Not only did Smallville redefine the superhero and supervillain, it also showed us how their doomed friendship changed their fate.
In a small town in Kansas, a young man named Clark Kent discovers his alien powers while navigating the challenges of adolescence. This is the premise of ‘Smallville’, but what elevates this series beyond a simple superhero story is the deeper exploration of the relationship between Clark Kent and Lex Luthor. Two characters whose lives are inextricably linked, become friends and inevitably become enemies.
The beginning of an unusual friendship
Raised by Jonathan and Martha Kent with a strong sense of morality, Clark begins his journey to become Superman. Meanwhile, we meet Lex Luthor, a complex character struggling between light and dark. In the series, Lex is not only a business investor; He’s a true friend to his almost-brother Clark, and his transformation into the “biggest criminal” is one of the show’s most compelling arcs.
Smallville portrays Clark and Lex as Naaman and Saget from the Kawate legends: two sides of the same coin, representing good and evil. Although Clark sees himself as an ordinary farm boy, he never relishes the pressure of being a hunter. This dichotomy is reflected in Lex, who is often seen as an extension of his father’s darkness, albeit surprisingly complex. The series shows us Superman and Lex Luthor in a more human and deep way than previous versions.
Mutual influence
The series explores how Clark and Lex change their lives due to their influence on each other. Guided by his parents’ values, Clark constantly strives to do the right thing, often to the detriment of his personal life. Lex, on the other hand, is influenced by his friendship with Clark and faces a constant battle between his family’s legacy and his desire to be better.
As the series progresses, we see Clark struggling with his morals, making questionable decisions, such as exposing himself to red kryptonite. These dark moments of Clark are mirrored in Lex, who often tries to free himself from his family’s dark secrets and schemes. This mutual influence reveals the complexity of their characters: Clarke sometimes adopts Lex’s traits, while Lex, under Clarke’s influence, desperately seeks a way out of the predetermined dark path.
More than heroes and villains
The premise of the series is to humanize the two characters and take them beyond the stereotypes of hero and villain. Through their interactions and conflicts, we see Clark and Lex not only as superheroes and enemies, but as complex individuals, facing moral and emotional dilemmas. This depth will be key to its enduring appeal, resonating with fans long after it airs.
Another important aspect is the comparison with other adjustments. While in most depictions, Lex and Clark are rivals from the start, the show breaks this mold. It shows us a true friendship that turns into a rivalry, adding a tragic element to their relationship. This unique approach to the characters not only reinvents their roles but also enriches the Superman universe, giving it a unique and more nuanced perspective.
The legacy of Smallville
Years after it ended, the series is still popular, known for how it redefined the dynamic between Superman and Luthor. In their last interaction, Lex indicated that they would both be great men. There is no Lex without Superman, and no Superman without Lex. Although Lex’s memories have been erased, his final scene with Clark reflects a brief glimmer of light, a desire to inspire Superman to save the world.
In a world where superhero content is ubiquitous, the series stands out for its unique treatment of these iconic characters, showing us not just heroes and villains, but complex and deeply interconnected human beings.