The Penguin episode 1 review

The Penguin episode 1 review

"Between this and the Joker we know we need more DC content based on the villains for a change"

5/5 Reviewed by Adi Mursec

Are you bored of superhero movies? I’ve felt it recently which makes this series so welcome right now.

HBO Max’s The Penguin series has burst onto the scene with an electrifying first episode that sets a new standard for DC storytelling. From the opening moments, it’s clear that this is more than just a spin-off—it’s a dark, character-driven exploration that rivals some of the best crime dramas. Anchored by Colin Farrell’s transformative performance as Oswald Cobblepot, this first episode is a gritty, slow-burn triumph.

Farrell, who dazzled in The Batman (2022), somehow manages to elevate his portrayal of Cobblepot even further here. His Penguin is a brooding figure, both ruthless and surprisingly vulnerable. The creative team, led by director Matt Reeves and showrunner Lauren LeFranc, masterfully captures the underbelly of Gotham City—its corruption, desperation, and the fierce struggle for power. This portrayal feels more intimate, yet more dangerous, than anything we’ve seen in Gotham before.

The production design is breathtaking, immersing the audience in Gotham’s noir-inspired world, with every rain-soaked street and shadowy alley contributing to the mood. The cinematography and score are perfectly in sync, building an atmosphere that is oppressive yet compelling, keeping viewers glued to every frame.

But what truly makes The Penguin shine is the writing. The dialogue is sharp, the pacing is deliberate yet never dull, and the plot hooks you instantly. This is a series that isn’t in a rush to show Cobblepot at his peak—rather, it relishes in the details of his rise, humanizing him while showing the monstrous path he’s treading.

It’s no exaggeration to say this is the best DC production since Joker (2019). The depth of character, combined with an unflinching look at the criminal world of Gotham, makes this first episode a game-changer. The creative team behind The Penguin deserves immense praise for crafting a show that’s not just another superhero property, but a deep, psychological dive into one of DC’s most complex villains. This is the kind of television that demands to be watched—and if the rest of the series is anything like the first episode, The Penguin may very well become a benchmark for DC’s future.

Posted by Adi Mursec on October 5, 2024

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