Colin Farrell Impresses as a Chilling Batman Villain in ‘The Penguin’ Review

This version of Gotham is far from the one you might remember. Known for its dark and corrupt landscape, Gotham has always been portrayed as a violent city plagued by lawlessness, ulterior motives, and nefarious characters. In the HBO series “The Penguin,” however, the city is depicted with an even grimmer reality, creating a world where hope seems entirely absent.

Gone are the heroic figures. There is no Batman, no large-scale battles between good and evil. Instead, the audience is introduced to Colin Farrell’s character, Oswald Cobblepot, also known as the Penguin. Farrell, who previously surprised audiences with his role in “The Batman” (released in 2022), dives into the complexities of his character amidst the turmoil of a city in chaos.

The series picks up after the events of “The Batman,” specifically the catastrophic seawall explosion caused by the Riddler. The city’s crime scene is now in disarray, and with the death of crime boss Carmine Falcone, a power vacuum emerges, setting the stage for a cutthroat battle for dominance among Gotham’s criminals.

Right from the outset, the Penguin’s story unfolds with an impulsive crime that sets him on a perilous journey through the city’s underworld. Unfazed by the moral implications of his actions, Cobblepot does what he must to survive, resorting to schemes that are ruthless in nature. The narrative is gritty, showcasing Cobblepot’s relentless pursuit of power and survival.

The series retains familiar names from the comics, introducing characters such as Sofia Falcone, played by Cristin Milioti. Sofia, portrayed as a psychotic player in her own right, takes the helm in the crime family dynamics now that her father is gone. Other players in this dark game include the ruthless Johnny Vitti and Oz’s new recruit, Victor Aguilar.

What makes “Penguin” particularly engaging is its ability to be inclusive for viewers unfamiliar with the extensive Batman lore. It is structured to stand alone as a complete story, making it accessible to both ardent fans and casual viewers alike.

At its core, “Penguin” operates as a crime drama with the essence of classic gangster tales but enriched by its connection to the Batman universe. The show’s creators, including Matt Reeves and Lauren LeFranc, have crafted a narrative that is both meticulously plotted and engaging, but the real centerpiece is Farrell’s outstanding performance.

Colin Farrell’s transformation into Penguin is nothing short of astonishing. The makeup work makes him nearly unrecognizable, yet he manages to infuse a chilling authenticity into his portrayal. Even beneath layers of prosthetics, he delivers a performance that is unsettling yet captivating, drawing viewers into the depths of Cobblepot’s character.

Supporting Farrell is Milioti, whose portrayal of Sofia Falcone is equally captivating. As a recently released patient from Arkham Asylum, Sofia embodies chaos and madness. Milioti’s performance, marked by her expressive eyes and unpredictable behavior, works as a powerful foil to Cobblepot’s calculated demeanor. Their interactions are electrifying, filled with tension as they navigate their uncertain alliance.

While the series is undeniably dark and intense—sometimes teetering towards overwhelming bleakness—it remains compelling due to Farrell’s strong commitment to his character. The balance between gripping storytelling and a grim atmosphere is a delicate one, and “Penguin” finds itself walking this line throughout its eight-episode run.

Ultimately, “Penguin” offers a look into the shadows of Gotham City, exploring the lives of its grim inhabitants without the light of heroism. The Pengiuin’s descent into chaos unveils a captivating yet disturbing tale, showcasing a character who is deeply flawed and immensely human, even in his villainy.

Fans of the Batman universe will find a new dimension in Farrell’s Penguin, while viewers seeking a thrilling crime drama are sure to find intrigue in Gotham’s dark and twisted corridors.

Source: USA Today