Because The A.V. Club knows that TV shows keep going even if we’re not writing at length about them, we’re experimenting with discussion posts. For certain shows, one of our TV writers will publish some brief thoughts about the latest episode, and open the comments for readers to share theirs.
- Never Mind The Bullocks: “At least we get to say you punched a man’s face off.” Also, this week deserves a Runner-Up: “You call city hall and literally no one’s in charge. Though that might be good news.”
- I’m happy to report that the chaos promised in last week’s stirring final shot is in full form in Gotham’s winter finale.
- Cobblepot is finally exposed to the plot to destroy him, as Nygma straps him to Isabella’s mangled car and constructs a device that will drop acid on him. Still, Cobblepot is confused about seeing the ghost of his father. Nygma can clear that up: “You saw a man I met in Indian Hill who does killer impersonations.”
- Cobblepot still calls Nygma’s dead lover “Isabelle” and it’s hilarious. Barbara: “Pretty sure her name’s Isabella, but continue.”
- The last two episodes have really shown that Gotham is at its best when it blends humor with darkness. Jerome is the standout here, as he gets two solid punchlines. First, after Bruce defends Alfred: “Are all rich kids this close with their butler?,” and then when Bruce gets the jump on him: “What kind of hero tackles someone from behind?” Monaghan has a knack for villainous comedic delivery.
- Similarly, Butch’s hearty “son of a bitch!” when he realizes he’s going to have to carry an unconscious Cobblepot out of his home is delightful.
- Jerome breaks the Owl statue that Bruce and company went through so much trouble to obtain. Still, as the episode confirms, the Court of Owls are just beginning to insert themselves into this story.
- Bruce and Alfred hugging after they both presumed the other was dead. That is all.
- Cobblepot: “I suppose I underestimated you, Barbara.” Barbara: “It’s the curse of great beauty.”
- Can’t say I know a ton about the Batman canon, but Gordon’s Uncle Frank is here, and he’s also involved with the Court of Owls, so let the speculation begin.
- Bruce’s moral dilemma in this single episode hits harder and is more meaningful than anything contained in the numerous attempts to do the same with Gordon.
- No way Cobblepot is dead, right?
- Don’t ask me to explain how “Winter Finales” work in 2017.
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