By Ivan Cazares
Fox premiered its new television series Gotham, set in the world of Batman, last Monday.
However, the story revolves around rookie Detective James Gordon, played by Ben McKenzie, as he rises to police commissioner.
McKenzie embodies a strong character, which makes Gordon seem strong enough to take on the rough streets of Gotham.
He does a good job of making the viewer root for him as he struggles to solve the Waynes’ murder, while fighting against the corruption of Gotham.
Early in the pilot, a young Bruce Wayne, played by David Mazouz, is introduced as he witnesses the murder of both his parents Thomas Wayne, played by Grayson McCouch, and Martha Wayne, played by Brette Taylor.
Gordon and his partner Harvey Bullock, played by Donal Logue, are the detectives called to the scene.
The young Mazouz keeps a concerned, yet cold expression, which expresses the shock and change that occurs when Bruce witnesses the murder of his parents.
Some fans will be familiar with this Batman origin story. However, the majority of the episode felt like a typical crime drama, which could have been part of any other show.
Gordon and his partner Harvey Bullock go around interrogating suspects like detectives do on CSI. The underhanded Detective Bullock kept things interesting with an introduction to sly characters and his acquaintances with some of Gotham’s underworld.
Several iconic characters like a young Catwoman, played by Camren Bicondova, a young Poison Ivy, played by Clare Foley, and most notably Oswald Cobblepot, also known as the penguin, played by Robin Lord Taylor, all make appearances.
The pilot is a good hook, and it draws from what the fans know and love, while keeping the story centered in reality. “Gotham” airs Monday nights at 8 p.m. on Fox 11.