First off, lets just clarify one thing real fast: there is nothing inherently wrong with scenery-chewing as a form of acting, it definitely has its place. However, a key component in delivering a great scenery-chewing performance is being aware of how ones turn is being received in relation the rest of the film or show that its a part of. Unfortunately, if theres one thing that Gotham is almost 100% lacking in, its self-perspective. Where to start? From start to end, nearly every moment of every scene of every episode of Gotham is stuffed to the gills with the sort of over-the-top emoting and excessive mugging that would make even William Shatner blush. Taken individually, Ben McKenzies unceasingly short fused performance as Gordon, Donal Logues blustery turn as Bullock, Cory Michael Smiths extravagantly unamusing rendition of Nygma, and Robin Lord Taylors scummy take on Cobblepot would be eye rolling enoughbut taken together, they become something close to unbearable. Look, guys, we get it: Gotham is a terrible place to live, and it takes a certain type of demagogue to settle down there. Point made. Now, please, give it a rest already.
