The Penguin Season 1 Review: Rising from the Depths: 'The Penguin' Unravels Gotham's Chaotic Underworld

HBO Max’s The Penguin takes us back to Gotham, right after the catastrophic events of The Batman (2022). The city’s flood has left chaos in its wake, and no one is quicker to seize the opportunity than Oswald Cobblepot, played by Colin Farrell. As the criminal landscape shifts, Oswald is determined to rise to the top and make a name for himself in the power vacuum left behind. However, standing in his way are two of Gotham’s major crime families—the Falcones, led by Alberto Falcone (Michael Zegen), and the Maronis, led by the formidable Salvatore Maroni (Clancy Brown) and his equally dangerous wife, Nadia (Shohreh Aghdashloo).

However, it’s his unexpected mentorship of Victor (Rhenzy Feliz), a young man who lost everything to the disaster, that adds a poignant layer to the narrative. Victor initially joins Oswald out of sheer necessity, driven into the shadows of Gotham’s criminal
activities to survive. Unlike typical partnerships in crime dramas, Oswald’s interaction with Victor evolves into something resembling a twisted father figure role. Despite Victor’s reluctance and visible discomfort with the criminal lifestyle, Oswald takes him under his wing, guiding him through the complexities of Gotham’s underworld.

This mentorship, however, is far from conventional. Oswald’s motivations are murky—his mentoring interwoven with manipulation as he grooms Victor to serve his own ambitious goals. This creates a fraught relationship filled with tension and unpredictability, as Victor grapples with his dependency on Oswald while navigating his own moral compass. The dynamic between them adds a rich, emotional depth to the series, highlighting the complexities of their characters and their intertwined fates in Gotham’s dark alleys.

The stakes are raised with the return of Sofia Falcone, played by the fierce Cristin Milioti. Sofia, having spent the last ten years in Arkham Asylum for a series of gruesome murders, comes back with a vengeance, threatening to upend Oswald’s plans. Cristin Milioti brings a compelling blend of unpredictability and ruthlessness to the role, giving Sofia an edge that makes her a formidable force in Gotham’s shifting power dynamic.

Colin Farrell’s performance as Oswald Cobblepot is nothing short of transformative. The layers of makeup and prosthetics are stunning, but it’s his ability to dive into the character’s raw, messy emotions that really shines. Oswald is ruthless, but there’s a fragility beneath his ambition—a man who wants power but can’t escape his insecurities. Farrell plays him as both tragic and dangerous, balancing moments of rage with vulnerability, making Oswald feel like a real product of Gotham’s harsh environment.

What sets Farrell’s performance apart isn’t just the visual transformation—it’s the way he moves and speaks. His portrayal of Penguin has a swagger that feels natural, yet menacing. His thick accent and deliberate movements, especially the way he walks, give the character an unmistakable presence. It adds to the gritty, mob-like atmosphere of the show, which feels like a crime drama with a distinct Gotham twist. Farrell’s take on Oswald might feel exaggerated, as his Penguin is larger-than-life, full of bold gestures and outsized emotions. However, it’s exactly this dramatic energy that makes the character so gripping. The intensity might not be for everyone, but there’s no denying Farrell’s commitment to the role. I’d be genuinely surprised if it doesn’t land him an Emmy nomination.

One of the standout relationships in the series is Oswald’s complicated bond with his mother, played by Deirdre O’Connell. Their scenes together are filled with an emotional charge that cuts through the violence and crime, giving the show a personal, more intimate layer. The family dynamics provide a stark contrast to the otherwise cold, calculating world Oswald inhabits.

While Farrell’s performance may divide some audiences, there’s no question that The Penguin is a must-watch for those looking for a raw, gritty dive into Gotham’s criminal underworld.

The show thrives on its blend of intense character development, high-stakes power struggles, and a constant feeling of danger lurking around every corner. With exceptional performances across the board—especially from Farrell and Milioti—the series stands out as a fresh, character-driven look at Gotham’s darker side. The balance between her fierce ambition and vulnerability makes her a compelling character, and she absolutely deserves recognition as a supporting actress. Both characters are given richly developed backstories, allowing viewers to momentarily feel sympathy for them, only to be reminded of their villainous nature.

This limited series will span eight episodes starting on September 19, 2024. This is definitely one of the standout shows of the year, blending drama and crime in a way that’s sure to keep viewers hooked every week.

About the Author – Leslie M

A penguin lover who loves to watch tv and movies, I spend my days immersed in sports, blending my love for numbers with a deep appreciation for storytelling. Outside of work, you’ll find me playing sports, catching up on the latest films and series, and enjoying quality time with my family. My life is a balance of data-driven analysis and heartfelt enjoyment entertainment.

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