GOTHAM: Episode #5 Is Here - Shriner, Stuart & More

Episode #5 of GOTHAM is now online and it's great news for indie soap fans. This is the first of a new batch of episodes shot two months after the original four. This is also the debut of Kin Shriner, Brianne Moncrief, Anna Stuart, Kurt McKinney and (in person) Paolo Seganti. What's exciting about this is not just the new characters and story, but the fact that the issues receiving the most feedback on the show seem to have been addressed.

1. Not long enough: This is the longest episode yet.
2. We don't see Gotham: New York City is show in all its glory.
3. Not enough is happening: We become more familiar with the lives of Catherine and Richard and their families.

The first four episodes now feel like an introduction to Richard and Catherine and, with the new episode, the story now really kicks in. We are following the lives of Richard and Catherine and I am very intrigued. Byrne's chemistry with Kin Shriner's Jon, Catherine's ex-husband, was strong. The shot of Richard arriving home, the flash of Dominic, Richard's relationship with Brianne Moncrief's Samantha, and the arrival of Richard's mother, played by the delightful Anna Stuart, all added new layers to their lives. And something is obviously up with Kurt McKinney's Liam as well.

Also, kudos to Martha Byrne for the wonderful opening song, "Love Makes the World Go 'Round," that she sung beautifully over the brilliant editing of new editor Shannon Brame-Collier.

Watch the new episode below and weigh in with your thoughts.