The Penguin Showrunner Hints at Epic Crime Saga

The Penguin showrunner is already hinting at how the upcoming spin-off series from The Batman will set a new standard in the crime genre. Total Film recently took the opportunity to speak with Lauren LeFranc about the highly anticipated HBO series. LeFranc aims to carve a niche in an arena filled with numerous crime stories, even during what many consider the “golden era” of prestige TV. LeFranc remarked, “Very few women have been able to write these kinds of movies or television shows.” The journey of Oz Cobb to the pinnacle of Gotham’s criminal world promises to be captivating due to the series’ grounded nature and the complex characters it will introduce.

In this “epic crime saga,” Colin Farrell’s portrayal of the Batman villain will face challenges from various rivals as he strives to dominate Gotham’s underworld. Cristin Milioti steps in as Carmine Falcone’s daughter, Sofia, straight out of Arkham and ready to make her mark. Fans of the comics will recognize Sofia’s presence as a likely nod to a possible Hangman adaptation.

LeFranc provided insight into her perspective on the character of Oz Cobb and masculinity. “I think my perspective on Oz, and masculinity in general, is different. And that made me also want to surround him with really interesting, complicated women,” she said. Unlike traditional crime dramas, LeFranc aims to ensure that the women in this series are just as fascinating and complex as the men. She views this project as an opportunity to honor past works while also evolving the crime genre.

Max and HBO have been building excitement for the show, stating that The Penguin will delve into the character’s ascension within Gotham’s criminal landscape. Sarah Aubrey, Head of Original Content at HBO Max, conveyed the streaming service’s enthusiasm in an official press release. Aubrey noted, “We are thrilled to bring audiences a new version of this iconic DC character that they have never seen before. It is incredible to be working with Matt, Dylan, and Lauren on continuing this story and to see Colin take his already exceptional performance in ‘The Batman’ to the next level.”

The Penguin will star Colin Farrell as Oz Cobb, Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone, Rhenzy Feliz as Victor Aguilar, Michael Kelly as Johnny Viti, Shohreh Aghdashloo as Nadia Maroni, Deirdre O’Connell as Francis Cobb, Clancy Brown as Salvatore Maroni, James Madio as Milos Grapa, Scott Cohen as Luca Falcone, Michael Zegen as Alberto Falcone, Carmen Ejogo as Eve Karlo, and Theo Rossi as Dr. Julian Rush.

Source: Total Film