Series Title: Penguin
Language: English
Release Year: 2024, U.S. Production
Episode Length: 60 minutes each
Director: Matt Reeves
Writer: Lauren LeFranc
Cast: Colin Farrell, Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Deirdre O’Connell
Producers: HBO, Matt Reeves, Lauren LeFranc, Dylan Clark
Music: Michael Giacchino
Editing: Hank Van Eeuwen, Meg Reticker, Andy Keir
For many years, Hollywood has expanded successful franchises by creating prequels—stories set before the main narrative—to both satisfy fans and maintain profitability. Examples include "The Godfather Part II," "Robin Hood" starring Russell Crowe, "House of the Dragon" as a prequel to "Game of Thrones," and "Joker," portraying one of Batman's villains.
"Penguin," based on one of Batman's notorious villains, is the latest in this trend. While it extends the storyline from the most recent Batman film, it delves into the criminal's backstory who was the antagonist in that movie.
The narrative kicks off where Carmine Falcone, the head of the Falcone crime family, was killed at the end of Matt Reeves' 2023 "Batman" movie, sparking a power struggle in Gotham City. Oz Cobblepot (played by Colin Farrell) steps into this fray, transitioning from a mere underling—serving as a driver and errand boy for the Falcones—to seeking respect and power among Gotham's criminal elite.
In the opening scene, Oz retaliates against an insult by killing Alberto Falcone, the heir to the Falcone family, setting him on a collision course with Alberto's formidable sister, Sofia. Oz leverages his survival instincts, sharpened by a harsh childhood, in the turf war between the Falcone and Maroni families, navigating complex schemes to control drug distribution across Gotham's districts.
"Penguin" notably lacks the typical hero archetype, offering no savior with superior powers or gadgets to bring the villains to justice. Instead, the compelling, well-woven plot leaves no room for the audience to yearn for a traditional hero.
The series portrays its villains as real people with human complexities in a morally grey world. They are shaped by life's harshness, yet glimpses of their humanity occasionally surface. Despite their dark paths, these characters are depicted as survivors in their own right.
Beyond its engaging subplots, the professional performances, and the fast-paced, enthralling narrative, the final episode not only wraps up the series but also stands as a singular, high-caliber piece of work.
