Smallville 6.9: "Subterranean"

Written by Caroline Dries
Directed by Rick Rosenthal

Every so often, shows like “Smallville” feel the need to address real-world problems within a fictionalized setting. Much like the original “Star Trek”, more modern science fiction allows for more leeway in addressing social concerns. Even shows like “X-Files” could take on the subjects of illegal immigration within reason. The problem, of course, is when tackling the issue becomes more important than telling a consistent story, and the whole thing becomes a jumbled mess.

In this case, it should have been simple. Clark is the ultimate illegal alien. His entire life is one massive lie. It’s one of the great ironies of the concept: Superman, supposedly the most moral hero on the planet, lies to everyone around him on a regular basis. So when it comes to addressing the issue of illegal migrant workers, one would expect Clark to struggle between the letter of the law and the spirit of the law.

At first, it seems as though Clark will be caught in the middle. His mother rightfully points out all the implications of helping an illegal immigrant from a legal point of view, while Clark appeals to the ideal of helping those in need from the moral point of view. There’s even the Latino law officer giving a nuanced perspective on “undocumented workers”.

It certainly doesn’t help that the young actor played Javier sounds anything but Mexican. It’s hard to identify with a group that is so poorly represented. Before long, the episode begins to fall apart as the balance gets lost. Certainly the writers want everyone to agree that the illegal immigrants should be helped and given a chance for true citizenship, and that they are exploited horribly by those who see them as cheap, expendable labor. By appealing to that side, however, the balance is lost. There’s little talk by the end of laws being broken by those crossing the border.

With the main plot being relatively weak, attention turns to the possible implications within the season arc. As with many shows with similar format, the overarching elements can sometimes make up for a weak “A” plot, and that’s definitely the case here. The migrant worker situation is linked to Lex and Project 33.1, which is shaping up as far more important than one might have expected earlier in the season. Clark and Lex end up in another shouting match, where neither side seems willing to concede even an inch. Lana’s decision to embrace power could take her character in interesting directions, especially if she’s led astray by good intentions. And of course, there’s also some amusing Chloe and Jimmy material.

This is also an episode that highlights Clark’s growing sense of global responsibility. He’s beginning to look outside of Smallville to the concerns of the country and the world. Perhaps he’s beginning to see how far Lex can reach with his influence and power, and with Oliver pointing out the evils to be fought off the farm, it’s a lesson Clark seems ready to learn. It just might have worked better with a less muddled issue. As it is, this is easily the least impressive episode of the season.

(As a sidenote: I also have a podcast associated with my various reviews called “Dispatches from Tuzenor”. Current episodes cover “Smallville”, so it might be something of interest. Go to http://entil2001.libsyn.com if you want to listen!)

Writing: 1/2
Acting: 1/2
Direction: 2/2
Style: 1/4

Final Rating: 5/10