The Penguin demonstrates a surprising indifference to its connection to the Batman universe. The series appears to prioritize a mafia narrative over traditional comic-book elements, offering a Gotham City rendition reminiscent of mafia dramas rather than superhero tales. This divergence may frustrate some viewers while appealing to others, especially given the recent overwhelming trend of superhero franchises packed with references and Easter eggs.
The show centers on Colin Farrell’s profoundly transformed portrayal of Oz “The Penguin” Cobblepot, set shortly after the events of 2022’s The Batman. A montage at the beginning recaps the situation in Matt Reeves’ Gotham, indicating turmoil following a Riddler-driven disaster that has devastated the city and left its resources depleted. With mob boss Carmine Falcone deceased, the underworld is left in chaos.
Interestingly, Batman and Bruce Wayne are absent from the plot, as Gotham’s criminals do not seem concerned with the figure who typically battles crime in the city. This creative choice raises some eyebrows since the protagonist of The Batman was established as a known figure in Gotham, yet the show chooses to focus solely on the criminal elements without him. The Penguin includes nods to its comic-book roots, such as a drug trade modelled around “drops” and references to Arkham Asylum, yet characters move past these reminders as if they are unaware of the comic-book context.
Historically, many influential Batman comics have been grounded in crime narratives, like Frank Miller’s Batman: Year One or Jeph Loeb’s The Long Halloween, leading to the possibility of a crime-focused story without the superhero. The Penguin leans toward this direction, portraying Oz as a cunning figure eager to ascend the criminal hierarchy. Though he lacks respect and skills, his ambitions are fueled by frustration over his overlooked potential. Batman may have indirectly provided opportunity for Oz, which he is determined to seize.
The show’s depth extends to its exploration of gangster mythos, paralleling the allure of superhero stories. A standout character is Sofia Falcone, portrayed by Cristin Milioti, who emerges as a formidable contender in Oz’s world. Recently released from Arkham, she seeks to carve out her own criminal empire. Her character embodies resilience against a patriarchal system that initially aims to overshadow her ambitions.
Spanning eight episodes, The Penguin scrutinizes both Oz and Sofia, delving into their psychological struggles and motivations. This character development enriches the narrative, drawing comparisons to The Sopranos, as it reflects on the origins of individuals like Oz and Sofia and the emotional needs shaped by their criminal surroundings.
While there are stark contrasts between the previous era of prestige TV and the current landscape dominated by IP tie-ins, The Penguin stands out through its craftsmanship and engaging storytelling. It explores the Batman lore in a way that appeals to both new audiences and long-time fans, effectively navigating the complexities of its intertwined narratives.