“The Penguin,” starring Colin Farrell, is a masterful crime drama that has quickly captivated viewers with its distinctive take on one of DC Comic’s most iconic villains.
Set in the murky, criminal underworld of Gotham, the show takes a gritty, almost noir-inspired approach, elevating it far beyond what many might expect from a comic book-based series.
Visually, “The Penguin” is nothing short of stunning.
Each episode feels more like a full-length film rather than part of a television series. The meticulous lighting and lowlight compositions create an atmosphere that is both tense and immersive, pulling viewers into the shadows of Gotham with an unflinching grip.
Director Craig Zobel’s expert use of camera work showcases a level of craftsmanship that’s rare in modern television (especially in an era with a bevy of superhero movies.) His vision of Gotham as a city teetering on the edge of ruin is palpable in every frame, from the smallest character interactions to the grander, cataclysmic set pieces.
The cast, too, is exceptional. Colin Farrell’s portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot, aka The Penguin, is nuanced and multi-dimensional, reminding viewers that this isn’t just a caricatured villain with a monocle, cane and top hat. Farrell portrays Cobblepot as a deeply troubled man grappling with his ambitions, his weaknesses and the chaos engulfing him.
Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone is a revelation. She infuses her character with a complexity that transcends the typical mob boss daughter trope, making Sofia a force to be reckoned with. Milioti’s performance imbues her with both vulnerability and a fierce will, making her presence pivotal. The evolving relationship between her and Cobblepot adds emotional weight and intrigue.
Then, there’s Victor Aguilar, portrayed by Rhenzy Feliz. Played with a magnetic charm, Victor quickly became a fan favorite. His affable nature paired with an air of mystery has viewers hungry to learn more about his past, his motivations and his place in Gotham’s underworld. Every episode peels back another layer, adding depth to a character that could have easily been sidelined as comic relief but instead enriches the narrative.
Fans of classic crime dramas will recognize clear influences from iconic works like “The Godfather,” “A Bronx Tale” and “The Sopranos.” Yet, these nods never feel forced or derivative. Conversely, they seamlessly blend into the fabric of the story, paying homage to these cinematic masterpieces while giving “The Penguin” its own distinct voice.
Despite its many strengths, “The Penguin” isn’t without its minor drawbacks.
One recurring issue lies in the series’ relentless focus on the night. Of course, Gotham’s criminal underworld thrives after dark; it’s no surprise that much of the action takes place under the cover of shadows.
However, this over-reliance on nighttime settings sometimes feels monotonous. While the lighting is executed flawlessly, there’s a lingering wish for more balance — moments where the grimness of Gotham can be contrasted with the light of day, offering viewers a fuller picture of the city.
At its mid-season mark, “The Penguin” has firmly established itself as one of the standout crime dramas of the year. Its gripping performances, atmospheric visuals and carefully crafted nods to classic cinema all come together to create a rich, immersive experience.
If you have yet to see “The Penguin,” I suggest you start it soon. The crime drama is available on HBO Max.
Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, click here.
Noral Parham is the multi-media & senior sports reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder, one of the oldest Black publications in the country. Parham has worked with various leagues to provide a diverse perspective in sports, including the Big Ten, Big East, IHSAA, IndyCar, MLB, NHRA, NFL, NBA, WNBA, WWE and the Olympics. Prior to joining the Recorder, Parham served as the community advocate of the MLK Center in Indianapolis and senior copywriter for an e-commerce and marketing firm in Denver.
