In this episode of Going Back to Smallville, we’re looking back at The Death and Return of Superman, one of the standout films in the DC Animated Movie Universe and a surprisingly emotional adaptation of one of DC’s most iconic stories. We talk about why Superman’s death still hits so hard, how the movie balances the classic Death of Superman storyline with the larger DCAMU continuity, and why the changes involving Cyborg Superman, Darkseid, and the final act actually work better than we expected. From Doomsday’s brutal arrival to the world’s grief after Superman’s sacrifice and the mystery surrounding his return, this movie gave us plenty to love, plenty to discuss, and a healthy dose of nostalgia for one of the most important Superman stories ever told. Join us as we revisit a film that honors the legacy of the Man of Steel while still carving out its own place in the DC universe.

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📒Show Notes and Resources

Time Stamps

0:00 -Going Back To Smallville - 8x24

3:36 -The Death and Return of Superman Review

57:47 -War! What Is It Good For?

1:22:23 -Continuity

1:36:12 -Welcome to the Party Pal!

1:37:58 -Freak of the Week

1:47:13 -Puberty But With Super Powers

1:57:12 -No Flights, No Tights

1:57:48 -DCU References

2:05:27 -Next Time On Smallville: 9x1: Savior

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Each week Matt and Maggie produce a variety of shows on YouTube and podcast services with a positive nerdy spin. We like to keep things fun and light by simply geeking out over the things we love. If you’re looking for drama and toxicity, we’re not the droids you’re looking for.

 ⚡️OTHER PODCASTS:

-My Adventures With Digimon: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0gHHg-xQBVP5p2pU8967qfsjeJYsd9RD

-Sailor Moon Cosmic Power Rewind: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0gHHg-xQBVNrrznSoTSD3-F9VR2JEBYi

About this episode: It’s time to return to where the legend began. Join us as we revisit every episode of *Smallville*, the show that redefined the Superman legacy for a new generation. From Clark Kent’s first days in Smallville to the epic conclusion after ten seasons, we’re covering it all—one week at a time.

Perfect for fans who grew up watching *Smallville* or anyone fascinated by the evolution of Superman, this podcast is your weekly dive into the series that brought the Man of Steel’s origin story to life. Each episode, we break down the plot, rank the “freaks of the week,” dig into the DC references, hunt for Easter eggs, and celebrate the moments that made *Smallville* a cornerstone of superhero television.

Hosted by a married couple who loves geeking out over all things 90s, 00s, and DC Comics, *Going Back to Smallville* is all about keeping things positive, fun, and nostalgic.