Admittedly, I was skeptical at first about this series. A show based in the Batman universe minus the Dark Knight himself? It couldn’t possibly work. Or could it? When I finally sat down to watch Gotham, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the series thrives and further expands the world of Gotham and its populace without his presence.
I know, I know, a pre-teen Bruce Wayne is still part of the show’s storyline, but the absence of him in the cowl and cape enables the viewer to explore the intricacies of the other characters that we have come to know over the decades on a wholly different level.
Gotham tells the tale of rookie Detective James Gordon’s experiences dealing with the dastardly denizens of Gotham City. Not only does he have to tackle the sleaze on the street, but also the corruption within the Gotham justice department. He’s a by-the-book guy in an above-the-law universe.
As Gotham unfolds, we’re introduced to a number of familiar faces that have yet to become the well-known rogue’s gallery of villainy we have come to know and love over the decades. Here, we get a more intimate look into the origins of Batman’s eventual foes. And while their backstories have been altered from what the comics and other films and TV series have presented in the past, Gotham gives each a fresh take and shows each villain’s evolution into madness and evil.
With every case, Gordon must tread a fine line between being an above-board officer of the law while delving into the shadowy depths of the Gotham City underworld. Can he effectively police the city without compromising his morals?
Gotham is a dark, psychological thriller that sucks you into each episode and leaves you wanting more. The characters are multi-dimensional and fascinating; the new backstories of characters like the Penguin, The Riddler, Catwoman, and others are filled with hidden gems that Batman fans will love to discover.
The DVD and Blu-ray include a wealth of special features:
Gotham Invented
A three-part documentary about the making of the series.
Gotham: Designing the Fiction
A look at how the world of Gotham City affects the characters who populate it.
The Game of Cobblepot
An analysis of the evolution of Oswald Cobblepot (aka The Penguin).
Gotham: The Legend Reborn
A look at how the show was created and how the creators used the familiar to make something new.
DC Comics Night at Comic-Con 2014 – Presenting Gotham, The Flash, Constantine, and Arrow
Character Profiles
Video profiles on the major players in Gotham.
Gag Reel
Unaired Scenes
So, despite my initial hesitation, I happily discovered that Gotham is a hardcore trip through one of the comic world’s most well-known universes. It may take liberties and alter the timeline of events, but when it all comes together, it’s a stunning and intriguing rollercoaster ride of suspense, violence, and entertainment.
Gotham: The Complete First Season is available September 8, 2015 on DVD and Blu-ray!
What did you think of the first season of Gotham? Leave a comment and let us know!