Pilot (Smallville)

The "Pilot" episode of Smallville, an American television series developed by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, serves as the introductory episode of the show, establishing the premise, characters, and setting. Originally broadcast on October 16, 2001, on The WB television network, it introduces Clark Kent, a teenage alien with burgeoning superpowers, living in Smallville, Kansas.

The episode begins with a flashback to the meteor shower of 1989 that devastated Smallville, also marking Clark's arrival on Earth. In the present day, Clark is a high school student struggling to control his growing abilities and understand his origins. He grapples with feelings of isolation and a desire to fit in.

The episode introduces key characters, including Lex Luthor, the wealthy and intellectually gifted heir to LuthorCorp, who becomes fascinated by Clark after Clark saves his life in a car accident. Clark's adoptive parents, Jonathan and Martha Kent, are portrayed as farmers dedicated to protecting Clark and guiding him in the responsible use of his powers. Other important characters introduced are Lana Lang, Clark's longtime crush, who is still mourning the loss of her parents in the meteor shower, and Chloe Sullivan, Clark's inquisitive and supportive best friend.

The central conflict in the pilot involves Jeremy Creek, a teenage bully who was also affected by the meteor shower and now possesses the ability to electrocute people. Jeremy seeks revenge on those he believes wronged him, and Clark must use his powers to stop him, wrestling with the moral implications of using his abilities.

The "Pilot" episode establishes the recurring themes of the series, including Clark's journey of self-discovery, his struggle to balance his human and Kryptonian identities, the importance of family and friendship, and the burgeoning relationship between Clark and Lex, foreshadowing their eventual conflict. The episode also introduces the concept of "meteor freaks," individuals granted powers by exposure to Kryptonite fragments from the meteor shower. The pilot episode concludes with Clark resolving to use his powers for good and committing to protect the people of Smallville.