The main problem with IMDB ratings is that people often throws 10 at shows just because they like them. So yes, I enjoyed Gotham, but rating it 10 is just as absurd as some people rating it 1. I think that the most accurate way of rating shows is not going from 10 and down, but to start at 5 which should be considered average.
Now Gotham is clearly above average, but it's not without flaws. Most of the acting is good, in a few cases even very good, but in other cases really bad. And then there's the question about how the show holds up quality over 100+ episodes. As we all know most series show a decline in quality the longer they run, and Gotham is no exception. 1st season was very good and the 2nd and 3rd were pretty much ok too, but already in 2nd season there were signs of the writers having trouble coming up with fresh ideas, and that trend became more and more obvious as the show went on. Again, this is a show worth watching, but I think 7 is a fair overall rating.
695 Reviews
A different take on the Batman universe - but a very good one
hgdybecker25 January 2016
As a pretty engaged Batman fan (I read the comics, played the heck out of the Arkham games, saw all the movies, the first Animated Series and I even play the tabletop miniature game) I was apprehensive about this show.
After all, what could be good about a Batman show without Batman? Not to mention the fact that all the rumors mentioned different takes on characters, etc?
I tried it anyway... and I'm glad I did!
There is an awful lot to like here. First of all, the characters are interesting: interesting enough to make you forget all about Batman! You root for Gordon, you're annoyed at Bullock, Fish gives you the creeps and Penguin... let's just say he's moved up in my favorite villains list (and he was near the bottom, let me tell you!).
The acting is great (again I must mention Penguin) and while some have said it's over the top... maybe it is, but it's never distracting and fits within the universe that we're presented with.
As I mentioned above, the series has its own take on the universe - you'll soon recognize certain characters, even though they're introduced in ways that are different than what you knew from the comics - and yet, even as a seasoned Batman fan, I was never bothered by the differences and enjoyed the fresh perspectives on familiar characters.
Also, don't worry about the writers shoe-horning in characters, just to get them on screen. Every character I've seen makes sense within the series.
The first season (which I'm basing this review on) has overarching plot lines, but occasionally has "freak of the week" episodes. I was never bored, though (as I regularly was when watching Flash or Arrow) and it's obvious the writing went towards longer plots when it was clear the show was doing well. It never steeps to "cop show" levels, which is an achievement.
Finally, I must commend the "atmosphere" of the series. It all feels very "Gotham", including the shots of the city skyline, the sets, the extras... it all comes together feeling very Batman, without actually having Batman in the mix...
Do I have any criticism? Not really, no. I would love it if they do a Batman series to tie into this one... there's so much they could work with.
Go see it and enjoy it!
After all, what could be good about a Batman show without Batman? Not to mention the fact that all the rumors mentioned different takes on characters, etc?
I tried it anyway... and I'm glad I did!
There is an awful lot to like here. First of all, the characters are interesting: interesting enough to make you forget all about Batman! You root for Gordon, you're annoyed at Bullock, Fish gives you the creeps and Penguin... let's just say he's moved up in my favorite villains list (and he was near the bottom, let me tell you!).
The acting is great (again I must mention Penguin) and while some have said it's over the top... maybe it is, but it's never distracting and fits within the universe that we're presented with.
As I mentioned above, the series has its own take on the universe - you'll soon recognize certain characters, even though they're introduced in ways that are different than what you knew from the comics - and yet, even as a seasoned Batman fan, I was never bothered by the differences and enjoyed the fresh perspectives on familiar characters.
Also, don't worry about the writers shoe-horning in characters, just to get them on screen. Every character I've seen makes sense within the series.
The first season (which I'm basing this review on) has overarching plot lines, but occasionally has "freak of the week" episodes. I was never bored, though (as I regularly was when watching Flash or Arrow) and it's obvious the writing went towards longer plots when it was clear the show was doing well. It never steeps to "cop show" levels, which is an achievement.
Finally, I must commend the "atmosphere" of the series. It all feels very "Gotham", including the shots of the city skyline, the sets, the extras... it all comes together feeling very Batman, without actually having Batman in the mix...
Do I have any criticism? Not really, no. I would love it if they do a Batman series to tie into this one... there's so much they could work with.
Go see it and enjoy it!
Really enjoyed it!
Rob133129 September 2022
Gotham chronicles the life of a young Bruce Wayne growing up and young detective Jim Gordon as they take on a corrupt Gotham City. I though Gotham did a great job at building the world of Batman as he grew up and before he actually became Batman. Jim Gordon (Ben McKenzie), Harvey Bullock (Donal Logue) and the villains were all the real stars of this show. The only weak link is the actor who played Bruce Wayne (David Mazouz). He just doesn't come off as someone who can play a tough guy or beat people up, quite the opposite actually. All his fight scenes were just so unbelievable. But overall the show is very good and worth watching!
Most underrated show on TV
uuallyhannosh3 November 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I give this show a 9.2. It started out slow and i admit the first few seasons they were trying to find their flow and failed a few times, but this show has picked up its weight and gained the muscle to do it. It is now fleshed out with 70 percent of Gotham's excitement. It really truly is a remarkable show, the writers do a wonderful job building the city of Gotham to the dark knights world we know and love. Might I add maybe even the best performance of story building on any DC TV show. I would recommend this show to anyone who has a slight interest in batman, comics, or any super hero. Also, young Bruce Wayne is a great young bat. I believe he will actually grow up to look so much like the embodiment of batman, that they will have no choice but to make him the next great batman. They have built him so well.The cast is phenomenal, penguin is a character of a lifetime, Jerome aka joker(expect much more of him in the future) is the best joker I've ever seen. Jim Gordon was boring to me before this show, this show actually made me relate to Jim in so many ways i never did before. I love this show and I hope it stays on forever. God bless you Fox for this show. Truly phenomenal it makes me HAPPY!
PS. Also a huge thanks to the writers for maker me laugh, while still keeping the melancholy backdrop. Not many can do dark humor like that.
PS. Also a huge thanks to the writers for maker me laugh, while still keeping the melancholy backdrop. Not many can do dark humor like that.
Definitely Worth Watching!
Supermanfan-1322 May 2022
I though Gotham did a great job at building the world of Batman as he grew up and before he actually became Batman. Jim Gordon (Ben McKenzie), Harvey Bullock (Donal Logue) and the villains were all the real stars of this show. The only weak link is the actor who played Bruce Wayne (David Mazouz). He just doesn't come off as someone who can play a tough guy or beat people up, quite the opposite actually. All his fight scenes were so unbelievable and actually made me laugh. But overall the show is very good and worth watching!
Season 1 to Season 4 Review
fakhruddin-6491630 December 2017
I've never really watched any batman related stuff before except BatMAn trilogy of Christoner Nolan, so I don't really have any expectations on what characters should be.
Season 1 is decent, boring forgettable characters, the mafia bosses were super lame even Gordon and Bullock didn't do anything memorable, all I cared about was what Penguin, Master Bruce and Alfred would get up to, and they had about 10 minutes of screen time every 2 episodes.
Season 2 however is way better, probably the best super hero show for that season. Some very interesting villains come along that actually do stuff for a change, they start killing about 10 red shirt cops every week, and you feel like the characters are actually impacting the story and the city rather than which mafia boss runs the local fish and chip shop from season one.
Season 3 and Season 4 reached Pinnacle of Awesomeness.
Not a Comic Reader, so I found the TV series too good.
Season 1 is decent, boring forgettable characters, the mafia bosses were super lame even Gordon and Bullock didn't do anything memorable, all I cared about was what Penguin, Master Bruce and Alfred would get up to, and they had about 10 minutes of screen time every 2 episodes.
Season 2 however is way better, probably the best super hero show for that season. Some very interesting villains come along that actually do stuff for a change, they start killing about 10 red shirt cops every week, and you feel like the characters are actually impacting the story and the city rather than which mafia boss runs the local fish and chip shop from season one.
Season 3 and Season 4 reached Pinnacle of Awesomeness.
Not a Comic Reader, so I found the TV series too good.
Gotham hits all the right notes
alex_grant-418577 January 2018
Gotham is a unique and wonderful insight into the famous city before the birth of DC's most beloved hero. The show mixes comic book content with their own twists. On top of that they have one of the most talented casts on tv. To name but a few Ben McKenzie is an excellent lead as the young Jim Gordon. David Mazouz is a young man with extreme talent and handles every storyline that comes his way as Bruce Wayne grows up. Sean Pertwee is an ass kicking and witty version of Alfred to rival all those who have gone before. Whilst Robin Lord Taylor and Cory Michael Smith are nothing short of extraordinary in their portrayal's of the infamous Penguin and Riddler. Highly recommend it to any DC and in particular Batman fans. I love it and long may it continue!
Good introduction to the Batman characters, but a little overkill.
OllieSuave-00730 March 2017
This is a rather entertaining and intense TV show starring Ben McKenzie as a young Detective James Gordon. He sides with justice and attempts to ride Gotham City of corruption, really bad guys and supervillains - all before the arrival of Batman.
It's very interesting seeing the introduction of each characters, especially that of a young Bruce Wayne and the villains before they became The Joker, Penquin, Riddler and Catwoman. Lots of intriguing episodes about the sources behind Gotham City's corruption, making the plot unpredictable and suspenseful. Action is a little overkill though, and the acting goes from too monotone (Ben McKenzie) to overzealous and overindulged.
Not a bad show, overall. Eager to see how everything unfolds.
Grade B-
It's very interesting seeing the introduction of each characters, especially that of a young Bruce Wayne and the villains before they became The Joker, Penquin, Riddler and Catwoman. Lots of intriguing episodes about the sources behind Gotham City's corruption, making the plot unpredictable and suspenseful. Action is a little overkill though, and the acting goes from too monotone (Ben McKenzie) to overzealous and overindulged.
Not a bad show, overall. Eager to see how everything unfolds.
Grade B-
Better than season 1 give it a chance
karim_arabu15 October 2015
I must say, if you have an...average opinion of season 1, I don't blame you. The show was decent, good at times but it lacked continuity and it had way too many "Villain of the week" scenarios and all the side story lines were seen as irrelevant mostly.
Now after watching a few episodes of Seasons two, I can say that just the first episode is way better than maybe the entirety of season 1 ( maybe a stretch but I just think it's amazing ). So if you are done with Gotham after the first season, please give it a go as I feel that the makers of this series have injected some new life into it and it shows in every episode so far.
Now after watching a few episodes of Seasons two, I can say that just the first episode is way better than maybe the entirety of season 1 ( maybe a stretch but I just think it's amazing ). So if you are done with Gotham after the first season, please give it a go as I feel that the makers of this series have injected some new life into it and it shows in every episode so far.
shaky start then finds its footing
SnoopyStyle26 April 2019
Jim Gordon (Ben McKenzie) is an earnest new police detective in the corrupt Gotham City. His girlfriend Barbara Kean takes a turn into darkness. His partner Harvey Bullock is revealed to be a weary veteran willing to work within the corruption. There is Bruce Wayne, the billionaire orphan, with his butler Alfred Pennyworth. Selina Kyle is a street kid who finds connection with Bruce. Oswald Cobblepot is a minor crime figure who rises to the top. Edward Nygma is the police tech who goes mad for riddles.
The show was initially sold as Batman without Batman or Gotham with young Jim Gordon. It's actually teen Batman before Batman. It's a little weird to have Catwoman/not Catwoman, Joker/not Joker, Penguin/not Penguin, Riddler/not Riddler. What may be worst are the non-comic book characters. The Balloonman in the third episode is probably the quintessential new character. It's odd. It's a valiant try but it doesn't work. It doesn't fit as drama or comedy. I actually don't mind Jada Pinkett Smith as Fish Mooney but she struggles to fit as the tone keeps changing. Eventually the show figures out how to be an alternate Batman verse. Cameron Monaghan as Jeremiah Valeska is the high point as Joker/not Joker. Robin Lord Taylor is consistently great as Cobblepot and probably kept more of my attention through those first two inconsistent seasons. It's a shaky start but the show eventually finds its footing.
The show was initially sold as Batman without Batman or Gotham with young Jim Gordon. It's actually teen Batman before Batman. It's a little weird to have Catwoman/not Catwoman, Joker/not Joker, Penguin/not Penguin, Riddler/not Riddler. What may be worst are the non-comic book characters. The Balloonman in the third episode is probably the quintessential new character. It's odd. It's a valiant try but it doesn't work. It doesn't fit as drama or comedy. I actually don't mind Jada Pinkett Smith as Fish Mooney but she struggles to fit as the tone keeps changing. Eventually the show figures out how to be an alternate Batman verse. Cameron Monaghan as Jeremiah Valeska is the high point as Joker/not Joker. Robin Lord Taylor is consistently great as Cobblepot and probably kept more of my attention through those first two inconsistent seasons. It's a shaky start but the show eventually finds its footing.
Origins Told Right
highmarksreviews23 January 2018
Gotham has long been the TV show many like to pick at, its first season, while compelling was mostly a mundane origin tale. Happy to report that since that time, the show has evolved into something really special. Lavish, atmospheric set pieces, great performances and a constant drift from episodic story arcs are just a few qualities to love about this show. Moreover it does justice to many comic book characters that everyone knows. While it does face some tonal inconsistency and gets the villain-of-the-week treatment on occasion, at least it builds its characters and does proper justice to them.
Great at its best, but it's often not at its best
cherold25 May 2015
I've been very frustrated by Gotham. The premise is solid. The characters are interesting. The actors are generally excellent. The atmosphere is wonderfully seedy. The overall story arc of corruption is quite good.
But from episode to episode, the quality varies widely. Much of the problem is the crime-of-the-week format. While the various side stories are generally quite good, the main investigation is often rather dull. And that's a huge hunk of the show. Gordon himself is a decent character but he's less interesting than Penguin or Selena or Nygma, yet gets more screen time than all of them put together.
Some episodes are great, and most episodes have great segments, but at times (as during the dreary, 3-part, serial-killer episodes), I've considered giving up on the show altogether.
But from episode to episode, the quality varies widely. Much of the problem is the crime-of-the-week format. While the various side stories are generally quite good, the main investigation is often rather dull. And that's a huge hunk of the show. Gordon himself is a decent character but he's less interesting than Penguin or Selena or Nygma, yet gets more screen time than all of them put together.
Some episodes are great, and most episodes have great segments, but at times (as during the dreary, 3-part, serial-killer episodes), I've considered giving up on the show altogether.
Over-rated asf
GRIMMz125 November 2019
Season 1, season 2 was epic it' sucks after that bad story writing, villians keep reviving again and again and it keeps repeating somehow managed till season 4 couldn't take it anymore what a waste of time. This series is over-rated asf
Best Penguin Ever!
sscanf6 December 2014
Warning: Spoilers
I am actually surprised how much I like this. Its a bit of Goth and a bit of Noir and a bit of Comic-Con rolled in one.
I wasn't a fan of Smallville, so the idea of Gotham before Batman didn't really appeal either, at first. Normally it just tastes like barley before its brewed - the story just isn't ready. But thanks to interesting acting from Ben McKenzie, Donal Logue and especially Robin Taylor (Penguin), Gotham without Batman is still interesting. Bit like a glorified Gothic Law and Order or something..
Robin's Penguin reinvention is really what I like. Simply way more interesting than the camp clown cliché portrayed by Burgess Meredith or the pervert-raised-by-penguins(wtf...) played by Danny DeVito. Robin Taylor that is, not Robin Grayson LOL.
BTW seeing Sean Pertwee in a decent ongoing role is also interesting.
What I definitely don't like is "Fish" (Jada Smith). She tries to scare me but she doesn't. Sorry folks, no Heath Ledger here just us Spice Girls trying to act all baddie. I'm annoyed when her scenes start and relieved when they end.
Here in Australia we only have half of season one so far, and the story seemed to get off to its anticipated slow start. What kept me coming back was the developing storyline, good production effort and some of the acting.
I am keeping an eye on this one, because whatever it has planned I think it has only gotten started.
I wasn't a fan of Smallville, so the idea of Gotham before Batman didn't really appeal either, at first. Normally it just tastes like barley before its brewed - the story just isn't ready. But thanks to interesting acting from Ben McKenzie, Donal Logue and especially Robin Taylor (Penguin), Gotham without Batman is still interesting. Bit like a glorified Gothic Law and Order or something..
Robin's Penguin reinvention is really what I like. Simply way more interesting than the camp clown cliché portrayed by Burgess Meredith or the pervert-raised-by-penguins(wtf...) played by Danny DeVito. Robin Taylor that is, not Robin Grayson LOL.
BTW seeing Sean Pertwee in a decent ongoing role is also interesting.
What I definitely don't like is "Fish" (Jada Smith). She tries to scare me but she doesn't. Sorry folks, no Heath Ledger here just us Spice Girls trying to act all baddie. I'm annoyed when her scenes start and relieved when they end.
Here in Australia we only have half of season one so far, and the story seemed to get off to its anticipated slow start. What kept me coming back was the developing storyline, good production effort and some of the acting.
I am keeping an eye on this one, because whatever it has planned I think it has only gotten started.
Nygma-Stic
callmeaman22 October 2015
Gotham is basically about how Jim Gordan along with his accomplices solve homicide crimes, etc. If you think it's about Batman, you're wrong.
I was skeptical to watch this show, as I thought since Batman would not be there, it'll be boring. Well, I found it later I was so wrong. So Wrong. It got me hooked on.
I watched a couple of episodes and it wasn't too bad. I started watching more episodes, then I loved it. You really don't need Batman actually. Many villains come such as the Penguin, etc are there in the show . Penguin is portrayed by Robin Taylor ( Oswald Cobblepot ) . He surely deserves an Emmy for his acting. I also loved the acting of Cory Michael Smith ( Edward Nygma ) . He's bit a weird though, with all his strange riddles. Nonetheless, he is great. Ben Meckenzie did a good job in portraying Jim Gordon . I think the acting of Jada Smith was a bit too much. Sometimes it was just too bad but at times it was good.
Well, I must say Gotham is a very promising show. I simply LOVE it. I hope they also renew for many more seasons. Again, I would suggest you to watch at least the first three episodes.
I was skeptical to watch this show, as I thought since Batman would not be there, it'll be boring. Well, I found it later I was so wrong. So Wrong. It got me hooked on.
I watched a couple of episodes and it wasn't too bad. I started watching more episodes, then I loved it. You really don't need Batman actually. Many villains come such as the Penguin, etc are there in the show . Penguin is portrayed by Robin Taylor ( Oswald Cobblepot ) . He surely deserves an Emmy for his acting. I also loved the acting of Cory Michael Smith ( Edward Nygma ) . He's bit a weird though, with all his strange riddles. Nonetheless, he is great. Ben Meckenzie did a good job in portraying Jim Gordon . I think the acting of Jada Smith was a bit too much. Sometimes it was just too bad but at times it was good.
Well, I must say Gotham is a very promising show. I simply LOVE it. I hope they also renew for many more seasons. Again, I would suggest you to watch at least the first three episodes.
Dark, gritty and intelligent - a brilliant start
fung06 October 2014
Warning: Spoilers
After just two episodes, this show seems to be drawing a lot of negative reviews. However, most of these come from comic-book uber-fans, resentful that there are no capes and masks in the show. Of course, that's exactly the point - this show is about the mythic Gotham *before* it exploded with 'super' heroes and 'super' villains. It uses the dark, surreal *style* of the Batman comics to ask some fascinating questions about morality and the relevance of 'extreme' characters in the real world.
The seventy-plus-year-long Batman saga is fundamentally a fable about morality. It asks if one man can make a difference, against inconceivable odds. The limitation of the premise is that this one man has amazingly super-human abilities - a vast intellect, enormous wealth, Olympian athletic abilities, and few, if any, human frailties. Gotham, the series, obviously wants to dig a little deeper. Could such a person exist? And if he doesn't, what can normal people do in his absence? In the real world, the activities of a Batman are supposed to be carried out by the police. But we're seeing the police increasingly losing its way - tasked with upholding absurd laws, often pitted against the public they're meant to protect and serve, increasingly isolated and compelled to act out of self-interest rather than altruism.
Gotham takes that situation to a stylized, surrealized extreme. It shows us a police force that's completely forgotten morality. Forgotten that it must set an example, uphold the law TO THE LETTER, if it expects anyone else - public or criminals - to take it seriously.
Into this dark, exaggerated world comes One Honest Cop - James Gordon. He's young, he's confused, he's out of his depth - a lot closer to the real-world Frank Serpico than the mythical Dirty Harry. What can he do, when confronted by a system that expects him to be crooked - to embrace the shades of dark grey? In the first two episodes, we get the feeling that Gordon may be the man for the job - but that he has a lot to learn. He has the moral fibre those around him lack. He's obviously plenty tough. But he needs to learn how deep the sickness goes, and what lies at its roots.
It's a fascinating premise. I can't wait to see it developed.
Lots of reviews are complaining about bad acting, bad writing and bad directing. What?? Maybe this show is TOO literate for them. The plotting is in fact clever, the dialog flavorful. The acting is uniformly top-notch, much better overall than in cartoony shows like Arrow (which I do like a lot, but in a very different way). The direction, the look and feel and mood of Gotham, are near perfect.
As the title implies, Gotham, the city, is the real star. This show is about a strange and desperate city, which could represent a lot of cities in America today. (Detroit comes to mind.) This is a show for desperate times, a platform for talking about desperation itself - about a desperate need for heroes, who refuse to appear politely on queue. It's a show that suggests maybe the heroes are *us* - regular people like Jim Gordon. People who can't solve the problems with magical gadgets and over-the-top abilities. Who just have to make do with basic human courage, and some unshakable principles.
Who knows how Gotham will develop? So far, it's a real breath of fresh air to at least two tired genres (cop shows and comic heroes). Let's hope that smart viewers discover it quickly, and don't overlook it because of its fanciful Batman tie-in. Yes, it's at heart a comic book - but it's the darker, more intelligent, more imaginative kind, that rarely gets enough acknowledgement.
Fans need to take a deep breath and accept this show for what it is - a side-trip, not the main superhero event they crave. Non-fans need to give Gotham a try, with an open mind. This *could* be a really great show. I hope we'll have the chance to find out.
UPDATE: As we close in on the end of the first season, my opinion of Gotham continues to climb. Recent episodes have been darker, more twisted and more intense than ever. Characters continue to develop in powerful and unexpected ways. This is one of the best series ever derived from comic books. Don't let your preconceptions get in the way - Gotham is almost a new genre unto itself.
UPDATE2: At the close of Season Two, the frenzied, psychotic momentum continues to escalate. But always with a solid dramatic core. We're beginning to understand who Bruce Wayne must become, in order to save Gotham. The Penguin is brilliantly multifaceted as ever, and Edward Nygma just gets more likable as he gets crazier. But the season belongs to Hugo Strange ('The Philosopher'), a mad genius with unexpected depths. *Beautifully* done... I hope they continue right into a Batman series in the same style.
The seventy-plus-year-long Batman saga is fundamentally a fable about morality. It asks if one man can make a difference, against inconceivable odds. The limitation of the premise is that this one man has amazingly super-human abilities - a vast intellect, enormous wealth, Olympian athletic abilities, and few, if any, human frailties. Gotham, the series, obviously wants to dig a little deeper. Could such a person exist? And if he doesn't, what can normal people do in his absence? In the real world, the activities of a Batman are supposed to be carried out by the police. But we're seeing the police increasingly losing its way - tasked with upholding absurd laws, often pitted against the public they're meant to protect and serve, increasingly isolated and compelled to act out of self-interest rather than altruism.
Gotham takes that situation to a stylized, surrealized extreme. It shows us a police force that's completely forgotten morality. Forgotten that it must set an example, uphold the law TO THE LETTER, if it expects anyone else - public or criminals - to take it seriously.
Into this dark, exaggerated world comes One Honest Cop - James Gordon. He's young, he's confused, he's out of his depth - a lot closer to the real-world Frank Serpico than the mythical Dirty Harry. What can he do, when confronted by a system that expects him to be crooked - to embrace the shades of dark grey? In the first two episodes, we get the feeling that Gordon may be the man for the job - but that he has a lot to learn. He has the moral fibre those around him lack. He's obviously plenty tough. But he needs to learn how deep the sickness goes, and what lies at its roots.
It's a fascinating premise. I can't wait to see it developed.
Lots of reviews are complaining about bad acting, bad writing and bad directing. What?? Maybe this show is TOO literate for them. The plotting is in fact clever, the dialog flavorful. The acting is uniformly top-notch, much better overall than in cartoony shows like Arrow (which I do like a lot, but in a very different way). The direction, the look and feel and mood of Gotham, are near perfect.
As the title implies, Gotham, the city, is the real star. This show is about a strange and desperate city, which could represent a lot of cities in America today. (Detroit comes to mind.) This is a show for desperate times, a platform for talking about desperation itself - about a desperate need for heroes, who refuse to appear politely on queue. It's a show that suggests maybe the heroes are *us* - regular people like Jim Gordon. People who can't solve the problems with magical gadgets and over-the-top abilities. Who just have to make do with basic human courage, and some unshakable principles.
Who knows how Gotham will develop? So far, it's a real breath of fresh air to at least two tired genres (cop shows and comic heroes). Let's hope that smart viewers discover it quickly, and don't overlook it because of its fanciful Batman tie-in. Yes, it's at heart a comic book - but it's the darker, more intelligent, more imaginative kind, that rarely gets enough acknowledgement.
Fans need to take a deep breath and accept this show for what it is - a side-trip, not the main superhero event they crave. Non-fans need to give Gotham a try, with an open mind. This *could* be a really great show. I hope we'll have the chance to find out.
UPDATE: As we close in on the end of the first season, my opinion of Gotham continues to climb. Recent episodes have been darker, more twisted and more intense than ever. Characters continue to develop in powerful and unexpected ways. This is one of the best series ever derived from comic books. Don't let your preconceptions get in the way - Gotham is almost a new genre unto itself.
UPDATE2: At the close of Season Two, the frenzied, psychotic momentum continues to escalate. But always with a solid dramatic core. We're beginning to understand who Bruce Wayne must become, in order to save Gotham. The Penguin is brilliantly multifaceted as ever, and Edward Nygma just gets more likable as he gets crazier. But the season belongs to Hugo Strange ('The Philosopher'), a mad genius with unexpected depths. *Beautifully* done... I hope they continue right into a Batman series in the same style.
Great new take on Gotham City
afinells28 March 2018
What a fantastic new take on classic DC characters and stories. A cast chalked full of new face actors and actress's, that are only no names for the time being most of these new actors really have the chops and have delivered very strong performances since season 1 episode 1.
This show is stylish, smart, and wickedly entertaining. It does have some plot lines that can be comparable to soap operas but again the acting. Costumes, scenes designs, and creative camera work makes up for that.
Easy to watch
drkwly13 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
It's a good show, but the redundancies will definitely leave you annoyed at times. Almost every character has been shot, stabbed or poisoned. They either die and come back to life, or they survive with an extremely short recovery time. You can rely on the fact that in almost every episode the following will happen: Alfred will get brutally assaulted, Bruce Wayne will get himself abducted, half the police force will be killed, Jada Pinkett will overact, Jim Gordon will almost die on an unsanctioned solo mission.
Simply put, brilliance on TV!!
theslayer211226 June 2015
Of late, I have realized that TV content is getting developed much better than movies and I find myself binge-watching many recent TV series than movies. This is happening all the more because of the gripping and taut story lines (TV shows, given their length, used to ramble on about the plot, but thankfully no more) and brilliant overall delivery.
Gotham stands out even amongst this new wave of brilliant TV shows. The first season of Gotham exuded brilliance. Tight direction, brilliant (overkilling this word no?) acting, fantastic casting and this amalgamation is truly one for the ages. Every cast member seems to be perfect for their role and they deliver and how!!
Without giving much away, Jada Pinkett Smith, you ma'am are as much of a powerhouse performer as your famous husband! What a performance by her! Every scene she is in, she totally steals the show. Robin Lord Taylor is mesmerizing in his role of Oswald Cobblepot. I found the entire cast to be perfect and the above two were mentioned for no particular reason but for their sheer brilliance on screen.
As a fellow reviewer, I too thought another 'Batman Begins' won't be much fun but I did expect some detailing seeing this is a TV show. But was I blown away! This was more of a Jim Gordon Begins or more correctly, Ascends kinda story. This storyline works perfect for this show as gradually the different villains are introduced in their own chilling manner (and man, the violence and mafia story lines are a delight) and gradually build up to why Gotham would end up needing a masked (and caped) crusader! Anyway, that's where I hope the future seasons are going. A lot to look forward to in Season 2 of Gotham and boy it sure looks promising!
Gotham stands out even amongst this new wave of brilliant TV shows. The first season of Gotham exuded brilliance. Tight direction, brilliant (overkilling this word no?) acting, fantastic casting and this amalgamation is truly one for the ages. Every cast member seems to be perfect for their role and they deliver and how!!
Without giving much away, Jada Pinkett Smith, you ma'am are as much of a powerhouse performer as your famous husband! What a performance by her! Every scene she is in, she totally steals the show. Robin Lord Taylor is mesmerizing in his role of Oswald Cobblepot. I found the entire cast to be perfect and the above two were mentioned for no particular reason but for their sheer brilliance on screen.
As a fellow reviewer, I too thought another 'Batman Begins' won't be much fun but I did expect some detailing seeing this is a TV show. But was I blown away! This was more of a Jim Gordon Begins or more correctly, Ascends kinda story. This storyline works perfect for this show as gradually the different villains are introduced in their own chilling manner (and man, the violence and mafia story lines are a delight) and gradually build up to why Gotham would end up needing a masked (and caped) crusader! Anyway, that's where I hope the future seasons are going. A lot to look forward to in Season 2 of Gotham and boy it sure looks promising!
I forgot to review this for way too long
ForceofSU25 May 2020
I know, i'm late. Anyways, it's a decent show. Like in every show there are ups and downs, and the more it goes on the more downs there are. I however did not like "the making of Batman" plot. I skipped most scenes with Bruce Wayne because i wanted to see what the villains are doing. Detective Gordon story is meh. At first it's fun but it gets old after a while as it's always going in circles. However, the last season is NOT the worst season. In fact i found it more fun than some seasons in the middle of this show.
You should give it a try. I'm not a comic book fan so i can't look at the show from that point of view.
You should give it a try. I'm not a comic book fan so i can't look at the show from that point of view.
Not really for Batman Fans
Shellser1725 July 2021
As the title says it isn't necessarily for Batman fans, this show is mainly about detective Gordon and his investigations. I would sum this up as more of a show like CSI with a Gotham theme. It's dark gritty and grotesque. You see the true nature of Gotham and how dark the city actually is and why Batman in the future fights to keep it safe. Very interesting show, but if you're looking for that signature high flying Batman style action, it likely isn't for you.
Great show, but didn't enjoy the latest season
imlindaheart9 August 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Loved the first few seasons, one of my favorites made in the past few years! But for me the newer episodes got too crazy, plus the time jump to a wrecked Gotham felt really off. I'll still watch it to the end because I am invested in the characters but the writing isn't as good as in the older seasons.
For true Batman fans
ZeTomes4 July 2019
Gotham's ratings are hollow as money speculation, histerically inflated like intestinal gases inside colourful balloons.Tim Burton's two Batman movies deserve those kind of scores, Christopher Nolan's "The Dark Knight" deserve it too. The kitsch series stands up for high rankings also. Because there's a solid, strong writing behind all of them, and hugely talented actors. Frank Miller and Alan Moore are two of those writers.
The series starts kind of okay with its ups and downs, great episodes, not so good ones, some really good and faithful to the comics noir essence. Then it gets caught on a vertigo of improbable situations, the string of the narrative becomes chaotic, the characters become erratic and look like puppets on a child's stage. It starts to sound ridiculous. There's no concept of death anymore, the basis of Batman's world.
But it gets worse when the series starts to look like a cheap soap opera, the quality of the acting decreases, the comedy becomes a desperate attempt to catch the audiences. It's really painful to see DC ruining it's world while the blind fans are applauding it.
The series starts kind of okay with its ups and downs, great episodes, not so good ones, some really good and faithful to the comics noir essence. Then it gets caught on a vertigo of improbable situations, the string of the narrative becomes chaotic, the characters become erratic and look like puppets on a child's stage. It starts to sound ridiculous. There's no concept of death anymore, the basis of Batman's world.
But it gets worse when the series starts to look like a cheap soap opera, the quality of the acting decreases, the comedy becomes a desperate attempt to catch the audiences. It's really painful to see DC ruining it's world while the blind fans are applauding it.
A TRUE MASTERPIECE
sspc-6869915 March 2019
The only thing preventing this masterfully crafted series from getting a perfect rating is the fact that its virtually impossible to have a flawless show over the phase of 100 total episodes. However to call Gotham underrated would be an massive understatement.
The brooding, yet lively aesthetics, the multi dimensional characters, the exciting action sequences, and the engaging storytelling make Gotham an must watch television series.
Robin Lord Taylor's portrayal of Penguin in particular is the standout performance, however virtually every villain, the riddler, joker, poison ivy, scarecrow etc, are perfectly portrayed, and certainly stand as the highlights of the series as a whole.
However there is a strong philosophical message inherent within the show, beyond the action and flare, about law and order, justice, moral lines, and the greater good.
The storytelling is another aspect the show perfectly nails. It isn't easy to nail an amalgamation of different narratives to create coherent television, however Gotham succeeds, engrossing the audience with its emotional resonance, and creativity.
However, despite being one of my favorite shows of all time, Gotham isn't without its flaws. There is sometimes an excessive reliance on filler and "too much" substance which prevents the narrative of the series to flow more smoothly, and occasionally bogs down the pacing of the series as a whole. Furthermore there are sometimes one too many plot elements which slow down the series resolution, and prevents the series from spending more time on critical and more intriguing story elements.
However despite the flaws inherent within Gotham, the series has all the elements which make engrossing television. Interesting characters, an engrossing narrative, and a central element which always pulls the audience to watch more, the city of Gotham, which in and of itself, with its enigma, visual beauty, and dilemas, stands as a character in and of itself.
I love this show.
dylantomskywalker8 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Sure, Gotham season 1 is a bit slow with a bunch of interesting and great scenes but once you get past the season 1 it becomes a lot more interesting, in my opinion. The set looks great, the character designs look amazing and the acting is incredible, as well as the actors who play characters I don't even like such as Jada Pinkett Smith as Fish, Erin Richards as
Barbara and Crystal Reed as Sofia. The whole idea of Jerome turning his brother evil so that he can become the Joker instead of Jerome is probably one of the greatest plot twists and a brilliant idea. The only thing I didn't like is that we didn't see enough of Cameron Monaghan as Jerome/Jeremiah as he is by far the greatest character (in my opinion). It's easy to binge watch this show as one episode leaves a very interesting ending which makes it hard to decide to have enough. In my opinion all we need now is at least a two hour long theatrical movie with all the original cast members coming back as who they were and see more of David Mazouz as Batman. But all in all I feel like this show is kinda underrated and should be watched by everyone who's a Batman fan.
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