Smallville Creators: 'We'd Never Be Allowed Today'

In celebration of "Smallville's" 25th anniversary, creators Alfred Gough and Miles Millar revealed the significant creative freedom they once possessed. They noted that the network initially shied away from superhero elements, allowing them to significantly alter Superman's established mythology. This included introducing new characters and relationships, a departure from today's strict adherence to comic canon.

Millar stated that such creative liberties would be "blasphemous" by today's standards, emphasizing that "Smallville" was a "Marvel Comics version" of Superman due to its exploration of guilt and angst. The show's groundbreaking success on The WB, and later The CW, is credited with laying the foundation for the subsequent "Arrowverse" and other superhero programs.

The creators also reflected on the cast's development, with many starting at a young age and going on to have successful careers. They noted the show's timeless quality and its ability to foster multi-generational viewing experiences. Despite its success, they wished they could have incorporated characters like Batman and Wonder Woman.

Regarding their current work, Gough and Millar contrasted "Smallville's" 22-episode-per-season factory-like production with "Wednesday's" more bespoke, eight-episode model. Both approaches prioritize groundbreaking visual effects, a hallmark of their career. They remain open to a "Smallville" revival, though they face challenges with DC's changing landscape.