The third season of "Superman & Lois" commences with an episode " titledCloser," an episode that, though laying the groundwork for the season's overarching narrative, lingers in a slow simmer rather than igniting into a fiery start. It's a tapestry woven with intricate character moments, intended to draw viewers intimately close to the hearts of its heroes, yet ultimately leaving them with a sense of detachment due to the lack of profound plot progression.
The episode's curtain rises on a seemingly idyllic scene, where Lois (portrayed by Elizabeth Tulloch) and Clark (embodied by Tyler Hoechlin) bask in the warmth of marital harmony, nestled in Tal's now-vacant abode. This fleeting moment of tranquility stands in stark contrast to their tumultuous superhero lives, offering a cherished respite that showcases the humanity beneath their iconic exteriors. However, this fleeting peace is soon shattered as the episode abruptly pivots to confront the myriad challenges confronting each character.
At the heart of "Closer" lies the theme of growth and the mastery of power, both supernatural and personal. Clark assumes the mantle of mentor to his son, Jordan (now played with renewed vigor by Michael Bishop), who struggles to rein in his burgeoning abilities. Their training sessions within the hallowed halls of the Fortress of Solitude intertwine fatherly wisdom with adrenaline-fueled action, as Clark pushes Jordan to the brink of his limits. Yet, Jordan's inexperience is brutally exposed when he attempts to intervene in a construction site accident, inadvertently exacerbating the situation. This serves as a humbling lesson, etching into the young hero's mind the gravity of his father's legacy and responsibility.
Meanwhile, Lois finds herself engrossed in preparing Jonathan (played by Jordan Elsass) for his driver's test, a subplot that feels more like a fleeting distraction than a pivotal narrative thread. The simmering tension between Jonathan and his former football teammate, who now doubles as his test examiner, adds a nuanced layer to their relationship, but this intricate thread is left dangling, leaving viewers yearning for its future unraveling.
The romance between Jordan and Sarah is another facet given fleeting attention in "Closer." Their interactions are fraught with the turmoil of teenage emotions and uncertainty, as Jordan navigates his conflicting feelings for Sarah, who remains noncommittal about their status. Sarah's decision to maintain a cautious distance while still cherishing their friendship mirrors the mixed signals that plague many adolescent hearts. It's a relatable scenario, yet its handling feels hurried and undercooked, failing to fully blossom into the depth it deserves.
Lana's (portrayed by Emmanuelle Chriqui) intricate narrative arc revolves around her reluctance to ink her divorce papers, intricately weaving an additional layer of intricacy into her already complex relationship with Kyle. Her flirtatious exchanges with John Henry Irons hint at a possible reevaluation of her choices, yet the episode deftly leaves this narrative thread dangling, inviting viewers to ponder over her true motives and intentions.
Moreover, the episode ushers in a formidable array of fresh villains, effectively laying the groundwork for the season's antagonistic forces. Bruno Manheim, played with remarkable poise by Chad L. Coleman, strides onto the scene as the menacing head of Intergang, a criminal empire poised to cast a dark shadow over the Kent family and the tranquil town of Smallville. The unexpected inclusion of Onomatopoeia, a villain crafted by the pen of Kevin Smith, stirs curiosity, as he's known for targeting heroes devoid of superhuman abilities. His appearance in "Closer" is a captivating enigma, leaving audiences speculating on how his character will be reinvented for the small screen.
Throughout "Closer," a palpable sense of dissonance pervades, with characters being tugged in opposing directions—both physically and emotionally. Lois and Clark's heart-stopping pregnancy scare serves as a poignant illustration, sending them on an emotional rollercoaster that ultimately veers off into a dead-end street. The absence of a pregnancy, while a sigh of relief, also tinges with disappointment, as it seemed a missed chance to delve into unexplored territories of their dynamic.
The episode's title, "Closer," aptly mirrors the tumultuous trials of intimacy that each character endures. From Lois and Clark's fleeting moment of bliss to Jordan's relentless quest for heroic identity, each soul grapples with the daunting task of bridging the chasms that separate them from those they cherish. Yet, just as they inch closer, the harsh realities of their situations serve as stark reminders of the insurmountable barriers that persist.
In essence, "Closer" marks a cautious opening chapter to the season, failing to ignite the spark of excitement and depth that has become synonymous with "Superman & Lois." It trudges along at a leisurely pace, with plotlines appearing undercooked and character moments lacking the emotional heft they deserve. Nevertheless, the stage is set with the introduction of formidable foes and the promise of unfolding narratives, offering a glimmer of optimism that the season will gather momentum and find its stride as it progresses.
