The Batman Universe returns, featuring Gotham’s criminal underworld in Craig Zobel’s spin-off TV series, starring Colin Farrell.
Batman’s universe has reappeared again. Despite being one of many DC Comics’ characters, it’s the only one that can be adapted seamlessly to the silver screen.
This is largely due to the Dark Knight’s mostly grounded rogues gallery. So much so, that the producers behind ‘The Batman’ (2022) decided to pursue a television series for HBO Max – ‘The Penguin’.
The director, Craig Zobel, rubbed many a fan the wrong way when he said his production crew “felt Cobblepot wasn’t a real person’s name” and that it was okay because it was “…comic books for kids” when they first made their appearance.
What’s The Plot?
The show follows events after the movie starring Robert Pattinson, in which Oswald Cobblepot (Colin Farrell) seeks to gain control of Gotham City.
With Carmine Falcone gone, his son—Alberto—takes up the mantle of crime boss. After visiting his heir’s home, Oz Cobb (as he’s now called) murders him out of disrespect. This catalyses a road of revenge, crookery and power grabs following the vacuum left by the city’s former mafia boss.
What’s It Like?
Season One, Episode One titled ‘After Hours’, recaps events from the film, and sets up expectations. Without the world’s greatest detective, it really does feel like a watered down Sopranos. Farrell’s depiction of the waddling crime boss is excellent, completely with blatting demeanour, but it’s hard to get past the fact that there isn’t much at stake.
Unless a curveball is thrown, Penguin is guaranteed to return in part two of the caped crusader’s story. So, what happens here is anyone’s guess, but there doesn’t appear to be much risk for Penguello. However, it will be interesting to see Zobel’s take on the DC villain.
Screenplays aside, the cinematography offers a striking insight into the world of Gotham, shedding light on another side of its murky area code. It’s a fun watch, and may tie fans over until the Warner Bros sequel is released.
Continuing the story where Matt Reeves left off, it feels like everything remains intact leaving us wondering if the city’s protector will make an appearance.
When Will Episode Two Air?
Episode two, ‘Inside Man’, is scheduled to air in the UK September 30th 2024 at 2AM.
The United States will get it a day earlier, where it will premiere at 9PM Eastern and 6PM Pacific time.
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