In a few years, we'll be moaning about how many superhero shows there are, the same way that we complain about procedurals, all the Law and Orders and NCISes. But right now, good superhero shows are still rare enough to be a much valued commodity, and we're grateful for what we can get. Gotham joins the growing club of Marvel and DC shows that are already on the air, but its the one that isn't actually all about its flagship superhero: in this case, Batman. Sure, Bruce Wayne is on the show, but he's a twelve year old kid who inhabits nothing more than a supporting role. The show really focuses on a young Detective Gordon and all of the various villains before they become the incarnations that will eventually plague Batman. Gotham has always been almost a character in its own right, so its an intriguing idea to focus on that rather than Batman. It feels like a fresh, stylish take on a well worn story, and the performances of the large ensemble cast take something that could be campy in the wrong hands and make it a noteworthy show.
Audrey Fox is an ex-film student, which means that she prefers to spend her days in the dark, watching movies and pondering the director's use of diegetic sound. She currently works as an entertainment writer, joyfully rambling about all things film and television related. Add her on Twitter at @audonamission and check out her film blog at 1001moviesandbeyond.com.
