What’s Worth Watching: Gotham Goes Mad

Gotham, “All Happy Families Are Alike” (Monday, May 4, 8/7c, Fox)

“Gotta hand it to you, Fish. You really know how to stop a show.” Can’t argue with this backhanded compliment, from Detective Harvey Bullock (Donal Logue) to the dazzling underworld vixen Fish Mooney (Jada Pinkett Smith, delightfully fierce), whose return from exile to Gotham City inspires the most explosive round yet in the city’s gang war between Falcone (John Doman) and Maroni (David Zayas). One helpful hint: Never call her “Babes.”

Gotham‘s first-season finale would be busy enough just resolving this conflict, with Penguin (Robin Lord Taylor) and future Catwoman Selina Kyle (Camren Bicondova) on the sidelines, waiting for their moment, and clench-jawed straight-arrow Detective James Gordon (Ben McKenzie) as usual caught in the crossfire. But there’s so much more, as Gotham goes down a psychological rabbit hole of madness with Riddler-to-be Edward Nygma (Cory Michael Smith) and even Gordon’s damaged ex, Barbara (Erin Richards), whose choice of therapist is fraught with peril. And let’s not forget young Bruce Wayne (David Mazouz), desperate to learn more about his late father’s legacy but never dreaming what secrets may lurk in Wayne Manor. Holy bat-future, bring it on!