‘The Penguin’ TV Review- Oz Takes On Gotham
This series streamed in 2024.
The Penguin is an HBO television spin-off of the Matt Reeves DC Studios movie The Batman. The eight-part MAX show was developed by Lauren LeFranc.
Oswald “Oz” Cobb (Colin Farrell) shoots Gotham Mafia heir Alberto Falcone (Michael Zegen) after the kid mocks Oz in a drunken state. Oz immediately goes about cleaning up the crime scene but is stalled by Vic (Rhenzy Feliz). Oz is about to execute the kid, but takes a liking to him, choosing to take him under his wing. Oz is immediately suspected by Alberto’s sister Sofia (Cristin Milioti), but he manages to frame former mob boss Salvatore Maroni (Clancy Brown). This sets off a gang war with Oz watching on, dodging guilt, and striving to make his own mark in Gotham City.
I normally do not like shows or films set in Gotham where Batman does not appear, and his lack of presence is glaring. It is probably the weakest thing about the show. Batman is not even referenced that much, except for a few winks and nods. I would have appreciated a little bit more concern about the Dark Knight swooping in to stop the Mafia shenanigans going on.
As for the performances, I am blown away. Farrell picked up right where he left off and portrays the best modern live action Penguin. He is visceral, and you feel the drive to become the top dog in Gotham City. He is sharp, brutal, deep, and even charming at times. The most well-rounded attempt at grounding a villain.
That is also true of Milioti. She is stunning as Sofia. You watch her go from desiring to avenge her brother before evolving into something far darker. She is bold, seductive, disturbing, and brutal. You watch her go from an outsider with a troubling past to a woman of force who will not be stopped. Her arc was amazing, and I was hooked.
Aside from what I noted above, this is an enthralling show. You watch as Oz twists and turns, playing the Maronis against the Falcones, barely dodging getting taken out himself. He is devious, charming, deadly, and has no compassion. HBO truly crafted an excellent series that, while connected to its film predecessor, is removed enough that you can enjoy it either way. I am curious how this will affect, if at all, the film series it is a part of, especially with talks of at least two other television spin-offs.
Check out the trailer below:
PARENTAL CONCERNS: Strong foul language, Bloody Violence, Substance abuse, Sexual content
What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, anime, movie, or novel you would like me to review.