‘Heroes’: It all leads up to...next week

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The penultimate chapter in the first season of “Heroes” had a lot of unfinished business to see through: Hiro needed his sword fixed and a little samurai training from dear old dad (it was nice to see George Takei back, and in fighting form too). Sylar needed to kill Ted and steal his powers to pull off his exploding man trick and Nathan had an election to win.

Thankfully, there were some twists to keep things interesting. Nathan’s win came courtesy of littlest hero Micah’s high-tech abilities. The kid can’t even legally vote and he swung an entire election. That subplot also allowed guest star Missy Peregrym to redeem herself as seemingly soulless shapeshifter Candice showed a softer side while preaching the wonders of Linderman to Micah. Candy’s not a big fan of humankind, which probably has something to do with her true appearance. That should be an interesting reveal.

And, oh yeah, some people died. Aforementioned radioactive man Ted for one. Minor league baddie Thompson for another (so long Eric Roberts). He was popped by former employee Bennett, ensuring “H.R.G.” some long-term cred.

But the body count didn’t end there. D.L. and Niki/Jessica’s big showdown with Linderman ended with D.L. critically wounded by a gunshot and Linderman’s brains turned to mush.

D.L.’s hand plunging into guest star Malcolm McDowell’s head isn’t an easy image to forget, and hopefully it will serve as the dull hero’s swan song. It would be sad for Micah to lose a father but good for the show to lose some dead weight. (Plus, Leonard Roberts’ past work on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” serves as an unfortunate reminder of an earlier, superior TV superhero effort. And “Heroes” should avoid those comparisons as much as possible.)

Even with all that action it was difficult not to suspect they’re holding back the really big stuff for the finale, and here’s hoping next week brings an appropriately cinematic send-off. “Heroes” was so sharp and economical in resolving its initial “save the cheerleader, save the world” crisis that it’s been a little disappointing to watch the exploding man disaster drag on.

Then it’s on to Season 2, when the show can decide to fulfill its potential and grow into something deeper and more surprising, or continue to play it safe as a fun, but one dimensional, ride for fanboys (and girls).

(Photo courtesy NBC Universal)