I’ve been a Gothamsupporter since the first episode. I thought the casting was quite strong led by Ben Mackenzie as Jim Gordon and Donal Logue as Harvey Bullock. Seeing the early origins of not only the future commissioner of Gotham City but also the rise of Batman’s most infamous rogue gallery of Penguin, Riddler and Catwoman. Maybe even perhaps seeing a glimpse of the Clown Prince of Crime, The Joker. With that said, last night’s season one finale left a lot to be desired. Warning spoilers ahead…
It isn’t so much that I thought it was a horrible episode as oppose to being misplaced and out of character. Yes, this season has been a buildup of sorts for a mob turf war between Maroni and Falcone, throw in Penguin and the reemergence of Fish Mooney and control of the city was very much up for grabs. Problem is, even with this season long buildup the finale was rushed, sloppy and incoherent.
In the end, Maroni bites the bullet from Fish, Fish ends up “sleeping with the fishes” after taking a monumental plunge into Gotham Harbor thanks to Penguin who ends up taking his rightful place as Gotham’s top gangster. As for Falcone, he decided to “retire” from a life of crime but not before offering Gordon a bit of advice about what Gotham needs. That need is for a good man to lead the city.
A side storyline revolved around Jim’s ex, Barbara Kean and Jim’s current girlfriend, Dr. Leslie Thompkins. The previous episodes had Barbara held captive by a serial killer named The Orge. The emotional impact this would have on her comes full circle as she completely snaps and tries to kill Leslie during their counseling session. Although not surprised by Barbara’s actions, it still felt rushed. There was no buildup (and there goes that word again) that would have made her psycho turn to killer more believable.
So, there ends season one. I’m sure there will be a season two. Judging from the finale ratings, it deserves a second chance. Overall, I enjoyed the show but it needs to further the character development of its supporting players better. There is a wealth of information and history regarding these characters that the show runners need to brush up on and embrace. It’s not lost on me how hard it must be to have a Batman-inspired show without any chance that the Dark Knight will appear anytime soon given the fact that he’s not even a teenager yet. We did however get a tease of what will probably be the batcave as Bruce and Alfred discover a hidden chamber behind the library fireplace. Even though they can’t be seen, the sounds of bats can be heard. I’m sold. See you next season.
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
