The Penguin (season 1)

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⭐8.5/10

There is nothing better than when you get an HBO adaptation of a property that you enjoy. I can't say I had any strong feelings towards this particular Batman villain, and can't say I was particularly optimistic for this show... but I have often said that the best part of Batman is that he exists in Gotham, and I will usually at least try anything made in the setting. I mean, I watched a bunch of seasons of the network show, I'm a pretty committed Gothamite. 

As far as adaptations, I think this is my sweet spot between hacky IP-exploitation and prestige TV. This isn't the CW's Gotham, and this also isn't The Sopranos. And that's okay with me! This is kinda what I wanted. Its got a high budget, some great writing, compelling drama, and a fabulous performance by Colin Farrell.

I also loved a lot of the side stuff. I, like everyone else, really enjoyed the Sofia arc. I thought episode 4 was pretty well a masterpiece, both super uncomfortable and quite satisfying. I love when the villain gets this level of attention and depth. Pretty great stuff from Cristin Militia. I was equally as impressed with Victor who is the guy who steals your heart. In fact, I think a big reason why this show is compelling is because the Penguin is sometimes nice to him which makes him a layered character. 

I was high on this show to start, just watching a competent, well-made show after Rings of Power, but then kinda soured a bit on it after episode 4. It starts to lean a little too much into comic-booky arcs in my opinion, just a little too much drama. But then the finale really goes out strong. Again, as I say in lots of reviews, it is hard to be shocked by anything in a post-Thrones world. This episode had 2 scenes that shocked me. I think one was a bit cheap and unearned, and didn't quite work for me. The second one was beautifully twisted and sickening. Glad they decided to go for it there. 

Good show. Not sure I'd say it's a great one, but I loved it. Not sure The Penguin needed his own show, but it did enough to justify its existence. 

I also love how The Penguin says "woik" for work. Gonna have to start saying it like that. Bless Colin Farrell.

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