By Max Rekela Jasper
March 2025
When the first episodes of The Penguin aired, Penguin actor Colin Farrell warned audiences that by the finale, they’d loathe his character. Boy, was he spot on.
What makes The Penguin such a gripping and thrilling series is its unwavering ability to engage viewers from the get-go. Despite initial doubts about the appeal of a supporting character from Matt Reeves’ The Batman, the show captivated audiences without a single dull moment. Every scene felt purposefully crafted, offering deeper insights into the characters.
Oz Cobb, in particular, is brought to life with meticulous care, as this series provides a rich backstory that reveals Cobb’s cunning nature, despite his seemingly unassuming demeanor. While previous portrayals of The Penguin, such as Burgess Meredith’s comic-accurate version in the 1960s TV show, Danny DeVito’s quirky take in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns, and Robin Lord Taylor’s complex portrayal in the TV show Gotham, each had their unique flair, Colin Farrell’s interpretation stands out for its realism. Farrell’s Penguin is a borderline psychopath, single-mindedly focused on his self-interest. His ruthlessness hinted at in The Batman through his interactions with Carmine Falcone, becomes fully apparent in this series.
Cobb’s relationship with his mother, played by Deirdre O’Connell, adds another layer of complexity. He craves her validation rather than her love, highlighted poignantly when he dances with Carmen Ejogo’s Eve Karlo, Cobb’s lady friend, dressed in his mother’s clothes, during the finale. Oz Cobb is both clever and pitiable—a man whose need for validation drives his every action, establishing him as a formidable threat in Gotham. The conclusion of the series solidifies his transformation into the Penguin, and I eagerly await his role in The Batman Part II.
One standout character from the series is Sofia Falcone, portrayed by Cristin Milioti. Her character, molded by her father’s legacy, endured a decade in Arkham for crimes she didn’t commit, only to emerge despised and feared. Sofia’s story is a heartbreaking tale of injustice and resilience, leaving me hopeful for her eventual revenge against Cobb. A letter from her half-sister hints at her return, adding a glimmer of hope to her tragic arc.
Victor Aguliar, an original character played by Rhenzy Feliz, puzzled me initially. His role became clear in the final episode—he was a testament to Cobb’s ruthlessness. Despite his loyalty, Aguliar meets a tragic end, demonstrating that nobody is safe from Cobb’s ambition.
In summary, The Penguin is a five-star show that brilliantly extends The Batman universe while remaining a strong standalone masterpiece. With its unexpected twists and engaging storytelling, it keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. I eagerly await the continuation in The Batman Part II, set for release in 2026.
On a lighter note, my dad spotted Cristin Milioti at a pub in Ireland with Domhnall Gleeson in September 2023, during the SAG strike—a fun tidbit while she was on a break from filming this incredible series.