: Earl Jenkins claims he was experimented on at a secret "Level 3" facility within the LuthorCorp plant. When Lionel Luthor denies the level even exists, Earl takes a class of students—including Clark Kent and Chloe Sullivan—hostage during a field trip to the plant.
: Clark must find a way to stop Earl and save his friends without revealing his powers to the hostages or the tactical teams surrounding the building. He also feels a personal connection to Earl, who was an old friend of the Kent family. Watch Smallville S01E (8)
In , titled "Jitters," the story focuses on a disgruntled former LuthorCorp employee, Earl Jenkins, who suffers from violent, uncontrollable "jitters"—massive tremors caused by exposure to experimental Level 3 toxins. The Plot Summary : Earl Jenkins claims he was experimented on
: Clark uses his speed and strength to help Lex stabilize Earl. Ultimately, Lex uses his resources to ensure Earl gets medical treatment, though the mystery of "Level 3" remains a lingering tension between Lex and Lionel. Key Themes He also feels a personal connection to Earl,
: The episode highlights the lengths Lionel Luthor will go to protect his business interests, even at the cost of human lives.