Gotham - Beasts of Prey - Advance Preview

“Gotham” is back from its spring break and the “Beasts of Prey” are out to play as the show sets up its season endgames.

Riding high on his recent victory over Commissioner Loeb, Gordon is chuffed when a young officer lauds his reputation and asks him to look into a cold murder case. Enlisting the help of Bullock, Nygma, and Leslie, Gordon quickly makes some headway. Which is bad news when he learns that he’s stumbled into the path of the Ogre (Milo Ventimiglia of “Gilmore Girls” and “Heroes” fame). Another of the GCPD’s dirty little secrets, the Ogre is not only a serial killer who targets young women with a “Fifty Shades of Grey” flair, but he also brutally goes after the loved ones of any law enforcement agent foolish enough to investigate him. It’s a sticky situation for Gordon, but he really hits the roof when he realizes he’s been set up from the start.

Sadly, much of the episode is spent on Fish Mooney and her “Island of Dr. Moreau” subplot. Though she’s managed to ingratiate herself with the upper management – floating around the compound, passing out compliments – Fish is still determined to escape from the isolated prison. So she cooks up another plan that, yet again, is readily agreed to by people she’s betrayed and/or has no real power over. The best thing I can say is that this story finally seems to reach a climax, though not without consequences for Fish.

Back in Gotham, the Penguin this week is interested in real estate, in particular a rundown restaurant owned by a fierce Italian woman who values family over money. To the confusion of henchman Gabe (who's really emerged as enjoyable comedic relief, no?), Oswald spends his scant screen time doing her a favor and securing the location. But all becomes clear when he reveals its true value and I’m looking forward to seeing his scheme unfold.

Alfred’s home from the hospital, but despite an attempt by Gordon to get the truth about his assault out of Bruce, both master and butler seem determined to handle Reginald on their own. Alfred’s injuries eventually sideline him so Bruce turns to Selina for help tracking Reggie down. They eventually do catch up with him, teeing up more drama on the Wayne Enterprises conspiracy front. But an incident also occurs that touches on the moral divide between Bruce and Selina that will eventually inform their masked destinies.

The first of the season’s final four episodes, “Gotham” unleashes “Beasts of Prey” this Monday on FOX. Until then, feel free to share your speculations in the comments section.