Superman & Lois Review: Worlds War Bizarre (Season 2 Episode 14)

Superman & Lois Season 2 Episode 14, “Worlds War Bizarre,” prepares for the season finale by making its heroes lose as fates linger between the worlds when they merge.

The cinematic effects on this show give Ally Allston more edge, despite the lingering questions about how her plan will impact Earth-Prime.

The show could rectify this confusion with a decisive stance on where it exists in the Arrowvere, which has yet to be revealed.

The last decade of storytelling within that shared universe hinges on at least a few commonalities the show has acknowledged, which a total rejection of the Arrowverse could wreck.

For example, Lucy and Sam Lane’s apparent differences can be side effects of Crisis spawning a new multiverse the Arrowverse heroes aren’t aware of yet, like Jonathan and Jordan being teenagers after Crisis.

But, Clark and Lois interact with Arrow‘s Diggle, who references Oliver Queen’s sacrifice on Superman & Lois Season 1 Episode 12, “Through the Valley of Death.”

So, while some characters change, others must stay the same for that throughline to exist. Since Diggle is one of the Arrowverse’s remaining mainstays, this merging of worlds affects him, wherever he may be, and Central City on The Flash.

Superman & Lois isn’t too concerned with how merging the worlds will affect Earth-Prime or anyone outside of Smallville, which is a fair storytelling perspective because the scope can quickly get out of hand.

However, it begs why the show would tackle another worlds-ending villain after the ineffective scope of Tal-Rho’s plan last season. Clark even draws direct parallels between those events and the ones currently happening this season.

Like many shows before it and probably after, Superman & Lois must find a villain that is equally as strong, if not stronger, than the hero, and this hero is Superman.

That distinction makes it difficult, but Superman & Lois could benefit from honing in its villain’s reach next season because these questions won’t be as pressing.

Beyond that, “Worlds War Bizarre” dials up themes the show excels at showcasing, like the younger generation stepping into their power and the heroes realizing there’s always another way to be a hero.

Clark Kent is someone who constantly shoulders the belief that he has to be a perfect hero for everyone all the time, and temporarily losing his powers creates a spiral of questions about how worthy he is to carry the mantle of Superman. 

Tyler Hoechlin’s performance lends itself to Clark’s internal dialogue as he grapples with all of that. In addition, Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch use Clark’s changes to reinforce Clark and Lois as one of TV’s best couples.

Sure, they rally together to save people by arming the residents of Smallville with hope and the truth, but how they rally together for each other is remarkable to watch.

It’s endearing to watch Lois anticipate Clark’s feelings, always keeping a hand on his back to steady him when needed.

One of the episode’s best scenes is when Lois stands by while Clark dons the Superman suit to rally Smallville’s residents behind Lana.

It’s a necessary shift in power resulting from Clark’s loss of his abilities and Lana’s increased influence within the town.

Plus, it reframes Clark’s perception of how he can help people without the powers he’s become accustomed to using.

The world may need Superman, but they can’t have him without Clark Kent. That delicate balance is one Superman & Lois is acutely aware of at all times.

It’s also aware of how powerful the younger generation can be in a super-powered fight and out of it. Tayler Buck steals every scene as Nat reels from potentially losing her father again and the responsibility to help her newfound family.

Her team-up with Jordan is a thrilling feat for the small screen. It’s exhilarating to see Jordan seamlessly catch John Henry’s hammer off Nat’s throw.

Superman & Lois makes a point of reminding everyone that Smallville’s future is in good hands.

Until then, the adults constantly remind the younger generation that they are shouldering too many responsibilities that aren’t theirs to bear. 

Despite Lois reminding him of the opposite, it’s heartbreaking to know Jordan thinks it’s his fault Clark almost died at the hands of Inverse Lana.

Furthermore, it’s devastating to watch Nat fall into Lois’ arms as she tries to hold on to the last ounce of hope that John Henry will safely return to her. It’s an evergreen reminder that she is a kid. She’s a whip-smart, powerful kid, but she’s a kid.

The fight sequences like the one in the high school’s gym are fun to watch as a fan of the genre, but the heartfelt scenes like this one with Nat and the Kents make watching Superman & Lois worthwhile.

So, while it’s only a matter of time before the merging of worlds is reversed or finalized, the real weight lies in how everyone may or may not come back from it.

Stray Thoughts

• Smallville High is going to need a lot of construction after this episode.
• Is anyone ever going to try and find Tal-Rho?
• It’s always fun to watch someone put George in his place. 
• Sam’s survivor remorse needs to be explored more on the show.
• At least Lucy is doing the right thing for good now by cooperating with analysts.
• Who’s going to tell Sarah her relationship with Jordan was falling apart with or without Jordan telling her about his powers?

What did you think of this episode of Superman & Lois? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Superman & Lois airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on The CW.

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