Pilot (Gotham)

The pilot episode of the television series Gotham, titled simply "Pilot", premiered on Fox on September 22, 2014. Written by Bruno Heller and directed by Danny Cannon, the episode serves as the introduction to the main characters and the central narrative of the series.

"Pilot" establishes the crime-ridden city of Gotham years before Batman's emergence. It centers around the dual narratives of rookie detective James Gordon (Ben McKenzie) and a young Bruce Wayne (David Mazouz) following the murder of his parents, Thomas and Martha Wayne. Gordon is partnered with Detective Harvey Bullock (Donal Logue) and tasked with investigating the Wayne murders, an event that profoundly shapes both his and Bruce's lives.

The episode introduces several key characters who will play significant roles throughout the series, including Oswald Cobblepot (Robin Lord Taylor), Selina Kyle (Camren Bicondova), Carmine Falcone (John Doman), and Fish Mooney (Jada Pinkett Smith). These characters are depicted in their early stages of criminal activity or influence, demonstrating the evolution of Gotham's criminal underworld.

"Pilot" primarily focuses on establishing the origin stories of Gordon and Bruce Wayne, setting the stage for their future destinies and the complex relationship that will develop between them. It also establishes the corrupt atmosphere of Gotham City, plagued by organized crime and a failing justice system. The episode received mixed reviews, with critics praising the performances and visual style but questioning the overall direction and tone of the series.