If you’re a fan of the Batman universe, you’re in for a treat with “The Penguin” a spin-off that gives us an up-close and personal look at one of Gotham’s most infamous villains. Colin Farrell is back as Oswald Cobblepot, and this time, he’s taking center stage in a series that’s dark, intense, and incredibly satisfying.
Gotham’s Underworld Like You’ve Never Seen It Before
Unlike the usual Batman stories, where the focus is on Bruce Wayne’s moral dilemmas and crime-fighting, “The Penguin” dives deep into Gotham’s criminal underbelly. The show picks up after The Batman movie, where Gotham is still reeling from the chaos caused by the Riddler. With the city in shambles, Oswald Cobblepot sees his opportunity to rise to power.
Colin Farrell, who wowed audiences in The Batman with his completely unrecognizable transformation, is back in full form. His performance as Cobblepot is raw, brutal, and oddly charismatic. This series gives him the space to really flesh out the character, showing us why The Penguin isn’t just a secondary villain he’s a force to be reckoned with.
Unapologetically Dark, and We Love It in The Penguin
Let’s get one thing straight The Penguin doesn’t hold back. It’s gritty, violent, and pulls you right into Gotham’s seedy underworld. If you enjoyed the moody, noir vibe of The Batman, you’re going to feel right at home here. But where the movie was focused on Batman’s inner struggles, this series is all about Cobble pot’s ruthless ambition.
From shady deals to brutal fights, the show doesn’t shy away from the darker side of Gotham. It’s intense and captivating exactly what you want from a story about one of the city’s most notorious criminals. And Colin Farrell nails it, portraying The Penguin as a cunning and ruthless mastermind, willing to do whatever it takes to seize power.
Oswald Cobblepot’s Rise to Power in The Penguin
One of the most satisfying parts of the show is watching Oswald Cobblepot’s transformation. He starts off as a disrespected mobster, but as the series progresses, we see him slowly climb the ranks to become the feared crime boss known as The Penguin. Farrell portrays this journey brilliantly, showing both his vulnerabilities and his relentless drive to succeed.
You can feel the tension in every decision he makes, every risky move he plays. And while his rise to power is the core storyline, the show also weaves in themes of loyalty, betrayal, and survival in Gotham’s cutthroat world.
Strong Supporting Cast and World-Building
It’s not just Colin Farrell who shines here the entire supporting cast brings depth to Gotham’s chaotic underworld. From corrupt officials to rival crime bosses, every character adds another layer to the story, making Gotham feel like a living, breathing, and deeply flawed city.
The world-building is top-notch too. Gotham’s grimy streets, shadowy alleys, and rain-soaked skyline set the perfect tone for the show. The cinematography captures the decay and danger of the city, making you feel like you’re right there in the middle of it all.
Final Thoughts: A Spin-Off Worth Watching
“The Penguin” isn’t just a Batman spin-off it’s a gripping, character-driven story that stands on its own. Colin Farrell delivers a powerful performance, bringing complexity and depth to a character who’s often overlooked. The show’s unapologetically dark tone, combined with the gritty portrayal of Gotham’s criminal world, makes it a must-watch for fans of both the Batman universe and crime dramas in general.
If you loved the dark atmosphere of “The Batman” and want more of Gotham’s underworld, “The Penguin” will not disappoint. It’s raw, intense, and, thanks to Colin Farrell’s commanding performance, incredibly satisfying.
Have you seen “The Penguin” yet? What do you think of Colin Farrell’s portrayal of Gotham’s notorious crime boss? Let us know in the comments!