If These Dark Alleyways Could Speak: The Tales of Gotham Unveiled

Image: Courtesy of HBO Max / DC Comics

The Penguin takes audiences deep into the dark, corrupt heart of Gotham City, presenting a gritty and compelling spin-off from Matt Reeves’ The Batman (2022). With Colin Farrell reprising his role as Oswald Cobblepot, the series dives into the rise of one of Gotham's most infamous crime lords, offering a rich narrative tapestry filled with power struggles, betrayal, and ambition. Farrell’s transformative performance is bolstered by a stellar supporting cast and nuanced storytelling, making The Penguin a standout addition to the Gotham-verse.

The Batman (2022), Image: Warner Bros. / DC Comics
Streaming on Prime Video

Farrell delivers a mesmerizing performance, fully embodying Oswald Cobblepot’s grotesque charm and calculated ambition. His physical transformation, aided by groundbreaking prosthetics and makeup, is astonishing. However, it’s Farrell’s ability to infuse the character with a mixture of humour, menace, and vulnerability that truly sets this portrayal apart.

The series peels back the layers of Cobblepot’s psyche, revealing the insecurities and traumas that drive his ruthless climb up Gotham’s criminal hierarchy. Farrell’s portrayal of Oswald is complex and magnetic, transforming a character who has often been seen as a caricature into a deeply human—and terrifying—figure.

The supporting cast shines, adding depth and tension to the narrative. Cristin Milioti delivers a standout performance as Sofia Falcone, the cunning and sharp daughter of the late Carmine Falcone. Sofia serves as both a rival and uneasy ally to Cobblepot, and the dynamic between Farrell and Milioti crackles with intensity. Their relationship is a fascinating exploration of power dynamics and manipulation, with each character vying for dominance in a city descending further into chaos.

Rhenzy Feliz brings a fresh perspective as a young, ambitious associate of Cobblepot, while Clancy Brown’s chilling portrayal of Salvatore Maroni looms large over the series. Maroni’s presence underscores the brutal realities of Gotham’s power struggles, as the city’s crime families battle for control in the wake of Falcone’s death.

Much like its predecessor, The Penguin thrives on atmosphere. The rain-drenched streets, the dimly lit back alleys, and the shadowy skylines create a Gotham that feels alive with danger and corruption. The show’s noir-inspired visuals are meticulously crafted, amplifying the tension and enhancing the morally ambiguous world in which these characters operate.

The pacing is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold with a simmering intensity. The show balances explosive moments of violence with quieter, character-driven scenes that reveal the humanity—or lack thereof—of its characters. This slow-burn approach allows the audience to become fully immersed in Gotham’s treacherous underworld.

At its core, The Penguin is a story about power—how it’s gained, how it’s wielded, and how it corrupts. Oswald Cobblepot’s journey is not just about becoming the kingpin of Gotham’s underworld; it’s also about grappling with his own identity. The series explores how Oswald’s physical deformities and outsider status fuel his ambition, painting him as both a product and perpetrator of Gotham’s broken system.

The show also delves into themes of loyalty and betrayal, highlighting the thin line between ally and enemy in a world where everyone is out for themselves. As characters like Sofia Falcone and Salvatore Maroni clash with Cobblepot, the series examines how personal ambition often trumps collective loyalty, reinforcing the dog-eat-dog nature of Gotham’s criminal underworld.

While The Penguin excels in character development and atmosphere, its narrative occasionally struggles to juggle its many subplots. Some storylines feel underexplored, leaving viewers wanting more clarity or closure. Additionally, the show’s slow pacing might not appeal to those expecting fast-paced, action-heavy storytelling.

The Penguin is a triumph for Colin Farrell, who delivers one of the most layered performances in the comic-book genre. With its stellar cast, atmospheric visuals, and thought-provoking themes, the series is a bold, character-driven exploration of Gotham’s criminal underworld. By delving into the psyche of Oswald Cobblepot and the power dynamics of the city, The Penguin transcends its genre roots to become a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and Gotham’s dark mythology.

Catch this noir-inspired series on Showmax.