The Penguin Review: A standout entry in the DC Universe, takes viewers on a gritty journey through Gotham’s underworld, offering a refreshing twist by thriving without Batman. The series captivates with its intense drama, complex characters, and compelling performances, making it one of the boldest DC adaptations yet.
Rating: 4/5
The Penguin Review: Plot and Premise
In the aftermath of the Riddler’s devastating attack, Gotham is left in ruins, its criminal infrastructure in disarray. With Carmine Falcone’s death creating a power vacuum, Oswald Cobblepot (Colin Farrell), better known as Penguin, sees an opportunity to seize control. However, his actions quickly bring him into conflict with Sofia Falcone (Cristin Milioti), who returns from Arkham Asylum, suspecting Oswald of murdering her brother. The battle for dominance in Gotham’s criminal underworld ensues, with the Maronis complicating things further. The series explores Penguin’s journey as he defies the odds to claim his place at the top, setting the stage for the upcoming The Batman Part II.
The Penguin Review: A Masterclass in Storytelling
Who would have predicted that a series set in the world of Gotham, without even a whisper of Batman until the final moments, could be so compelling? The Penguin, crafted by Lauren LeFranc and executive produced by Matt Reeves, defies expectations by putting two powerful villains at the center of its narrative. In a world devoid of the typical superhero, this show thrives, using its dark, gritty atmosphere and intense character studies to create a gripping experience.
The absence of Batman, or any superhero figure, is not a weakness—it’s a strength. The series pushes boundaries with its mature content, amplifying the violence and drama to a level rarely seen in DC TV shows. The pacing is expertly timed, knowing exactly when to shine a spotlight on the right character. Gotham is no longer just a backdrop but a living, breathing entity that enhances the narrative. For the first time, Gotham feels relatable, with references to the outside world, the struggles of its citizens, and the city’s bleak but realistic landscape.
Character Development and Performances
What makes The Penguin stand out is its focus on the psychological complexity of its characters. Rather than relying on the usual crime tropes like drug deals and car chases, the series delves into the inner turmoil of its leads. Oswald Cobblepot, a man shaped by his past, is driven by a need for validation, particularly from his mother. His journey is not about redemption—it’s about power, and the brutal ways he seeks it are shown without sympathy. Colin Farrell’s portrayal is exceptional, with a performance so nuanced that it transforms Oswald into a truly terrifying figure.
Then there’s Sofia Falcone, brought to life by Cristin Milioti in one of the standout performances of the series. The fourth episode, which delves into her backstory, reveals the depths of her character and the trauma she endured. Tortured in Arkham, Sofia returns to reclaim her power, but her journey is far from simple. Milioti’s portrayal is raw and intense, capturing the complexity of Sofia’s struggle as she fights not only for control of Gotham but also for recognition within her family. Her chemistry with Farrell’s Penguin creates a captivating dynamic that elevates the entire series.
Other notable performances include Rhenzy Feliz as Victor, whose tragic arc adds emotional weight to the story, and Deirdre O’Connell as Francis Cobb, who delivers a memorable supporting performance in the finale.
The Penguin Review: Cinematic Excellence
The show excels in its visual storytelling. Gotham, as portrayed in The Penguin, is unlike any iteration seen before. It’s a city plagued by corruption, inequality, and decay, yet it’s portrayed in a way that feels tangible and real. The use of sunlight, something rarely seen in Gotham’s dark streets, adds an unexpected layer of realism, emphasizing the struggles of its residents. The directors bring a cinematic quality to the show, ensuring that every frame is filled with tension, beauty, and meaning.
The violence in The Penguin is not gratuitous but rather a natural extension of the world it inhabits. It’s unsettling, raw, and often uncomfortable, but it’s essential to the storytelling. The show understands that the real violence comes from the corrupt system that controls Gotham, not just the actions of its criminals.
In a world full of superhero shows, The Penguin stands apart as a masterclass in storytelling and character development. By choosing to focus on villains and building a world where Batman’s absence is felt deeply, the show introduces a new dimension to the DC Universe. It doesn’t rely on flashy superhero moments; instead, it captivates with its grounded, realistic portrayal of Gotham’s criminal underworld and the people who inhabit it.
With powerful performances from Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti, combined with its stunning visuals and mature storytelling, The Penguin is a standout in the DC TV catalog. This show proves that sometimes, the absence of a hero makes the story even more compelling.
The Penguin Review: Final Verdict
The Penguin is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable shows to emerge from the DC Live-Action Universe. It blends Sopranos-like ambition with a world steeped in crime and corruption, all while delivering one of the most powerful performances in recent television history. A must-watch for any fan of intense, character-driven storytelling.
The show premiered on September 20, 2024, with all eight episodes now available for streaming on JioCinema in India. The series is available in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi.
