Superman & Lois & Pals

EPISODE 13: What Kills You Only Makes You Stronger - “It's a little 1991 Wesley Snipes.”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Thoughts on My Adventures with Superman?

Nervous about a rumor that next season they’re taking away Superman’s powers cuz they have no budget for high level special effects. 

My experience meeting Bitsie Tulloch and Tyler Hoechlin

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 13

S03E12 - 

Directed by:

Gregory Smith

Written By:

Brent Fletcher and Todd Helbing

The Apple TV Recap is: 

All of Smallville comes together to view the meteor shower, Lex Luthor makes his move.

• “What will Lex Luthor do next?”
• Haha Jordan doesn’t have plans for the summer. 
• Kyle and Chrissy
  • Diving right into the pregnancy right away. Never heard of protection in 2023? Anyway, I’m happy for them if they’re happy. Especially cuz we’ll pretty much never see them next season.
  • Love how happy Lois and Clark are for Chrissy. Very sweet.
  • Also very sweet that we got a little tv season finale, romantic gesture, proposal. 
• John Henry and Nat and Lana
  • I like how Lana was straight up and direct with John Henry about a date. Btw, I didn’t realize this but in a recent backup story in Action Comics it was said that John Henry and Lana are engaged! Cool to see something carry over from the New 52 that was good.
  • John Henry and Nat could open STEELWORKS! As if that’s something they’ve been talking about all season, which they haven’t but we know about it. 
  • I like how Lana and John Henry were having a pretty heavy conversation to start things off. That seems real for two adults who have past relationships and children etc. 
  • “Guess I’m gonna have to make you wish you weren’t.” This is the Emmanuelle Chriqui I remember ;-) 
• Lois and Clark
  • I love that Lois is back. That was a really rough season but powerful. And Clark is just so great. I’m glad there’s at least another season left cuz I’m not ready to say goodbye yet. Love the family vaca in Italy. “It’s been a tough year,” no shit Clark.
  • I like that the Lane Kents get together for dinner at the diner. It’s cute. 
  • “Oh Dad: One, Jordan: Zero
  • Ugh Jordan is soooooooo rude to Sarah. I hate that. Little prick. Glad Clark fixed that. 
• Lex Luthor and his plan
  • Straight up killing the judge. This is some scary Byrne/Ordway/Stern Luthor shit. 
  • I knew something was up with Sam’s very sexually aggressive hookup. 
  • Well glad Bizarro didn’t eat Otis. 
  • Love love love that they did the actual origin of Doomsday from Hunter/Prey but made it in Metropolis with Luthor. It’s sort of like what Luthor always wanted in the comics: To be the one who made Doomsday. And what a great way to combine Luthor/Bizarro/Doomsday all into one thing. Really creative. Taking things that have been done and finding new ways to do them. 
    • The Way Luthor talks to Bizarro reminds me of how he talked to Doomsday’s dead body in Funeral for a Friend. 
  • Luthor’s a fucking psychopath  
  • Hearing Luthor insult Superman “lap dog in a cape” is just so classic. Cudlitz kinda nailed it in a short period of time. 
  • What did you think of Doomsday’s final form? What did you think of the final battle? I thought kinda better than a lot of final CGI battles in MCU movies. Like as recently as secret invasion.
  • The look Superman gave Lois right before he took off, was it sort of like, “this is the big one. This might be the last time I see you.” And was that a look he’s given before?
  • The underwater ice thing was so cool. Throw this fucker into the sun Clark!
  • Very interesting and stylized way to end it with Soundgarden. It’s a banger that starts off very soft. 
  • It was cool seeing Superman meet his physical match. Like I could see these guys taking each other down right in front of the Daily Planet.
  • On the moon, very reminiscent of Superman IV. 
  • Incredible cliff hanger

EPISODE 12: Injustice - “What are you gonna do, a podcast or something?”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Tons of Superman news, specifically Superman and Lois. The good news is Superman and Lois was renewed for Season 4. The bad news was that it was at a great cost. Kind of like the end of a superhero movie. Only 10 episodes and The Cushings, Irons’ and Sam Lane were all cut from the regular cast. 

Sam, what are your thoughts?

In larger Superman news, The Flash movie finally came out. I know a lot of things have been spoiled and I’m not in the business of spoiling things, but I will say there are a lot of Superman treats and easter eggs in it. Is it a good movie? I don’t think so. But I did enjoy myself. The Batman stuff is really fun. 

It is a fun theater experience, but since it’s doing so poorly it’ll probably be out on Max soon. 

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 12

S03E12 - Injustice

Directed by:

Sudz Sutherland

Written By:

Michael Narducci

The IMDB & Apple TV Recap is: 

Lois and Clark clash with Jordan over his carelessness around using his powers in public. And finally, after seventeen years behind bars, Lex Luthor is set to be released from prison.

• HENRY's NOTES:
•  
• There’s Clark taking away the computer again. Love that he’s washing her hair. So sweet. Injustice is a reference to her losing a part of her body
• I love that they’re teeing up Luthor ready to kill Lois and Clark protecting her. 
• Cool Lex music.The idea of Lex in prison for 20 years is so interesting. Love that he gets a nice soft boiled egg for breakfast. Who’s the pic? Does he have a daughter? Who’s the mom?
• Who’s Janet? Foswell gave the Luthor story to Simone. Who’s Simone?
• Love Clark mouthing “no no” haha
• Whoa Lex with hair in the flashback? OTIS! Drops wedding ring but has pic of kid. 
• LOVE Lois’ look with the hat. Looks like the Jenny Frison cover from Lois Lane #1.
• Haha Bazoombas makes another appearance. Why has Bazoombas become a thing?
  • What did you think about all the Alpha Male vs Alpha Male FD thing?
  • Is Kyle being nice to Jonathan because he knows Clark is Superman?
• Sam Lane - I guess in a world where Superman is the only hero then it IS a big deal that there’s another super in Smallville. Yes, they had Kryptonians attack them but another Hero is different. Not sure why.
• Why is it Jordan’s fault that Sarah’s having a rough time
• What do you think about Luthor shaving his head vs having lost his hair at a young age? To paraphrase a quote from Larry David, those who shave their head to cultivate a look are not part of the bald community. I think a Luthor who has lost his hair all the way at a young age or is losing his hair so shaves it is better than a full thick head of gorgeous hair and shaves it. 
  • Why did Luthor let his ass get kicked? Mind games? False sense of security?
  • Did you notice that the prison standard issue had the prisoner names on it? Isn’t the whole thing about prison is they dehumanize you by giving you just a number?
• So Otis is not Luthor’s henchman but a rival. Cool twist. I like that the Warden is just blatant about being crooked.
• So was Superman and Lois’ Luthor one that had hair? Interesting….
• Damn this Lex is cold. I kinda love it. 
• Oooooh Tornado in Smallville! Classic Superman Stuff! My first thought was, “will there be an MOS reference to Pa Kent putting his hand up?”
• Superman vs a Tornado is always good. One of the better parts of Superman IV which was deleted. Can you freeze a tornado?! Do you think you can talk inside a tornado?
• Haha, who are these idiots standing in front of a window? They’ve obviously seen a tornado before! Kyle and Jonathan just standing there watching?!
• Oy Jordan, not good. Doing the whole “I dunno” teenage thing.
• What was that little power display with Clark? Was Clark trying to grab Jordan and he used his powers to break away?
• Sam giving the advice of “reign him in” - clearly doesn’t understand how teenagers work. I do like how Sam explained the flight path thing. That makes sense.
• Dean Jr looks like he’s 45.
• Does Jonathan also have a video game system in his room?
• Oh my god did Lex Luthor walk from Stryker’s Island to Smallville?!
  • Oooooh Luthor is SCARY
  • “What I want is to never have to read your words again”
  • “But I wasn’t wrong about what you are”
  • Yeah Clark, stand up to that bully!
  • “Don’t ever come back” - “Then you’d better retire”
  • “Tell Superman he’s next”
  • Ha! Otis is now his henchman
• I know head shaving scenes are cool, but well you know how I feel about this. Better shave that beard. Haha I knew his chair would definitely be a person 
  • Who’s Dr. Hook, who’s Orr?
  • YES LEX AND BIZARRO! The way it should be.
  • Going with the Horror version of Bizarro. Eating rats and mutilating Otis. Nice.

S03E11 - Complications- 

Directed by:

Jai Jamison

Written By:

Katie Aldrin, George Kitson (Teleplay)

Brent Fletcher, Todd Helbing (Story)

The IMDB & Apple TV Recap is: 

Clark helps Lois prepare for a procedure but must leave the boys with her to help John Henry and Gen. Lane track down the Mannheims; John Henry and Nat butt heads over her desire to help Matteo; Bruno's plans go awry; Peia's condition worsens.

• Nice seeing an opening with an action scene and the heroic version of the theme. Especially because the next scene is heavy
• I’m glad he told Kyle and Kyle isn’t being weird. “The time I pantsed you in gym class.” Is Kyle overreacting to Chrissy or is it a CW forced conflict thing?
• For a second I thought Lana called John Henry “sweetie.”
• Mateo and Nat dated for like 10 seconds. Meh.
• Sarah’s like, “why are you being like this?” Because he’s always like this Sarah. He’s the moody one. This is some silly CW stuff
• “See it’s what they’re known for the wings. The wings”
• What did Lois mean when she said to Clark, “you’re enjoying this part way too much” after he took her phone? Is it that she needs help and can’t be on the job? I know it was a loving joke to her husband, I just didn’t get it. 
• For an episode about Lois’ surgery there’s a lot of teen drama not connected to it.
• Ooh I love seeing John Henry and Nat in their suits together
• Jordan is having a panic attack in the OR. There’s NO way he should’ve been there to begin with. Btw, a hospital is a good place to have a panic attack, no?
  • Well I guess if you’re Superboy, no. 
  • Love that Jonathan grounded him. Such good brother shit.
• I gotta say, Peia is one of the first really good, scary, new villains in a long time. 
  • A lot of these shows villains are from the C and D list but she's legit scary.
• I like how serious Kyle takes the Sarah situation
• Wait what happened to Peia? Is she going to explode? Superman needs to take her to outer space. Just do it CLARK!
• Poor Sarah, this is some heavy shit, is being a waitress a cure for depression or is it just having a job is stability, responsibility, etc.
• Superman saying “It’s ok to let go” is huge. He’s someone who insists on saving everyone so to confront the idea that some people aren’t savable is really a big deal. SAM AGREES AND ALSO THIS WHOLE SEQUENCE WAS A+ STUFF
• Yep, Kyle apologized to Chrissy at the end. Typical CW stuff.
• I like that the thread of Manheim’s humanity that has been a part of the whole season, had some finality and he didn’t just turn into an all evil villain.
• Ohhhh yeah, a big Bizarro battle is coming! They played the reverse theme too!

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 10

S03E10 - Collision Course

Directed by:

Elaine Mongeon

Written By:

Max Cunningham

Max Kronick

The IMDB & Apple TV Recap is: 

Lois interviews Peia in the hope of unearthing the truth about an old case; Clarke struggles to spend quality time with the boys; Jonathan and Jordan find themselves at a party where tensions between Sarah and Jordan come to a head.

Show Notes:

• Lois' speech. "strength and hope" she gets it. 
• "The secret wife of Bruno Manheim" classless headline. Trashy. Surprised, Lois approved it. 
• Lana has aspirations of bigger offices? Kinda like comics? Pete Ross
• "Can't you just use AP stuff?" Sam, kyle referenced what you've said multiple times about small town papers
• Again, someone in Smallville has powers - you mean SUPERMAN!?
• "Your D is weaker than you without super powers" "single player I guess"
• Clark is a WRESTLING FAN!!!! They used to go all the time when they lived in Metropolis!
• This is such a dick move by the kids. Clark actually bought tickets. 
• I don't get small towns. How can teenagers have a kegger in broad daylight in a public place? This doesn't seem realistic. Also, maybe because I'm a dad now but I hate seeing underage drinking on tv. Kids watch this show. It's irresponsible showing how "cool it is". Maybe I'm a square but I dunno.  
• I hate the word cringe but I hate even more when Jordan's awkwardness makes me cringe
• Lex Luthor has an aura, like the devil. The only man that scares Peia. Great description. 
• Is it sexist to think this Governor is an asshole? Or am I supposed to?
• Oh my god that was a terrifying crash. But I don't like how everyone assumes it's "someone with powers" and not Superman. 
• Whoa underage DUI. That's super serious. 
• "I loved hanging out with my mom when I was their age" "that's one of the main reasons I love you"
• Clark has a reason to be hurt but obviously he overreacted. Another great example of Clark being "human"
• I liked how Jonathan was the voice of reason for Clark and it didn't turn into a bigger thing. 
• I gotta hand it to them, Peia is a super scary villain. Oy poor Lois!
• Good, now Kyle knows. I'm fine with that. I hope it doesn't turn into a thing. 
• Great episode. 

Sam and Henry talk a little about the end of the Arrowverse with Flash Season 9 coming to an end then dive right into a very emotionally intense episode. As usual some comic references along the way including a Jerry Siegel issue from 1941!

HENRY'S NOTES:

EPISODE 9: The Dress - “Bazoombas”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 9

S03E9 - The Dress

Directed by:

Stephen Maier

Written By:

Kristi Korzec

The IMDB & Apple TV Recap is: 

Superman and John Henry clash over how to handle Bruno Mannheim; Lois worries over upcoming treatments and confides in Lana about her early courtship with Clark.

Superman stuff

• Superman is so compassionate. He knows what Maheim is going through
• Superman never breaks a promise.
• Superman/John Henry tension. Very good. 
• Superman fanfare when he busts in and saves John Henry from Henry Miller.
  • Really good score. Did you notice it?

Manheim Family

• Oooh John Henry taking point over Superman
• Peia’s at the DoD so Manheim needs them
• Well it answers your question about Matteo and are you crabby about it?
• Oh shit, Manheim’s bringing Matteo into it

Cancer stuff

• FLASHBACK TO LOIS AND CLARK ENGAGED AND AT THE PLANET!!!!!
• Really good to hear good news about the Cancer. 
• Oh my god these Flashbacks are killing me. 
• Superman is so good at everything he can even pick out a dress.
• Cal Ripkin Rookie card!
• Really real conversation happening on national television between Lois and Lana. Wow. 
• Awww Lois loves Clark. That smile. Wow. 
• BAZOOMBAS. Dead. 
• Good little talk with Clark and the boys. Brief but reassuring. 
• Aw, Lois didn’t win. I love that it was her idea to have the wedding at the farm. Do you notice that flashback-Clark has less of a five o’clock shadow. 
• “How fast can you get this dress off?” Clark should’ve said, “Faster than a speeding bullet”
• Dammit well Tyler made my cry. I think first time this season.
• “Do you want to cuddle? May just be cuddling for a while.”
• He’s not wearing glasses at home! Yay!
• Awww they’re gonna fly together just to fly. I’m crying.I love this show so much, how dare they even think of canceling it. 
• “I love you Clark. More than ever.”

Twins, Sarah, Nat, John Henry/Lana/Sarah/Kyle/Chrissy

• It’s not a big deal that there’s a superhero in town. Again, it literally happened in this series where Superman saved people from a fire. 
• Of course the twins are keeping a secret from their parents
• Haha a night stick that would kill a rhino
• It seems kinda vague that good lawyers keep Manheim from an attempted murder charge. Unless we didn't see an arrest and then him getting out. 
• Does Jonathan like 
• John Henry referred to his sister as “his sister”
• Matteo heard rumors of his dad. HAHA “I love you” HAHAHA
• Lana being a good friend is some good shit. More of that. She did that scene with Clark really well. 
• Sarah and twins are kinda weird just watching Nat constantly. 
• Hug it out.
• Why does John Henry only have a Nightwing stick
• Ok there’s literally a supervillain fight in downtown Smallville, a super being save ppl from a fire doesn’t matter!
• Home Run John! Ohhhhh shit, John Henry killed Atom Man

The pals discuss Superman & Lois' fate for season 4? Will there be one? The pals also spend some time talking about how good the characterization of villainy has been this season!

EPISODE 8: Guess Who's Coming to Dinner - “Flying Is Awesome”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

A couple weeks ago we got a nice twitter shout out from George Kitson! For more follow us on twitter @supermanpalspod https://twitter.com/SupermanPalsPod

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 8

S03E8 - Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner

Directed by:

Gregory Smith

Written By:

Aaron Helbing

The IMDB & Apple TV Recap is: In the wake of learning that Bruno and Peia are married, Clark works to reignite Lois' interest in taking Bruno down; Natalie meets Matteo's parents for the first time, with disastrous consequences; Jordan interferes with Jonathan's training.

Henry's notes:

This episode felt the most like a Superman comic with, a quote from Bamsmackpow “Superman & Lois begins to coalesce its multiple season plots in this episode in a fantastic, organic way, while setting the stage for a classic villain.”

Superman stuff

• Cute that Clark took Chrissy flying
• Damn Peia is fucking scary
• BIZARRO IS AWAKE!

Manheim investigation and Family

• It’s always funny when I see Clark doing human things like texting. 
• Are Matteo and Sarah serious? Like already meeting the parents?
• Interesting twist of Lois defending Bruno. “It reads like gossip to me”
• It’s funny that Lois did a masterclass
• “He’s the leader of Intergang and the biggest weapons dealer in the country.” Wow. He’s kinda like the toastmaster guy in Man of Steel plus Manheim.
• Lois is done. Wow. 
• Lex Luthor Killed Boss Moxie - father of Bruno, leader of Intergang. Superboy Prime killed him in Infinite Crisis 7
• Whoa, Peia’s powers fluctuate when she’s having a reaction
• “Flying is awesome”
• Lois is back after seeing some evidence.
• I love the slow burn of getting Luthor back in
• Little Aces is basically a known mobster hang out
• Oh my god, they pulled guns out with the kids there! Finally we get to see Bruno as a BAD GUY. 
• Onomatopoeia imitated Lex’s voice. 
• Does Manheim have super strength? 
• “I think we put Lex Luthor in prison for a crime he didn’t commit” - WHOA

Cancer stuff

• Oof, Lois is weak. This is a tough watch. Clark had to turn the downstairs office into a bedroom. This is a very real portrayal of what goes on with chemo

Twins, Sarah, Nat, John Henry

• Jordan busting Jonathan’s balls about being a trainee. Cute. The Rookie hazing stuff is weird on the FD, like aren’t firefighters hard to come by? 
• Ooh Jordan got Jonathan in trouble
• Hahahaha Jordan is listening to The Cure!!!!! “Pretty dark for my mom, who is she?!”
• John Henry and his “sister” - starting to make a connection.
• Oh boy, John Henry going nuclear. But he’s kinda right. The phone was a bit much though.

Lana/Sarah/Kyle/Chrissy

• Girls night out Lana/sarah - I love how Lana’s 90’s music taste is a running bit. THE CURE! CD MIX! LOL 
• Did Sarah get a new haircut/color? 
• “I wasn’t using the super stuff and I could hear your heartbeat” - Clark
• Omg is Lana going to go with Sam Lane to the concert?
  • Way off on this one. I really thought she was going to take Chrissy and then Sam
  • If they were just going to have a dance party at home, why not go to the concert?

This week the pals share their support for the WGA strike, Henry reveals some exciting news about Bitsie Tulloch and they cover this very good episode from top to bottom!

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Fan Expo Chicago August 2023:

Henry's going to meet BITSIE!!!!!

Writer’s Strike:

Has production finished on S&L? I assume writing has finished?

From TV Line: “By and large, ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and The CW won’t exhibit any immediate impact from the strike as the regular TV season winds down and already-scripted finales are filmed — albeit without any last-minute tweaks. Among the shows/seasons yet to premiere and those with summertime finale dates, Nancy Drew completed filming its upcoming farewell season in December, Riverdale‘s final-season scripts are all completed, Superman & Lois is wrapped on Season 3, NBC’s The Blacklist wrapped its series finale on May 1, and NBC’s L.A. Fire & Rescue docuseries from Dick Wolf remains on track for its July 7 debut.”

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 7

S03E7 - Forever and Always

Directed by:

Alvaro Ron

Written By:

Adam Mallinger

IMDB & Apple TV: Lois and Clark dig deeper on Bruno Mannheim, starting with his connections to Hob's Bay Medical Center; Jonathan and Jordan panic at home over Lois' dire diagnosis; Matteo comes to Smallville to meet John Henry.

HENRY's NOTES:

Superman stuff

• Wait wait wait. Clark has the potential to share Kryptonian tech but doesn’t? Is this like a Wakanda Vibranium thing? 
• No Superman in this episode

Manheim Investigation

• Ohhhhh, so Mannheim is Peia’s husband. Love that.
• So Mannheim and his wife have got a little Romeo and Juliet thing with her being a part of another family. 
• “Little Aces,” is that supposed to be Ace of Clubs? 
• Classic Lois, blowing the one friendship she made in service of the story. She ain’t in it to make friends
• “I’m questioning her like she’s a part of some conspiracy.” SHE IS. Lois is still the best.
• I love the idea that Clark will get to Mannheim by going through a human interest angle. The kind of stuff he writes - features. 
• Clark: “How far would you go to cure this disease?” Bruno: “You tell me Mr. Kent, how far would you go to save her?”
• “Isn’t risking a few lives for a breakthrough that could save millions worth it?” Classic villainy. 
• Clark reels him like A Few Good Men. Mannheim gave it right away with his anger, and Clark knew that it was personal.
• It actually makes Lois and Clark’s investigation better by knowing Peia is Mannheim’s wife
• “Now you know the truth. Do what you want with it.” -Mannheim
• We need to see Mannheim do something completely dastardly.
• OH SHIT PEIA HAD POWERS ALL ALONG! SHE FUCKING MURDERED EVERYONE
• I CALLED THAT MATTEO WAS A MANNHEIM!

Cancer stuff

• Oh god. Here comes the Lois-is-sick stuff to kick off the episode. I hate this. Although it’s nice seeing Clark not wearing his glasses inside the house for a change. 
• “Clark’s the best” - Lois
• Boys busted at the fortress. Poor kids. Jonathan’s turn to act like a little prick. Clark with the, “do YOU UNDERSTAND ME! DO YOU?!”
• Lois proving your point about the new Jonathan looking more like Jordan
• Lois is admitting she has no friends is spot on for her character. Have you ever seen Lois with a true friend in her 85 years of existence?
• “Clark’s not great on the grill, but he makes a decent burger” - Why is Clark not being good on a grill, a thing? 
• Haha, they can’t say “Fuck Cancer” on network tv.
• Great call from Jonathan that Hope doesn’t cure heart attack, stroke and cancer. That was a good scene

Twins, Sarah, Nat, John Henry

• John Henry - “I’m a cool dad”
• What’s John Henry being weird about?
  • I guess I can relate a little bit like when I see one of my kids playing with a really wild kid at school, I’m suspicious. 
• Nice seeing there’s a line for the local movie theater
• “You are perfect” kiss. Cute. 

Lana/Sarah/Kyle/Chrissy

• Daaaaaamn Sarah that was COLD - “We know you already have.”
• “She’s like 10 years younger than dad, it’s gross.” Is it?
• Poor Chrissy, Sarah should feel bad. 
• Haha love that Chrissy brings her own candy. AND WEED GUMMIES. 
• Haha she goes to Coachella every summer. 
• I gotta say I kinda love this whole drama with Sarah/Chrissy/Lana/Kyle/John Henry/Nat/Mateo
• Where was Kyle in this episode? Got too many lines in the last episode?
• “Everyone’s moved on”??? Lana, you’re the one who left Kyle. Not saying you didn’t have a good reason, but you pushed everyone away. And slapped your daughter. Yep, still not over that.
• That is some classic small town behavior, lighting fireworks. Not seen since going down to the quarry for a beer bash. 

In this Super-sized episode, Sam and Henry celebrate Superman's 85th birthday with a discussion of what Superman means to Sam, a short take on the My Adventures with Superman teaser and a lengthy discussion of Henry's takeaways from Regal Cinema's Superman The Movie & Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut screenings. The Pals also dive into a very solid episode 6 of Superman & Lois. 

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Superman’s 85th

• Superman’s birthday was last week. Kind of a missed opportunity to have a big episode on the actual publication date. 
• What does Superman mean to you? Why do you love Superman
• My Adventures With Superman teaser
• My experience with seeing Superman 1&2 back to back
  • Notes from the films - 
    • Glen Ford plays it as not only is he having a heart attack but he realizes he's dying. The "oh no" is saying "not now. I thought I had more time. "How long after Pa dies does Clark hear the crystal calling to him? I would've liked at least one more scene with Pa. What is ma telling Clark to remember?
    • Clark asks the one question you might ask God - Who Am I? What is my purpose? Why am I here?
    • I never noticed jimmy said " I told you one P"
    • There's something about 70s NY on film that makes Metropolis feel so important and huge 
    • The double Jeopardy scene is the best first appearance period, the end. It's the perfect rescue to introduce Superman. Plane rescue - He literally saves the President on his first night. 

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 6

S03E6 - “Of Sound Mind” 

Directed by:

Diana Valentine

Written By:

George Kitson (from what I can tell, not related to Barry Kitson

IMDB & Apple TV: Clark finds himself in uncharted territory; Lois bonds with a new friend; Superman pays Bruno Mannheim a surprise visit; Lana puts Sarah in charge while she's away at a meeting with Chrissy.

Henry's Notes:

Superman stuff

• Deadline died
• Traces of X K and Superman’s blood
• Onomatopoeia speaks! 
• Jordan training, beat all these guys
  • Equus is a fictional comic book supervillain, a cyborg mercenary in the DC Comics universe who serves as an opponent of Superman.[1] Created by writer Brian Azzarello and artist Jim Lee, he first appeared in Superman (vol. 2) #206, which was published in June 2004 as part of the "For Tomorrow" storyline.
  • Mechano-Man - All Star Superman #10
  • Atomic Skull
  • I love the video game that Jordan has to play. Bizarro plus Atomic Skull - double jeopardy for Jordan
  • Really fun seeing Atomic Skull in action
  • Jordan, “I can do this all day” ok Cap.
• Dumb Jordan/Clark fight. Jordan’s gotta know his role.
• “I have Superman to learn from”
• Ooooh Onomatopoeia can mimic other people’s voices? Interesting power. 
• How is Superman resisting Kryptonite???
• “Go save your father” He’s wearing his new costume!
• That was really intense! How did Superman defeat them? Did Jordan help? Would Superman have defeated them anyway?
• I knew Jordan would be Kryptonite-resistant 

Manheim Investigation

• Nurse: “Mr. Manheim wishes you well in your article”
• Patient - “What’s your angle?”
• What if this isn’t about Powers, but trying to keep these guys alive.
• Cancer patient is talking about Manheim’s accomplishments that helped her and Suicide Slums
• Nice misdirection with the cancer patient being Onomatopoeia. Is she Manheim’s sister? Did you see that coming, Sam?

Cancer stuff

• Really nice seeing Clark in a support group. Even Superman needs emotional help. “Wasn’t for me” - hmmmmm
• Nurse: “Mr. Manheim wishes you well in your article”
• Patient - “What’s your angle?”
• Estate planning. If they haven’t done life insurance yet, then they’re fucked. No Life Insurance company would take her at this point. Clark is in super denial mode.
• This episode is about Clark’s pain, fear and lack of control.
• “For the first time I can’t keep you safe. I feel really powerless”
• Yep, I’m crying. Thanks Tyler and Bitsie.
• I knew the episode would end with Clark coming back to the group. Not mad about it but that was telegraphed. “So that’s why I’m here. To ask for help.” - Clark

Twins, Sarah, Nat, John Henry

• “Rusty”
• “You look like a guy who made a wish to be a kid again”
• Is Clark trying to control Jordan because he can’t control Lois’ Cancer?

Lana/Kyle/Sarah

• Is this Sohpie’s first sighting this season?! Where has she been? Juvie?
• OMG so awkward with Chrissy and Lana
• I like that Chrissy and Kyle are continuing. They’re cute.
• Sarah, “you’re chipper, it’s weird.”
• No one is paying attention to Sophie. Maybe if she was in more episodes, they’d notice her. They freaking lost her. What the hell?
• Boy, between the slapping and the negligence, these two are really parents of the year
• Sad, sad Sophie at the abandoned fair. That is bleak. Sophie’s character arc is going away, then when they need a story for the Cushings, they bring her back. 
• Haha, nice reference to Burger Time. 
• Kyle and Chrissy going steady, cute.

Back to back episodes this week as Henry and Sam discuss Bizarro's return, Jesus and Mary Chain, and Professor Sam breaks a big scoop in figuring out where in Kansas, Smallville is!

EPISODE 5: Head On - “I’m just here to support you pumpkin”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome BACK to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 5

S03E5 - “Head On” 

Directed by: David Ramsey

Written By:

Andrew N. Wong

IMDB & Apple TV: Clark and General Lane are both having a hard time giving Lois room to make her own decisions; Lana and Sarah have a run-in with an old friend at the diner; Natalie has a surprise visitor.

Superman stuff

• Is Superman in this episode? There he is with 10:25 to go. 
• Seems like there’s maybe too much Kryptonie available? I like when it’s a big deal that someone gets it. 
• Villain reminds me of “Loophole” aka Deacon Dickson from my favorite issue of Superman - Adventures of Superman #505.
• YES BIZARRO!

Manheim Investigation

• Lois is so badass for doing the investigating while getting her treatment. 
• Is that a different villain with phasing powers?
• Chrissy is sporting an RGB collar!
• WHOA! Lois was busted by Manheim right away!!!!
• I like Manheim showing Lois is human side and not just locking her in a room

Cancer stuff

• Round 2
• “I’m just here to support you pumpkin, anyway I can” - Sam
• Very moving montage which seemed to have a sense of realism to it. 
• The piano intro is also very moving
• Clark talking to the chemo patients. This is really classic Clark Kent stuff. Connecting with the people of Metropolis. Truly a man of the people. 

Twins, Sarah, Nat, John Henry

• Jonathan/Kyle…interesting. Can a High Schooler work at a fire station? According to the law, no. What’s wrong with a kid wanting to have his weekends free Kyle? Also, why does Jonathan want to do it? Is it cuz he wants to help like his brother?
• Ok Nat.
• Lol Sam Lane online dating
• Very cute sitcom ending

Lana/Kyle/Sarah

• Mayor Dean confronting Lana is rough. Some stop the steal vibes, eh?
• Do we care about the dance and about Lana’s tough time?
• Kyle and Chrissy went to HS at different times.  How different? They seem around the same age. Also, WHY IS THE EDITOR OF THE TOWN PAPER CHAPERONING A SCHOOL DANCE?
• Oh god, this is hard to watch - Kyle, please stop. Is Kyle from the 80s or the 90s? The actor is 43, and she’s 33
• Uh oh Sarah, getting into the hard alcohol. Mayor Dean’s son looks like he’s 40. 
• Can Chrissy keep a secret? I mean isn’t she a journalist

EPISODE 4: Too Close To Home - “Damn Kent!”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome BACK to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 4

S03E4 - “Too Close To Home”

Directed by: Stewart Hendler

Written By:

Juliana James

IMDB & Apple TV: Lois interrupts an intense conversation between Clark and John Henry; Kyle tries to run interference between Sarah and Lana; Jonathan has a heated discussion with Candice's dad.

Superman stuff

• Superman + Fire always looks good. Really thought this looked like Superman The Movie when he was lifting up the earth underground.
• Superman’s blood - burn that shit. Love it. 

Manheim Investigation

• Why is John Henry mad about his doppleganger’s involvement in the Manheim investigation and why doesn’t he want Clark and Lois to investigate it?
• John Henry keeps calling the Dr. his “sister” but it’s not his sister
• Awkward intro to his “sister!”
• Seems like Darlene might be around for a while!
  • So in the comics, Natasha is John Henry’s niece, daughter of Clay Irons who is Steel’s younger brother and his enemy. 
• STEEL SUIT!
• It’s cool that Manheim is Steel’s arch nemesis. Since Manheim is Lois’ “white whale” there should be some dramatic Lois/John Henry stuff.

Cancer stuff/Clark and Lois

• Clark listens in on Lois. I’m ok on that
• Isn’t investigating part of the way Lois relaxes?
• I like seeing Clark and Lois binge stuff but they don’t have time for that shit. 
• I love that Lois can solve a crime show in like the first scene
• Good talk between Clark and Lois. I love them
• “Men like you don’t scare me” - Go Lois Go!
• Oof, I don’t like seeing Lois like that
• “This is not a Job for Superman. He’s not going”
• BIG Superman II reference in that diner. One of the more controversial Superman things (he gets revenge), but it’s one of my favorites. 
• I love badass Clark. That was awesome. “Damn Kent!” - Kyle
• Lois leveraging her chemo into a secret investigation might be the most badass Lois Lane move of all time. 

Twins, Sarah, Nat, John Henry

• Haha, boys fighting over a sweater. So stupid but kids fight over that kind of shit. “Idiot. Dumbass”
• Sarah has an oppressively annoying ringtone
• I would love to see Jordan drop Candice’s dead from a roof
• YES! CUT THAT HAIR JORDAN - Can Jordan’s hair be cut?
• I like hearing Sam say, “that hurt my feelings”
• Jordan’s new costume is a reference to Superman: Man of Tomorrow - animated film https://www.cbr.com/man-of-tomorrow-clip-supermans-first-costume/

Lana/Kyle/Sarah

• Ooof, Kyle didn’t know about the slap. Yikes. 
• I honestly don’t care what Sarah said to Lana. The slap was out of line, period the end. Kyle’s right that she shouldn’t weaponize his affair but kids stay stupid, hurtful stuff. Doesn’t give you the right to hit them. 
• Sarah is sitting in the diner listening to her headphones while

Sam and Henry fear they won't have much to talk about in this short and sweet episode, but as it turned out there's plenty of comic references, location searches, Bitsie love, big Henry feelings, and some signature Sam voice of reason action!

Greetings Super friends! Welcome BACK to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Let’s talk about Superman & Lois Season 3, Episode 3

S03E3 - “Uncontrollable Forces”

Directed by: Gregory Smith

Written By:

Jai Jamison

IMDB & Apple TV: Lois and Chrissy pursue a new lead in the Mannheim investigation against Clark's wishes. Meanwhile, Jonathan, Jordan, and Nat's attempt at a kind gesture is complicated by an unexpected obstacle. Lastly, Lana, Sarah, and Kyle adjust to their own new normal.

HENRY'S NOTES:

Superman stuff/Manheim Investigation

• Great dream sequence - good symbolism with Clark not being able to save her.
• The address on the Daily Planet is 1980. Any meaning there? Superman II? I wonder what street the Daily Planet is on. In Doomsday Clock #7 it’s revealed that The Daily Planet, is at 2525 Broadway, Metropolis, NY 10025
• So Superman is having the same dream over and over again. Weird because he doesn’t need to sleep. 
• Haha Lois’ bad handwriting. Is that ok? Or do you not like that like the spelling thing?
• “Aleister Hook” is Skyhook! Remember Skyhook from the Byrne era? Superman #15. Demon that stole children and turned them into demons!
• Bruno Manheim is Lois’ white whale? Whoa. That’s kind of a huge revelation. 
• Room full of blood lol
• Can Superman hear through lead or is there anything that Superman can’t hear through? I mean I know they dampen powers all the time.
• “SUPERMAAAAAN!” I love that shit. That’s when a good smashy smash entrance is perfect. Ack! Kryptonite blasters!
• STEEL to the rescue!
• Kryptonian cloning stuff? I’m into it. 

Cancer stuff

• Love Lois’ glasses. Hard to watch this montage of telling all of her loved ones but good to see Lois being so strong. Tracks with her character. Really powerful seeing Sam be so affected. I like some depth to his character.
• Good to see Lois and Lucy are talking. 
• Is Sam right or wrong in getting on Lois about going to her appointments?
• Clark: “Let me help you.” He’s right but he’s gotta let her do her thing. 
• Why do Clark and Lois need to drive to the hospital?

Twins, Sarah, Nat, John Henry

• Mom has cancer so the boys made breakfast. Nice job kids
• Haha at first I thought Sarah was using a replicator. 
• Glad to see Jonathan’s girlfriend is doing good honest work. Wait so Jonathan has 2 girlfriends now?
• Wait, who attacked John Henry? I’m drawing a blank.
• Does John Henry not want to get involved with helping Lois because it’s too weird, too close to “home?”
• Haha why is Candice’s dad so weird? Relax Candice. CW nonsense….
• Yessss Nat in the suit!
• Nice job Jonathan!
• Nice to see Candice come around. Her dad is a piece of shit.

Lana/Kyle

• Jesus Lana, dial it back a bit. Is what Kyle did so bad?
• Lana is out of control. She’s gotta chill. The slap. Oy vey. Not good. Why do they always do that on tv? The mom slapping the kid then immediately regretting it? Didn’t Lois do that to Jonathan too? I hate that trope. No adults hitting their kids please. Shuuuuuut uuuuuup Lana.
• Oooh Chrissy and Kyle connecting. I’d ship them.

Sam and Henry discuss the The Rock/Zachary Levi/Henry Cavill situation & HBOmax's Titans returning! We talk about Lois' big news and if this is the kind of thing for a superhero tv show. There's plenty of DC Comics easter eggs discussed and even a little Bob Dylan!

Henry's show notes:

EPISODE 2: Uncontrollable Forces - “I Can Shave Hours Off Your Commute”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome BACK to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Shazam/Black Adam news

Titans news

Let’s talk about Superman and Lois Season 3 Episode 2

S03E2 - “Uncontrollable Forces”

Directed by: Elizabeth Henstridge

Written By:

Katie Aldrin

IMDB and Apple TV: Clark and Chrissy notice a small crack in Lois' game face; Sarah and Jordan have an awkward encounter; Lana receives a panicked phone call.

• Lois Cancer Stuff
  • I don’t think I’m emotionally prepared to handle a Lois Lane illness portrayed by Bitsie. She’s too good of an actress, it’s going to wreck me. 
  • Why didn’t Lois tell Clark about her health? That doesn’t seem realistic. 
  • Clark is being very supportive as usual
  • Fuck, Cancer. I don’t want this. This fucking sucks. I have this personal thing about tv. I don’t want to see real shit. I want to escape into a fantasy.
    • “I was a little shocked when [the producers] first told me that’s what they wanted to do,” actress Elizabeth Tulloch tells TVLine. “But I actually think it’s pretty wonderful. This storyline hasn’t been done, and cancer is such a prevalent force in so many people’s lives. This villain is so relatable and so real, and more than anything it’s one that Clark and Superman can’t just go handle. For Superman, who is this all-powerful superhero, to be faced with something he’s completely powerless against is even more grounding for the show, and it places a greater emphasis on the strength of us as a couple and the family dynamic. I thought it was exciting, and I hope the fans feel the same way.”
    • “We reached out to so many people — doctors, oncologists, people who had been through it, spouses who have been through it, families that have been through it,” Fletcher tells TVLine. “All of our scripts have been vetted to make sure that it’s playing real, because we don’t want it to be taken lightly. We want to put Lois on a real journey that so many other women in the world are going through. Hopefully they can take solace in seeing that a character as iconic as Lois Lane is suffering the same thing, and to feel like they have someone to relate to. We thought long and hard about it, and we felt like we had something to say.” Fletcher expects fans to be surprised at how “in-depth” the show goes with Lois’ cancer battle without shifting the show’s established tone. “We’re not going to despair and darkness all the time,” he says. “We have a very hopeful family, and we hold onto that, but we’re never telling the audience that the threat isn’t real.” “It’s our arc for the season,” he adds. “It’s our villain for the season, to be honest.”
• Wait, why couldn’t she give a full family history because of her mom?
• “I promise I will never look at you any other way. We will get through this together. You’re gonna beat this thing, not a doubt in my mind”
   
• The kid stuff
  • Sorry, Jordan is now just being pathetic and desperate. Give it up kid. But Sarah is very nice and loved that she gave him her oversized shirt
  • Party in Metropolis! Woooo!!! Now we’re seeing a little bit of Jonathan's “bad-boy" persona. I like it. “Fraternals Right?”
  • Ok what part of Metropolis is this?! Is this the suburbs? Gold Coast-ish? 
  • Why was she annoyed he brought his TWIN BROTHER?Poor Jordan. He’s got the whole clumsy Clark thing but not on purpose. 
  • Get it Nat!
  • SARAH’S WEARING A BOB DYLAN I WANT YOU 1966 SHIRT! 
    • I Want You is the first track on side 2 of disc one on 1966’s Blonde on Blonde. 
    • Obviously I’ve been searching for the shirt. 
    • @msdylangirl on twitter found it!
  • This party is terrible. Get out of there kids! Just leave!
• Clark and Lois
  • Love the little Clark/Lois reporter dynamic
  • “Do you think Harry has that early bird special” - Clark
  • Clark listens to her heartbeat to see if she’s lying. 
  • “Get your hands off me! Don’t Touch me!” - Very Margo Kidder vibes
  • “We’re a team, best one I know”
  • I love that Lois was the one to talk her down, not Superman saving her
• Manheim
  • So it looks like Otomotopia’s powers are sonic based and have changed a bit from the comics
  • George said, “It was always about the pride of Smallville”
  • Shotgun wounds but no bullets
  • We’re just hearing now about George Jr?
  • Who’s Mr. Orr?
  • Very Luthor vibes from S:TAS calling Superman to his balcony
  • “The Suicide Slums” - not an official neighborhood, but a nickname, which I think it always was but now Manheim has gentrified it? Nice callback to Luthor and Edge.
  • Lana and John Henry are a fun team. One of the few good things that came out of New 52.
  • Oh cool Onomatopoeia killed this earth’s John Henry
  • Nice seeing Chicago’s “L”

Closer -  “They’re Gonna Have to Wait.” Yeah”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome BACK to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

How was your Superman Summer? And fall? And winter? It’s weird how in my kishkes, shows feel like they should be on September to May. Anyway did you do or read anything Supermany? Lots of comic news. Superman Warwold came to an end and the Dawn of DC began. Phillip Kennedy Johnson is doing a great job with Superman. Movie news, Cavill in, then out, Gunn takes over DC then announces he’s writing and directing Superman Legacy. And here on the CW, Superman and Lois’ future is in question as DC shows are going away…

Let’s talk about Superman and Lois Season 3 Episode 1

S02E15 - “Closer”

Directed by: Tom Cavanaugh

Written By:

Brent Fletcher and Todd Helbing

IMDB: Jordan and Jonathan celebrate their 16th birthdays, Sam reaches out to Natalie with poor results, Chrissy ends up with a surprising bed partner, Lois gets some surprising news, and Atom-Man returns posing a new threat to Superman, as does Bruno Mannheim.

• VERY horny episode - L and C AND Christy and Kyle
  • Love seeing this so much more than horny teens
• New fortress seems a lot like the old fortress but LOVE that Jordan has to fight Superman’s Rogue’s Gallery. Atomic Skull!
• Bruno Manheim - Sam give us a character bio and where does Manheim rank as all time Superman villain? Top 10? Top 20?
• ONOMATOPOEIA
• Atom Man, we saw him in the flashback with Superman in the Fleischer suit, but here he was kinda sympathetic Nazi? Don’t love that. I hope this isn’t a one off with him. He’s too good of a villain. 
• Teens were much less annoying but honestly I still don’t care about Sarah and Jordan
• Lana was fine in this episode. Seems like she’s finding her comfort zone
• The whole Sam Lane with Natalie thing is dumb. Every grandparent I know are nice and cordial and even welcoming to their grandkids’ friends, but I don’t know a single one that would rather spend time with them instead of their own grandchildren. Was it so bad what Sam Lane did? Recruiting Natalie? That’s his world AND she is super smart. 
• METROPOLIS - I wanted it, I got it. 
• More reporting! A little awk that it’s just the three of them writing at this small town newspaper
  • Great seeing them working together but why is the Smallville Gazette reporting on huge national news? Why isn’t this just Lois Lane Dot Com?
• Coach Gaines - why is he so crabby all the time? Also a funny edit where it looked like he put a rib bone in his pocket.
• Bitsie just gets better and better, so does Tyler. 
  • It’s great seeing her play happy too. I’m so nervous for what’s going to separate them.
• Suicide Slum? What about it? Bibbo?

“There’s a lot Easter eggs this season,” Helbing adds. “ A lot.”

We bring you a super-sized episode for the Season 2 Final!  We kick things off with some show and tell of some new Super-goodies (shout out to Jim Bowers @capedwonderjim)! We're talking about the vacuum of space, throwing sh** into the sun, Tal-Ro's redemption, what we want to see in Season 3 and so much more!

EPISODE 15 ““It’s Dad, It’s Clark, It’s Superman””

Let’s talk about Superman and Lois Season 2 Episode 15

S02E15 - “Waiting for Superman” 

Directed by:

Gregory Smith

Written By:

Brent Fletcher and Todd Helbing

Chrissy Beppo (Sofia Hasmik), with the authorization of the Department of Defense, has a message for the people of Smallville: not only is the merging of planets real, it is happening.

HENRY'S NOTES:

DOD officially declaring what’s happening. Reference to “Bizarro self.” Why is Christy Beppo making this announcement? 

Lois used the word “blip” - Kevin Feige sending his Disney lawyers after them?

This makes sense that Nat is having PTSD from losing her world.

Oooh the Loises switched. “Our Bizarro Mom just magically appeared.”

Jon saying “You’re our family too” and Nat responded with a hug and “I really liked having brothers” is the kind of emotional beat stuff that make the show good. The faux conflicts are not. 

People disappearing and cars crashing is very reminiscent of Infinity War. Is it too derivative?

Tal Ro - “I’m fighting for you. You and your family are the only people that matter to me on this planet” followed by a bro hug. Chef’s kiss. 

Jordan, close your goddamn mouth while you’re in space. “You saved my life nephew, i’m forever in your debt”

“There’s still one person that can stop her, me”

YES!!! LOVE WHEN SUPERMAN THROWS SHIT INTO THE SUN!!! Love that he’s getting thrown into it. 

Hahaha why is Nat’s AI german? “Frau Irons”

HOW ARE SUPERMAN AND TAL-RO TALKING IN OUTER SPACE?!!!!! That’s as ridiculous as Superman IV. Nice that Clark says, “I love you too” though. 

Who are all these people who are like, waiting for the rapture? Are the people of Bizarro Smallville super religious? 

So one throw away line from Sam confirmed that this is not in the Arrowverse - “and even though we only have your father on this planet.” That’s fine but I wish they would’ve told us earlier so we didn’t waste time and energy getting upset about it. 

I love seeing superman being burned alive while also supercharged up by the sun. Reminds me of Superman #1,000,000.

“It’s Dad, It’s Clark, It’s Superman” - 

Overloading the parasite is a classic Superman move. 

He’s circling the Earths! Like superman the movie!!!!!

Love his Supercharged S shield. 

I don’t get the physics of how he did what he did but I like it. 

Miracle Monday! A reference to both the Elliot S Maggin novel and the day in which Superman saved the world. “Truth Justice and a Better Tomorrow”

Oh come on Lois. Now Crissy Beppo knows the secret? Jesus. 

Love a good Superman festival in Smallville and so cute that kids were cosplaying as Nat and John Henry. 

Nat and John Henry eating Rhubarb pie, Martha’s specialty

“With you around, always” - Lois in response to “are you ok?”

Kyle’s babyface from heel turn was done so smoothly and so well over the past two seasons.

“I wish everyone could be as happy as i am”

You never stop trying to help people do you? I love you Superman”

Why are Ally and Bizarro Ally in the same cell?

Uncle Tal buying F-150s for the nephews is amazing. Love that he went to Bizarro world to be their hero. 

BRUNO MANHEIM - INTERGANG!!!!!! Let’s have a season of Clark investigating them. 

Lucy and Lois made up, which is nice. I wonder where she’s going.

Clark is finally not wearing his glasses with the family and I love his Chris Evans, Knives Out sweater. 

Throwing a crystal to make the fortress is very reminiscent of Superman The Movie AND doing it in the ocean is like the comics. Love it all. “It’s only the beginning.” 

Follow us on Twitter @supermanpalspod

Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or the pod catcher of your choice and we'll read it!

EPISODE 14 “You Are More Than Just Your Powers”

The penultimate episode of Season 2 is upon us! Sam and Henry pay tribute to the late, grate artist Tim Sale. The Pals share a lot of frustrations with some things they liked sprinkled in. Also some signature tangents about TV trends and still wondering where is Supergirl??? 

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Let’s talk about Superman and Lois Season 2 Episode 14

S02E14 - “Worlds War Bizarre” 

Directed by:

Sheelin Choksey

Written By:

Michael Narducci

"Superman is rendered powerless by Ally's attack, and the others rally as the two Earths merge."

Romantic violin version of the theme over the title screen

John Henry/Nat - Ally is an energy parasite, can absorb power from anything. Nat being assertive of going in there with John Henry. Love it. Ugh, I’m with Nat, “Dad don’t do this.” LET HER HELP. Nat could definitely get through those safeguards. So John Henry was right that Nat shouldn’t come but not for the right reasons. She obviously needed to save everyone but she could’ve helped him. 

Lana - “This is what tired looks like”, um Lana you look amazing. Smallvillians riled up again. They’re so cartoony. Nice to hear Kyle and Lana finally talk about his infidelity. Why are the Smallvillians laughing at Lana. They literally went through an army of Kryptonians attacking them last season. Obnoxious George is back. Lol to “you’re flying in and saving the day.” Lana did you fucking tell everyone Superman lost his powers? What the fuck Lana?! That’s not your call to make. Great now Sarah is going to be mad at Lana. More CW nonsense. 

Lois/Chrissy- Bizarro world taking over, text was backwards. 

Ally/Inverse - Wait was Bizarro Lana doing with her eyes?

Lara - Cells not healed? Sam explain please. He’s like a baby again? Developed powers at 4! How is Lara’s projection being affected by the merge? Isn’t it Kryptonian technology?

Clark - Why does he need to wear his glasses all the time when he’s Clark? Is it just a visual cue, a marketing thing? Seriously, it doesn't make sense. Why does he need to wear his glasses in the fortress with John Henry and Lara? We talked about this in the first episode. The kids never saw their dad without glasses? 

Incredible Lois pep-talk to Clark and frankly to US, reminding him what Superman means.  Superman is a “Friend”

Jordan/Jonathan - Kids, suit up and do your job. Blah blah Sarah/Jordan blah blah. Well now Sarah knows. Nice angry red eyes of anger Jordan. Ok that fight was awesome.

So much to cover on this one! We celebrate Professor Sam's birthday coinciding with Superman day, disliking comic book annuals,  Lana giving Jordan a verbal thrashing, Ally owning Lucy's mind, Clark's new job prospects, Jordan's flight school, Alanis Morsette and Kessel run being the same joke, Batman 66 reference, Nat and John Henry's unnecessary CW conflict, our wish list for finale/cliffhanger and to close it out a long tangent about the state of TV watching. 

EPISODE  13 “I Used To Call It The Kessel Run.”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Happy Birthday Sam! Did you know that your birthday is one day before the official “Superman Day?” Officially, June 12 is considered Superman Day. 

Let’s talk about Superman and Lois Season 2 Episode 13

S02E13 - “All Is Lost” 

Directed by:

Elaine Mongeon

Written By:

Kristi Korzec

iTunes recap: Clark and Lois disagree on the best way to figure out if Ally Allston went to the Inverse World. Meanwhile, John Henry makes a surprising discovery and Lois sets out to track Lucy down.

HENRY'S NOTES:

Lois/Chrissy

Is Clark wanting to work at the Smallville Gazette just a backup story or is it for real? It would make sense that Clark wants to start reporting again but he’s never mentioned it.  Lol to Chrissy being the driver. Chrissy looking at Clark’s resume and not wanting to hire him? Why? Wouldn’t you want 2 Lois lanes?

Lane Family

Lane family going down together. I like it. FINALLY we see Lucy in all of her traumatic delusions. Lois bringing back all the things Lucy did to them including fucking DRUGGING HER FATHER. The way Lois sounds when she’s trying to convince Lucy that she loves her is so lectury and factual. Of course Lucy feels the way she does. “I am so sorry I ever made you feel like a burden because the truth is you were my life raft. I wouldn’t have survived my childhood without you and I still need you. You have to mean it, you have to show it. Please give me a chance to prove how much I love you.” Dangerous game Lana is playing, sharing with Kyle that she has “secrets.” Good thing Kyle is a bit of a nice dumb guy and didn’t bother following up. Sam Lane is great, and Lucy is right when she says she doesn’t deserve him. 

Cushing Family

Is “who’s alanis morsette” and “what’s the kessel run?” the same joke?

Relax Lana, it’s not a big deal that Kyle took Sarah to open mic, in fact it’s really sweet. 

I gotta say I was super into Lana lecturing Jordan. “Not even Superman can keep everyone safe.” Get outta here kid. And I also like that she felt bad about it. Really good acting here Emmanuelle. 

Clark and the boys

Boys, relax. The Cushings are annoying. You’ve got a cooler friend/sister in Nat and fucking powers like Superman. Jon feeling guilty about his mess up and his Bizarro’s murderous spree. Good talk between Clark and Jon. “As a parent you care so much about your kids and I want to protect you but I want you to learn to make your own mistakes and that’s really hard but I will always be here when you do.” When Superman says, “it’s gonna be fine” he means it.  “I still love her, dad.” Please. But great timing to take him flying. The flying training was great because traditionally, Clark just flew and that was it. Even if it was shaky at first or he just leapt at first he then seemed to master it. Like in Man of Steel. I like the idea of Clark spending years at the Fortress just practicing flying. Btw, they could’ve picked up Jonathan, a winter coat and given him a job instead of just ditching him. 

Ally Alston

The cold open “5 years ago” was interesting. It still doesn’t give us that much background in her motivations. I like that they actually reference the “LL.” It’s also huge that they make mention of being in Lois’ shadow. That’s gotta be tough. It’s cool that they low-key backdoored their way into making Ally The Parasite. Lois literally called her Parasite. I’m not mad about it, even though we made fun of it last week. I actually kind of like it. On Bizarro world Ally has completely taken over. Ally’s really good at subtly putting a wedge between Lucy and Lois. It’s cool that Ally’s doubled voice is her backwards voice behind her regular voice. 

When Ally demands that she summon Superman, Lois retorts that she doesn't have a red Superman phone to contact him, likely an homage to the red "hotline" Commissioner Gordon used to get in touch with Batman in Batman (1966).

Is it consistent or inconsistent with Lucy’s character that just when she seems to be coming around she goes full super-villain. 

I guess the parasite thing is slightly different because she doesn’t need to touch people. 

Scary seeing Superman turn into Bizarro. How does her Parasite powers let her stop a hammer from hitting her? 

Nat and John Henry Irons

Nat is smart enough to make a fucking secret Iron Man suit but didn’t think. John’s overreaction to Nat’s suit is both realistic but in the context of the show is kind of dumb. She’s clearly an asset and I’m glad that John Henry came to his senses eventually. “I build things, not destroy them.” The conflict was very CW episodey. But it's very cool that Nat’s tech is superior. “Agro dad.” I’m so sick of them over-using that term. Do teenagers really talk like that? Very nice resolution by John Henry and not taking things personally. Nice turn of events that Nat gets to save Superman. I think we called that earlier on. Why didn’t they try throwing Superman into the Sun?

What’s next?

What if the Earths merging isn’t bad? What if it like brings the best out in everyone? 

I would love to see a cliffhanger where Superman loses all of his powers and Jordan, the Ironses and Jonathan suit up to take over. Next season can pick things up 3 months later with Clark having a summer as a regular guy. 

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Another long hiatus in the books (hopefully the last one) as the Pals are back to talk Episode 12. We open the show talking about Sam's rewatch of Superman IV The Quest For Peace. How did it stack up with Sam's Superman III rewatch? Both Pals are over Lana being mad about "the secret." Is the secret even a big deal? Is Ally the Parasite? Sam and Henry both loved the kids forming their own little Scooby gang and want to see more!

HENRY'S NOTES:

EPISODE  12 - “They Weren’t Just Flowers, They Were Peonies”

Superman IV - Thoughts?

Let’s talk about Superman and Lois Season 2 Episode 12

S02E12 - “Lies That Bind” 

Directed by:

David Mahmoudieh

Writing Credits:

Rina Mimoun

We pick up right where we left off with Clark levitating in front of Lana. Meanwhile, Jordan and Jonathan question whether Lois and Clark are telling them the complete story. Lastly, Natalie tries her best to get Sarah to acknowledge Jordan.

The Lana Stuff - Lana asking the obvious question right off the bat, “How did people not put this together” and Clark having a great response for the age old question - “People see what they want to see.”

“After saving you and Pete that night” - confirmation of Pete Ross’ existence. Also reminiscent of the famous Dan Jurgens’ story from Adventures of Superman #474 about drunk driving.

“Did you ever love me?” I mean yeah in the way that a 14 year old loves his girlfriend aka JORDAN AND SARAH. Sorry, Lana has NO reason to be mad. This is contrived. 

Now she’s mad at Lois? Oh please. I mean I get it, they are lying but it’s too protect everyone. Lol to Lana BREAKING UP with the Kent-Lanes.

The Kids - Finally the boys with Nat IN school…and I guess out of school. What happened to Jon-El’s S shield. 

SUIT!!!!! FINALLY!!!! How do we feel about Nat giving her suit to a boy? Love the kids being a scooby gang searching the caverns. Love that Jordan saved them and that they were all sitting around laughing about it. This is a good team that I wish had come together sooner. It was nice not seeing Nat so crabby. 

Awwwww - Kyle! What a sweet dad, making an open mic night for Sarah. LOVE THIS. Huge babyface turn for this guy. Who actually wrote that song? Didn’t see it in the credits. 

Tal-Rho - Do we trust him? Or do we smell another double cross? I like the idea of redemption because Superman trusts him. 

Does yelling while doing heat vision help? Did it hurt?

Ally - She can siphon powers? Cool action scene. Fun that she’s a god now but like, still what are her motivations?

In this episode Sam and Henry talk about Superman's "Secret." Does he need it? Does it matter? We also cover Sam's trouble buying comics, how many DC Crises do we need? Are Lana and Clark actually best friends? What are Ally Alston's motivations and thoughts? We also have some drops from Curb Your Enthusiasm, Seinfeld and Superman The Movie in there. Shout outs to Motor City Comic-Con, the Superman Celebration in Metropolis, IL and more!

S02E11 - “Truth and Consequences” 

Directed by:

David Ramsey (Arrow)

Writing Credits:

Katie Aldrin and Jai Jamison

We pick up right where we left off with Jon-El smirking at Lois, who is still standing on the porch with Jordan. Jon-El catches sight of his doppelganger, Jonathan, standing not too far away. He lunges at him and Jordan tries to intervene but Jon-El appears to be stronger and faster than him. 

Henry's Notes:

Jordan used the words “bizarro self.” 

“You’re my son and I love you and I’m not going to let anything happen to you.” Clark is the best. 

Do Clark and Lana have the same coat?

Is the opposite of 1 day, 33 days?

“If that’s what the secret is doing, it’s doing a crap job” - Jon

Bizarro Jonathan is chewing up the scenery, so good. Incredibly violent what he did to Lana. Could’ve killed her!

What is Sarah’s shirt? "Merchant Unite?"

Haha - Primus cover band “what’s Primus”

Jonathan looked like he was going to a rave in the Matrix - lol

Yes! Finally some John Henry and Nat science! More of this.

Love hearing Lois say, “you’re right. I’m sorry”

“NEGATIVE ZONE?!” Uh oh, Here come the Fantastic Four

It’s always confusing to me how effective and deadly kryptonite is. I never kills anyone right away. 

Brother vs Brother showdown! - Final punch could’ve been bigger.

Just get the K out Lana! Jesus!

I’m feeling kinda meh about the reveal. Like it seemed like some sort of romantic gesture but that’s not the relationship they have. Nor have they really shown that Lana is Clark’s best friend. So it sort of seemed like the kids and Lois got ramped up about the secret without any sort of previous set up.

Nat and Steel - Is he going to destroy the portal?

BONUS EPISODE! Sam and Henry sit down and talk all things THE BATMAN. Did we like it? What was good? What was bad? What would we like to see in future films? 

• Sam ranked this 5th out of 10 on his all time Batman movie list, Henry ranked it 3rd
• The pals spend a long time talking about the virtues of "Batman The Movie (1966)," The Dark Knight, and Batman (1989)."
• Music from films and video games!
• Where did Batman learn how to drive so well?!
• The best Robin is Tim Drake

EPISODE  10 - "The Trips with President Seinfeld”

Greetings Super friends! Welcome to Superman & Lois & Pals. I’m Henry Bernstein and alongside me is my favorite super pal, Professor Sam Brody. 

Let’s talk about Superman and Lois Season 2 Episode 10

S02E10 - “Bizarros in a Bizarro World”

Directed by:

Louis Shaw Milito

Writing Credits:

Brent Fletcher and Todd Helbing

Superman races through the portal after Ally Allston, but when he arrives on the other side, he discovers everything on this parallel earth is... bizarre. Navigating his way through deceivingly familiar faces and landscapes, Superman goes on one wild ride in his fight to stop Ally from merging.

HENRY'S NOTES:

Opening: Last time you said he was sort of creating a rock shield but I speculated that he was sort of decomposing into a Bizarro creature. Here it seemed like both? RED CUBE SUN! CUBE EARTH!!! WE GOT OUR CUBE EARTH!!!! Bizarro’s fortress - Bottled City of Kandor, Kryptonian revival suit, GIANT KEY. Superman’s costume looks great in Bizarro world. He should stay there. Superboy has a backwards Death Of Superman shirt. Is that like the most 90’s superman thing ever? Clark can figure out how to speak backwards!

Bizarro Jonathan El: There is so much Silver age silliness here, I love it. It’s actually what we talked about. Of course the opposite of “our world” is Superman and Lois are famous and there’s no Clark.  Haha, love the Bizarro Superman hand gang sign! Great superhero montage. He’s wearing Doc Martins!

Bizarro world/Superman: “Hosting the Kevins, the trips with President Seinfeld.” Wouldn’t the opposite of Clark on Bizarro world be a dad who was around for his family? Bizarro Superman is addicted to Kryptonite, loves the spotlight, very angry. Jordan has straight hair lol. 

Backwards WB tower. Cube pool. Cube glasses. Espy’s - Jordan Michaels is a jerk. “Why on square earth,” Persons Magazine. Bizarro world - bride wears black. Bizarro cat is Krypto

What happened to Bizarro Superman? How did he get like that? Kryptonite? Great acting by Tyler. Love the desperation.

Bizarro Smallville Gazette is bustling with a full staff. Also 1998 Macs? Why?

Bizarro Lois: Very upsetting seeing them fight but it makes sense that their bizarro marriage sucks. Bizarro Lois “failed” as a mother. 

Anderson: Wait why is he suddenly not on Ally’s side? Greaaaat, another random person know’s Clark’s identity.

Um, where’s Lucy?

TERRIFYING CLIFFHANGER

Follow us twitter @supermanpalspod