If you think Batman is the heart of Gotham, think again, because the series Gotham will take you back to the beginning when everything was uncertain. Our editorial team invites you to explore this series that builds the legend of this sinful city, through the eyes of a determined young detective, Jim Gordon, and Bruce Wayne, a boy who has just lost his parents. This series is not just a superhero story but an intense crime drama filled with gray characters and complex politics.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Gotham is set in a Gotham City rife with crime and corruption, before Bruce Wayne dons the bat suit. The series begins when the Wayne couple is brutally murdered, forcing young Bruce to grow up under the care of Alfred, the loyal butler. Meanwhile, Jim Gordon, a rookie detective who has just transferred, must face a corrupt police system and legendary criminals like Fish Mooney, Carmine Falcone, and Oswald Cobblepot, aka the Penguin, who is rising to power. The plot focuses on Gordon's investigations and his fight for justice, while Bruce begins to uncover the truth about his parents' death.
Acting and Characters
One of the series' strongest points is the acting of the lead cast. Ben McKenzie portrays a young, determined yet flawed Jim Gordon convincingly, while Donald Logue as Harvey Bullock, the seasoned partner, adds great color and humor. But equally outstanding is Robin Lord Taylor as the Penguin, who is both terrifying and pitiable at the same time, making the villain a complex and compelling character. David Mazouz as Bruce Wayne also impressively shows his development from a fragile child to a determined teenager.
Direction, Visuals, and Music
The visuals of Gotham are distinctive with dark, gloomy tones and lighting that conveys the despair and mystery of the city. The direction by Danny Cannon and the team creates a tense and oppressive atmosphere throughout the series, especially the action scenes that are fun and not repetitive. The music by Graeme Revell and David E. Russo perfectly complements the mood, with thrilling sounds in fight scenes and melancholic melodies in dramatic moments.
Editorial Analysis
Gotham is not just a series paving the way for Batman; it is a work that rebuilds the world of Gotham with Gordon as the protagonist, allowing us to see the complexity of a city that is both beautiful and terrifying. What the editorial team appreciates is the portrayal of villains who are not purely evil but have reasons and backgrounds, making the audience understand their motivations. The series also dares to break the mold of the original by adding new characters and storylines. Although some parts drag, overall it is a bold and interesting narrative.
Verdict
Gotham is a series suitable for fans of crime-drama who are not afraid of darkness and character complexity. Despite some flaws, overall it is an impressive work that builds the world of Gotham and is worth watching, especially if you want to see the backstory of the villains and heroes you know.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +The acting of the lead cast, especially Robin Lord Taylor as the Penguin
- +The atmosphere and visuals that match the crime-psychological theme
- +Villains with depth and engaging stories
👎 Cons
- −Some parts of the plot are long and drawn out
- −The connection to Batman lore may disappoint some comic fans
Top Cast
FAQ
Gotham has 5 seasons, totaling 100 episodes.
Yes, Gotham is a series based on the DC Comics universe, focusing on characters in Gotham City before Batman appears.
No, the series focuses on crime investigation, suitable for those who enjoy intense drama and complex characters. Even without prior knowledge of Batman, you can enjoy it.
I won't spoil it, but I can say the ending connects to the beginning of Batman in a way fans wouldn't expect.