Welcome back to Rewatching Smallville, my weekly dive into the iconic series that explores Clark Kent’s journey before becoming Superman. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the show, you’re invited to join in each Tuesday as I revisit episodes and share my thoughts and observations. Be sure to share your own memories and theories in the comments below!

Well, folks, we’ve made it to the end of Smallville‘s inaugural season, and what a wild ride it’s been! In the aptly named 21st episode, “Tempest,” the show’s creators decided to go out with a bang—or should I say, a swirling vortex of chaos and destruction?

The episode kicks off with Lex waiting for his dear old dad, Lionel, to arrive at the mansion. Lionel drops a bombshell: the LuthorCorp Plant is closing down due to “management problems.” Lex is livid, suspecting that this is just another one of his father’s schemes to lure him back to Metropolis.

Meanwhile, Clark is busy trying to navigate the treacherous waters of high school dance preparations. He even considers borrowing Lex’s limo (because that’s what friends are for, right?). Chloe brings news of the plant’s closure, sending shockwaves through Smallville.

As the episode unfolds, we witness a series of emotional gut-punches. Whitney surprises Lana with a picnic to announce his enlistment in the Marines, leaving her unsure about their future. Clark discovers a piece of his ship on Lex’s desk (seriously, does Lex ever lock his doors?). Chloe contemplates moving back to Metropolis, and Clark grapples with the prospect of losing both her and Whitney.

But wait, there’s more! Clark’s truck explodes, courtesy of the meddling journalist, Roger Nixon. Lex confronts his father about the plant closure and vows to save it through an employee buyout. Lana and Whitney share a bittersweet dance before he leaves for the bus station.

The Spring Formal arrives, and Remy Zero (the band behind Smallville‘s epic theme song) makes a guest appearance (because every small town high school can afford famous bands, obviously). Just as Clark and Chloe are about to kiss, a tornado warning sends Clark speeding away to save Lana, who’s managed to get herself caught in the storm. In a shocking twist, Clark runs straight into the tornado, leaving us all on the edge of our seats.

Oh, and let’s not forget the vehicular mishaps: Lana’s truck ends up in a ditch and is then swept up by the tornado. That’s two accidents for this episode when we look back at Clark’s sabotaged vehicle.

“Tempest” serves as a pivotal point in the series, setting the stage for the characters’ future paths. We see Lex’s growing resentment towards his father and his willingness to go to great lengths to break free from Lionel’s control. This episode also highlights the sacrifices Clark must make to protect those he loves, foreshadowing his eventual role as a superhero.

In conclusion, “Tempest” is a whirlwind of emotions, action, and character development. It’s a fitting end to a season that has laid the groundwork for the epic journey ahead. What did you think of this season finale? Did it leave you eager for more? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s discuss the tempestuous world of Smallville together!

Driver	Number of Accidents
Johnathan Kent	1
Clark Kent	1
Lex Luthor	3
Martha Kent	1
Lana Lang	1
Whitney Fordman	2
Freak of the Week	7
Random	2
Total:	18