The Penguin: An Exceptional Start to Gotham’s Underworld Saga

Sep 24

The new DC/HBO series The Penguin has taken flight, and it’s already making waves in the world of television. With its gritty storytelling, complex characters, and a fresh take on Gotham’s notorious underworld, the series is off to a phenomenal start. Here’s why this show is capturing the hearts and minds of viewers and critics alike.

A Fresh Perspective on a Classic Character

Oswald Cobblepot, better known as the Penguin, has been a staple in the Batman universe for decades. However, this series offers a fresh perspective on the character, diving deep into his refined origins and very human motivations.

At its center, the series explores Cobblepot’s inevitable rise to power in Gotham’s criminal underworld, providing a nuanced portrayal that goes beyond the typical villain archetype. And within the parameters of one single episode, the series creators have done an excellent job of humanizing the Penguin, showing his vulnerabilities and the circumstances that shaped him. This approach allows viewers to empathize with Cobblepot, even as he engages in morally questionable activities. It’s essentially a concrete example of a strong series that immediately prioritizes writing and character development to make its titular character a nuanced lead.

The Penguin (2024) | HBO, Warner Bros., and DC

Praise-Worthy Performances

One of the strongest details of The Penguin is the stellar performances by its well-rounded cast. Lead actor Colin Farrell, who portrays Oswald Cobblepot, delivers a captivating performance that brings the character to life in a way that is both compelling and believable. His portrayal is richly layered, capturing the Penguin’s cunning intelligence and ruthless ambition while also revealing his insecurities and vulnerabilities.

Other cast members are also given plenty of time to shine, adding depth and complexity to the story — including undeniable assets like the talented Rhenzy Feliz (an unlikely assistant to Oswald) and Cristin Milioti (a Falcone family member and serial killer). All things considered, after seeing the cast in action, it’s difficult to imagine that the series could go unnoticed.

Gritty and Realistic Storytelling

As expected, The Penguin doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of Gotham’s underworld. The storytelling is gritty and realistic, depicting the harsh realities of life in a city plagued by crime, devastation, and corruption. This approach adds a sense of authenticity to the series, making it feel grounded and believable as we delve into Gotham as its very own character.

The show’s creators have clearly put a lot of thought into the world-building (including staying true to The Batman), creating a version of Gotham that is both familiar and refreshingly new. That immaculate attention to detail in the setting, costumes, and overall atmosphere helps to immerse viewers in the story, making them feel like they are right there in the midst of the action.

Strong Writing and Direction

Strong writing and direction are at the heart of The Penguin’s success. The show’s writers have crafted a compelling narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. The plot is well-paced, with plenty of twists and turns to keep audiences on the edge of their seats — whether its softer character moments or set up for a larger piece of the plot.

The direction is equally impressive, with this first episode proving to be carefully crafted to build tension and develop the characters. The visual style of the series is striking, with a dark and moody aesthetic that perfectly complements the tone of the story. The use of lighting, camera angles, and other cinematic techniques adds to the overall impact of the series, making it a visual spectacle.

The Penguin Airs Weekly on HBO (and via MAX)

As of now, we’ve only witnessed a single episode of the DC character’s origin series; however, we’re fairly confident that there are plenty of exciting moments to come. So, if you haven’t checked it out yet — do yourself a favor and watch the first episode of The Penguin now, via HBO or MAX.