'Pennyworth' episode 3 review: We are introduced to Martha Kane, Bruce Wayne's mother, in a way we could never imagine
This review contains spoilers for 'Pennyworth' episode 3 'Martha Kane'
When Ben Aldridge, who essays Thomas Wayne in 'Pennyworth', said that Martha Kane (Emma Paetz) would be playing a huge role in the show, not many expected her to make an entrance as she does in 'Martha Kane'. The prequel has been a gripping tale so far and the third episode doesn't disappoint.
As the title suggests, the episode introduces us to the woman who in the future would be Thomas Wayne's wife and the mother of Bruce Wayne aka The Batman. For starters, Martha's character is daring, covert and downright attractive — the three traits that make her a shoo-in for any secret service agency in the world. Except, she isn't in the CIA. "No-name league" is how she puts it when Alfred (Jack Bannon) asks her about her "employers".
Perhaps the biggest highlight is the chemistry between Martha and Alfie. The daredevil of a woman dishes out information on a need-to-know basis and while Alfie thoroughly doesn't appreciate it, he still skilfully operates to ensure that the job at hand is done. A mission sees her approach Alfred who is still reeling after being rejected by Esme's (Emma Corine) dad. Alfred had met him to ask his daughter's hand in marriage — a request bluntly declined.
Martha, meanwhile, hires Alfred's services to help rescue a queer scientist and his computer capable of calculating complex equations. She intends to fly the scientist and his machine out of the country. If Alfred agrees to help, a hefty sum will be paid out. No negotiations there.
The duo infiltrates the police station posing as the scientist's lawyer, breaking him and his partner out of prison, only to be intercepted by the Raven Society. The nefarious organization intends to hold on to the man and his creation and just when Martha prepares to get her gun off, Alfred comes in. And in his typical Bond panache and style, ensures that the Ravens don't get the man by outsmarting them, whilst making sure there is no bloodshed.
Following the mission's success, Alfred agrees to work for Martha on the condition that there are no secrets. What follows next is Alfred trying to make it up to Esme. Parallelly, Bet Sykes (Paloma Faith), the villain who stole the limelight in episodes one and two, plots revenge against Esme.
'Martha Kane' is an absolute treat to watch. The episode stuck true to its title and gave us a character who is sure to add to the plotline. It's also interesting to see how the Wayne-Kane relationship will blossom. And there's Alfred in the mix too.
The first easter egg here is Martha's second name. The upcoming CW show 'Batwoman' has its protagonist, Ruby Rose, use the name Kate Kane. She is Batman's cousin and now we know from which part of the family she draws her surname.
'Pennyworth' is thoroughly impressive and keeps the intrigue factor going. Each episode throws light on Alfred's past and introduces us to shades that we see in him during his ripe old age as Batman's butler and efficient assistant. 'Martha Kane' is action-packed, witty and, at the same time, leaves you with lots of questions about where her character goes from here.
'Pennyworth' airs Sundays 9 pm on EPIX.