6 Times Smallville Improved Superman Mythology (& 4 Times It Failed)

The Kents are usually an older couple, and seem closer to being kindly grandparents. And who, short of being a monster, could yell at their Grandma? A younger Kent couple feel more like "Mom & Dad" than "Ma & Pa", and became parents with whom Clark could have a normal parental relationship.

The early episodes showed Clark engaged in some very normal types of rebellion such as when he went against his father's wishes by going out for the high school football team. His parents were concerned he might accidently hurt another player or draw unwanted attention to his unique abilities. Clark saw this as it represented a way for him to have an admired role in the school instead of continuing along as sort of an odd kid who keeps to himself. He resented that his father was a football star himself in high school, but now wouldn't allow his own son that same option. Clark also felt a lack of trust over his ability to control his powers to an appropriate level.

It was the family story of the Kents that kept the series grounded. Despite the fact certain elements of their issues were extraordinary, the basic issues they had could apply to every family. From having a party to when your parents are out of town, to hitting a rough patch where you run away, the Kents were at their core a very real family.