(S09E12) Tonight's episode provided a reason towards why Clark eventually puts on the costume. Ironically, it revolves around George Lucas. Apparently, despite having superheroes, the 'Smallville' universe has the Metropolis Comic Con (to go along with such ones as the San Diego Comic Con and the New York Comic Con). The episode takes the opposing opinion of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons from their 'Watchmen' comic that a universe populated with actual heroes would lose interest in heroic comic books.

When one thinks about it, the 'Star Wars' references make sense. It was the success of the first 'Star Wars' movie that led to Hollywood's interest in science fiction and fantasy that led to the first 'Superman' movie. Irony of ironies.

(S01E17) Finally, an episode of Smallville that didn't make me cringe and seemed closer to Buffy than 90210. There was actual character development, good dialogue, and a decent plot. I haven't enjoyed an episode this much since "Legion." Perhaps that's a sign that in order to get a good episode of Smallville you need superhero guest stars.

Lots of comic book references in this episode, from the mention of helping Bart in Keystone in the beginning to the appearance of Zatanna, who was speaking her spells backwards just like her comic book counterpart (and the storyline of finding her father does bear similarities to her comic book origin). And for long-time fans of the show, there were plenty of references to previous continuity.