The season finale of HBO’s The Penguin titled “A Great or Little Thing” delves into the complex character of Oz, played by Colin Farrell, as he narrows his focus on his self-interest amid Gotham City’s treacherous criminal landscape. Unlike typical narratives that invite audiences to root for the anti-hero, this show portrays Oz’s ascent to power as a grim tale devoid of traditional heroism.
The evolution of Oz throughout the eight episodes introduces us to Vic, portrayed by Rhenzy Feliz, who is mentored by Oz but ultimately meets a tragic fate. Despite their bond, Oz’s love for Vic is seen as a weakness. The finale reveals Oz’s chilling decision to kill Vic once he expresses familial affection towards him, showcasing the ruthless lengths he will go for self-preservation and power. This heartbreaking moment emphasizes the show’s underlying theme of tragedy, as highlighted by creator Lauren LeFranc, who notes that Oz’s choice embodies a stark embrace of his monstrous nature.
In a concurrent storyline, Sofia Falcone, played by Cristin Milioti, finds herself back in Arkham Asylum, but not without a potential ally in Dr. Rush. A cliffhanger emerges as Selina Kyle, the alter ego of Catwoman portrayed by Zoë Kravitz in The Batman, appears set to entwine with Sofia’s narrative, hinting at future alliances and conflicts.
The finale cleverly sets up potential future encounters with Batman. Oz’s new position of power within both Gotham’s underbelly and city governance could lead to significant clashes as he continues to avoid legitimate scrutiny. With references to anti-corruption efforts and the ominous Bat-signal illuminating the Gotham skyline, viewers are left with a palpable sense of anticipation about the characters’ fates in this dark universe.
Overall, The Penguin offers a fresh take on a well-known character, steering clear of traditional sympathetic portrayals in favor of a raw, unforgiving narrative. This shift allows for a thought-provoking exploration of morality within the realm of comic book villains.
A hopeful spin on this dark journey is that as characters like Selina Kyle and Sofia Falcone are introduced, there may still be opportunities for redemption and complex alliances that could redefine their paths in future installments. The intricate dynamics and potential for character development create an engaging tableau for fans waiting to see how the story unfolds beyond the finale.