‘Gotham’ season 2, episode 2 review: The Maniax lead to major death; Alfred’s big decision

Last week “Gotham” brought us the beginning of the Maniax as a force of evil baring down on the city; now, we’re starting to see more of what they are really capable of.

Throughout the hour, we basically saw one terrible move after the next from the group fronted by Jerome and Barbara, but most of it led to a brutal, thrilling shootout at the GCPD precinct that left the entire force in shambles. Not only that, but remember that major death that you heard teased for so many weeks? It was none other than Essen seemingly. Right after she was named the new commissioner and there were all of these declarations about how she was going to do great things with Jim Gordon, she’s gone. The latest and largest casualty of this killing squad.

Now, let’s turn to Alfred. The man is awesome. We love that the show’s version of the butler has this insane history and is known for kicking butt and taking names. It makes some sense that he would be a man to help begin the transformation of Bruce Wayne into Batman. At first, Alfred resisted Bruce’s aspirations, but it was after being fired that he turned things around. Then, he also managed to recruit Lucius Fox, a man responsible for much of what Bruce’s father had going on. That Alfred – Lucius scene was a nice moment of subtlety for the show, and captivating to watch.

The funny thing is that there was no Penguin in this episode, and yet, we still found it thoroughly entertaining. We’re not sure we could say that a year ago when the Penguin was ruling the series. While we’re still not sold on Jerome as the Joker (just too obvious), we’re starting to get some on this show as a major step forward from what it used to be. Grade: A-.

What did you think about this particular “Gotham” episode? Are the Maniax working for you as compelling villains? Let us know with a comment, and head over here for some other news related to the show, including a preview for what lies ahead! Also, sign up here to get some more TV scoop on all we cover, sent right over to you via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: Fox.)