Carter gives Lana a phoenix medallion. When Lana first uses the Prometheus suit, she bursts out of the chamber with an orange speed aura, resembling a phoenix rising from the flames.
This was directed by Allison Mack. She was due to direct in Season Seven but due to the WGA Strike and the change to the normal schedule, it was postponed.
The first of 2 "Smallville" episodes directed by series regular Allison Mack.
Lex Luthor refers to the story of Promethus in Greek myth in Superman Returns, saying "Gods are selfish beings who fly around in little red capes and don't share their power with mankind. No, I don't want to be a god. I just want to bring fire to the people. And... I want my cut."
The plot of the episode has Lana acquire metahuman abilities and becoming a superhero. This premise has been done several times in the comics. For example: Adventure Comics #189 (June, 1953), where Lana is given a magical belt, resulting in her becoming Skygirl. Superman's Girl Friend, Lois Lane #17 (May, 1960), where both Lana and Lois are temporarily granted Superman's powers, after being given a blood transfusion. Adventure Comics #285 (June, 1961), where Lana acquires an alien belt, which grants her powers and Lana becomes Gravity Girl. And Superboy #124 (October, 1965), where Lana is given a bio-genetic ring, resulting in her becoming Insect Queen.