The season finale of HBO’s “The Penguin,” titled “A Great or Little Thing,” concludes with a bold exploration of the anti-hero narrative and the deepening darkness of Colin Farrell’s character, Oswald Cobblepot. The show differentiates itself within the current landscape of comic book adaptations by presenting a protagonist whose journey is anything but heroic.
As we have witnessed over the course of eight episodes, Oz has navigated Gotham City’s treacherous criminal underbelly, mentoring Vic (Rhenzy Feliz) and facing off against formidable foes such as Sofia Falcone (Cristin Milioti) and Salvatore Maroni (Clancy Brown). However, the finale darkens the tone, revealing that Oz prioritizes his own survival above all else, including his relationships.
One pivotal moment comes when Oz decides to kill Vic after the young man expresses familial affection. This shocking betrayal illustrates the tragic evolution of Oz’s character, who ultimately chooses to embrace his monstrous nature rather than retain any compassion. In an interview, show creator Lauren LeFranc described this act not as a reflection of Vic’s failure but as Oz’s cold decision to “kill his own heart.”
The finale also introduces an intriguing cliffhanger involving Sofia Falcone, who finds herself back in Arkham Asylum but is supported by Dr. Rush, a character with feelings for her. Notably, a letter from Selina Kyle (a.k.a. Catwoman, played by Zoë Kravitz) promises potential developments in a shared storyline, deepening the connections within this universe.
As the season wraps up, viewers are left pondering when and how Batman will enter the fray. Oz’s ascent culminates with him taking a seat on the Gotham City council, which historically positions him for a future mayoral run—an avenue explored in past comics and films. The political landscape is ripe for corruption investigations, especially with the progressive Mayor Bella Reál (Jayme Lawson) on the scene, hinting at Oz’s looming challenges.
The finale’s last scene, highlighting the Bat-signal, serves as a reminder that while Oz might feel victorious now, the tale is far from over. The creative team behind the series leaves viewers with a sense of foreboding regarding the collision course between Oz and Batman, leaving room for exciting implications for the future.
In conclusion, “The Penguin” has successfully carved out a unique narrative within the comic book genre that challenges typical heroism, presenting a villain whose choices paint a tragic picture of ambition and moral decay. This thoughtful approach sets the stage for further exploration of character complexities, ultimately fostering hope that upcoming stories will continue to engage viewers in new and unexpected ways.