I recently heard that the Power Rangers franchise is ending after the latest season called RPM. Not only was I surprised it was ending but I was surprised that Power Rangers was still on the air. The Power Rangers franchise is based off the Japanese Super Sentai franchise about 5 teenagers given special powers to defeat various evil forces throughout the world and the universe. While Super Sentai began all the way back in the mid-70s, it wasn't adapted for the U.S until 1993. In many ways, the franchise was more of a success in the U.S. than in Japan! Back in the early 90s when the series debuted, to say it was a phenomenon would be an understatement! I mean if you were a child in the 90s, then mostly likely you were obsessed with Power Rangers and had at least 1 toy from the franchise. When the first season came out I was 5, the perfect age to be drawn in by this epic looking kids show. But as with adolescence, I lost interest around the early 00s and moved on. But looking back on the franchise that spawned 17 seasons, 2 motion pictures and millions of merchandise sold, you can see why Power Rangers was a cult classic for children between the ages of 5-12. I will show the high and low moments of the PR history but mostly drawing my opinion of the first 10 seasons out of 17:

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (1993-1996)

Season 1 Line-Up: Jason, Zack, Billy, Kimberly and Trini. Tommy followed.

Season 2 Line-Up: Tommy, Kimberly, Billy, Aisha, Rocky and Adam

Season 3 Line-Up: Tommy, Billy, Aisha, Rocky, Adam and Kat

Villians: Rita Repulsa (Season 1). Rita Repulsa/Lord Zed (Season 2 and 3)

Hightlights of the Seasons: The pilot episode, the Original Dinozord (simply freakin' cool), The Evil Green Ranger arc, the Thunder Megazord, The Ninjor arc and The Introduction of the White Ranger.

The Lows of the Seasons: The consistent replacing of cast members (Jason, Zack, Trini and Kimberly for Rocky, Aisha, Adam and Kat). The Alien Ranger Mini-Arc (very lackluster, even when I was a kid).

Overall: Season 1 of Power Rangers will always be legendary, it's the most remembered season and what generated the entire craze for Power Rangers. Season 2 and 3 were great, not as good as the first as Aisha, Kat, Adam and Rocky were mostly in the shadow of the original rangers they took over for. The only other real weak spot is the Alien Rangers mini-series as the show was in the middle of a transition between incarnations of the Power Rangers and felt like it had to stale until Zeo started. Anyway, Rita is without a doubt the best villain of the series and Lord Zed probably the most badass, even having to be toned down because parents thought he was too scary for kids. This is my favorite incarnation and the best seasons as Mighty Morphine brings out the most nostalgia out of me.

Power Rangers Zeo (1996-1997)

Season 4 Line-Up: Tommy, Kat, Adam, Rocky and Tanya. Jason followed.

Villains: The Machine Empire

Highlights of the Season: Cool new villains, new exotic costumes, The new command center aka Command Chamber, The Gold Ranger arc and Jason returns to become the new Gold Ranger.

Lows of the Season: Billy is no longer a ranger and there's no real ending to the Zeo powers.

Overall: Zeo is a hard season to remember for me, not because it was bad, it actually was a great successor to the first 3 MMPR seasons. What I do remember was the awesome theme song which I still remember to this day. Also, I can't forget Jason coming back as the Gold Ranger; it was so cool having him back as he is probably the best ranger of the entire series. Although I wish this season gave Billy more to do as he became more of a second Alpha and by season's end abruptly left. Even so, what I do remember was really cool, the new morphers were nice and the new costumes were excellent being inspired by Egyptian mythology. Also, Tanya was as Aisha replacement was expectable even thought I wonder how an African girl from a tribe could quickly adapt to American life so smoothly, lol.

Power Rangers Turbo (1997-1998 )

Season 5 First Line-Up: Tommy, Kat, Tanya, Adam and Justin

Season 5 Second Line-Up: T.J., Cassie, Carlos, Ashley and Justin

Villian: Divatox

Highlights of the Season: The Turbo Megazord, the Graduation episode, the Vampire episode, the robot rangers episode and season finale.

Lows of the Season: Justin, Zordon and Alpha 5 leave, Dimitria and Alpha 6 enter and mid-season replacements.

Overall: Besides MMPR, this is the season I remember the most. The Turbo saga started with the release of the second Power Rangers movie, which wasn't as good as the first and sorta bombed. The transition between Zeo and Turbo was probably the weakest transition of power rangers as there was no real ending to the Zeo powers and there was never really an explanation as to where the Turbo powers came from. Anyway, the Turbo Rangers were another cool version of the power rangers and the Turbo Megazord has to be my favorite among zords as the turbo megazord was the first power rangers toy I bought as a kid. Divatox, while not the most sinister villain, was among the funniest or probably the funniest villain of the series. While the abrupt replacement rangers mid-season were hard to get use to as they really don't become their own until the following season in space, but they weren't terrible. Now as for Justin, looking back, he was quite annoying. It was cool seeing a kid getting to be a power ranger but seriously, sometimes it felt like the other 4 were babysitting him throughout the whole saga. But this was def a fun installment in the franchise.

Power Rangers In Space (1998-1999)

Season 6 Line-Up: Andros, T.J., Carlos, Ashley and Cassie. Zhane followed.

Villains: Astronema. Darconda followed

Hightlights of the Season: Andros, whole new setting, cool concept, Zhane/Silver Ranger arc, the Zhane/Astronema romance, the Psycho Rangers episode, TMNT crossover episode, Andros' lost sister storyline, the revelation of who his sister is, Darkonda and the season finale.

Lows of the Season: End of the Zordon Era

Overall: In Space has to be the best season since the first up to this point. In retrospect, it has some of the most mature storylines of any season and the new setting in space was a refreshing change for the series. The replacement turbo rangers are more likeable and cool here because they come into their own and Andros has to be the best red ranger/leader after Jason and Tommy. Andros is tough, had a tough life, especially losing his sister at a young age. I really liked this storyline as it's the most thing I remember looking back on this season. It was a nice reveal with Astronema being his sister as it's the first time the hero and villain were connected on a personal level. It was original (ish) stuff like that made this season really standout. I also loved the introduction of Zhane, the Silver Ranger as he was a great addition, especially the back story of the character, the brother like relationship he had with Andros and his little romance episode with Astronema. Drakanda was one of the best villians to come from the series as he was much darker than the others and loved how he tied into Andros' storyline. This season of power rangers also marks the end of the Zordon era as Andros kills Zordon whose essence destroys all the evil in the universe. It's a very epic finale which brought the first 6 seasons full circle as past villains were defeated for good and the war that Zordon was fighting for had finally ended.

Power Rangers Lost Galaxy (1999-2000)

Season 7 Line-Up: Leo, Kai, Damon, Kendrix and Maya

Villians: Scorpius. Trakeena followed.

Highlights of the Season: The premiere episode, The Psycho Rangers return, the Manga Defender, the lights of Orion, the force field episode, Karone returns and the season finale.

Lows of the Season: Kendrix's death

Overall: After pretty much rapping up the first 6 years, Lost Galaxy was the first power rangers season to start from scratch, a whole new set of rangers with new different missions. I really liked lost galaxy and remember watching the premiere like it was yesterday. The concept was cool with the Quasar Sabers being like 5 swords in the stone that chose 5 people to become power rangers. Also the Tera Venger setting had a nice "Star Trek for Kids" feel. Leo was a cool rebellious character and I how he's thrown into becoming a power ranger after losing his brother, Mike. It's because of his brother's sacrifice that he dedicates himself fully into becoming a Power Ranger. I liked the Manga Defender, especially the storyline with his son, which was pretty sad. I also liked how they connected his story with Mike's sacrifice. It was also great watching Mike become the Manga Defender. This season also marked the tradition of old rangers from the last season teaming up with the current rangers. Watching the Space rangers and Galactic rangers team-up against the Psycho Rangers was awesome but ultimately sad how it led to Kendrix's death. At the same time, it gave the opportunity for Karone to return and have redemption as the new Pink ranger. In the end, this was a good season with another awesome finale and those galacta beasts were some badass zords.

Power Rangers Lightspeed Rescue (2000-2001)

Season 8 Line-Up: Carter, Joel, Chad, Kelsey and Dana. Ryan followed.

Villains: Diabolico. Olympius followed.

Hightlights of the Season: The Ryan/Titanium Ranger arc, the Galaxy Rangers return, Olympius rises to power, Joel's crush on Ms. Fairweather, the amnesia episode, the Cyborg Rangers, the Supertrain Megazord and V-Lancers.

Lows of the Season: the season finale

Overall: I think what's so unique about this season was it was the first season where there were no alien villains, no mystical or extraterrestrial powers for the Power Rangers and no secret identities. The Lightspeed Rangers' powers and zords were man-made and the villains were demons this time. Again, this was a nice change for the series and it was nice seeing Earth actually more involved with the evil that threatens them. I think my favorite part about the series was Ryan's storyline and the intro of the Titanium Ranger. While it was a rehash of the original Evil Green Ranger storyline, it was slightly different as Ryan was the son of Captain Mitchell and was the brother Dana, the Pink ranger. It was a touching little storyline with the Captain losing his son and I loved how father/son/daughter reunite. Also, Joel had some hilarious moments when chasing after Ms. Fairweather and her always some how shutting him down. The demonic villains were cool, especially Olympius once he took over Diabolico. Not as good as Lost Galaxy and especially not In Space, but the Ryan story was another mature storyline for the series which made it very watchable and man, did I love that Supertrain Megazord!

Power Rangers Time Force (2001-2002)

Season 9 Line-Up: Wes, Jen, Lucas, Katie and Trip. Eric followed.

Villain: Ransik

Highlights of the Season: The Time Travel concept, the costumes, Eric the Quantum Ranger, Wes' father issues, Jen as the leader, The Lightspeed rangers return and the season finale.

Lows of the Season: The Silver Guardians

Overall: What I liked most about this season was the time travel angle and the year 3000 setting. The way the season began was pretty cool with Ransik escaping in the future going to the past to change history. It kinda made the Power Rangers mission in this season much greater as the consequences of them losing would literally change the world for the worse. I also loved Jen, as she was the first female power ranger to really take charge and was the leader of the group. I also loved how her fiancee's death triggered Jen's attitude throughout the whole season and lead to her romance with Wes. Wes was a good character and his struggling relationship with his father was played out well. Also Wes's rivalry with Eric was fun to watch, even if the character was a bit of d!@k. My only problem was the rest of the Silver Guardians were useless considering Eric was the only ranger among them. Ransik wasn't the most sinister villain but was the last real tolerable villain of the series. Time Force is also the last season I truly watched and enjoyed as what's to come saw the Power Rangers franchise taking a horrible plunge into garbage.

Power Rangers Wild Force (2002-2003)

Season 10 Line-Up: Cole, Taylor, Max, Danny and Alyssa. Merrick followed.

Villain: Master Org

Highlights of the Season: The Time Force Rangers return and the Forever Red episode.

Lows of the Season: Everything else!

Overall: I watched very few bits and pieces of Wild Force aka the two moments I just mentioned. Why? Because this is where power rangers completely fell apart, I really didn't like the concept for this season or much of anything else, even the theme song irritated the hell out of me. Cole was probably the worst red ranger ever at this point and the rangers' personalities as a whole starting feeling flat. Also this season is where they started using too much of the CGI instead of more of the Japanese footage. But what makes this season worth watching is because it's the 10th anniversary season which lead to return of the past 9 rangers from the past 9 seasons. It's one of the best episodes of the series as fans get to see some of their favorites like Jason and Tommy fight again with their old costumes from the early years of the series. It's definitely a power rangers' episode I loved watching over and over again til this day and shows just how great this series began but ultimately how lackluster it became, starting with this very season. Not to mention, this was the season where Disney took over the franchise and they obviously are to blame for why the series took a turn for the god awful!

Power Rangers Ninja Storm (2003-2004)

Power Rangers Dino Thunder (2004-2005)

Power Rangers SPD (2005-2006)

Power Rangers Mystic Force (2006-2007)

Power Rangers Operation Overdrive (2007-2008 )

Power Rangers Jungle Fury (2008-2009)

Power Rangers RPM (2009)

Updated at 3:15 p.m.: Pop star Michael Jackson was pronounced dead by doctors this afternoon after arriving at a hospital in a deep coma, city and law enforcement sources told The Times.]

[Updated at 2:46 p.m.: Jackson is in a coma and his family is arriving at his bedside, a law enforcement source told The Times.

Jackson was rushed to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center this afternoon by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics.

Fire Capt. Steve Ruda said paramedics responded to a call at Jackson's home at 12:26 p.m. He was not breathing when they arrived. The paramedics performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation and took him to the hospital, Ruda told The Times.

[Updated at 2:12 p.m.: Paramedics were called to a home in the 100 block of Carolwood Drive off Sunset Boulevard. Jackson had rented the Bel-Air home for $100,000 a month. It was described as a French chateau estate built in 2002 with seven bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, 12 fireplaces and a theater.

The home is about 2 1/2 miles, about a six-minute drive, from UCLA Medical Center. An earlier version of this post incorrectly described the time to travel between the home and hospital as two minutes.]

The news comes as Jackson, 50, was attempting a comeback after years of tabloid headlines, most notably his trial and acquittal on child molestation charges.

In May, The Times reported that Jackson had rented the Bel-Air residence and was rehearsing for a series of 50 sold-out shows in London's O2 Arena. Jackson had won the backing of two billionaires to get the so-called "King of Pop" back on stage.

I don't think I've ever been hit this hard by a celebrity's death since Health Ledger. But Michael Jackson wasn't just a celebrity, he was a phenomenon! No matter what you think about his appearence, personal life or his public behavior, this man was one of the greatest entertainers of our time! The biggest selling album of all time, the best dancer of all time and a lifetime of countless achievements, it's an understatement to say he will be missed! The world of music literally won't be the same ever again!

#5-Exile

Season 3, Episode 1

Jonathan-"He wasn't ready! But you, you had to keep pushing him anyway, didn't you? What kind of a race are you people? No wonder you destroyed yourselves." "Exile" is one electrifying episode! Right from the start you're fully engaged in the story as Clark has become a big player in Metropolis and Lex has been pronounced dead! After an emotional and moving opening, enters the best action set piece the series ever did! A masked Clark takes down a bunch of bank robbers and unleashes his powers on the police of Metropolis. It's a shocking development for Clark but a truly fantastic sequence! It almost feels like a movie as you can tell the series got a major budget increase after Season 2. The show looks more polished with scenes look more vibrant and colorful. The whole cast really took it up a notch this episode and each character brought something to the table. Tom Welling is great showing Clark struggle between being a young criminal and emotionally overwhelmed by his decision. Kristin Kruek does some great work as Lana tracks down Clark and tries her best to bring him home. Allison Mack is spot on as Chloe tries to keep Clark's whereabouts a secret. John Glover's Lionel is vicious and brilliantly evil as always. Annette O' Toole and John Schneider really show here why they are probably by favorite version of the Kents as their parental concern for their son was so moving. John Schneider in particular gets a powerful scene where he and Jor-El finally meet and discuss the fate of their son. It's this scene that eventual leads to his tragic death Jonathan but to one of the most explosive endings to an episode. When Jonathan and Clark confront each other, it's just full of tension, especially when Clark send him flying into a wall. When Jonathan gets back up and super speeds toward Clark as they fall from Luthorcorp, my jaw dropped!

Rutger Hauer as Morgan Edge is probably my favorite villain from the early years. As the infamous DC villain, Morgan Edge is a mob boss and plays an excellent mentor to Clark's criminal prodigy. Of course, he quickly becomes Clark's enemy but it's a same the character wasn't used more throughout the series, but a great villain would have been overused by the writers anyway. "Exile" is one of the most action packed and emotionally engaging episodes of the series that excites me every time I watch it!

#4-Rosetta

Season 2, Episode 17

Dr. Swann-"You won't find the answers by looking at the stars. It's a journey you'll have to take by looking inside yourself. You must write your own destiny, Kal-El." Do I even have to explain why this episode is on my list? "Rosetta" is not only the one of the best episodes of the series, but one of the finest moments in TV history. Who would have thought one guest star could truly make an episode a must see event! But this wasn't just any guest star, this was the legendary and sadly late Christopher Reeves' first appearance on the show. Hard to believe Reeves doesn't appear until the end of the third act but it was so worth the wait! I can't tell you how many chills I get when Clark first meets Reeves' character, Dr. Virgil Swann and both discuss his origins with Superman theme music soaring through the background. It's probably the most powerful scenes of the series as both Welling and Reeves gives amazing performances as it feels like a passing of the torch (or cape as I should say) type event. Dr. Swann was the perfect role for Revees and his presence on the series really brought Smallville to a level of television it hadn't been to at that point!

The scenes before and after Swann's debut are actually very strong as well. The opening dream sequence is some of the best direction from a TV series I've ever seen, the scene where Clark burns the Kryptonian symbol on the side of the barn is chilling, there's great character development for both Lana and Chloe and Lex gets a terrific sub-plot with Dr. Walden. Not to mention, the final moments of "Rosetta" are nothing short of epic. Clark and Jonathan finally open Clark's spaceship and read Jor-El's last message to his son. It's incredible moment for both Clark and Jonathan as while Clark questions his purpose on Earth, his father confidents reassures his son that he's a force for good. Both father and son embrace as once again, amazing Superman theme blasts in the background! "Rosetta" is a real achievement for the series and hard to believe Christopher Reeves almost didn't accept the offer to be on the series! While I cherish this episode with every ounce of my heart, there are 3 episodes that I believe are slightly better than this magnificent episode.

#3-Shattered

Season 3, Episode 8

Lex-"Well, when people think you're insane and you're holding a rifle to their head, they, uh, tend to do what you ask." For me, "Shattered" is one of those episodes that get better every time you watch it. It's probably the most perfect episode of Smallville and that's saying a lot. There's nothing really bad I can say about the plot, the writing, acting, direction etc. The way the whole story of Lex's insanity unravels is so organic and thought-provoking; it's this episode that made me realize that this representation of the Lex Luthor might be the best ever! What an sensational idea to have Lex's descent into madness be apart of the reason why he eventually becomes the evil mastermind he's destined to be. I knew Michael Rosenbaum was up to the task and this was by far his best performance of the series! I still wonder to this day how he never got at least an Emmy nomination for his surreal performance. Is Lex really losing his mind? Is someone truly trying to make look crazy? The way Michael portrays this is simply profound. The rest of the cast are in top form as they deal with Lex's state of mind, especially Clark who finally shows how much Lex's friendship means to him. Again, I'm getting nostalgic for the early years as this was probably the best depiction of Clark and Lex's friendship. Even though something is seriously wrong with Lex and he could in fact have been insane, Clark sticks by Lex, even when he loses it on him several times. Than you have that memorable scene between Lex and Lionel as Lex delivers some of the best lines of the series and Lionel seems scared sh!tless.

I especially love the whole conspiracy angle of the episode with Lionel and Morgan Edge setting up the perfect crime of making Lex look delusional while both getting what they want. Morgan Edge returns with literally a new face as Patrick Bergin now takes on the role. He brings his own menacing twist to the role and does a fine job. The best scene of the episode is when Clark saving Lex's life by getting hit by Edge's car as Lex witnesses all this. It's the moment Lex has been waiting for since he met Clark but ironically, it only makes him look crazier as he's taken to Bell Reeve to stay locked up for how long, love how the writers played that scene out! "Shattered" is too amazing for words and one of the many reasons why Season 3 is without a doubt the best from this series.

#2-Arrival

Season 5, Episode 1

Jor-El-" Kal-El, you have traveled far. One journey has ended. A new journey is about to begin. Welcome home, my son!" If there is one thing that lost as a series throughout it's soon to be 9 year run is that it can't live up to the hype it sets up for certain eventful episodes. But exceptions like "Arrival" and it's superior predecessor, Smallville proved that it could live up to that hype and prove that it was the best Superman interpretation outside of the comics and iconic Christopher Reeves films! "Arrival" sees the series achieving half of what it set out to do: to make Clark Superman. There are aspects of this episode that pay tribute and even rival the first and beloved Superman film of 1978. First, the sequence of Clark watching the Fortress of Solitude rising from the frozen ground of the Arctic is a glorious moment for the series as well as when Clark slowly enters the Fortress and Jor-El welcomes Clark to the next phase of his destiny. Second, back in Smallville, the black ship that Lana just discovered, opens up and 2 powerful Kryptonian rise to wreck havoc on the police of Smallville. The scene where Nam-Ek and Aethyr using their heat vision to destroy everything in sight is one of the best action/special effects sequences I've ever seen for a TV series. It didn't feel like I was watching a series but an actual Superman film and it feels epic on every level. Both disciples of Zod was wonderful villains and I love ruthless they are on their search for Clark.

We also get a major milestone between Clark and Chloe, as Clark tells Chloe the whole truth about his powers and alien origins. Chloe accepts Clark completely tells him she thinks he's a superhero. It's this episode that began the great superhero/sidekick dynamic between Clark and Chloe that fans would come to adore, but it's also a moment that made them better friends. Lex continues to develop a cold hearted attitude as when he and Clark reunite, the animosity between them is so apparent. They aren't really close friends anymore and it's a great development. Another great scene is the wonderful Phantom Zone prism that Nam-Ek and Aethyr get trapped in. The end of the episode marks a new beginning for the series as Clark is left mortal with his destiny being murkier and a mysterious man rises from the black ship...is that Zod!? Fans as well as I went crazy! "Arrival" was a bold new chapter of Smallville that truly shows the series' greatness and set up the second half of Smallvile perfectly. But "Arrival" would not be as perfect as it was without...

#1-Commencement

Season 4, Episode 22

Jor-El-" If you don't unite them at once then you, my son, will be seared by a fire from the sky even you can't survive. The future of mankind rests in your hands, Kal-El." "...Commencement!' There is no greater episode of Smallville then the longest and most mind-blowing episode that this was. "Commencement" is everything Smallville is about, which is taking that next step to achieve your destiny which Clark did! The final entry of the high school years and almost feeling like a series finale, the writers pulled all the stops for this episode. Every scene is perfect, full of character development for every character. We had a somewhat of a closure scene between Clark and Lana, a great foreshadowing scene of Clark and Lois' iconic future, the last time Clark and Lex were truly friends, Jonathan telling Clark that raising him lead up to this moment and a second meteor shower arriving in Smallville bringing the series full circle. This is the first really big Superman-like mission for Clark as he not only has to saving the day but save the world from destruction. The episode is fast paced, despite it's longer than average run time and gains more intensity. The second meteor shower is better than the first one in the pilot and the special effects never looked more convincing. The best scene to come from this sequence is when Clark saves a little boy from getting him by a meteor rock. It's the Supermanliest save Clark ever did! Then you have Lex completely giving into his dark side and telling his father that he would grow up to be the son he wanted. It was a frightening development that really pushed Lex's development. I also loved how Chloe came to Clark's aid through all of it and would literally protect him to the very end without him knowing it.

But what makes this the greatest episode of Smallville are the final moments as after finally combining all 3 stones, a crystal forms that sends him to the Arctic. Even before Clark throw the crystal and the Superman theme began playing, we all knew what was about to happen and I was overjoyed as it seemed Clark was on the verge of becoming Superman. "Commencement" showed why Smallvile was a visionary series and why Superman has been an international legend for 70 years!

#10-Descent

Season 7, Episode 16

Lex-"I was raised in your shadow. Now, you're gonna die in mine. No one will even remember your name." The only episode from the beyond bland Season 7 worthy of being on this list, "Descent" literally came out of no where! After a season's worth of lackluster storylines, useless characters and bad writing, came the most plot driven episode in years! "Descent" focuses on the character the writers had pretty much done perfectly since day 1: Lex. It's obvious the writers loved the character of Lex more then Clark considering Lex centric episodes were always better written and there were a hell of a lot more of them than Clark centric episodes. In this episode, Lex finally does what he was destined to do: kill his father and become villain he was meant to be. Fans have discussed many times whether 'Descent" was or wasn't even officially when Lex became truly evil, but seriously who cares, this one of the most powerful episodes from the series none the less. The scene where Lex kills Lionel, while spoiled, was brilliant effective and shot, with great final words between the father and son. In fact, there some really insightful and long over do dialogue between characters, especially between Clark and Lex. The scene where both confront each other is one of my favorite Clex from the series. Tom Welling and especially Michael Rosenbaum really brought their A game this episode as Clark and Lex have a war of words about the past 7 years they've known each other. Lex blaming Clark for Jonathan's death and Clark not backing down by letting Lex know he will bring him to justice was an incredible scene. Also, Connor Stanhope who plays a young Lex was such a scene stealer, probably one of the most talented young actors to grace to series in a while. You also had Lois and Jimmy (Henry...really?) investigating Lionel's murder, which was great looking back and Gina was decent as Lex's personal assistant turned hit woman. I loved the scene where Clark use his heat vision to save Jimmy and Lois from freezing to death, which brought some stunning effects.

But all that, Descent's final scene is where this episode truly became one of Smallville's greatest. After a uplifting and hopeful speech from Chloe, Clark pretty vows a full on war with Lex and goes to Lionel's funeral despite Lex's wishes. The funeral scene is a phenomenal scene with absolutely no words being said and no words needed to be said. The looks on Supermanly looking Clark and truly evil looking Lex's faces said it all, the war between the two greatest enemies has officially began! Lex walks away and Clark does his signature "dirt on grave" ritual as the sun shines brightly on the graveyard. I had no words! "Descent" is damn near perfection and still gives me chills every time I watch it!

#9-Transference

Season 4, Episode 6

Lionel as Clark-"Of course. It all makes sense now." If anybody ever questions Tom Welling's acting ability, I suggest you watch "Transference" first! Why? Because Tom by far gives his best performance of the series and what a performance it was! An episode like "Transference" could have easily fallen apart without both actors being committed to the concept of switching bodies with another character, but both John Glover and especially Tom Welling do. I would think it would hard for an actor to imitate all of John Glover's flawless mannerisms as Lionel Luthor, but Tom makes it seem...well...seamless. Tom truly does become Lionel, right down to the evil grin. Lionel as Clark really causes some serious damage to all the people in Clark's life and he doesn't even have to use Clark's powers to do so. Scenes like Lionel as Clark telling Jason he doesn't want to play football or just patting Jonathan on the back are beyond hilarious. But the best scenes have to be when Lionel completely psychologically abuses Chloe and Lana. I really felt sad for both characters as Lionel pretty much makes Chloe feel like sh!t and forces himself on Lana! It's really disturbing stuff, but beautifully acted by Welling! John Glover does fine as Clark as expected but wasn't really much of challenge. Clark is pretty much your straight forward, goody goody type hero, which really isn't much to play with when you think about it. But I did feel bad for Clark, getting beat up by the prisoners in jail, he just seemed so helpless and scared, but being in Lionel's body, who wouldn't be?

I loved how Clark's essence some how healed Lionel's illness and began Lionel's whole redemption storyline, which ultimately lead to his demise. "Transference" is undeniably entertaining and because of Tom Welling's incredible performance, makes this one of the most re-watchable episodes of the series.

#8-Legion

Season 8, Episode 11

Garth Ranzz-"Hey Kal, where's your cape?" The final and finest episode from Season 8 to make it onto this list is one of the best written and most comic influenced episodes of the series. Despite what most fans would say, "Legion" is for both comic book fans and long time fans of the series. Guest writer and DC writing icon Geoff Johns pens one of the most well executed scripts of Smallville that brings in new, fleshed out characters, develops our favorite long term characters, packs in a good, healthy dose of Superman/Legion references and moves the season's plots forward all in a single hour! The 3 Legion members (Cosmic Boy, Saturn Girl and Lightning Lad) are great characters and perfectly casted with each actor portraying their characters' personalities wonderfully. Each has their time to shine and really give Clark some insight on just how important his destiny means to not only the world, but the universe itself. This was great development for Clark and it's not just about the Legion, it's really about Clark as well as he teaches them what it truly means to be a hero, as corny as that sounds.

Meanwhile, Brainiac plans to steal all the knowledge in the world and have Doomsday destroy it once he's finished. I love this motive for Brainaic as it reminds me of the old Superman cartoons where Brainiac had the same motive. Then you have Brianiac unleashing the iconic Brainiac symbol on the world which starts draining the minds of mankind. Not to mention, Allison Mack gives a creepy, effective performance as Brianiac which doesn't insult James Masters' Brainiac at all. Sam Witwer has one scene, but delivers a great moment for Davis regardless. Lana is used so well here as she acts as Clark's support system. While many think Lana was making Clark's decisions for him, she was being there for Clark and reassuring him he's a better hero than he thinks he is and she's right. Clark comes up with an ingenious plan to save Chloe and the world, while again, teaching the Legion that there is always another way to save the day. In my eyes, this was Clark's closest to being Superman!

With hilarious tongue-in-cheek jokes (no tights, no fights), brilliant Legion references (Brainiac 5), awesome special effects (The Legion battling the Persuader), a beyond stunning final scene between Clark and Lana and too many more memorable moments to name, "Legion" is probably the closest Smallville will ever get into the comics and is a marvelous epic that in the end brought Clark closer toward his destiny to becoming the Man of Steel! I'm buying Season 8 for this episode alone!

#7-Run

Season 4, Episode 5

Bart-"Your watch is fast. I say if there's one thing I never am, it's late. I say I'm gonna be somewhere, I'll be there like a flash!" I love Bart! I really do! He's probably the best recurring character on the series and his debut on the series in "Run" is nothing short of special! It's the first episode to feature a future DC hero on the series and the first, of course, it always the best. Kyle Gallner as Bart is a tremendous talent and a joy to watch interacting with the characters, especially Clark. What I always loved about their dynamic was that brotherhood they had for having the same super speed powers. Clark is like Bart's older brother, telling him when to do the right thing and Bart brings out the fun side of Clark, who can be a bit too serious sometimes. The 2 future heroes balance each other out perfectly and the scenes where they both race after each other are shot beautifully with some great special effects, like when Bart runs over water.

Another great scene is when Clark gives a moving speech to Bart about him being a good person and bad person he thinks he is. It's this speech that sends Bart on the right track to becoming a hero and it really felt like Superman was talking to the Flash! The episode ends with probably my favorite ending to an episode from Smallville, Clark and Bart race one last time which ends with Bart leaving Clark in the dust. It's a perfect ending to a perfect episode! "Run" is a fantastic superhero intro for the future Flash with tons of foreshadowing and the most fun the series ever had!

#6-Memoria

Season 3, Episode 19

Clark-"You always tell me how you don't want to turn into your father, and I truly believe that, but the more you two go at each other, the more like him you become and the more people get hurt." The Luthors are such great characters and I swear every scene between Lionel and Lex are easily Emmy worthy performances between Michael Rosenbaum and John Glover. One of the darkest and most remarkable stories ever written from the series, "Memoria" explores the history of the Luthors through remarkable flashbacks that Lex experiences when trying to get back the memories Lionel stripped from his mind. The flashbacks are so well written and the way the present scene faded into flashback is genius! You really feel engaged into Lex and Lionel's past as they both experience hardships such as marital problems, parental abuse and the loss of one of their brother/son, Julian Luthor. These flashbacks are so surreal and beautifully portrayed by all the actors featured. Alison Down gives such a strong presence in her first appearance as Lex's mother, Lillian Luthor. She was 28 at the time I believe and gives a haunting performance, especially during Julian's murder scene. Never has a scene from Smallville left me so creeped out and how frightening to know Lex witnessed such a horrific and sadly took the blame to protect his mother. But at the cost, he lost his father's love because of his sacrifice. It's really poetic and though provoking writing here, who knew Smallville could deliver such a powerful script such as this. The final scene between Lionel and Lex is one of the finest scenes from the series with hard hitting performances from Michael and John. Watching Lionel hear the truth about what really happened the night his son died is indescribable! Lionel's reaction is so heart wrenching as well as Lex pulling away as his father tries to reach out to him for the first time in his life.

But this episode doesn't just develop the Luthors but also Clark, who gets caught in between Lionel and Lex's on going feud. Lionel double crossing Clark was twisted turn of events but leads to Clark having a memory of Jor-El and his mother, Lara putting him in his ship. It's such a great moment where Clark remembers his real mother and shouts her name in a rage, causing a explosion in Summerholt. It leads to 2 amazing scenes: one is where Clark warns Lex about his rivalry with his father and how it will ultimately lead him to the dark path he's trying to escape. The last is the best mother/son moment between Clark and Marth as Clark tells Martha about Lara as Martha reveals Lara was Clark's first words. It's the most touching moment from the series as Martha tells Clark "a mother's love never dies" and they both embrace each other. "Memoria" is the definition of masterpiece and works on all levels.

#15-Pilot

Season 1, Episode 1

Martha-"We didn't find him. He found us." Jesus, it feels like yesterday when I first watched the pilot of Smallville back in the fall of 2001. I was 8th grade and a big Buffy/Angel/Charmed fan at the time! So when I saw all the previews for Smallville, I got really excited, I mean a show about a young Superman, awesome! 8 years later, it still surprises me how great this series started out! The meteor shower concept mixed in with Clark's arrival was brilliant and the scene where the Kents find Clark was too perfect for words, especially Martha's line about Clark finding them. The whole cast were so youthful, energetic and well casted. Tom Welling really made a great first impression as Clark Kent and realize that the more I re-watch the Pilot. Kristin Kruek as Lana Lang seemed so innocent and sincere back then. Annette O' Toole and John Schneider were the perfect Kents and Chloe and Pete seemed like fun characters. Then of course, there's Michael Rosenbaum as Lex Luthor and the incredible way he and Clark meet for the first time. Clark saving Lex was really symbolic and both becoming friends was such an excellent concept as well for the series. The best scene between them is when Lex asks Clark if he thinks a man could fly and Clark's reaction is priceless. I also love the scene where Jonathan tells Clark the truth about his origins and Clark freaks out, like any teenager would. I loved that about the early years of Smallville how the writers used Clark's alien-ness as a metaphor for teenage adolescence. There's also a terrific first Clana scene with Clark and Lana at the graveyard and the still remarkable image of Clark hung up like a Scarecrow with an "S" painted on his chest.

The meteor freak plot isn't the best, but Jeremy is a decent first villain of the series to show the basic weekly structure for the series with Clark learning and using his powers to defeat other meteor freaks. The pilot episode of Smallville is yet another underrated episode from the season, most of what fans love about the show started here and introduce those wonderful ideas. I suggest you watch or re-watch "Pilot", it's really a great throwback to Smallville at its finest!

#14-Red

Season 2, Episode 4

Clark-"Anybody else!" "Red" is the first episode to show Clark out of character and Tom Welling gets to show a more interesting side of Clark, which you can tell he enjoyed playing. The introduction of red kryptonite was a refreshing change from green kryptonite which was already getting a bit repetitive at that point. It's one of the most entertaining episodes of the series and while we've seen Clark on red kryptonite more times throughout the series, the first time is always the best to me. Tom Welling does a great job as Red-K Clark as fans came to call this version of Clark. Clark's over-confidence and assertive attitude starts off hilarious as he hits on hot girls like Jessie and even makes his move on Lana, resulting in the one of the very first Clana kisses. Lex is intrigued yet slightly worried by Clark's new personality. But then Clark's new behavior quickly becomes a bit frightening when he rebels against his parents and becomes the villain of the episode for a change. My favorite scenes are when Clark and Lana go to the bar where Clark unleashes his powers in public, It's an intense scene and Tom's delivery of "anybody else!" was amazing! There's the scene between Clark and Lionel where Clark steals the gun from the thug and shots his hand point blank in front of Lionel. The final confrontation is suspenseful and I love how Jonathan and Pete team up against Clark by Peter using green K then Jonathan smashing the red k ring in slow motion.

I love how even Clark was acting out of character, everyone knew he telling the truth through it all. The last scene where Clark tries to tell Lana he's sorry makes me always feel sad for both Clark and Lana. Just the way Clark is so nervous trying to explain and Lana just brushes him off in the end even if she doesn't want too is kinda heartbreaking. "Red" is all around a truly fun and exciting episode with tons of tense moments and excellent portrayal of a darker Clark Kent by Tom Welling.

#13-Asylum

Season 3, Episode 9

Lionel-" It's sad to see a man who's lost his mind. But it's tragic when he's convinced himself that he's sane." After the powerful "Shattered', some fans forget about the just as powerful "Asylum". It's by far the darkest episode of the series where we see some characters making some horrifying decisions, characters getting tortured, characters getting killed left and right etc. At the heart of the episode is Lex once again as Michael Rosenbaum delivers yet another amazing performance as well as John Glover, who is at his cruelest as Lionel Luthor. I mean for Lionel to force electroshock therapy on his son which could have left him like a vegetable is beyond evil. Clark is at his finest here, forgetting about Lana for once and coming to Lex's aid despite all the possible outcomes of Lex knowing his secret. Like 'Shattered", this was a great representation of how deep Clark and Lex's friendship had come as Clark risks everything to free Lex from Bell Reeve. Meanwhile, former enemies of Clark plan their revenge on Clark. It was a great idea to bring back Ian, Eric and Van by having them team up to defeat Clark. The way all 3 double cross each other while trying to kill Clark is well done and I love the conclusion of Clark and Eric's fight also starts Lex's horrifying electroshock therapy. Watching Lex convulse uncontrollably gave us some of the most disturbing images from the series and it gets me every time how Clark arrives too late as he sees Lionel comforting a disorientated Lex. The final scene between recovered Lex and Clark spoke volumes for there relationship as Lex gives Clark as emotional hug but Clark is obviously worried about this healthier Lex.

Lana's sub-plot was surprisingly very interesting as we are introduced to Adam Knight. Ian Somerholder is great as the character and dare I say it was refreshing to see a male character not bow down to Lana but actually challenge her character. "Asylum" is a terrific, dark episode with strong character development and truly disturbing moments that are hard to forget.

#12-Zod

Season 6, Episode 1

Lex/Zod-"Kneel before Zod!" The most expensive episode of the series, costing an unprecedented 3 million dollars, "Zod" is one huge special effect spectacle! But that doesn't mean it doesn't have a great story with some awesome moments throughout. "Zod" really cleans up after "Vessel", which while a solid finale, felt a bit crammed and everything happening too soon, too fast. "Zod" just feels so flawlessly paced and rich with story that it fixes some of the plot holes left from "Vessel." The episode opens with Clark being sent to the Phantom Zone and it's one of the best sequences of the series. The PZ setting is an obvious tribute to the one seen in both Superman 2 and Supergirl film. The Phantoms are impressive looking creatures and Raya's entrance gives off a strong presence. I love how Raya gave Clark some insight on more of his father and Krypton's path. You can tell that Clark was realizing how noble his father was. I also loved we got to see Nam-Ek return and try to seek revenge on Clark with the rest of the Phantoms.

Back on Earth, chaos is still raging with Lionel and Chloe fighting for their lives in Metropolis and Lana is taken hostage by Zod who plans to take conquer Earth. Michael Rosenbaum plays an effective Zod, not going too over the top or trying to be Terrance Stamp's Zod. Zod's plan for taking over Earth was well thought out and I loved the scene where he stabs Lana through the hand, lol. Another great scene is Martha meeting Jor-El for the first time in the Fortress. It's wonderfully directed and Annette O' Toole gives a stunning performance as she talks to Jor-El about that losing Jonathan and Clark because of him. It shows just how strong Martha has grown after Jonathan died and I love how Jor-El compliments Martha for all she's given Clark. The story concludes in a some what some what epic fight between Clark and Zod. While it's another one sided battle, the special effects are incredible and the fight ends with that famous line "Kneel before Zod!" I love how Clark tricked Zod back to the PZ as it almost makes up for his lack of effort while fighting Zod.

What's also great about 'Zod" was the introduction of the escaped Phantoms storyline, it was exciting at the time, but it's a same that storyline was lackluster in the end. I would also talk about Jimmy Olsen's debut in this episode, but after 'Doomsday", I rather not. "Zod" is one action packed, often breathtaking episode that's always fun to re-watch!

#11-Exodus

Season 2, Episode 23

Jor-El-" You will obey me, Kal-El." Probably the saddest episode of Smallville as "Exodus" shows Clark at his lowest point emotionally. The anticipated introduction of Jor-El was worth the wait and Terrance Stamp's version of Superman's dad gives a commanding presence right off the bat. At the same time, this Jor-El is so forceful with Clark and that scene where he puts that Kryptonian symbol on his chest is shocking. You really do feel bad for Clark, especially as he and Lana finally became a couple. This was back where we were rooting for this couple and the scenes between the characters are the most touching between them. Everything is going so well for Clark, for him to lose it all because of his real father popping out of no where obviosuly was too much for him to handle. The scene where Clark uses the kryptonite to destroy the ship and causes a massive shock wave is a tragic sequence that leads to Martha losing the baby. The scene between Clark and Jonathan after the incident is always hard to watch. Just the look of disappointment on Jonathan's face and Clark being overwhelmed with guilt is heartbreaking. Meanwhile, Lex is going through the best moment of his life as he gets married to Helen and goes off to his honeymoon. But Lex doesn't stay happy forever and is shockingly left on his own jet to die.

The final scenes of the episode are some of the best moments from Smallville as Pete tries to stop a depressed Clark when he takes a red-k ring and then is about ride off to Metropolis with Lana trying to stop him as well. Kristin Kreuk really shines here as Lana is completely heartbroken as Clark rides off. The last shot of Clark riding off to Metropolis on red-k is the second best cliffhanger Smallville ever hand and only one really beats it! "Exodus" is a morbid but beyond brilliant finale and episode, which shows just how much of a great drama series Smallville was!