Gotham has had a rough time getting it going, but last week was a huge improvement. This week was an even bigger improvement. The show had an interesting story that pushed the over-arching story forward while also improving the character of Gordon. It also gave Penguin something else to do beside lurk and snitch. The episode had been interesting developments that will rear their heads even more throughout the season.
The most notable aspect of this episode was the story. It focused on one story, but different characters perspective on this story. It then tied together at the end. In past weeks, we have seen about 3 different stories running with no connective tissue. Said stories don't really lead anywhere, either. This week focused on the repercussions of Gordon not killing Cobblepot. Many people were after him. This brought out the bada** side of Gordon that we haven't seen. I loved this version of Gordon. He actually had a reason to be tough as nails and a harda**. He was fighting for his life, while also standing by his morals. I can get on board with Gordon if he is like this every week.
The story really worked to accelerate the gang war story that we seem to be building towards. Everyone's problem stemmed from Penguin being alive. Some wanted him and Gordon dead, while others felt they were best kept alive. This was the final straw for Mooney, as she decided it was time to quicken her plan to overthrow Falcone. We didn't really get to see that this week, but we did witness her camp lose a member. It will be interesting to see her volatile relationship with Falcone fracture.
Penguin was again the focal point of the Maroni/Falcone issues this week. Falcone wanted Penguin back for more devious reasons, while I felt that Maroni wanted him just to spite Falcone. Either way, it brought some interesting moments. I liked the show of power from each side, with Penguin killing Maroni's second-in-command being a very crucial moment. I did enjoy Maroni and Falcone trying to work out their issues in person and it will be cool to see more moments like this in the show. Perhaps the biggest bit to come from Penguin and Falcone was that they were working together. Everything that we have seen Penguin do the past few weeks has been part of his plan and he is telling Falcone everything. It is an interesting relationship for sure, and one I am excited to see more of.
Gordon meanwhile was fighting for his life. Falcone wanted a word with Gordon and he wasn't gonna get it by asking nicely. After Gordon swiftly took care of some threats to Barbara, he then encountered Victor Zsasz. Zsasz had a nice introduction and will be an interesting character to see in the future. Gordon's story did bring him some new allies in Montoya and Allen, which was great to see after watching them gunning for him the past few weeks. Gordon's adventures also brought him back to meet Bruce Wayne. He had a chat with Bruce that really showed how much Gordon already means to Bruce. It wasn't anything huge, but it was sweet.
Gordon and Bullock decided to try and arrest Falcone and a few corrupt government officials this episode, too. That was a very entertaining piece, with Falcone really flexing his muscles. He had Barbara, but he wouldn't confirm that to Gordon. That meant if Gordon tried to arrest him, then Barbara is dead. If not, they are probably both dead. It was certainly a big moment for Jim, and his decision bought him some respect from Falcone. The whole exchange was pretty awesome.
The one huge problem with this episode is Barbara Gordon. Her refusal to listen to Jim was super annoying. I know they are trying to write her as a headstrong women, but god dang what will it take for her to stay out of a dangerous situation? This has been a problem for her in past episodes, but it was particularly awful here. Hopefully they fix it, because at this point I am rooting against Barbara and hoping something happens to her.
Overall this week was great. Rather than telling us about a gang war, it showed us the issues. It told a cohesive story that progressed the plot, gave us some character development, and built towards a big story. It was the best episode of Gotham, and for the first time I am excited to see next weeks episode. Hopefully they continue to improve and build off a positive this week.
Highlights:
| The Score: 9 out of 10 Stars |