As a cinema enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the gritty underworld of crime dramas, I can confidently say that Colin Farrell‘s portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot in HBO’s The Penguin is nothing short of masterful. This isn’t your typical caped-crusader fare; it’s a dark, psychologically disturbing gangster epic that feels more akin to Scarface than Batman.
Colin Farrell must make room on the shelf for an Emmy, as his exceptional portrayal of Oswald Cobb in HBO’s upcoming miniseries, “The Penguin,” is truly remarkable. Under layers of prosthetics and makeup, Farrell transforms beyond recognition, leading a powerhouse cast in a gritty, brutal, and psychologically harrowing gangster drama. This production deviates from the traditional Caped Crusader narrative, instead resembling “Scarface” and “King of New York.” In this adaptation, “The Penguin” continues the storyline of “The Batman,” but it delves deeper into the criminal underworld of Gotham City, a city torn apart by destruction and economic disparity, where characters struggle for dominance amidst the chaos.
Catch Up with Carmine and All the Crime
In the aftermath of Riddler’s minions breaching Gotham’s sea wall and inundating the struggling, lower districts, Oz (Farrell) enters the closed Iceberg Lounge armed with a sledgehammer for a significant task. The demise of Carmine Falcone has created a power vacuum within the underworld. With Salvatore Maroni (Clancy Brown) behind bars in Blackgate Penitentiary, rival gangs perceive an ideal moment. However, the Falcone family continues to control the Drops drug trade and possess a large network of corrupt cops, politicians, and judges. They are poised to regroup once the chaos subsides.
At the head of the table, Carmine’s sibling, Luca (Scott Cohen), is seated alongside the underboss, Johnny Viti (Michael Kelly). However, Carmine’s offspring are significant figures in the family business as well. Carmine’s drug-abusing son, Alberto (Michael Zegen), aims to assert his influence. Generally dismissed as a fool, he has an accomplice in Sofia (Cristin Milioti), his elder sister and a feared psychopath who’s recently been discharged from Arkham Asylum. Known for her rebellious nature, she’s a source of shame to Luca, and an enigma. What will be her response to their father’s demise?
Oz strides purposefully through the club, propelled by a burning desire to break free from being a Falcone’s pet, fed crumbs and subjected to their derisive remarks. His mother instilled in him the belief that he should claim what is rightfully his. This moment presents an opportunity for him to validate her faith in him. However, Oz isn’t the only one privy to Carmine’s concealed truths. Another individual harbors similar ambitions and aspires for greatness.
Oz Senses an Opportunity
In the opening episode, The Penguin dives headfirst into his ruthless endeavors. Important figures and the main storyline are promptly established. Oz aspires to seize control entirely, even if it means resorting to underhanded tactics. However, such grand deceit isn’t a solo effort. Oz requires accomplices, and he finds an unconventional partner in Victor Aguilar (Rhenzy Feliz), a timid youth struggling with stuttering following the Riddler’s assault.
The story revolves around Oz and Vic, and their connection significantly changes from their initial meeting. Vic isn’t a seasoned criminal, but rather a troubled adolescent struggling to make it in the harsh environment of Gotham City. Oz finds a reflection of his own past struggles as a poor kid with a disabled foot and limited opportunities. He admired the strong and merciless who seized whatever they wanted from indifferent elites. Vic learns some tough lessons under a strict tutor.
Harsh Lessons
In this critically acclaimed movie, “The Penguin,” the high-quality production elements contribute significantly to its raw, gritty realism. Notably, Kalina Ivanov, the production designer, does an exceptional job. The film depicts dilapidated communities inhabited by disheartened residents, whose despair creates opportunities for drug traffickers peddling a narcotic refuge. Characters like Oz exploit such misery. This is a well-recognized grim motif that underscores how catastrophic situations can prove enormously profitable for ruthless individuals.
Farrell’s incredibly physical performance cannot be understated. The superb makeup, fat suit, and wardrobe design only achieve the look of his character. Oz waddles around, wincing in pain as his foot brace is evident in almost every scene. Farrell convincingly portrays a man living with a significant disability, but he’s also strong and utterly merciless when needed. Oz will put a bullet in your head to forward his agenda. He’s villainous to the core and crushes enemies with impunity.
Sofia’s tale is packed with surprises that might be spoiled, yet Milioti delivers an outstanding performance that has award-winning potential. The Falcone legacy and Sofia’s role within it play a significant part in the storyline. At times, the narrative takes grim and terrifying turns, with one entire episode focusing on her troubled past. As more of Sofia’s hidden truths come to light, your perception of her will evolve. Milioti, who has been underestimated as an actor in recent years (a fact that is likely to change post this), nearly outshines Farrell in their shared scenes. She embodies a strong character and stands formidable on her own.
Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone
As a devoted movie enthusiast, I must confess that “The Penguin’s” eight-episode journey felt a bit prolonged for my taste. Showrunner and writer Lauren LeFranc, known for her work on shows like “Chuck” and “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.”, did an admirable job giving each character their moment to shine. The initial five episodes were absolutely gripping, but as the final act approached, the momentum seemed to wane slightly.
The animated series “The Penguin” receives its TV-MA rating and is certainly not suitable for young audiences. The number of deaths occurs swiftly, accompanied by frequent drug references, strong language, and intense visuals. Additionally, keen-eyed viewers can spot numerous Easter eggs scattered throughout. The soundtrack is impressive, featuring ’80s hits and a sprinkle of Dolly Parton’s tunes – surprising, considering the Penguin’s affinity for them!
As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that “The Penguin” is an upcoming production from the joint efforts of 6th & Idaho, DC Studios, Dylan Clark Productions, and Warner Bros. Television. This exciting project will debut on HBO and Max on September 19th. If you’re as eager as I am to catch this, here’s a link for your viewing pleasure!
Watch The Penguin
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2024-09-12 19:35