It took me a while to write this pilot review. Maybe because I had to digest the story’s approach. Or maybe because I had to analyze my feelings for this show more? Or maybe I had to watch it several times in order to get a better understanding of what I just watched. Or, all of the above. This new series that adds to the CW Arrowverse has all the makings of the Superman family we need.
The ‘Superman & Lois’ pilot sets the stage of what to expect, and it leaves no room for doubt that this is a family story. Grounded on the relationhsip of Lois and Clark, the series also introduces the concept of a mature Superman with twin sons, Jordan and Jonathan. Neither of them know of their father’s heritage or his powers as the story begins. This provides an interesting family dynamic that takes center stage amidst the Earthly landscape that is the Superman mythos. In current comic book cannon, Lois and Clark do have a son named Jonathan, and it’s refreshing to see that the series isn’t afraid to take it a step further by giving the Man of Steel two heirs to Krypton’s legacy.
However, the quiet lives of the Superman family gets rocked with a tragedy that moves the characters forward in a direction that is totally different from where it began. While all of this is happening, Superman encounters a mysterious villain who has his identity veiled till the end of the episode. However, the revelation begs more questions than provides more answers. This appears to be the central villain of the series for the immediate future along with an unraveling mystery uncovered by Lois Lane. In spite of all the Superman drama and mystery, the series never fails to remind us that what will hold ‘Superman & Lois’ together moving forward are the challenges this Superman family will have with the revelation to Lois’s sons that Clark is indeed Superman.
All in all, we have the makings of a super hero series that stands out at least amongst its CW counterparts. Yes, it’s a Superman series. But, it is also a series about family, friendship and growth. As I viewed the pilot several times, I can’t shake the feeling that I was uplifted by the kindnatured dram that ‘Superman & Lois’ provided. Just as it is true with Superman, the series provides a lot of hope and positivity, something we all need in these pandemic times. It’s always nice to know that there is a Superman showing by example how it is to balance family life with superheroics. This is truly a series worth investing your time in if you want a bit more hope and positivity in your lives.
Obskura And Then Some 