio, offering top quality new and vintage titles from the repertoires of Warner Bros. Pictures, Turner Entertainment, Castle Rock Entertainment, HBO Video and New Line Home Entertainment.

Smallville has reportedly sent out casting notices for “Mason”, a handsome charismatic charmer who savors life. He appreciates good food, loves fast cars and sees beauty in every woman. There isn’t a detail in life that eludes his senses. He is a master of seduction… knowing what everyone wants and needs before they do. But don’t let his magnetism fool you. There’s more than meets the eye. His intelligence can’t be matched. He outmaneuvers everyone in his path. Though he longs to find a home, that vulnerability can be twisted — making him a force to be reckoned with.”

These details are, of course, subject to change – but it’s interesting to think they might be casting someone else for the character of Zod, who (some theories believe) will be powerless when he shows up in Smallville. Time will tell, so take this with a grain of salt for now. It is interesting to note they did the same “double” casting with Davis Bloome though, taking Doomsday by a different name.

Oliver tells Clark he must kill Davis, as Doomsday is a serious threat and must be stopped at all costs.  However, Clark struggles with taking a human life, so the Green Arrow and his team decide to take matters into their own hands.  Lois takes on Tess, but the fight takes a shocking turn.  Meanwhile, Chloe gets caught in the middle of Oliver and Clark’s battle over killing Davis.

Tonight is the eighth season finale of Smallville and we want you involved! After it’s over, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in SHoE 122 later next week and our special reaction episode late tonight! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well; there’s always a poll up in the episode thread after it airs – go vote, and don’t forget our Twitter! We’ll be back soon with an all new episode and website review from tariel22…and a few other surprises over the weekend!

Chloe returns and begs Clark to kill Davis, claiming he can no longer keep the beast under control.  Tess has assembled a team of meteor freaks, including Plastique (guest star Jessica Parker Kennedy), to track down Davis so Clark can kill him.  However, things get out of hand once Tess’ team discovers she is double-crossing them.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in SHoE 121 later next week! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well; there’s always a poll up in the episode thread after it airs – go vote, and don’t forget our Twitter! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

Clark discovers that Davis is still alive and confronts Chloe about protecting him. Oliver discovers Jimmy breaking into Chloe’s apartment, but things get rapidly worse after Davis jumps from the shadows and attacks both of them.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in SHoE 120 later next week! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well; there’s always a poll up in the episode thread after it airs – go vote, and don’t forget our Twitter! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22! We hope to have 119 up sometime tomorrow!

Amazon.com

Release date is still unknown at this time, though I’d keep your eyes open early-to-mid September release as that’s when these sets usually hit. Remember, ordering from Starkville’s House of El supports this site & this podcast so what’re you waiting for? It’s win/win! Pre-order your 8th season release of Smallville on DVD & BluRay today!

Lois believes that she needs a big story to secure her reputation as a star reporter but the red/blue blur continues to elude her. However, after Chloe is mugged, Lois steps in to fend off one of the attackers and uses the opportunity to pretend a new superhero, Stiletto, has come to town and is giving exclusives to Lois. Clark is concerned Lois will hurt herself pretending to be a superhero but after he is captured by thugs with kryptonite, Lois steps in to save the day.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in SHoE 119 later next week! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well; there’s always a poll up in the episode thread after it airs – go vote, and don’t forget our Twitter! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

Release date and official artwork are unknown at this time, though I’d keep your eyes open early-to-mid September release as that’s when these sets usually hit. Remember, ordering from Starkville’s House of El supports this site and this podcast so what’re you waiting for? It’s win/win! Pre-order your 8th season release of Smallville on DVD and BluRay today!

April is World Autism Awareness Month. If you only do one thing online this month, do something that matters. Support Autism Speaks and the upcoming Walk Now for Autism Now.

Our shows will be talking about this throughout the rest of April and asking for your support in this amazing cause. Specifically with our friend Kim and her team, whose goal is set at $1,000. We’d like to see that amount shattered and reach well over $3,000 by the end of the month. Donations are a minimum of $20, next to nothing for a cause this great. So show your support, be informed about autism, and help out as you can by clicking the image above or one of these links. Thanks guys!

Courtesy of The ODI

Tess tries to kill Davis by blowing up his truck. However, after he escapes, she realizes she needs help to destroy him and turns to Clark. Tess reveals Davis’ secret childhood with the Luthors and hints that she knows Clark’s true identity. Meanwhile, Davis runs to Chloe for help.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in SHoE 118 later next week! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well; there’s always a poll up in the episode thread after it airs – go vote, and don’t forget our Twitter! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

Same trailer they’ve been showing, slightly altered. Still cool!
Courtesy of The ODI

At Chloe’s birthday party, a mysterious magician named Zatanna (guest star Serinda Swan) grants Chloe’s wish to be more like Lois and switches the two into each other’s bodies.  Zatanna searches for her father’s book of spells so she can conjure up his spirit but not before also granting Clark his deepest wish.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in 117 later this weekend! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well; there’s always a poll up in the episode thread after it airs – go vote! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

Courtesy of The ODI

Tess invites Clark to a press conference in New York but when an explosion rocks the private jet they are on, Clark must figure out how to save them without Tess learning his secret.  Unbeknownst to Clark, Tess orchestrated the explosion to get Clark to reveal his powers.  Meanwhile, Davis discovers a surprising way to control the monster within.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in 115 & 116 when they get recorded! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

Courtesy of Mr. ODI

Linda Lake (guest star Tori Spelling) returns to Metropolis and threatens to expose Clark’s secret unless he promises to give her exclusive information on the red-blue blur so she can become a star reporter again. Refusing to be blackmailed, Clark tells Lois his secret and asks her to write his story for The Daily Planet.

Smallville and SHoE are back after almost 5 weeks off and this one’s a big deal; what if Clark had to become Superman overnight? Here’s a glimpse into what would happen if Clark outed himself as the Red-Blue Blur to Metropolis, and the world! As far as press goes, there’s a director’s cut and a trailer to the episode.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in 115! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

In addition, CW has also greenlit the returning shows of Supernatural, Gossip Girl, 90210, and America’s Next Top Model.

Head over to Kryptonsite.com to read the official press announcement or check it out after the jump.

THE CW ANNOUNCES EARLY PICKUPS OF SERIES

“Gossip Girl,” “One Tree Hill,” “90210,” “America’s Next Top Model,” “Smallville” and “Supernatural” To Return Next Season

February 24, 2009 (Burbank, California) ─ The CW announced today the early pickups of six series, including five of the network’s signature dramas and the reality hit AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL, which will all return in Fall 2009.

“As we continue to build The CW Network as a destination for young women, these six shows have clearly contributed to strengthening our schedule and our brand identity,” said Dawn Ostroff, President, Entertainment , The CW. “By securing these signature hits for next season, we’re furthering our commitment to deliver high-quality, original programming to our viewers, advertisers and affiliates.”

Among the series receiving early pickups for next season are The CW’s Monday tandem of sophomore sensation GOSSIP GIRL and ONE TREE HILL, which combined to lift The CW to become the fall’s #1 network on Monday with women 18-34. Both GOSSIP GIRL and ONE TREE HILL have scored double-digit gains compared to their previous seasons. Freshman hit 90210 has improved the network’s Tuesday night by double-digit increases in key demos. Wednesday anchor AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL, which consistently wins its time period with young women, will also be back with superstar Tyra Banks and new groups of aspiring models for cycles 13 and 14.

Also renewed were the network’s established Thursday team of SMALLVILLE, in its ninth season, and SUPERNATURAL, which after posting ratings growth this season, will enter its fifth season next year.

An explosion at LuthorCorp kills all the Board members and injures Oliver, who was there to announce the merger of his company with LutherCorp. Oliver believes that Lex is responsible for the blast, but Clark and Lana learn that the bomber is Winslow Schott, a toymaker and former Queen Industries employee with a grudge against Oliver.

The ‘Clana Trilogy’ comes to a close tonight, with Kristin Kreuk’s final appearance as Lana Lang on Smallville. Be sure not to miss this one as it’s the last episode for four weeks!

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in 114! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

Allison Mack’s Directorial Debut — Clark finds Tess in Lana’s ransacked apartment and realizes Lana is missing. Tess tells him Lex is still alive and may have kidnapped Lana and finally reveals the truth about what happened to Lana after she awoke from her Brainiac-induced coma. Meanwhile, Tess breaks into a secret LuthorCorp facility and is shocked at what she discovers.

Smallville has got two more episodes left before another 4 weeks off and this one’s a big deal; not only do we find out more about Lana’s mysterious disappearance from season seven, it’s also the directorial debut of another Smallville cast member, Allison Mack! As far as press goes, there’s a director’s cut and a trailer to the episode.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in 113! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

Clark discovers John Jones was shot while working as a police officer, so Clark dons the uniform and goes undercover to find the culprit.  Meanwhile, Lana confronts Tess and tells her Lex isn’t the man she thinks he is.  Lana’s shocking news forces Tess to reevaluate her position as the head of Luthorcorp.

Smallville is back in full swing for the next few weeks, and this episode specifically will fuel some story lines for the next several episodes. As far as press goes, there’s a director’s cut featuring some and we’ve also some clips from the episode available here, here, here, and here.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode so we’ll have a lot to talk about in 112! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well! We’ll be back later this weekend with an all new episode and website review from tariel22!

A hero’s future is here. Smallville returns with its first episode back since our November 20th cliffhanger of “Bride”! This episode was written by DC Comics golden-boy Geoff Johns and promises to be full of fun for Superman and Smallville fans alike.

The CW has released a LOT of press for this episode, in anticipation for the arrival of the Legion of Superheroes in Smallville. First up there are three trailers for this episode available on SHoE’s site if you scroll down below this post. Next there’s a director’s cut featuring some Braniac and Legion interaction at the Daily Planet. We’ve also got a clip of The Persuader and Clark battling after the wedding here and a scene between Clark and the Legion available here and a VERY spoilery clip between Braniac and Davis located here.

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, we want LOTS of voicemails (206-666-1822) emails, and forum messages for our plus sized Episode 111! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well! It’s 2009 and Smallville is back!

“Legion” airs January 15th, 2009 on the CW

From all of us here at Starkville’s House of El, and the rest of the Starkville Podcast Community, we’d like to wish the happiest of holidays to you and yours this season. 

No matter what you believe, what you celebrate, or where you are in the world, we hope you’re happy, safe, and content on this Christmas Eve.

We’re looking forward to spending 2009 with all of you, and promise big things in the future!

Happy Holidays,

Derek Russell & Steve Glosson

“Legion” will pick up right where “Bride” left off in 2008 and show us the aftermath of Chloe and Jimmy’s wedding, while “Bulletproof” will take us back to Metropolis with an undercover Clark Kent.

Click the jump to read the spoiler filled descriptions. “Legion” airs January 15th; “Bulletproof” airs January 22nd.

DC COMICS’ LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES ARRIVE IN SMALLVILLE FROM THE FUTURE TO HELP CLARK STOP BRAINIAC AND THE PERSUADER — The aftermath of Doomsday’s attack on Chloe and Jimmy’s wedding leaves Clark in shock, but before he can search for the kidnapped Chloe, The Persuader (guest star Fraser Aithceson) appears and attacks him.  Rokk (guest star Ryan Kennedy), Imra (guest star Alexz Johnson) and Garth (guest star Calum Worthy), also known as The Legion, step in from the future to help vanquish the Persuader and the group realizes Brainiac has taken over Chloe once again.  Meanwhile, up at the Fortress, Chloe, as Brainiac, informs Davis he is Doomsday and was created to kill “the other Kryptonian” and destroy the world. Written by Geoff Johns. Directed by Glenn Winter.

JOHN JONES IS SHOT — Clark discovers John Jones (guest star Phil Morris) was shot while working as a police officer, so Clark dons the uniform and goes undercover to find the culprit.  Meanwhile, Lana confronts Tess and tells her Lex isn’t the man she thinks he is.  Lana’s shocking news forces Tess to reevaluate her position as the head of Luthorcorp. Written by Bryan Q. Miller. Directed by Morgan Beggs.

Click the jump to see what she thought of the walk down Chloe and Clark’s memory lane.

You can also weigh in on the episode at our new SHoE forums or give tariel22 feedback directly here!

Ever since we first found out in the season premiere that Chloe had super brain powers, powers that were the result of her encounter with Brainiac, we’ve been waiting for something bad to happen. Because when you’re talking about Brainiac, something bad always happens. So when Chloe killed a man in cold blood at the end of Identity, even as we reeled in shock and horror, we never once thought it was really Chloe behind that terrible act. At least for that brief moment, Chloe was ruled by Brainiac’s icy ruthlessness rather than her own morality and compassion. Whoa, how long had that been going on? And what exactly was Brainiac up to, anyway? In Abyss, we finally began to find out.

This week’s episode was all about Chloe. Her wedding day to Jimmy was fast approaching, and she couldn’t even remember the groom. Brainiac was replacing all her memories with Kryptonian data, and pretty soon the only people she still recognized were Clark and Davis. Clark because she was closer to him than anyone else, fiance notwithstanding, and Davis because he was the one person Brainiac wanted her to remember. And then Clark was gone, too, and Chloe was lost, her mind awash in a sea of Kryptonian symbols, with Davis the only friend left to stand by her side and help her keep panic at bay. Clark was determined to rebuild the Fortress and have Jor-El restore Chloe’s memories, and in the end he was successful, but the decisions he made along the way, and the actions he took, will have consequences far beyond this episode’s crisis, and not in a good way, I’m afraid.

Abyss was an absolute showcase for the talents of Allison Mack. She is an incredible actress, and she didn’t hit one wrong note in this episode. Chloe started out confused and concerned, and tackled her problem in her usual independent fashion, diving into research, and depending on no one but herself to find the answers. Once Clark discovered her secret, though, her brave face crumbled, and we saw her fear and desperation as her memories continued to slip away. Allison’s performance made my heart break for Chloe, and put me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen to her. After her memories were restored (well, most of them, anyway), AM gave us a sparkling, happy Chloe, the very picture of the carefree bride-to-be. The contrast reminded us just how burdened Chloe has been of late, and only strengthened Clark’s belief that he had done the right thing. And finally, we saw a very serious Chloe, who turned away Davis’s advances and shut the door on whatever burgeoning feelings she may have had for him. Every moment Allison was onscreen impressed me, and made me rejoice anew that the show was able to sign her for another season.

So what did you think of Clark’s decision to take away Chloe’s memories of his secret? Was he wrong? I think he was. I know that he acted out of love, and was only trying to keep Chloe safe, but quite frankly, he had no right. Only Chloe could make that choice, and clearly she wouldn’t have. It would be one thing if Chloe had said she wished she had never found out about Clark, but in fact she said the exact opposite, that she wouldn’t trade what that knowledge has brought her for anything. I also think it diminishes Chloe as a character on the show, but I suspect they have other plans for her than being Clark’s sidekick, at least in the short term.

Beyond Clark’s decision, which I can at least understand, I had a couple of other problems with Abyss. First of all, I hated seeing Clark humble himself before Jor-El. I love the Jor-El I’ve met in other Superman stories, who is noble, wise, and has deep affection for the human race, but Smallville’s Jor-El has never been one of my favorites. I didn’t like him in S2, when he branded Clark. I didn’t like him in S3, when he blackmailed Clark into joining him by threatening Jonathan’s life, or in S4, when he returned Kal-El in Clark’s place, a cold, heartless alien who hurled Martha to the ground before taking to the skies. Sure, there have been times I wished Clark would listen to Jor-El, especially when he warned him not to activate Kara’s crystal, but his “consequences” are always so heavy-handed they feel more like retribution to me. Does someone on this show have father issues, or what?

Specifically, I had a hard time listening to Clark basically apologize for “betraying” Jor-El, and acknowledge that he had put the planet in danger. I still think intending to freeze him in a column of ice until everyone he loved was dead was a bit harsh, and implying that Clark bears any responsibility for what happened with the orb makes my head want to explode. At the same time, though, this is S8, and on some level I see it as a Smallville reboot. Along with a sharp turn toward awesome in the whole direction of the show, we’ve seen subtle yet definite changes in both Clark and Lois this season, changes I embrace and celebrate. Shouldn’t Jor-El be allowed to be tweaked as well? So with some effort I let go of all my past grudges against him, and watched those scenes with Clark in the Fortress again. And came away with a completely different feeling about them.

In the past Clark has always been at Jor-El’s mercy, subject to whatever judgment he hands down, often without warning or explanation. To me, Clark in the Fortress has always seemed like a bewildered boy, trying to make sense of a father he can never understand. But the Clark who entered the resurrected Fortress was a man, who spoke to Jor-El as an equal, and an ally. He commanded his father’s respect, and we saw Jor-El take his rightful place as Clark’s adviser, rather than his ruler. Because what makes Superman truly great is the combination of his Kryptonian and human attributes. No one but he can fully comprehend what it means to have both infinite strength and infinite compassion. And our Clark knows that now. As he stood tall in the FOS, speaking firmly and calmly (no more bellowing!) to Jor-El, I couldn’t have been more proud.

Second, I was disappointed to see Clark placed in a no-win situation again. I just don’t like it when my hero is set up to fail. As soon as Jor-El said, “There is no way of knowing what the outcome will be. Are you willing to take that risk?” we all knew this was going to end badly in the long run, and that it would all hinge on Clark’s choice at that moment. But what other choice did he have? Was he supposed to just let Brainiac destroy Chloe’s mind? I just hope Clark doesn’t get bogged down in guilt over whatever happens. And I think maybe S8 Clark won’t.

So just where is all this heading, and what is Brainiac’s plan? How much of what has happened was part of his grand design, and how much was happenstance? Clearly Brainiac, ever loyal to Zod, is bent on helping his son destroy Earth, and somehow taking over Chloe’s mind is part of the plan. Did he anticipate what Clark would do, and attack Chloe’s memories just to gain access to the FOS? I still don’t know exactly what’s going on, but I can’t wait to see what happens next! And how awesome was it to hear James Marsters’ voice taunting Jor-El as Brainiac took over the Fortress? I wasn’t sure about this whole Doomsday storyline when I first heard about it, but now I think it’s going to rock, big time!

I may hate the Chimmy, but I still felt bad for Jimmy in this episode. The poor guy keeps plugging away, loving Chloe the best way he knows how, and he continues to get the message that not only is he not the only man in her life, he’s not even the most important one. Not to mention he’s completely in the dark about a whole bunch of stuff. They haven’t even made it to the altar yet, and they’ve already got two strikes against them. Honestly, it’s ridiculous that Jimmy hasn’t called off the wedding by now. Aaron Ashmore did a great job of portraying Jimmy’s anguished helplessness, but I’d still rather see him playing sidekick to Lois and Clark at the Daily Planet.

Jimmy always worries that Chloe hasn’t gotten over Clark, and Abyss made me wonder about that, too. The show has been telling us for a long time now that Chloe has moved on, despite the occasional wistful glance in Clark’s direction, and after Committed I was willing to accept that Chloe truly was in love with Jimmy, and only Jimmy. But when she flirted with Davis in the very next episode, I got confused. Did she mean what she said about Jimmy, or did she beat the lie detector with her Brainiac powers? And this episode confused me even more. Every memory of Clark we saw Chloe relive, except for the one where she learned his secret, was of Chloe kissing, or almost kissing, Clark. What am I supposed to make of that? Is Chloe still in love with Clark?

I thought it was a cute idea to recreate the first time Chloe kissed Clark, in a scene we’ve only heard Clark talk about before, but I found it jarring that the actors looked so young. Didn’t that kiss take place just a year before the Pilot? Nonetheless, it was a sweet scene, and I liked the way they portrayed Chloe’s memory disappearing right before her eyes. In fact, I thought all the special effects were well done, and it was cool to see flashes of the Superman shield as Chloe struggled to hang on to her memories of Clark.

I’m confused about Chloe’s feelings, but not about Clark’s. I didn’t get a romantic vibe from him at all. Yes, he threw caution to the wind and rebuilt the FOS just to save her, he sacrificed his own happiness and gave her up in order to protect her, and it’s obvious what she means to him, but I still think it’s platonic on his part. He never said I love you during his impassioned goodbye to an unconscious Chloe, and he kissed her on the forehead, not the lips. If Chloe does still have lingering feelings for Clark, I think they will remain unrequited. So why even go there, show? It makes no sense.

I don’t know what I’m supposed to think about Davis. He was there for Chloe when she needed him, and acted in her best interest, but then turned into creepy stalker guy there at the end. Sam Witwer continues to play him sympathetically, but Davis has terrible secrets he’s not sharing, and we all know the threat he poses to Clark. At this point I care more about stopping him than saving him, and if he hurts my boy, he will have lost me altogether. As usual, Clark was my hero this week. Once Jimmy told him Chloe was in trouble, he could not be swayed from helping her. He brushed aside her false assurances and discovered the truth for himself, and then went forward with the only way he knew to save her, despite the potential danger to himself. And he tried to ensure that nothing like this could ever happen again. Clark sees his secret as something that ruins the lives of those who know it, and his voice betrayed all his pain as he talked about it to Chloe in the loft. Desperate to rid Chloe of that burden, he made a difficult choice. I don’t agree with it, but I don’t fault him for it either. I just wish that Clark could see things the way Chloe does, that knowing his secret is a gift, and that standing by his side is an honor, whatever the risk.

Tom Welling continues to own this role, and I think it is his presence more than anything else that makes me see this Clark Kent as the future Man of Steel. In Abyss he showed us Clark’s great strength, as he faced Jor-El, unwavering, and also his vulnerability, as he apologized to Chloe for hiding the truth from her once more. And the quiet, yet undeniable, confidence in Tom’s voice as Clark vowed to take on Doomsday, no matter what, made me believe that in the end, everything will be okay.

Random thoughts: Chloe’s a good liar. Jimmy’s dialogue kind of drives me nuts sometimes. Bridal wave? Really? It totally bugged me that Young!Clark had blue eyes. When the black goo came out of Chloe’s ear, did that mean Brainiac left Choe, or did he leave something behind? Does she still have her super brain powers? Something about the lighting in the FOS makes Tom look extra pretty. And this was the first episode of the season that didn’t have a single scene at the Daily Planet. Abyss was my least favorite episode of the season so far, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t like it. We got the Fortress back, Clark has a whole new relationship with Jor-El, Allison Mack gave us some of the best acting she’s ever done on this show, and OMG, Brainiac is back, and he’s taken over the FOS! We have just one more episode between us and the dreaded hiatus, but it looks like Bride should give us plenty to talk about until Smallville returns. At the very least, I know I’m going to enjoy this wedding more than the last one I saw on this show!

Click the jump to see what she thought of Smallville’s big wedding, and it’s bigger baddie!

You can also weigh in on the episode at our new SHoE forums or give tariel22 feedback directly here!

Even before this season began, we heard about the budget cuts on Smallville, and there has been clear evidence of them in the episodes we’ve seen so far. There hasn’t been any stunt casting, location shoots are mostly a thing of the past, and Oliver’s signature set is the teeny tiny cabin of his private jet. And everything in Metropolis happens on the same city block. But none of that bothers me, and Bride was the perfect example of why that is. Our regular series cast is all I need to remain captivated by this show, I’m a lot more interested in what’s happening onscreen than the backdrop behind it, and even with budget constraints, the special effects rock! In many ways this episode felt like a season finale to me, centered as it was around a big event, with cliffhanger elements and shocking reveals, and it was a glorious way to send us all into the dreaded winter hiatus.

There was so much going on in this episode, you didn’t want to look away for a second for fear you would miss something critical. The main event, of course, was Chloe’s wedding to Jimmy, and the teaser, video footage from the occasion, did just that, showing us just enough to make our jaws drop and our hearts race. First we saw the cute and funny video message from Clark and Lois, and then the wedding itself. Everyone looked so beautiful, and so happy, and then BAM! What was that thing?! As the video cut to static and we jumped into the opening credits, the lyrics of the Smallville theme song have never seemed more appropriate!

Smallville: Season One – $14.99       Smallville: Season Two – $14.99

Smallville: Season Three – $14.99    Smallville: Season Four – $14.99

Smallville: Season Five – $14.99       Smallville: Season Six – $14.99

Smallville: Season Seven – $37.99

While we could never replace Angellwings we have been looking for her successor. One thing that Steve loved to do over at Geek Out Loud before he came to SHoE, was written reviews of the episodes and he’s decided to take up that mantle here as well, which should be a huge treat for fans of his site from back last year. Another reviewer I was very fond of during the seventh season of Smallville was tariel22, who wrote for our buddy Jc’s website SVFan.com when it was in operation. In addition to Steve, tariel22 will be bringing us her reviews from week to week – so be on the lookout for both of these reviews as we catch up from “Prey” to tonight’s episode of “Bride” in the coming days.

November 20th has come and gone, and the blissful wedding of Jimmy and Chloe was anything but. Jimmy’s life hangs in the balance after the attack by Doomsday, Oliver and Clark are desperately searching for Chloe, while Lois battles her feelings for Clark after Lana’s return. And just who was that bald figure in the final seconds? Smallville doesn’t return for another 7 weeks, but we can give you a glimpse of what’s to come after the jump.

Say hello to the Legions of Super Heroes. Saturn Girl, Lightning Lad, and Cosmic Boy will be appearing in Episode 8×11 entitled “Legion” and written by DC Comics writer Geoff Johns.

But who is this character? You might have been wondering that after tonight’s trailer for season 8’s return. We believe that he is a Legion villain known as “The Persuader”. What involvment he will have with Clark, The Legion, Chloe and Doomsday we don’t know at this time. But it’s definitely a lot to look forward to when the series returns January 15th, 2008 on the CW!

Doomsday Is Here. The mid-season finale airs tonight on The CW, featuring a wedding and some wedding crashers! We see the wedding of James Olsen to Chloe Sullivan, sparks fly between Lois and Clark, the return of Lana Lang to Smallville, the Green Arrow, and Davis Bloomsday.

The CW has released a LOT of press for this episode, as it has been called the most anticipated episode of Smallville since the pilot in 2001. First up we have the two versions of the trailer, available here and here. Next there’s a director’s cut featuring some “Cloverfield” style scenes from this episode’s wedding cam point of view. We’ve got a clip of Oliver and Clark talking before the wedding here and three VERY spoiler filled scenes (you’ve been warned) available here, here, and here. You’ve been warned!

After the episode, check out our House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, we want LOTS of voicemails (206-666-1822) emails, and forum messages for our plus sized Episode 109 featuring “Abyss” and “Bride”! Be sure to talk about it in our live chat from the forums as well! Doomsday is here!

Our Episode 109 will cover both “Abyss” and this week’s “Bride”, featuring a huge discussion on all the surprises, returns, and cliffhangers these two episodes have had to offer. Expect a few surprises of our own, including special-themed AAC cards, music, and more. It’s all part of our end of year celebration that will culminate in a very special episode of SHoE that will be out over the weekend. Thanks everyone!

We’ve been talking about it for 6 months here on Starkville’s House of El, and next week, Doomsday is upon us.

If you saw last night’s trailer for 8×10 – ‘Bride’, you know of what we speak. It was enough to flood my phone with text messages and phone calls – enough to fill up our mail inbox – and enough to make one Steve Glosson call me screaming “WE NEED TO RECORD TONIGHT!”

Rest assured, Episode 109 of SHoE is being planned as we speak as there is a LOT to discuss and we don’t want to miss any detail, so be patient with us as we get it together. In the meantime, if you’d like a closer look at our bony-knucked friend, click the jump for some images. To check out an extended trailer for next week’s episode and an exclusive clip, go here.

An episode revisiting the events from seventh season finale airs tonight on the CW, entitled “Abyss”. Tune in at 8pm (7 central) for a Chloe centric episode based around her encounter with Braniac, and the hold he still has over her as she begins to forget her past and her life. Tonight’s episode sets up the events for next week’s mid-season finale, “Bride”. Be sure to tune in!

The CW has also released a clip from the episode, available here, showing a frightened Chloe talking to Davis. We also have the original trailer for this week’s episode.

After the episode, check out our new House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, and stay tuned for Episode 109 of SHoE and Angellwing’s review of “Abyss” early next week!

The episode that Derek has been looking forward to more than any other this season finally airs tonight on the CW, entitled “Bloodline”. Tune in at 8pm (7 central) for an action-packed episode featuring the return of Kara Zor-El, the Phantom Zone, a Super powered Lois Lane, and a deeper look into what’s going on with Davis and Chloe (respectively).

The CW has also released a director’s cut of the episode, available here, showing a battle between Faora and Clark. We also have the original trailer for this week’s episode, an extended trailer and a scene featuring Clark and Kara available here.

After the episode, check out our new House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, and stay tuned for Episode 108 of SHoE and Angellwing’s review of “Bloodline” later this weekend!

On November 3rd, 2007 – Steve Glosson came into your hearts and iTunes in the 66th episode of SHoE – “Lara”

Since then we’ve had a lot of laughs, almost 40 episodes together, at least 100 musical numbers, 2,743 plugs for Geek Out Loud (The Official Podcast of GeekOutOnline.Com), another podcast spinoff, and one single slice of chocolate pie.

I couldn’t ask for a better co-host and a better friend to talk to every week as we do these shows, so happy one year anniversary Steve! Here’s too many more!

To hear Steve’s first ever episode on SHoE, you can go here.

This is one you won’t want to miss guys, especially the final seconds. Don’t blink! Check out the the description after the jump!

IT’S CHLOE AND JIMMY’S DREAM WEDDING DAY BUT TWO UNEXPECTED GUESTS CRASH THE PARTY 

Chloe (Allison Mack) is excited that she’s marrying Jimmy (Aaron Ashmore). Meanwhile, Oliver (Justin Hartley) tells Clark (Tom Welling) he thinks he’s discovered where Lex is hiding and takes off to Cuba to confront him. However, when he arrives, Oliver is shocked to find Lana (Kristin Kreuk) instead. Clark and Lois (Erica Durance) grow closer but chaos ensues when Doomsday crashes the wedding and tries to kidnap Chloe. Jeannot Szwarc directed the episode written by Al Septian & Turi Meyer

The seventh episode of season eight airs tonight on the CW, entitled “Identity”. Tune in at 8pm (7 central) for what should be a very mythos heavy episode as Clark comes closer to understanding the importance of a dual-identity.

The CW has also released a director’s cut of the episode, available here, showing Lois and Jimmy getting mugged on the street. We also have the trailer for this week’s episode and a scene featuring Clark and Chloe available here.

After the episode, check out our new House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, and stay tuned for Episode 107 of SHoE and Angellwing’s review of “Identity” later this weekend!

With two CD’s housing over 28 tracks, this impressive collection also features four remix tracks and an 8×8x40 page hardbound book that is a must for any fan!

Purchasing through Amazon with SHoE supports the podcast so go ahead and pick up the perfect gift for any Batman fan right now by clicking here.

While editing episode #105 of SHoE I found out my grandfather had to have emergency bypass surgery and I ran home to be near my family during that time last week. In doing that I was not able to finish our episode for “Committed” and subsequently got behind; not having it out in time for Thursday night’s episode of “Prey”. Hopefully things will get back to ordinary now and Episode 105 will be released late Monday / early Tuesday and Episode 106 – “Prey” will show up in your feeds around Wednesday in time for “Identity”.

Thanks for understanding everyone, and thank you all for the kind words to me and my family on the forums, our twitter, and email! It’s all greatly appreciated!

The description is extremely spoilery, so check it out after the jump for more.

“Abyss” airs November 13th on the CW.

BRAINIAC ERASES CHLOE’S MEMORY — Brainiac begins removing Chloe’s (Allison Mack) memories one by one until the only person she remembers is Davis (Sam Witwer).  Clark (Tom Welling) realizes the only way to stop Brainiac from taking over Chloe’s mind is to rebuild the Fortress and ask Jor-El to heal her.  Erica Durance, Aaron Ashmore, Justin Hartley and Cassidy Freeman also star.  Kevin Fair directed the episode written by Don Whitehead & Holly Henderson

I’m diligently working on trying to get the episode released before Wednesday night; to give everyone at least 24 hours before “Prey” airs. We’ve always tried to get episodes out 3-4 days after the most recent episode of Smallville here at SHoE but several things have just gotten in the way. Sometimes there’s not always enough time to get all the things done that should be! Thanks for your patience! Episode 105 is coming soon.

The description is extremely spoilery, so check it out after the jump for more.

“Bloodline airs November 6th on the CW.

KARA RETURNS — Clark (Tom Welling) receives an anonymous package containing the crystal that Tess (Cassidy Freeman) found in the Arctic.  When he removes the crystal, it activates and sends him and a visiting Lois (Erica Durance) to the Phantom Zone where they run into Kara (guest star Laura Vandervoort).  Kara opens a portal for Lois to return but Zod’s wife Faora escapes with her and takes over Lois’ body.  A possessed Lois goes on a rampage in Metropolis.  Allison Mack, Aaron Ashmore and Justin Hartley also star.  Michael Rohl directed the episode written by Caroline Dries

The fifth episode of season eight airs tonight on the CW, entitled “Committed”. Tune in at 8pm (7 central) for what should be a very ’shipperific’ episode as Lois and Clark go under cover to stop a serial killer!

The CW has also released a director’s cut of the episode, available here, showing Chloe and Jimmy’s encounter with ‘The Jeweler’. We also have two trailers from tonight’s episode, first the CW’s available here and the Canadian Space Channel version. Not only that, but Smallville executive producer Todd Slavkin has a short video explaining the events of tonight’s episode that you can check out here!

After the episode, check out our new House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, and stay tuned for Episode 105 of SHoE and Angellwing’s review of “Committed” later this weekend!

The fourth episode of season eight airs tonight on the CW, entitled “Instinct”. Tune in at 8pm (7 central) for what should be a very interesting episode dealing with an alien princess searching for her mate!

The CW has also released a director’s cut of the episode, available here, showing Maxima’s arrival on Earth, and the first victim she claims while searching for Kal-El. We also have a clip from tonight’s episode showing Clark and Maxima’s first encounter available here! Not only that, but Smallville executive producer Brian Peterson has a short video explaining the events of tonight’s episode that you can check out here!

After the episode, check out our new House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, and stay tuned for Episode 104 of SHoE and Angellwing’s review of “Instinct” later this weekend!

Click the jump to check out more!

Click the jump to read but be warned of MAJOR spoilers!

DAVIS STARTS TO SEE HIS DARK SIDE — Clark looks into a recent attack in a theater that may be the work of a serial killer. Suspecting it could be someone who is meteor-infected, he demands that Chloe release the names of the people she is counseling at the Isis Foundation, which causes a rift between the friends. Davis fears that his blackouts could mean that he is the serial killer and collects evidence that may implicate him. Fearing the worst, he confesses his suspicions to Chloe. Michael Rohl directed the episode written by Brian Peterson & Kelly Souders

The third episode of season eight airs tonight on the CW, entitled “Toxic”. Tune in at 8pm (7 central) for what should be a great episode looking at the origins of Oliver Queen and delving into Tess Mercer’s past!

The CW has also released a director’s cut of the episode, available here, showing Oliver stranded on the island searching for food; we also have a clip from tonight’s episode via a Justin Hartley interview available here! Not only that, but Smallville executive producer Todd Slavkin has a short video explaining the events of tonight’s episode that you can check out here!

After the episode, check out our new House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, and stay tuned for Episode 103 of SHoE and Angellwing’s review of “Toxic” later this weekend!

TV Guide was gracious enough to send this our way; check out part one of the interview, here.

The series, entitled “The Graysons”, will center around a young Dick Grayson, named DJ in the script, and his family before they are murdered, and of course before Dick becomes Robin to Bruce Wayne’s Batman.

Last night, Brian Peterson and Kelly Souders posted a message to fans over at KryptonSite regarding their new endeavor and what it may mean for Smallville:

Dear Smallville fans,

As news and rumors swirl around the development of The Graysons for the CW, we have every intention of letting you, our fans, be the first to know the reality. Never have we been so committed to the continuing success of Smallville as we are to seasons 8 and 9. While we are extremely excited to be working hand-in-hand with Wonderland, Warner Bros. and the CW to create the origin story of Dick Grayson, it has never been intended as a replacement for Smallville, as is speculated in some media. The cast, crew, writers and producers are all working full-steam ahead on a story-line for Clark that allows for seasons of further trials and adventures for our favorite hero. As always, we all have you to thank for achieving eight years of this amazing show that Al and Miles created, and we’re looking far beyond!

Brian Peterson & Kelly Souders

Click the jump to read but be warned of spoilers!

CHLOE TELLS JIMMY HOW SHE FEELS ABOUT CLARK — After they leave their engagement party, Chloe (Allison Mack) and Jimmy (Aaron Ashmore) are abducted by a psychotic jeweler (guest star David Lewis) who was emotionally scarred by his wife’s infidelity and is now kidnapping couples and subjecting them to a kryptonite-enhanced lie detector that shocks them if they lie. The abductor asks Chloe if she is in love with anyone else- Meanwhile, in an effort to find Chloe and Jimmy, Clark (Tom Welling) and Lois (Erica Durance) pose as a couple and are kidnapped themselves then, asked how they feel about each other. Allison Mack and Erica Durance also star.  Glen Winter directed the episode written by Bryan Q. Miller.

The second episode of season eight airs tonight on the CW, entitled “Plastique”. Tune in at 8pm (7 central) for what promises to be a truly epic episode chronicling Clark Kent’s first day of work at the Daily Planet!

The CW has also released a director’s cut of the episode, available here, showing the first meeting between Chloe Sullivan and our charismatic paramedic, Davis Bloome! Not only that but Smallville executive producer Brian Peterson has a short video explaining the events of tonight’s episode that you can check out here!

After the episode, check out our new House of El forums and be sure to talk all about the episode, and stay tuned for Episode 102 of SHoE and Angellwing’s review of “Plastique” later this weekend!

After over a year of speculation, Smallville has finally made it’s way on to iTunes for people to enjoy over and over again. For just $1.99 an episode you can have a great copy of the newest season on your computer or iPod for your enjoyment over and over again!

I for one am extremely happy for this as it will make waiting on the DVD a little easier each year, and I’m sure you can expect to see previous seasons show up as well.

Click here to go straight to iTunes and purchase episode 8×01 – “Odyssey”!

Official Episode description after the jump.

THE JUSTICE LEAGUE RETURNS TO FIND CLARK AFTER THE COLLAPSE OF THE FORTRESS; THE NEW CEO OF LUTHORCORP COMES TO TOWN — The Justice League, lead by the Green Arrow (Justin Hartley), hits the Artic in search of Clark (Tom Welling), who disappeared after the fortress collapsed. The team immediately has a confrontation with the new CEO of Luthorcorp, Tess Mercer (Cassidy Freeman). Meanwhile, Chloe (Allison Mack) is being held prisoner by a suspicious group who has discovered she has a new power, and Clark has been stripped of his powers by Jor-El.

Erica Durance and Aaron Ashmore also star. Kevin Fair directed the episode with the story by Brian Peterson & Kelly Souders and teleplay by Todd Slavkin & Darren Swimmer.

www.starkvilleforums.com

Please visit the link above and register your name! Existing users to our forums will still need to re-register. These new forums are a fresh start for our community.

Why the move?

We announced a while back that we wanted to merge our forums with our sister shows, The 10th Wonder and SkyNext. After much thought and planning we have purchased vBulletin, a forum script that is leaps and bounds better than our current forums. When we sat down to think about the logistics of merging our two huge forums it began to dawn on us that it wasn’t going to be likely that we’d be able to pull it off without major problems since several users have accounts on both forums, etc. We thought long and hard and came to the decision to start fresh at our new community and ask everyone to register new accounts.

What’s going to happen to the old forum?

They aren’t going anywhere. In 24 hours we’re going to close our old SHoE forums off to new registrations lock all of the forums. You’ll always be able to access the old forums at their archive address: http://old.smallvillepodcast.com You’ll be able to visit the old forums and peruse them much like a museum. Once this happens the current URL http://forums.smallvillepodcast.com will be redirected to our new forums

We hope you all enjoy the new forums community, we’re certainly excited about merging our two communities, and creating a stronger and better community in the process. Thank you all for your patience, and support!

Prices reflect those of the Warner Home Video Store, which can be found here.

Hear Derek’s full review of the seventh season DVD in the latest episode of SHoE!

Okay, well, not really – but it still looks legit, right? This comes to us courtesy of Tyler Adkins and we felt the need to pass it along. Episode 94 of SHoE is on it’s way within the next several hours and is a video episode of our journey to Dragon*Con this past weekend in Atlanta, GA. We cover all the latest Smallville news, plus our take on the recent Superman Reboot reports, and a lot more! So keep an eye out for that and we hope you all enjoy it!