Clark, and Kara are all on the side lines in this episode (for the most part), which allows for the show's supporting characters to have their stories move forward. While Chloe, Jimmy, Lois, Grant and Lana's personal stories wouldn't normally be interesting enough to hold an entire episode, especially one that initially aired after a month long break, and would be followed by a month and a half long absence due to the writers strike, this episode surprisingly holds up as one of the strongest of the season. While this many supporting stories could have resulted in this episode being an instant dud, it's saved and driven forward by 2 elements. First, the connecting plot revolving around a bomber in the Daily Planet, and secondly the choice that was made to play this episode out almost entirely in real time. Those two elements make this episode exciting from start to finish, even though it's mostly wall to wall dialogue scenes involving secondary characters.
