Gotham Season 5: 4 Ups & 1 Down From 'Pena Dura'

Feb 1, 2019 February 1st, 2019

Downs...

1.The Problematic Resolution Of Ed's Mystery

As note earlier, it's a bit of a relief to finally have a resolution to the mystery of 'Who Messed With Ed's Mind?'. However, that's not to say said resolution was executed well, because it was a bit sloppy.

The problems aren't only resigned to the discovery of who's responsible either, as issues also arise during Ed's quest for clues. At one stage, the question-loving villain is kidnapped, tormented and electrocuted by a woman wanting revenge on behalf of her dog that was killed in Haven (for real). Sure, the scene had a bit of comedy value, but it ended up being completely pointless, and came off as nothing more than a plot device designed to drag the narrative out for a few extra minutes.

You could argue that the electrocution was necessary in Ed remembering that Oswald featured in the procedure which made alterations to his brain, but surely that could've been accomplished via another way? Another blow to the head would've sufficed - perhaps by Oswald during their altercation, or from Gordon when he attempted to arrest Nygma.

However, the problems only get worse. After it's revealed that Hugo Strange is the madman behind Ed's memory loss, the crazed doctor decides to performs more brain surgery on Ed.

The surgery was presented as a quick and minor procedure, demonstrated through the fact that the GCPD were on their way to Strange's hideout before he'd performed the procedure, and yet they arrived after it had been completed. Surely brain surgery would take a lot longer?

Moreover, Strange performed the procedure without removing any of Nygma's hair, and after putting him back together, there's not so much as a blood stain - or a loose hair - to be had. Also, apart from an initial groan, Ed seems to feel no pain after the op - and is able to get to his feet immediately. It might be Gotham we're talking about, but some degree of believability is required.