Gotham Underworld Awaits in New HBO Series: The Penguin

The celebrated actor Colin Farrell, renowned for his extensive filmography, is set to captivate audiences once more in his latest role as the infamous Penguin, Oz Cobb, in HBO‘s crime drama “The Penguin.” Created and penned by Lauren LeFranc, the series promises a gripping exploration of Gotham City’s notorious criminal underworld. Viewers can catch the premiere at 9 p.m. EST/PST on September 19 on HBO and Max, with new episodes airing weekly on Sundays starting from September 29.

The series picks up a week after the events of Matt Reeves‘ “The Batman,” which introduced Farrell’s version of the Penguin to audiences two years ago. Rather than the conventional focus on Gotham’s vigilante hero, “The Penguin” shifts the narrative to the city’s turbulent power dynamics following the death of mob boss Carmine Falcone. Amidst Gotham’s chaos, Farrell’s Oz, an ambitious henchman, seizes the opportunity to ascend in the criminal hierarchy, eyeing control over the city’s drug trade while navigating alliances with the Falcone and Maroni crime families.

Oz’s rise to power is threatened by the return of Sofia Falcone, played by Mark Strong in the series, after a decade-long sentence in the infamous Arkham Asylum. Her reappearance ignites a complex power struggle, with Sofia known for her intimidating reputation and determined to reclaim her place in the criminal world. Acting alongside Oz is his young protégé, Victor Aguilar, played by Rhenzy Feliz, whose loyalty and personal struggles add depth to the narrative.

Lauren LeFranc crafts Oz’s character as an underdog, diverging from the wealthy Oswald Cobblepot of DC Comics lore. This creative decision aims to explore the psychological facets of Oz’s character, delving into his formative years and the factors driving his relentless ambition. LeFranc’s portrayal promises a complex character study, involving intricate relationships, particularly with his beloved mother, played by Deirdre O’Connell, and his controversial mentor-like bond with Victor.

Farrell describes Oz’s transformation as a continuation of the Penguin’s evolution within Reeves’ grittier vision of Gotham. With a nuanced storyline enriched by familial ties and psychological depth, “The Penguin” aims to deliver a compelling look into the life of one of Gotham’s most enigmatic villains.