Smallville 1989 Opening Scene Analysis

FIRST VIEWING    

Who are the characters involved?  

Lex, Mr. Luther, Nel, Johnathan, Martha, Launa,    

  

  

How might we divide this clip into smaller sections to write about?  

This clip can get divided into blank sections. 1st section is from 0:00-1:04. 2nd section is from 1:04-1:54. 3rd section is from 1:54-2:41. 4th section is from 2:41- 2:48. 5th section is 2:48-4:15. 

  

How does this clip function in terms of storytelling? For instance, is it introducing / revealing character, developing setting, establishing conflict, clarifying relationships, etc.  

  

In the beginning of the scene, it can be shown that Lex’s father puts pressure on him. Most likely so that he is “strong” enough to handle their business. Next scene, there’s a sense of not liking one another between Nel and Martha because Nel likes Jonathan and Johnathan is Martha’s partner. As for Johnathan and Martha, they seem to have a really good relationship and unfortunately Martha is unable to bear children. With clips and conversation, it can be inferred that this scene is happening October 1989, during the small towns big, celebrated homecoming game somewhere in the Midwest.   

  

What greater themes are being hinted at in this clip that may be shows that are further explored/ developed in this episode / series?  

  

One example of themes that are being hinted in this clip that may develop later in the story is when Martha said that all she ever wanted was to see a little face hinting that they may actually be able to have a child later on. Another example is when Lex finds the man on the scarecrow stick with an S on his chest, it could symbolize that the show will deal with something dealing with human scarecrows, superman, or another powerful being that could be destruction onto this town. A last minor detail that may be concluded is when Johnathan asked Nel where Laura’s parents are and she said at the homecoming game there’s a very slight sense that something may happen to them .