Gotham Season 2, Episode 19
Gothamis currently suffering from one of the same problems Arrowis: it’s trying to introduce magic (or some supernaturally higher degree of magic-like science, I suppose) into its setting without explaining the rules. This makes for a confusing, stakes-less context for a story, a handicap that Gothamcan really not handle right now.
Meet your proto-Batman.
This whole time you probably thought Bruce Wayne was this show’s proto-Batman, huh? Nope. It is actually Theo Galavan, back from the dead, confused about his pre-resurrection identity, and convince by Hugo Strange that he is Azrael, a warrior for the great Order of St. Dumas. Guys, I laughed out loud at this storyline several times in this episode — and not because the show wanted me to. To be fair, Gothamseemed to realize how ridiculous Galavan’s post-resurrection behavior was. Ms. Peabody is all of us in these scenes, suggesting to Strange that they go with thorazine rather than Strange’s random idea to suggest that he is Galavan’s father, and that Galavan is a secret assassin. I want to be worried about Barnes, who got stabbed with the hilt of Azrael’s broken blade, I really do, but this show is not doing this character any favors in its one-note depiction of an exasperated police commissioner whose memory seems to reset every morning when he wakes up, making him forget that both Gotham is the worst, most dangerous place on Earth (especially if you’re a police officer) and that Jim Gordon is a self-righteous rogue who sometimes shoots people in cold blood. In another case of being self-aware enough to have the characters themselves comment on the absurdity of a plot or character choice, but not self-aware enough to actually write said plot or character better, Barnes even comments on his own inability to exist outside of his role as Superior Who Yells At Jim Gordon, straight-up asking Gordon why he keeps falling for his shtick — especially when Gordon isn’t even technically a police officer anymore. It’s as if the character has become self-aware, and is asking his creators — aka the writers. Sadly, the writerly gods give no answer.
Nygma’s stay in Arkham is delightful.
While the “A” plot of tonight’s episode didn’t work for me, there wasn’t anything I didn’t like about Nygma’s subplot solving the mysteries of Arkham. I was slightly annoyed when Gothamwrapped up the Riddler plot so quickly. No one ever stays locked up for long on this show, but it still would have been nice to see Nygma playing the serial killer under the GCPD’s nose for a little while longer. However, I can’t fault this latest Riddler development, which sees the former socially-awkward forensic scientist writing the guidebook on how to make friends and influence people… while in an insane asylum (or at least in a Gothaminsane asylum, which are not to be confused with what mental illness or mental health facilities actually look like in the real world). Nygma already has the patient-side of Arkham totally figured out, employing the services of his new friends to gather the supplies necessary to find the hidden elevator down to Arkham’s basement secrets. With Strange and Peabody distracted by Gordon, Nygma eventually makes it down into the sub-basement and finds all of Strange’s experiments. How will he use this knowledge to further his own goals? Is this his ticket out of Arkham? Or should he just wait a week for Strange to release him? #Decisions
Memorable quotes.
“Strong as an ox. Fast as a snake.” “Mad as a hatter.” It’s unclear what Galavan’s actual powers are now that he’s a zombie, but he is for-sure “mad as a hatter,” as Peabody puts it. He also seems to be getting flashes back to his old identity. How long will Strange be able to maintain his control on Galavan who, previously, has never seemed like an easily-led man? “I have a theory: I believe you ran Pinewood Farms.” Oh, Jim Gordon, you really only have one play, don’t you: Tell the suspected criminal that you think he is a criminal. How’s that been working for you so far? “I’m sick of this. We know where Strange is. We know he’s hurting people right now, and you two are talking about politics with your boss and getting a piece of paper signed.” I kind of love petulant Bruce Wayne because he actually is one of the most competent characters on this show. “I chose to kill a man in cold blood, and it was the wrong choice.” I guess it’s nice to finally hear Gordon say these words? “You self-righteous punk. You think you have all the answers. Maybe you should run [the GCPD].” “Maybe I will someday.” Oh, Gotham, you’re not even trying to hide any of your cards anymore, are you? “What’s he even doing here?” “I’m a concerned citizen.” “You can go to hell.” “I’ve been there. You go.” Azrael’s trash talk needs some work… “I know you like her, but that girl’s mad as a bag of squirrels.” I would probably be cool with Gothamgiving Butch and Tabitha something to do at some point.
