MERCY (S5E19) Welcome to SAW-Ville & Clark Finally Gets Caught!?!

[@NateKruger]

Easily one of John Glover's best performances of the entire series. I can't imagine what this show would have been without John as a series regular.

[@tmntaddict]

Personal opinon: after he, Annette, other John and Michael left the series lost it a bit.

[@MrEddie4168]

It did but Tess Mercer and Oliver queen was a nice addition to the show.

[@stellaharris4826]

He added so much.

[@stellaharris4826]

Agreed. Still good but not the same without them.

[@stellaharris4826]

I believe Lionel knew the gun was empty.

[@katieb63]

I've noticed that you ask every guest what drew them to Smallville and I thought I'd answer for myself. I have an autistic son who struggles to connect to most people, but he loves superheroes and anything that revolves around them, so when I heard about Smallville I purchased the DVDs and I sat down with him to watch and I can't describe the feeling when he got excited and started talking happily about everything he'd seen, he became obsessed (in a good, childish way) it was the start of a tradition for us, where we sit and watch all kinds of superhero shows and it gives him something he feels he can connect with me about, so I have to thank you and everyone involved with the making of Smallville for giving my son something he felt he could share with me

[@marianneabramovici4330]

Wonderfull memories

[@JustinTotino]

That’s a wonderful story and how fortunate we are to be in an era where superhero media is more mainstream then ever. There’s lots of great shows and movies to get into now! Small ville is definitely the series that help bring in the audience for what we have now.

[@FrankD71864]

​@@JustinTotino You're right. That's why I refer to the "Arrowverse" as the SMALLVILLEVERSE!

[@FrankD71864]

Awesome!

[@Dagenspear]

PLEASE, you, and EVERYONE, if you haven't already, embrace the One True Only God YHWH Jehovah, Only One Jesus Christ His Only Begotten Son and Lord and Savior of our souls and the Only One Holy Spirit. God is good. God is love. Jesus is Lord! Jesus IS coming. Your soul depends on it! I have seen God act in my life. He saved my soul, changed my heart, changed my mind, helped people through me, took care of people in my life, people I hurt before I found God. God is the only reason I was able to reconcile with my dad before he died. God worked through Jesus Christ to save our souls. Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins. Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and that God raised Him from the dead and you will be saved. Be baptized in The Holy Spirit, and if He wills, water as well. Repent of your sins, accept God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit into your heart, that Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sins. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son Jesus Christ, that all who believe on Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Jesus Christ is The Way, The Truth and The Life. No one comes to the Father Jehovah God but through Him. Not long after I got saved I prayed to God for help understanding the Holy Bible, and that same day someone knocked on my door asking me if I wanted to understand the Bible. I have had times where I was thinking about Holy Bible quotes and have stumbled across them flipping through The Holy Bible at random the same/next day. God is here for you if you let Him guide you. The Holy Bible says, "love thy enemy", "turn the other cheek", "If your enemy is hungry, feed him", "if he is thirsty, give him a drink", "pray for those who persecute you", "do not repay evil for evil". LORD willing, all humans may commit sin of almost every kind (gay, straight), and that's wrong, and all humans sin, as God tells us through the The Holy Bible, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." The Holy Bible also says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.", "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." and, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."

[@neklamp2431]

The photo of Tom directing at 9.00 😍🤩😍🤩

[@carmen5358]

Yeah, I was wondering if anyone else was thinking the same thing I was haha

[@slikwolf]

at 9:00

[@CyGea]

When Clark and Lionel switched bodies, it changed Lionel. From then on Lionel stops all his “evil” projects, Lex keeps them going. He’s possessed by Jor-El, for a while, who pushes him to help Clark. Lionel is all about helping Clark until he dies.

[@RLS1]

💯 agree!! After a while, he not only appears to BE a force for good but to truly WANT to be good! I also believe he really genuinely cares for Clark and Martha. It is my favorite part of his character arc! Even though I did love when they brought him back as the evil alternate Lionel in final season. He was a great villain! Jon Glover was born for that role!

[@ThePlayTyperGuy]

@@RLS1 Yeah, I like to believe that Clark's soul did "heal" Lionel psychologically as well as physically (curing his liver cancer). He realizes later in Season 4 that Lex is on a dark path and he can best challenge him with the skills he's mastered.

[@SkyVega-lp7rq]

My 7 year old looked at me like I was nuts when I screamed at the TV when Lionel looked down at Clark through the elevator floor. I watched this episode in my 20s and it still holds up today.

[@DJones1812]

Brice makes this podcast. His write-ups and the additions to the video are always golden. Love the algebra equations while Michael is trying to subtract 18 from 80 😂

[@KarryHocking]

Kerry TOERM ♥️

[@Stoic_Poet]

yea hes great but adding that Patton Oswalt Elon rant a few ep. back was a bad look

[@SomeRandomHobo44]

i picture bryce just..... giggling to himself when putting up the algebra questions in the edit and having a good laugh all by his lonesome.

[@ROCK3RxCHiCK23]

Where's this? ​@@Stoic_Poet

[@BenMunro-gw7br]

I’ve been watching ahead into the finale of season 6 into 7. The whole way through I’m thinking boy, Michael really is the best Lex Luthor. The acting calibre on this show is absolutely wild for tv. Every single one of the main cast could have been their film counterparts. TBH though I’m glad smallville was a TV show and not a film. Getting to enjoy 10 seasons of this series is better than any movie experience!

[@RLS1]

Facts!

[@EmilyKresl]

Johns' guns alone deserve a rose!!! 😂

[@cheezettegazette]

I was driving to work, radio blaring, 6:45 am on a Friday. And I heard an advertisement for Talkville, and it made my morning!!! Thank you, Gentlemen!

[@TalkVillePodcast]

awesome :)

[@Dagenspear]

@@TalkVillePodcast PLEASE, you, and EVERYONE, if you haven't already, embrace the One True Only God YHWH Jehovah, Only One Jesus Christ His Only Begotten Son and Lord and Savior of our souls and the Only One Holy Spirit. God is good. God is love. Jesus is Lord! Jesus IS coming. Your soul depends on it! I have seen God act in my life. He saved my soul, changed my heart, changed my mind, helped people through me, took care of people in my life, people I hurt before I found God. God is the only reason I was able to reconcile with my dad before he died. God worked through Jesus Christ to save our souls. Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins. Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and that God raised Him from the dead and you will be saved. Be baptized in The Holy Spirit, and if He wills, water as well. Repent of your sins, accept God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit into your heart, that Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sins. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son Jesus Christ, that all who believe on Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Jesus Christ is The Way, The Truth and The Life. No one comes to the Father Jehovah God but through Him. Not long after I got saved I prayed to God for help understanding the Holy Bible, and that same day someone knocked on my door asking me if I wanted to understand the Bible. I have had times where I was thinking about Holy Bible quotes and have stumbled across them flipping through The Holy Bible at random the same/next day. God is here for you if you let Him guide you. The Holy Bible says, "love thy enemy", "turn the other cheek", "If your enemy is hungry, feed him", "if he is thirsty, give him a drink", "pray for those who persecute you", "do not repay evil for evil". LORD willing, all humans may commit sin of almost every kind (gay, straight), and that's wrong, and all humans sin, as God tells us through the The Holy Bible, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." The Holy Bible also says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.", "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." and, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."

[@Floflo1]

One of my favorite episodes of Season 5! I love it ❤ There is such chemistry between John Glover and Annette O'Toole. They both did an amazing job!! 🌹🌹

[@TalkVillePodcast]

sleeper good episode

[@misoboskovic]

Love this. Yes, Saw inspired, but very well executed, well acted. Annette and John G. together - amazing, always.

[@kimberlywiederhold627]

This episode came out first. So Saw was inspired by this episode.

[@TalkVillePodcast]

can't be a bad episode when they're the focus

[@spencergsmith]

@@kimberlywiederhold627 that’s incorrect. Saw was released in October 2004 while this episode aired in April 2006, a full year and a half later. This was definitely inspired by Saw.

[@kimberlywiederhold627]

@@spencergsmith I checked and realized I was wrong. I didn't realize that franchise was that old. Horrible movie but a great episode.

[@spencergsmith]

@@kimberlywiederhold627 agreed, I’ve never been a fan of the Saw films, but I thoroughly enjoyed this episode.

[@asyouwish3636]

😂 Michael had a Smallville binge-dream!

[@sino8r499]

I think it was PTSD about having to shave his head again. I swear that's the MAIN reason he left the show whether he'll ever fully admit it or not! 😂

[@EmilyKresl]

I've had Smallville binge dreams they're even weirder when you're pregnant because every pregnant woman in the show either dies immediately or is Lana in Lex's Xmas dream lol

[@asyouwish3636]

@EmilyKresl oh no! that's awful lol I think mine were mostly trying to date Clark or being on the JL 😅😂

[@FatimaTomsEnough]

Mercy = Freedom! The elevator catch is one of the greatest save reveal scenes ever! Glad Tom mentioned that the reason Clark is less in "Mercy" is because Tom is busy directing the previous episode like Tom mentioned back in 2005 too! "I'm in 93.4% of every episode, and so in order for me get ready to direct the episode, I have to not be in the episode before, and not the episode after or at least in very small amounts." However, despite this fact, there is a Deleted Scene where Clark confronts Lionel in the Kent Kitchen, which Clark alludes to this meeting at the Daily Planet when Clark said: "Lionel's at my house constantly, acting like he belongs there." It's nice to see Michael appreciate the importance of this different episode as it is one of John Glover's favorite, and the SAW references are absolutely accurate! I wanted to know how Tom filmed the entire elevator scene, but grateful to learn a little about the powerful end scene with Clark & Lionel! The Clark & Martha hug after the save is also one of the greatest hugs of the series! I hope everything is well with Tom, and wishing Michael lots of good health! Excited for the final three awesome episodes of the super stellar Season Five! Congratulations To Shannon!

[@marianneabramovici4330]

Thanks for sharing ❤

[@rmsgrey]

The whole reduced role while directing thing makes it absolutely crazy that Scott Bakula managed to direct three episodes of Quantum Leap...

[@Costas22]

One of the best episodes of Season 5's miserable 2nd half. Mercy is well written by Steve De Knight, expertly directed by James Marshall and brilliantly spearheaded by John Glover. Smallville never failed when Lionel was at the forefront, no matter how convoluted his storyline may have gotten. And this time we finally get some answers while Clark and Martha finally find out what's up with him. My favorite Lionel scene is the last one. Tom really brings his A game and delivers his lines with intensity we rarely see. That said, Mercy is also heavily focused on the younger Luthor and his dark turn. In this episode Lex moves in on Lana again, lies to Clark and pretends he still wants to be friends, keeps obsessing about Clark's identity and barely sheds any tears when he realizes his father is missing.

[@TalkVillePodcast]

agreed!

[@ace360]

John Glover and Annette O'Toole Proformance in this Legendary Actor's! also can we appreciate how John was in he's 50s? at the time of season 5 The man was Cut!!!💪 Beast!

[@asyouwish3636]

YESSS the scenes w them together are fantastic, effortless, and natural 👏

[@TalkVillePodcast]

such a beast

[@ace360]

@@TalkVillePodcast Thanks Michael 💙❤️🤘

[@Marietorres7312]

61

[@ace360]

@@Marietorres7312 Thanks 🤯 Legendary 🤘

[@StickFigureStudios]

Lionel absolutely killed his parents for their insurance money. He admitted it to Chloe in the episode where she could make people tell the truth.

[@silver2therescue1]

I think Lionel has lied to himself so many times he believes his own lies just like Lincoln Cole said. When forced to tell the truth by Chloe he admitted he hired Morgan Edge to kill his parents but in any other situation he says he didn't do it. I think he convinced himself that Morgan Edge did it and he's innocent because he uses the technicality as a loophole to make himself feel free of guilt.

[@stellaharris4826]

Indeed!

[@jeffh06]

It’s one thing he’s trying to bury but confess already out since truth, even trying to deny in the hell game🙂‍↔️

[@alexpratt71]

He said he paid Morgan edge to do it, and they split the money. That’s what he was holding over Morgan’s head. Rewatch the 2 episodes with edge they spill the beans in both

[@aryanascardigan]

Loved the suspense of the opening scene with that explosion! John Glover's performance in this one really stood out, what a brilliant actor, he and Annette really do a wonderful job acting together. Jonathan Kent must have been rolling over in his grave seeing his wife this close to Lionel. Also, really enjoyed when Clark caught the elevator along with the tense ending. Thanks again guys ❤️

[@lilacmist04]

Always a joy watching Annette O' Toole and John Glover!!! They're amazing!

[@TalkVillePodcast]

100% with you

[@ewakrasuska1331]

I really enjoyed this episode, especially Lionel going through the trials and riddles. Setting up Lana and Lex's relationship was also very well done I think!

[@theresemarkham9387]

When Clark busted through the wall it reminded of when the Kool Aid man busts through the wall. The elevator catch was so well done. The look on John Glovers face was priceless. I loved the team up of Lex, Clark, and Chole. John was channeling his inner John Mclane. I definitely saw the Saw elements as well. I love the Superman throwback with the truth, justice, and the American way. Thank you for bringing us such a great podcast.

[@GabePuratekuta]

But there were only two people to say "oh no!".

[@tjhartley2599]

These 45 minute movie episodes were mostly entertaining throughout. This is one of the best ones

[@oldmenon8309]

This and the next 3 episodes are stellar. John is such a powerful actor. You all work well off each other!

[@lindamawdsley6130]

Strong episode in which John and Annette played their parts perfectly🤩loved it🙂

[@emilyzahora3330]

Regarding the old “everyone lied to Lex” bit, he’s hardly the bastion of honesty himself. And once again, Clark’s secret isn’t something minor and normal. He’s an alien who has been blackmailed, tortured, and more because of that fact. Lex does not deserve to know that truth no matter who else knows. Sorry. I grow increasingly frustrated with this argument.

[@lilacmist04]

So do I! Lex's childhood was hard and makes one sympatric to him, but his choices as an adult are his own, and he alone deserves the blame for it. Yes, and he also lies when needs to or wants to. I also agree that Clark as an alien with extreme powers has every right to protect his secret if he chooses to. It will affect how close he may be able to get to people, but its his choice to let that secret out to people if feels comfortable with it.

[@spencergsmith]

Agreed. Even if Clark had told him his secret and he kept it without abusing that knowledge (which is highly unlikely), he still committed plenty of unrelated devious and downright evil acts.

[@jeffh06]

It’s how he thinks when he sees it in his own view way out of fantasy too having power but gets mad unhinged anger out of being lied too and since lousy wealth family he had between Lionel and lily made him this way not treated well out of dysfunctional to his own self motives

[@dawnsnow7576]

Excellent episode!! Loved Glovers performance!!

[@michaelflett09]

Personally I think when Lionel calls Clark Son its due to the influence of Jor-el and him being the avatar for the consciousness

[@ginaswellnessdiaries7491]

Exactly!

[@keishahill9496]

It's one of my favorite episodes ❤❤❤❤Always hold on to Smallville ❤❤❤❤. John was ripped in this. 🌹

[@redlox2]

17:30 that is actually quite true. The kidnapper spent all this money to make elaborate traps instead of just taking Lionel in the back of a car and shooting him.

[@ashleymichelle8951]

30:02 I think Tom is SPOT ON here and you kind of see this later on in Lionel’s story arch. I fully believe this is the beginning of his character change to the better which he struggles with decisions and how to handle things later (season 7), but yeah, I think Lionel does care for Clark as Tom says and I think future episodes will support that!

[@jeffh06]

Weather if does care about Clark who he is in a purpose, with or out his powers knows that runs thru only not exactly stay in thru his veins, that can be removed in mix of kryptonite and electrical to pass it on to someone else in wrong hands or strip from him by Jor-el, witches magic, wearing a blue k, also Gold kryptonite that takes it away permanently🤷🏻‍♂️

[@themediachannel353]

Can't wait for you guys to get into season 6 Not one of my favorite seasons TBH, but I feel like it would be such a fun season to analyze and discuss about And of course having The green arrow in that season was awesome

[@melcee22]

Yeh and even the later seasons, although no Lex in them, I still want Mike’s opinion on them!

[@lilacmist04]

@@melcee22 Same!

[@audreymaddox6386]

I love season 6!

[@trevorgerardfrederick]

5:16 "Clark is again unloading on Chloe. Whoa." Dead

[@heatherrosetarot]

LMAO. I noticed that too...

[@josephtingley654]

Even though Michael had a nightmare/weird dream, you have to admit watching 4 episodes in a row is awesome.

[@jsbrads1]

I don’t recall having any trouble when binging it.

[@Costas22]

When the episodes are worth it, it's an awesome experience. Usually during my rewatches I'll watch the last 2 episodes of Season 2 and the first 2 of Season 3 all at once. It's like a movie. Likewise for Commencement and the first 3 episodes of Season 5.

[@josephtingley654]

@Costas22 I hear you. I skip certain episodes myself. LoL.

[@The_Darkness_]

The mini John Glover movie! So good. Also, Michael kicking the door open and breaching was so cool 😄

[@TalkVillePodcast]

GI Joe Lex in action

[@andrewetaylor25]

John and Annette were superb in this episode! ❤

[@TalkVillePodcast]

always stand outs on screen

[@CarolGateira]

Time has passed and they remain handsome and charming

[@LazyEyeNZ]

So I bought the Smallville complete series on DVD a month ago and I'm loving it so much. I've just gotten to midway of season 7 and it's been great to catch up on all these Talkville episodes. Salute from New Zealand guys.

[@MarkSmith-th1ij]

I loved the patreon on today's podcast!! She represents those of us who love and treasure Smallville!! John Glover was amazing in this episode both for his acting and his physical performance!!

[@LiLisa24]

Yessss Lionel Luthor episode!!! John Glover crushed it!! One of his best performances ❤ He is sooo brilliant ❤ Happy Talk Ville Wednesday ❤

[@asyouwish3636]

Glover looks so cut in this ep! 🔥

[@Costas22]

Sure does. 🥵

[@gigigmd]

10:05 My grandmother was a perfectionist, she would throw away any object with the slightest defect. And whoever cleaned her house knew that. If something was broken there and we were looking for a bug we would also make sure we found it!

[@AngelaDC75]

I love Tom with John Glover at the end putting him in his place. I love to see Clark be tough and protective and Tom did a great job of telling Lionel he’s watching him and not to mess with his Mom.

[@Costas22]

There's a moment where Lex tries to move in on Lana and she ends it because his phone rings because they're calling him to tell him about Lionel's abduction. Michael's aggravated "What?" when he answers the call is one of the most underrated moments of Michael's acting. He mastered the blue balled reaction brilliantly.

[@TalkVillePodcast]

nice catch

[@RayNotCharles]

Love it when Clark and Lex get to the apartment or whatever it is of the guy and Lex, pulling out a pistol, says “wanna wait for the police?” Clark says no and Lex is like “neither do I”. And kicks open the door😅

[@redlox2]

15:20 I like the interpretation that Lionel is making Lex focus on him instead of obsessing about Clark (harsh but it worked)

[@maddiedawes94]

Yes I thought that was a great interpretation!

[@dbmabe]

This was always one of my favorites. Clark finally revealing his powers to Lionel was a cool moment. I've always felt like Lionel knew all the way back in season 2 and possibly even before. I believe Lionel's blindness ended very quickly, if he was ever truly blind, and the first thing Lionel saw was in "Red" when Clark fired the bullets into his hand. It made sense that he'd keep it too himself because, even when he was still "bad" he knew that knowledge was power. And when we get to season 7, we see that there's a good reason that Lionel knew about Clark.

[@markkeddis2709]

I still can’t believe John Glover is 80! I thought that exact same thing when I saw him at Salute to Smallville in NJ dancing and goofing around like a 20 year old 😂

[@DiscipleDave83]

I always thought Lionel calling Clark "son" was a residual effect of having been possessed by Jor-El. We saw this at the beginning of season 5. I think it continues until the end of season 7.

[@stellaharris4826]

One of my top 10 episodes - loved John Glover's performance. "I grew up in suicide slums. Sweat is something I'm very familiar with, my friend." Whatever else, Lionel is no coward.

[@appleel7937]

LOVE Mercy! So much action and an awesome showcase for Annette and John. Thank you so much for answering my question. The elevator scene is one I love to rewatch over and over, mainly because of the tense eye contact as I mentiioned. I love reveal scenes, this one is unique and powerful as we all see Lionel witnessing Clark's powers first hand, and wonder, what on earth will Lionel do now with this information. So glad that is was also Ryan's favourite scene too ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@DLWells]

Excellent episode - of the series, and of this podcast! Love the actors' choices in this... Annette O'Toole is not just a national treasure, but an International one. She and Glover nailed this! Season Five may be the greatest season of "Smallville."

[@richardfrancis7447]

I love this episode it was so intense and lonal care for Martha and clark reactions to seeing lonal knowing the truth about him It was great to lex and clark together trying to find them both Fantastic podcast

[@themediachannel353]

This episode with lionel being in such tense situations was so existing and unique, wish we got more episodes like that, john glover was great as always, some stuff could've been better like the identity of the vengeful guy or the scene that clark catches the elevator to save martha and lionel But overall it was so cool and well done The scene where clark confronts lionel about his identity was epic

[@noahbrewster8263]

This has always been one of my absolute favorite episodes of the series!

[@jjones2582]

The theory behind why the elevator catch didn't kill Lionel and Martha goes like this: Superman is able to fly by levitation. When he catches things like a car by the bumper, and doesn't rip the bumper off, it is because he is transferring that levitation power to all the atoms in the other objects through touch. So when Clark touched the elevator with the intention of stopping it, even though he can't fly yet, his subconscious levitated the entire elevator and the people touching it. He stopped all their atoms at once so there was no compression in their bodies as they stopped.

[@asyouwish3636]

🌹1.5 a 100% Luthor ep! Finally we get some answers to what Lionel knows about Clark, although it does raise more questions in the end. Nice VFX w the opening train scene (although it does pull you out of the scene a bit cuz that explosion absolutely would have destroyed Lionel if he was really that close to it) The villain was a bit tedious, and obvious - you knew it was that security guy the moment Lionel insulted him, but interesting twist throwing Martha into the mix! I feel like there was a couple missed opportunities to show off Lionel's intelligence, the "riddles" weren't very inventive and pretty much any educated person would have come up w the answers, but then again maybe that's more a reflection of the villain. sidenote: Martha asking Lionel why doesn't he just talk to Lex and the look on his face (swear I almost thought he was gonna say "I never thought of that") was hysterical! 😅 and beautiful contrast of the Luthor family dynamic to the Kents. I love how Smallville juxtaposes every aspect of these two. Not sure what the point of that quick chess scene was other than to make them and the audience incredibly uncomfortable, but the dialogue between Lex and Lana did not help the awkwardness of the sitch 😬 Lex is so used to controlling every variable and manipulating every outcome, you can sense his unease in this very unfamiliar circumstance of dating a regular person, someone genuine who isn't trying to take his money and/or kill him lol for once (lol oh wait, I guess. . not yet!). while Lana clearly has deep psychological issues, and her self-awareness is at an all time low right now, she still is someone who isn't using Lex for his money (she just using him for normal rebound reasons). but ultimately this scene was so random and out of place, and pointless for the ep it probably didn't need to be included at all. felt like they realized during the rough-cut they forgot to include The Lana Drama, so they just threw it in. I actually liked that brief moment Clark and Lex had to work together. for a fraction of a moment, you almost forget who Lex is and what he's doing behind Clark's back. it's like we got a glimpse of what their adult friendship could have been, if Lex had not chosen evil. I was wondering how Clark would get seen saving them, I like the concept of catching the elevator but would have appreciated a more physics-based execution of the stunt: like Clark should have jumped up to catch as it was falling to slow it down and soften the landing cuz otherwise its still slamming down like 30 stories. I get that the audience is supposed to assume Clark cushioned the blow, but seeing it visually esp considering its a Master's ep, would have eliminated doubt (like the Lois Lane/Helicopter scene in The Movie, isn't it obvious that he reduces speed to catch her 🤦‍♀️🤷‍♀️) Loved the final confrontation, Clark's hollow threat still sounded powerful. I know Lionel uses the term "Son" as a term of endearment but it did feel good to have Clark put him in his place and basically say get that word out of your mouth. and of course, when Lionel says it to Clark he means it out of respect diametrically opposed to what he means when he says it to his own son, condescendingly.

[@asyouwish3636]

also! completely loved that Clark understands the Luthors' maniacal mindset enough to question whether or not Lionel knew the gun was empty. however can you really tell? and if so wouldn't you have to be an expert in gun devices to determine if it's empty simply by the weight? 🤔

[@Costas22]

It's funny because the chess scene is meant to imply that Lex and Lana's transition from friends to lovers is at a chess phase with both characters playing it coy. In actuality, the Lex/Lionel scene that immediately follows is more reminiscent of a chess game. Their scenes always resembled a chess game. It's what I love about them.

[@asyouwish3636]

@Costas22 yes they have a very interesting dynamic

[@jeffh06]

In order to Lionel gain respect from Clark as part of surrogate is too not call him ‘son’ when can’t replace Jonathan, even though is dad figure in line but not earned after his reckless actions and Clark is not playing nice when being strict as a muscle with a clear warning when Lionel says nothing in respect when he listened that wants to care for both he and Martha but also will be challenge in Lex in presence,when sudden mind grain to make him write kryptionain symbol message warning which comes later

[@luisi220]

Very entertaining episode !!! Can’t wait for the finale

[@BelleyPuffy]

That was a really good Lional Centric episode. John is such an amazing actor and his performance in this episode was great. I felt a bit sorry for Lex for Lional's behavior towards him. No matter what he does, it's not good enough. When Clark caught the elevator was a great moment, not just the great stunt but the fact that finally Lional saw Clark's power, and Clark knowing that Lional knows his secret. I give this episode 🌹 🌹

[@jej18]

I remember when I first watched this episode how much I loved it. Watching it again as an adult , I still love it but I have a new appreciation for how well it was acted by Glover and Annette

[@1027srich]

One of my favorite episodes of Season 5... This is the start of Lionel's redemption arc... John Glover and Annette O'Toole killing it as usual... The last scene with Lionel and Clark kinda gave me goosebumps and shoutout to Tom for standing toe to toe with John there 😎... As far as this Season goes, this episode gets 🌹🌹1/2 (2.5 roses) for me 👌🏾... #LoveThePodcastFellas #TalkvilleWednesdays

[@melcee22]

Hmm interesting point about the redemption. I’m pretty sure Lionel still does some pretty terrible things before he really starts reforming.. and can we actually say he was redeemed or attempted to? One of the latest episodes in season 7 or 8, Lionel literally keeps Clark in a kryptonite cage. It’s a fake redemption arc? Lionel never does anything for anyone else. What does everyone else think? Happy to change my mind with solid cases ❤

[@1027srich]

​@melcee22 I mean, you make some valid points, especially about the kryptonite cage... Lionel is very complex so I'm not gonna say that he's Jonathan Kent or anything, however, we do see Lionel protecting Clark and those 2 do have a bond... So I wouldn't call it a fake redemption arc, however, we can kinda say that he can do the wrong things for the right reasons... And this is another example of how Clark is able to inspire those around him to want to be better like he did with Lex in the 1st 4 Seasons... The episode "Justice" is an example of Lionel protecting Clark when it came to Lex... I'll just say it's complicated lol

[@melcee22]

@ great answer!!!

[@alexpratt71]

Damn, now I’m all caught up… can’t wait for more! Thanks so much for doing this for us ❤

[@DrmCom2003]

One of my favorite episodes. Lionel was my favorite character in the show. I loved his change from being a villain to a man trying to overcome his ego and desire for control.

[@Blichew]

Damn, I still remember watching this for the first time. What an amazing episode. Problably one of the top 3 for me. Fantastic performance both by John and Anette. And the elevator scene. Simply the be(a)st! SAW ripoff or not, didn't seem forced and pushed the plot forward.

[@bilalmerhi542]

"Mercy" 2.5 🌹 Yes, it's a "Saw" rip off but a very well managed plot device. I really enjoyed it that kept you on edge, getting the story from A to B and with it became quite character driven and centres around Clark's secret and Lionel's redemption arc as the vessel of Jor El. Lex tragically being gaslighted again in particular and was kept at bay as his suspicions reared its head about Clark as "the special boy". This further intensified his resentment towards his father, his jealousy of Clark as Lionel reveals his admiration of him as "the kind of son a father can be proud of" (unlike Lex). Ouch. Lionel deflecting about Clark's "divine intervention" to protect him and his secret as Lex stood there once again as a frustrated figure.

[@fahidhussain2780]

I actually agree with Michael for a change It was a Lionel centric episode it was a copy of Saw sure but it was worth 1.5 roses! i did however remember theorizing back then that he orchestrated all of it himself

[@Werewolf914]

I love this episode so much, Saw is one of my favorite movie franchises and I always love to see a Death Game and this one did it mostly well

[@Brook11223]

The ultimate test that Lionel Luthor has been put through is just awesome. Lionel Luthor's redemption starts this season as he is going to be an ally to Clark Kent moving forward. Lionel's arc seriously just gets better and better and the amount of trials he has gone through says he doesn't give up. The antagonist episode Lincoln Cole is similar to DC Comics Batman villain The Riddler due to the strategic methods he employs using higher learning riddles to gain advantage over his opponent. Ironic since John Glover voiced The Riddler in Batman: The Animated Series. I agree having Lionel Martha centric episode was kind of nice. The ending with Clark saving Lionel and Martha with holding the freight elevator and Lionel's reaction to Clark's abilities was a powerful ending. The reaction in the eyes to both Lionel and Clark is my favorite moment.

[@Dagenspear]

PLEASE, you, and EVERYONE, if you haven't already, embrace the One True Only God YHWH Jehovah, Only One Jesus Christ His Only Begotten Son and Lord and Savior of our souls and the Only One Holy Spirit. God is good. God is love. Jesus is Lord! Jesus IS coming. Your soul depends on it! I have seen God act in my life. He saved my soul, changed my heart, changed my mind, helped people through me, took care of people in my life, people I hurt before I found God. God is the only reason I was able to reconcile with my dad before he died. God worked through Jesus Christ to save our souls. Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins. Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and that God raised Him from the dead and you will be saved. Be baptized in The Holy Spirit, and if He wills, water as well. Repent of your sins, accept God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit into your heart, that Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sins. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son Jesus Christ, that all who believe on Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Jesus Christ is The Way, The Truth and The Life. No one comes to the Father Jehovah God but through Him. Not long after I got saved I prayed to God for help understanding the Holy Bible, and that same day someone knocked on my door asking me if I wanted to understand the Bible. I have had times where I was thinking about Holy Bible quotes and have stumbled across them flipping through The Holy Bible at random the same/next day. God is here for you if you let Him guide you. The Holy Bible says, "love thy enemy", "turn the other cheek", "If your enemy is hungry, feed him", "if he is thirsty, give him a drink", "pray for those who persecute you", "do not repay evil for evil". LORD willing, all humans may commit sin of almost every kind (gay, straight), and that's wrong, and all humans sin, as God tells us through the The Holy Bible, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." The Holy Bible also says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.", "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." and, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."

[@thegamer-fq1wx]

That was cool when Lex kicked the door in.

[@obrwden]

cant wait for the s6, s8 s9 and s10

[@lilacmist04]

Me too!

[@talon3684]

To Rosey: Why aren't you in more TV man? I really miss seeing your acting. I'd tune in to whatever show you're on just because you're on it.

[@markdaly1648]

He is very open about his mental health struggles on his podcast inside of you.

[@markdaly1648]

His decision to leave small ville before season 7 didn't go down well. And he was very angry about being screwed around by the studio. He talked about it on an episode of this podcast

[@actiondk2279]

John Glover - ripped! T-shirt idea there or the "Suspenders of Disbelief" would be a great shirt idea!

[@MattHunX]

5:20 LOLOLOLOL!! Michael quickly suppressing himself: "I'm not that guy, anymore! I'm not that guy, anymore! I'm not that guy, anymore!" But, Bryce strikes, again!

[@yukikid2195]

5:03 the luck Lionel had there was crazy 😂. Or maybe he’s……. A man of steel?😝

[@ThePlayTyperGuy]

37:09 I like to think that Lionel *didn't* kill his parents, which would make Lex murdering Lionel a step past what Lionel himself had done. Otherwise, Clark should think that Lex *could* be redeemed, as Lionel eventually was.

[@pabloveliz3360]

Hey, great idea!! Tom and Michael should definitely do a buddy cop movie together!! I'd watch it..

[@CrossOutBryce]

I watched Smallville as a kid and didnt remember much pre-S5 before my rewatch last year. THIS episode though I remembered vividly. John Glover had an incredible performance in this episode

[@Terry9951]

Excellent épisode 🩵 😉 👍. J'ai bien aimé cet épisode centré sur Lionel.

[@koulor315]

This is the episode I been waiting for, still one of my favorites

[@rotem-shmueli]

I loved how Lionel cared about Alex the driver... covered his face and said he was innocent. he rarely shows care, and saying it doesn't make enough impact, but covering his face did. I'm glad Micheal changed his rating to 1.5.... this is what I would give it

[@markvincent6528]

Somebody Saw Me

[@mirelaandrei8917]

Lmao

[@jeffh06]

6:56 also with the line the store watching hot dog spin??😆 just unusual threat comment when never been brought up😄🤷🏻‍♂️

[@cheanhepworth]

Please make a set of actual suspenders that say “Disbelief” on one side and “Smallville/ Talkville” on the other. Great episode as usual guys! Thanks!

[@DPCLL]

Excellent work

[@heatherrosetarot]

Hey everyone! ❤ I'm late watching and commenting on this because I was sick all day. 🤢 Thanks for making my Wednesday a bit brighter! Thanks Michael, Tom, Bryce, and Ryan for a great Talk Ville episode! Much love to the Patreon guest too. Loved your segment! ❤ Michael Rosenbaum: my husband was already a fan, but I wanted you to know that I got him watching "Inside of You." He was always a big Elvira fan, so just wanted you to know that we enjoyed your talk with Cassandra Peterson. 😊 Anyway, fantastic Smallville episode. One of the best Lionel episodes. I really liked Tom's insights when he chimed in. He made some really good points. Yes Tom, even though you weren't in this episode as much, I think this episode contained an important moment in Clark's journey. 100% agree. Michael - yes, in this iteration, Lex was gaslight to death. In the Smallville universe/world, it may have been part of Lex's decent to madness for sure. But at the same time, Lex still has to be held accountable for some of his actions...plus what he does in season 6 to Lana...OMG. Clark had nothing to do with that shit... Wait, Im getting ahead of myself. Sorry. LOL. Outstanding performances by everyone in this episode. Glover is a great actor, I dont know how else to say it. One memory from the Smallville Con that always makes me smile was when my husband and I talked to John Glover. That was a treat. He was so nice to talk to, and funny... My favorite parts of this episode included the SAW references/theme, the Lionel and Martha interactions (not that I'm okay with those two getting "too close" but the scenes were acted out beautifully.) Martha and Clark are now stuck between a rock and a hard place, with Lionel knowing his secret. They kind of have to deal with him and work with him now that its out in the open between those 3. I agree that Lionel is a master manipulator, but at the same time, you have to remember that Jor-El is using Lionel sometimes to get messages across (remember all that Kryptonian that he jots down,) and Jor-El might be using Lionel to protect Clark. So, maybe one reason Lionel started calling Clark "son" is because that's what Jor-El calls Clark sometimes, plus Lionel sees the bigger picture that Clark is extra special, someone he needs to protect. It's something bigger than all of them. Just a thought.... But what Lionel said to Lex, inferring that he wasnt proud of him. Yikes, that hurt. Omg, can you imagine Lionel moving into the farmhouse...I do not see him doing chores and mucking out stalls to impress Clark. LMAO Sorry, my husband used to work with horses. He just told me about his first day on the job again...besides the normal stuff you have to tend to, he got to pet a baby horse the same day it was born. Aww. He's always been good with animals. Oh - I also loved the final scene between Clark and Lionel. Clark stood up for his mom like an adult, a man - I know it was a threat, but he was just so... assertive. Wow. Made me blush. 🔥

[@edgarpadilla6791]

I'm binging season 4 and through season 6 episode 2, and I lost the count on how many times Lex has been shot. Of course he had to go to the Dark side.

[@fritzfanny3239]

You guys are doing great!

[@sTew_Mangolas]

Watched this in my mid 20's when it aired with my GF at the time. When Glover was looking all jacked up, she said to me "Dammmmn... I hope you look that good at his age." I said "Damn, I wish I could look that good now." Great episode. Just wanted to thank Glover for making it warmer in the room that night. 😉

[@colemiller7655]

ONE OF THE TOP 5 EPISODES OF THE SERIES

[@bobknudsen1059]

Michaels math scene was very funny, Kudos Bryce

[@daveb9575]

😂I like the patreon guest today, my favorite character is Martian Manhunter as well. Loved him in the animated series with Carl Lumbly voicing him.

[@pardeepkumar-tf2hl]

to tom welling- love your acting and you also sir and all the scenes that show your sincerity in smallville love the smallville series and clark kent and your reporter companion and i became so astonished and 😊 when i read that you directed some episode............... ~from a 19 year old bharatiya(india)

[@djramshead]

Huge bummer we didn’t get a video call with John Glover for this one. 😢 Would’ve been great to hear how this episode was pitched to him, doing that fire stunt, and any other behind the scenes commentary he would’ve provided that Tom and Michael weren’t aware of.

[@dominique9187]

Haha, admit it Michael, this episode was all about you getting ready for Guardians of the Galaxy 😂I was actually wondering why we don't get to see Tom much in this one : he was busy directing, mystery solved ! Funny to see how fast Lionel suspected his own son - murder is a common distraction in the Luthor family 😊 I've said it last week and I'm glad to hear it from your guest today : the honesty of Talkville is precious and refreshing ! I Watching Lionel sweat to save himself and Martha, away from his ivory tower, is unusual enough to be entertaining. What is usual is the fun I had listening to you 😊 See you next week, take care 💖

[@phillypaulwalker2155]

Lionel at the Kent farm in overalls had me laughing

[@amiljohnson1864]

18:00 that’s a good one Tom 😂😂

[@clairemendoza8082]

Loved this episode!! 3 roses for me 🌹🌹🌹 Loved the Lionel vs. Lex playing against each other. The beginning scene had my attention for sure. Lionel figuring out the riddle just in time before the train crashing into the car was an amazing stunt. Smallville did these explosions oh so well and they just keep getting better. Lionel being stalked by someone was amazing. John Glover just brings it every single time. It’s amazing to watch such a talented actor on the screen do his/her thing. The fire scene in that room was amazing. Lionel is always underestimated. Kinda like Lex. Loved it when Lionel said to “shut up.” lol 😂 was John Glover really doing it or was it his “stunt double?” Just wondering. The reveal when Martha is shown trapped was amazing. Lionel has always loved her and this episode really shows it. He was willing to kill himself to save Martha. Like Lana is a distraction for Lex Martha is a distraction for Lionel. The only difference is Lionel concentrates more on what he’s after. Lex turns into “jelly,” every time Lana is in his presence. Ashley Lionel says to him in 6x16 “Promise,” “she’s made a desperate man out of you.” Speaking of Lana the scene with her and Lex playing chess ♟️ was a bit awkward IMO. Lana will never fully love Lex the way she loves Clark. She only chose Lex because Clark pushed her away. The whole mind game stuff with the stalker was painful to watch. If you want to torture somebody and drive them insane I guess this is how you do it. The scene with Clark, Chloe, and Lex working together I really loved. They did manage to set aside their differences to work together. Lex hoping Clark and him can find some common ground I did believe him to be sincere but Lex crossed the line by hiring Simone to split up Clark and Lana. Then Lana calls as if on cue. Wow talk about perfect timing. Lex listening to his father talk about how special Clark is and that the world will someday need him definitely made his blood boil with jealousy but at the same time Lex knows that Lionel knows more about Clark than he lets on and Lex won’t stop until he uncovers the truth about Clark. He has his former girlfriend after all now. Lionel thinks that by having Martha and Clark in his life he can have the perfect family again. As he said Lex and Clark aren’t the same. What’s painful for Lex is that Lex never stopped loving Clark as his friend. His brother. Just my opinion. Lionel saying that he will never be the father Johnathon was I agreed with. Lionel and Clark having a discussion man to man was incredible. Clark staring him down was oh so amazing. Is it me or did Clark’s voice get deep? Clark warning Lionel to leave Martha alone I think did scare Lionel a bit. It’s my belief Lionel has known since season 2 during his so called “blindness.” Like when Jason in season 4 almost spilled Clark’s secret and Lionel shot him before he could finish. Then the ending when Lionel was receiving a message from Jor-El was a nice touch. Love to all and please have Jensen on soon 🙏🙏

[@GoldSlash]

Definitely heavy Saw vibes and as a fan of both this was awesome

[@camaleon18]

I’m really astonished that Michael, being a horror fan he is, didn’t mention that the episode was a copy of the Saw movie. They don’t see to catch anything on their own.

[@Ev_deGallery]

I love the TARDIS in the background

[@darwiniacroft]

I know how Michael feels about the post binge nightmares. One time I did a rewatch of Supernatural right before taking a long road trip, and that was a huuuuuge mistake! 😆

[@Jay-sj3io]

You guys need to put suspenders of disbelief on shop.