Gotham Review: Anything For You (Season 3 Episode 5)

After winning the Mayor’s race, Oswald Cobblepot seems to be setting in really well on this week’s episode of Gotham.

Season 3 Episode 5 “Anything For You” opens with a montage of Cobblepot doing a series of civic appearances. But, at the last one, an unveiling of a statue of his mother, Cobblepot must contend with his own miniature uprising in the form of The Red Hood gang.

A part of me wonders exactly how much safer Gotham would be if Oswald used the funds for commissioning a statue of his mother to do things like setting up more homeless shelters or public CCTV.

Some of these events, although ceremonial, are somewhat frivolous.

I could see the other events Oswald attends, the ribbon cutting, a celebratory parade, but a statue of his mother? Really?

The first few days in office and that’s his accomplishment.

Don’t get me wrong, I love Gertrude. I think she is an awesome character. When she was killed I mourned. Just tell me how exactly does this statue keep Gotham safe?

Instead, what it does is inflate Oswald’s ego. For Oswald, his mother is his world, and attacking this statue is a symbol of rebellion and defiance–that hits Oswald where it hurts.

While it makes for a compelling narrative, the politics behind it are infuriating.

I spent a lot of time talking about Oswald in “New Day Rising” and with an election coming up I’m hoping this is the last of the political commentary.

On a lighter note this week is Selina and Bruce. I love picturing these two together, but let’s be honest, Bruce is really too square for her. Bruce has lived a very sheltered life and although he’s taken a few licks for Selina, he’s still reliant on his money.

Money is the defining characteristic in Selina’s relationship. Selina is a thief, she must steal to get by. Bruce is a billionaire who has every comfort available to him. Bruce’s intentions are good, and he wants to help Selina, but Selina isn’t interested in being saved.

We know the Selina is proud and independent. She’s done what she has to do to get by. She’s not proud of it, but she’s definitely not ashamed of it. Without all those lavish amenities, Selina has developed a sense of self.

She’s in touch with who she is and what she wants. That doesn’t include a prince to save her from the streets.

Their talk on the rooftop is a great examination of their relationship. Who wouldn’t cheer just a little bit when Selina says Bruce’s first mistake is telling her what she has to do. Can we get a “Girl Power!” shout?

Also, did anyone else think they were going to reveal doppelganger Bruce after the kiss? I was convinced by the cadence of his voice that we aren’t watching the real Bruce Wayne. Thoughts?

Stay Thoughts:

• Nygma’s return to the GCPD is just pure poetry. The way he walks in like he owns the place and lords it over everyone made it seem like he is a guy drunk on power.
• The scene between Lee and Nygma is brilliant. Who doesn’t want to punch that guy in the face?
• What the heck is Ivy up to? Seeing Selina walks right up to her friend and have Ivy say “Not yet, this is too fun” is so heartbreaking. I miss seeing Selina and Ivy as friends.

What do you think of this episode of Gotham? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Gotham airs Mondays at 8/7c on Fox.

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