The Penguin Review

By Ben Wright (@Iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)

This review is spoiler-free.

The Penguin is, without a doubt, one of the most exhilarating and richly crafted TV series of 2024. From its gripping storytelling to its extraordinary performances, it delivers a viewing experience that is nothing short of a triumph.

One of the show’s greatest strengths lies in its stellar cast, which I will dive into shortly. But equally impressive is the exceptional writing that serves as the backbone of this series. Showrunner Lauren LeFranc has done an outstanding job of guiding and nurturing the vision for The Penguin. Along with the talented writing team, she has crafted one of the most compelling and unforgettable TV experiences of the year. The show is nothing less than “must-see television,” with each episode offering a powerful dose of entertainment that is as addictive as the drug Bliss featured in the story. The series is a thrilling rollercoaster of emotional highs and gut-wrenching lows, offering suspense, heartbreak, and moments of sheer exhilaration. But what makes it truly remarkable is the way the journey always feels earned, with each episode building toward something even bigger. The writing – whether in the overarching plot or the dialogue between characters – is a masterclass in screenwriting.

As for Colin Farrell’s portrayal of Oz aka The Penguin, he has taken what was a small, supporting role in The Batman and expanded it in ways that are nothing short of remarkable. Farrell’s take on the character is a revelation. In this series, The Penguin is no longer a secondary figure – he is front and centre, and Farrell’s performance brings him to life in utterly captivating ways. As an audience, we find ourselves strangely rooting for him despite knowing full well he’s a deeply flawed, even despicable character. His lies, manipulation, and ruthless actions might make him a villain, but Farrell’s nuanced performance allows us to sympathise with him, if only momentarily. The brilliance of the writing is that, even as we’re drawn into his story, we are aware of the inevitable betrayal that will come – by the end of the season, we realise that, despite everything, The Penguin is a bad guy, and that’s exactly how it should be. The show takes us deep into his psyche, and by the finale, we understand him more than we ever thought possible, yet we are not fooled by his charm. That complexity is what makes The Penguin such a standout series.

Cristin Milioti’s performance as Sofia is equally stellar. She too walks a fine line between sympathy and disdain, and while we can empathise with her in certain moments, she is by no means an angel. The subtlety in her character’s journey mirrors that of The Penguin, as we are constantly torn between rooting for her and recognising her darker side. This blurring of moral lines, where the audience struggles to reconcile their affection for these deeply flawed characters, is what makes the series so engrossing.

When it comes to the supporting cast, it’s hard to understate just how brilliant they all are. Rhenzy Feliz (Vic) and Deirdre O’Connell both deliver standout performances that elevate the series to another level. O’Connell, in particular, is a revelation – her portrayal of a character with such emotional depth and complexity is truly mesmerising. If the show were to centre on either of their characters, they would have no trouble carrying the weight of the story on their own. Beyond them, the likes of Clancy Brown (Salvatore), Shohreh Aghdashloo (Nadia), Theo Rossi (Dr. Rush), and Carmen Ejogo (Eve) each bring their unique depth to the table, creating a vibrant ensemble that brings the world of The Penguin to life. Even in smaller, one-off roles, like Marie Botha (Magpie) and Mark Strong (Carmine Falcone), the performances leave a lasting impact, demonstrating the exceptional calibre of the entire cast. The result is a series where every character, big or small, contributes meaningfully to the story’s success.

Visually, The Penguin effortlessly integrates itself into the universe of The Batman (2022). The aesthetic, tone, and world-building are seamlessly consistent, creating a Gotham that feels lived-in and authentic, with just the right balance of gritty realism and atmospheric style. From a production standpoint, The Penguin never feels out of place alongside its cinematic counterpart, and I expect this continuity to continue in The Batman II. The cinematography is equally striking, beautifully capturing the dark, moody atmosphere of Gotham while still offering stunning visuals that are impactful without overwhelming the story.

The Penguin is a phenomenal television experience, one that combines stunning writing, captivating performances, and immersive world-building to create something truly special. This series is a must-watch for anyone who loves character-driven stories with emotional depth and moral complexity. With its flawless execution across every department, The Penguin has set the bar high for television in 2024. And if nothing else, Colin Farrell’s incredible performance has made me care about The Penguin – a character I never thought I would. That in itself is a massive achievement.