The Penguin review: An eccentric and thrilling addition to Matt Reeves’ Batman universe

Despite the clear storyline, HBO's limited series 'The Penguin' effectively shares the spotlight with all its characters, ultimately allowing Oswald to shine.

It’s a world where we are constantly fed live-action comic book movies, some of which are disappointing releases, it just takes one good story to get our hopes back up and Matt Reeves’ The Penguin surely has done it! This HBO limited series takes us through the journey of how Oswald Cobb aka Penguin went from being the Falcone's (a crime family) driver to a major part of Gotham’s criminal world. As basic and overly done as the storyline may seem, the show feels like a success because it focuses on giving us a compelling storyline rather than just relying on the crazies one might expect from a city known for being a haven for ruffians.

The series starts off by offering us a look into one of the many foes that our favorite caped vigilante faces. While I walked in expecting to feel sympathy for Oz and finding reasons that would justify why he is an anti-hero, the finale clarifies why he is, in fact, a true villain of Gotham. We know him as someone who constantly lies and carries the need to be anything but a ‘saviour’ to the people. In the series finale, we see beyond his desire to be the "good child" to his mother or friend, revealing that he ultimately believes in only one person: himself. It’s a show about a power-hungry man who cares less about the casualties along the way which makes him a legit villain. Colin Farrell's ability to express his emotions through the thick layer of prosthetics needs to be studied. His dedication to making this character his own, without making it look too comic-y is the reason you get engrossed in the show!

What also makes The Penguin worth watching is that it avoids violence at its core, choosing to focus on the importance of its characters and their journey. Just as we were introduced to Oz's story, the show gives us an insight into every other character who influenced his life in unique ways. The audience encounters strong and impactful characters who each have their own journey, all while Oz navigates the world of crime using his tactics and plans. 

Also Read - The Penguin Episode One review: A gritty story that gives Gotham’s audacious gangster a chance to make his way to the top

One such character, who went on to become a fan-favorite in her own way is Sofia Falcone aka Sofia Gigante. Episode four Cent'anni, focuses on her journey which also happens to be the highlight of the show. The episode ended up giving us a badass female character whose rise to power is fueled by constant betrayal in a world that is no different from the real one. Despite being viewed as an easy target by the men in her life, Sofia transforms her pain into strength, ultimately giving Oz a run for his money. Cristin Milioti was able to bring out her fierce self and leave us feeling sympathetic for her while being shit scared for the people who wronged her. There is nothing more powerful than watching someone from Gotham’s criminal world burn things down and walk away. And watching Sofia do it while Where Did You Sleep Last Night by Nirvana plays in the background, is one for the books.

While Sofia was there to right the wrongs in her life by ways of revenge, it also gave us Francis (Deirdre O'Connell), a single mother who lost her two sons and managed to survive the aggressive world of Gotham. You realize how incredible and fierce she is, and we are constantly rooting for her well-being. And in this world where Oz is constantly surrounded by reasons to strategize and scheme, Victor (Rhenzy Feliz) becomes the anchor that reminds him of his humanity. Victor embodies all the individuals who suffer in the city aka the people who are left behind. His journey from a scared little boy to someone who consistently supports Oz, represents a small ray of hope that we all seek in life.

The show was able to show us the world of crime through the eyes of a transgressor who only considers his own life worth fighting for and consistently finds a way to escape difficult situations, much like a cat landing on its feet. It also portrays the experiences of the city's inhabitants, who often end up suffering the consequences of this ongoing conflict. As Oz finally got his own penthouse and a view of the city, it would be interesting to see what his future interactions with our Dark Knight will be like.

The Penguin is now streaming on JioCinema Premium.