The Penguin – Episode 1 Review: A Dark Dive into Gotham’s Underworld
The much-anticipated The Penguin series, set in Matt Reeves’ gritty Batman universe, opens with a bang in its first episode. Following the events of The Batman, we find Oswald Cobb (played by Colin Farrell) navigating the power vacuum left by Falcone's death. Gotham is reeling from the catastrophic flood orchestrated by the Riddler, and the city's criminal underworld is more chaotic than ever.
A New Kind of Penguin
Farrell’s portrayal of the Penguin is as compelling as ever. Gone is the polished, aristocratic version of the character from other adaptations; this Penguin is grittier, more grounded, and more human. His connection to Gotham’s underworld feels earned, and he’s a man on the rise, willing to get his hands dirty to solidify his place in this crumbling city. His conversations with the late Falcone’s son, Alberto, and other crime figures set the tone for the season—ruthless power struggles and complex character dynamics will be at the forefront.
We’re also introduced to Victor Aguilar, a young thief played by Renzi Feliz, whom Penguin takes under his wing. Their dynamic promises to add depth to the show, exploring not only Penguin’s rise but also the lengths he’ll go to build loyalty and trust within his growing empire. Penguin’s methodical yet pragmatic approach to disposing of a body in this episode shows just how dangerous he can be without leaning into cartoonish villainy.
Sofia Falcone and Gotham’s Power Struggle
Cristin Milioti’s introduction as Sofia Falcone is a standout moment. Her cold, calculating demeanor is chilling, and her presence adds a new layer of tension to the power dynamics. Her ruthless efficiency and willingness to challenge Penguin makes her a force to be reckoned with in Gotham’s crime world. The brewing rivalry between Penguin and Sofia sets up a thrilling conflict, one that will undoubtedly explode as the season progresses.
The show explores fear—one of Batman’s core themes—in unique ways. It’s clear that every character in Gotham, including Penguin, Sofia, and the other criminal figures, is motivated by fear: fear of failure, fear of irrelevance, and fear of losing control in a city that thrives on chaos.
Penguin’s Rise and the Influence of Gotham
Throughout the episode, we see how Penguin’s drive is not just about amassing power, but also about earning respect from Gotham’s criminals. His interaction with the Salvatore family, and the ensuing drama with Sofia Falcone, pushes him closer to the mobster he aspires to be. Unlike other versions of the character, this Penguin didn’t grow up in wealth—his rise feels gritty and hard-earned, making him a more complex and relatable villain.
The relationship with his mother is also telling. Reminiscent of Tony Soprano’s dynamic with his mother, Penguin’s bond with his own mom adds depth to his character. She knows exactly who her son is, and that acknowledgment fuels his ambition. He’s driven by the fear of failure, not only for himself but for his family.
The Theme of Fear in Gotham
One of the most fascinating aspects of this episode is how it digs into fear’s influence on Gotham’s residents. In the absence of Batman, Penguin and other villains weaponize fear for their own gain. This is one of the first live-action depictions that shows how Gotham’s criminal underworld is ruled not by brute force, but by fear. It’s a powerful reminder that Batman’s impact on the city is far-reaching—even when he’s not on-screen, his presence looms large over Gotham’s fate.
Final Thoughts: A Promising Start
The first episode of The Penguin offers a rich and layered look into Gotham’s crime-filled streets, with Colin Farrell delivering an impressive performance as Oswald Cobblepot. From the chaotic aftermath of the flood to the intricate power struggles between Gotham’s crime families, the show promises a thrilling ride for fans. With a talented supporting cast, including Cristin Milioti’s chilling Sofia Falcone, the show dives deep into fear, ambition, and the cost of power.
If the pilot is anything to go by, The Penguin is set to be a standout entry in the Batman universe. There’s plenty of intrigue to unravel, and with only eight episodes planned, it will be interesting to see how this series balances its many plot threads—Penguin’s rise to power, the brewing gang wars, and the shadow of Batman that looms over Gotham.