Gotham

Gotham is a compelling action-drama series that aired on FOX from 2014 to 2019. The show is set in the eponymous city of Gotham, home to the legendary DC Comics superhero Batman. However, unlike most Batman stories, this series doesn't focus on the Dark Knight himself but rather on the world that shaped him. The protagonist of the series is a young Detective James 'Jim' Gordon, played by Ben McKenzie, who later becomes Gotham's Police Commissioner.

Gotham chronicles his journey, reshaping the Batman lore by exploring an alternate beginning of the iconic city. From the mob-controlled avenues to the corruption-infested police department, the series paints a detailed picture of the societal decay that necessitates Batman's rise.

The series introduces multiple storied characters in Batman lore, from the likes of the manipulative Penguin, played by Robin Lord Taylor, to Selina "Catwoman" Kyle, captured by Camren Bicondova, giving viewers a different perspective on their origins and evolution. Here, they are not yet the cartoonishly evil villains of Batman's world; instead, they are troubled characters who, like Gotham itself, are in the process of becoming.

Nestled amidst this nexus of villainy and heroism, we discover the young Bruce Wayne, played by David Mazouz, a boy of exceptional intelligence and resilience. This version of Wayne is currently dealing with the violent and senseless murder of his parents. The series does a magnificent job showcasing Wayne's evolution from a traumatized child into the courageous and determined figure gesturing towards the iconic cape-wearing vigilante he is destined to become.

Morena Baccarin plays Dr. Leslie Thompkins, a physician at Arkham Asylum, who later becomes Jim Gordon's love interest, bringing romance into a plot filled with the grit and grime of crime.

The ensemble cast also includes Donal Logue as Harvey Bullock, Jim's partner and mentor who walks the fine line between lawful and corrupt methods; Erin Richards as Barbara Kean, Jim’s former fiancée and an eventual nemesis; Sean Pertwee as Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce's loyal butler and unexpected protector; and the charismatic Jada Pinkett Smith as Fish Mooney, a mobster creating her power base in Gotham.

Cory Michael Smith plays Edward "Ed" Nygma, who viewers will recognize as the future Riddler. His transformation from a socially awkward forensic scientist at the Gotham City Police Department into a deadly game-obsessed criminal is one of Gotham's most captivating storylines.

Gotham's unique appeal lies in its interpretation of the classic Batman mythos. While it carries elements of noir, crime, drama, and even horror, it doesn’t shy away from occasional comic relief. It takes viewers through different arcs showing corruption, conspiracy, gang wars, and anarchy, each contributing to the chaos that shapes Gotham City.

The most fascinating aspect of Gotham is the character development undertaken throughout the series. It introduces viewers to renowned comic characters and focuses on their growth or demise for overarching narratives that often coincide with the young Bruce Wayne's journey towards becoming Batman.

Gotham is a pilgrimage into the formative years of the Batman saga. With its multi-genre blend, complex characters, and an atmosphere full of unease and inevitable darkness, the series generates an anticipatory thrill for viewers to witness the transformation of Gotham, its inhabitants, and its last beacon of hope, Bruce Wayne.

This show is a recommended viewing for Batman fans and newcomer viewers interested in exploring the rich universe of superhero mythos from a different narrative perspective. Its noir undertones, appealing aesthetics, a compelling storyline, and strong performances make Gotham a captivating experience set against the backdrop of one of the most iconic cities in the superhero genre.