If you are looking for something new to watch this week, The Penguin should definitely be a part of your list.
Plot Summary
Based on the DC Comics, the limited series picks up in the aftermath of the 2022 film The Batman, where the criminal underworld of Gotham City is left in chaos following the downfall of one of the most powerful and feared crime lords, Carmine Falcone.
Oswald “Oz” Cobblepot, (Colin Farrell) who is later nicknamed “The Penguin” sees an opportunity to take control as the new city’s crime boss.
With Gotham City still shaken by corruption, flooding and chaos, Oz has to deal with doubtful alliances, dangerous enemies and growing pressure from the police.
His ambition comes with consequences as each move he makes brings new dangers but he fights relentlessly to claim his place while facing tough choices that test his loyalty, cleverness and even his humanity.
Characters
The characters are deeply complex making the series quite a worthwhile watch. We have Oz, who isn’t just a ruthless mobster driven by ambition but also haunted by his insecurities.
He comes off as cunning and witty in some instances which add a layer to his violent nature.
Sofia Falcone (Cristin Millioti) who is the daughter of Carmine Falcone, a young woman whose intelligence and ambition to protect her family’s legacy make her a fierce character as she isn’t afraid to test her limits.
Victor Aguilar (Rhenzy Feliz) Oz’s protégé, who is struggling his own morals as his inner conflict between wanting to belong and being uncomfortable in the criminal world makes him an interesting and sympathetic character in the show.
Colin Farrell’s performance as Oz is one to commend as it is nothing short of transformative. He perfectly captures The Penguin’s desperation, ambition and wicked humor.
Cristin Millioti does an outstanding job portraying Sofia, bringing a nuanced and fierce nature to her character while also revealing her vulnerable moments thus making her quite compelling.
Conclusion
The Penguin gives a deeper look at Gotham’s notorious criminal world with complex and daring characters who are driven with ambition to take control of what they want and by any means necessary.
You’ll be completely hooked after the first two episodes as the storyline and pacing is sure to captivate you.