As a long-time admirer of Gotham City’s underbelly, I wholeheartedly agree with Lauren LeFranc’s perspective. The street-level view of the city is what makes it so captivating, and Oz’s journey through this criminal world will undoubtedly be intriguing.
In a matter of mere weeks, viewers will re-enter the world created by Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” when HBO’s “The Penguin” premieres. This limited series revolves around Colin Farrell’s character, the Penguin, as he strives for advancement within his criminal empire in the aftermath of the 2022 film. Although “Oz” is the focus here, some fans may be curious if Batman will make an appearance. However, the executive producers have clarified that he won’t appear in a cameo, and I concur with their reasoning for this choice.
Why Won’t The Batman Appear On The Penguin?
It’s understandable that fans might expect Robert Pattinson’s Caped Crusader to make an appearance, despite his absence in the Penguin trailers, given his central role within this franchise and the universe it encompasses. However, when our sister publication SFX Magazine spoke with series creator and showrunner Lauren LeFranc, she confirmed that Batman was indeed not featured. LeFranc acknowledges the excitement surrounding the potential return of the iconic character, but her decision to exclude him is based on a different perspective.
People may feel that a show or film lacks impact without Batman. However, I believe that Matt’s films offer a unique angle since they are told from the perspective of Batman, giving us an elevated view of the city. On the other hand, Oz presents a different perspective by placing us in the midst of the city streets, surrounded by grime and striving to rise above it all.
Essentially, it appears that the former cast member of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is suggesting that Gotham City’s protector might not blend seamlessly into this storyline due to his distinctive perspective. The producer’s remarks underscore this idea, implying a realistic portrayal for The Penguin in the narrative. Lauren LeFranc reinforces this by stating that viewers can expect a very earthbound tale about The Penguin.
Instead, let me express it this way: Gotham, in my opinion, holds intrigue that merits further exploration. It would be fascinating to open new doors within this city and venture through them to discover what lies beyond.
Apart from the former “Impulse” producer, the sentiment is shared by Matt Reeves, one of the executive producers for the upcoming limited series. He recently discussed this with SFX and elaborated on the reasoning behind their decision to exclude the towering do-gooder from the storyline. According to Reeves’ perspective:
As a gamer, I’m not getting the sense that something crucial is absent. Instead, it feels like an expansion of what already exists at its core. We’re diving into the world of Batman, but this time we’re exploring a different path. The shadows of Batman and the Riddler loom large, as do all the events from the last movie. They set the tone, they guide us, and they’re the starting point for our journey ahead.
In a similar vein, both Lauren LeFranc and Matt Reeves have expressed fervent views against featuring Batman in the series. While some might concur with them and others may not, their reasoning strikes me as valid, and I’ll share a couple of points that make it so.
Here’s Why I Agree With The Penguin EPs’ Decision To Not Include The Dark Knight
I often wondered if the World’s Greatest Detective, aka Batman, could make an appearance on The Penguin show. After rewatching The Batman recently, it certainly crossed my mind whether he would appear in this series or not. While it’d be exciting to see him again, I think it’s better if he stays absent for this particular storyline. Just as Lauren LeFranc pointed out, Bruce Wayne’s adventures offer a unique perspective of Gotham (whether from a bird or bat’s view). This time, it seems more fitting for the audience to follow the streets and track Oz’s journey. Exploring the crime boss’ perspective could add an intriguing twist and reinforce aspects of this universe that have already been set up.
Apologies if my casting seemed like it might have gone to someone who bore a stronger resemblance to the iconic character, the Penguin: Colin Farrell Responds to Critics Over His Role Against Bigger Actors
Furthermore, Matt Reeves noted that Batman’s influence looms significantly within the series, due to his heroic deeds in the movie. Primarily, he rescued Gotham from the Riddler’s schemes and has undeniably cemented his role as the city’s protector. Consequently, it’s likely that discussions about him will arise during the miniseries. If Oz mentions him, I imagine any comments made won’t be overly favorable, considering their previous encounter resulted in Oz being left bound after an interrogation.
Essentially, it’s not crucial for Bats or Bruce Wayne to appear in the series The Penguin. If anyone is disappointed by their absence, they shouldn’t worry too much. This is because there’s still a possibility that some familiar faces from this same universe might reappear instead.
What Other Notable Characters Could Reappear On The Penguin?
In the movie “The Batman,” several distinctive characters were introduced that could seamlessly blend into this specific narrative. One such character is James Gordon, portrayed by Jeffrey Wright, who stands out as one of the few honest cops in the city. His latest encounter with Oz (perhaps during the mentioned interrogation) has only intensified Gordon’s disdain for Cobblepot. I, for one, would be intrigued to witness these characters interact again. Another character worth mentioning is Jayme Lawson as Mayor Bella Reál of Gotham, who was left recuperating from a gunshot wound at the end of Matt Reeves’ 2022 production. It could be fascinating to see her role unfold further in the story.
Transitioning towards less pleasant aspects of this world, lesser characters such as the twin bouncers at the Iceberg Lounge (portrayed by Charlie and Max Carver) might fit perfectly here. Additionally, it would be intriguing if John Tuturro reappeared in his role as Carmine Falcone. Although he was killed during the film before this series, his return through flashbacks could be plausible, particularly since his children play significant roles in this season.
Regardless of whether these scenarios don’t materialize, I’m confident that Colin Farrell and The Penguin’s ensemble will undoubtedly captivate audiences with their appeal. Furthermore, while a Batman appearance might not be planned, rest assured that the series will pave the way for The Batman – Part II.
Top subscribers will be able to watch “The Penguin” when it airs on the platform on September 19 at 9 p.m. Eastern Time, as part of the 2024 TV schedule. Following this, it will have its HBO premiere on September 29 at 9 p.m. Eastern Time.
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2024-09-01 01:37