This week has been tight on watching TV shows on the evening (even by DVR), but we've watched three shows — one new, two returns — that were firing on all cylinders.
Gotham – Somewhat gritty yet still heroic crime drama that (after a somewhat dodgy first 15 minutes) did a fine job blending the DC Universe and decent cop show. Ben McKenzie does a solidly idealistic but intense Jim Gordon. The Bruce Wayne parts were nicely done. The only flaw, to be honest, was sense that the producers wanted to squeeze every single proto-villain they could come up with into the premiere episode. Each was good, but the overall result was a bit of a forced feeding.
Sleepy Hollow – A successful return to a series that already had an overly-complex backstory but still managed to be approachable and enjoyable. Bits of humor, lots of drama, decent action, a very nice twist, and a great cameo for Ben Franklin.
Marvel's Agents of SHIELD – The first season was logy the first two-thirds of the series, but began to pick up once The Winter Soldier freed up the whole Hydra plot, at which point it became suddenly gripping. The new season picks up a bit after where we left off, but the level of action remains solid. The team dynamic has shifted a bit, with new members, Coulson a step removed, Ward unfortunately still lurking, and Fitz-Simmons … ah, well, that was nifty. But we've got some great action, a good super-villain, a shout-out to the past, and enough excitement to carry on to the next ep.
So, all three winners, as far as I'm concerned, and three things I'll need to fit into our weekly TV-watching schedule for the indefinite future. Oh, darn.
Oops. I missed Gotham. I'll have to watch it On Demand.
Loved SHIELD! I cackled gleefully when I saw who the villain was. Handled quite well, too. I'm kind of surprised they could take him down, considering whom he's gone up against in the comics. Still, it didn't strain my suspension of disbelief unduly.
Yup. My couch and I are going to be very, very good friends this year.
+Scott Randel The villain, like a lot of MAoS villains, was writ TV-small, but well-handled for all of that, down to his trademark accessory.
Yes, I was pleased when he got that and also when he ditched the shirt.