Batman’s villainous arsenal includes not only Joker, Mr. Freeze, Two-Face, or Bane, but deep in the underworld, there is also Penguin. Compared to previous live-action versions, The Batman (2022) takes a new approach, portraying a thorny Penguin.

Although his screen time was not much, Colin Farrell’s role was well received by the audience, and Warner Bros. even green-lit the series The Penguin . Following the events of The Batman , the series follows Oswald “Oz” Cobb (Colin Farrell) as he builds his empire in Gotham.

The film attracts viewers with the cunning of Oz, a double agent who uses all “dirty tricks” to achieve his goals. Interestingly, Oz does not pursue money or power, what he wants is absolute respect and worship. Obsessed by this, Oz has to exclaim: Don’t you remember the feeling of being respected?

The Thirst of the ‘Penguin’ Villain

A week after the events of The Batman , Gotham City remains in turmoil and violence. The death of mob boss Carmine Falcon leaves his throne empty for many to see. As Batman predicted, the city still has many problems, but people have the right to hope for a better future, including Oswald “Oz” Cobb.

While rummaging through the former Gotham boss’s room, Oz is delighted to find valuable documents, which is when he encounters Alberto Falcone, Carmine’s son. The conversation comes to a standstill when Oz shoots Alberto down after being insulted. While disposing of the body, Oz meets Victor Aguilar, who is trying to steal his car parts. Through many trials, Oz sees potential in Victor and trains him to become a powerful assistant.

What Oz didn’t expect was Sofia Falcone (Cristin Milioti), a psychotic murderer and Carmine’s daughter. Using clever maneuvering, Oz gained Sofia’s trust. In the context of losing his brother, his uncle, and the Falcone gang taking control, Sofia accidentally became Oz’s puppet.

Oz shows himself to be a master manipulator who dares to dance among wolves. Photo: HBO Max .

On one hand, Oz flatters Sofia, convincing her to work independently, together fulfilling her younger brother’s unfinished dream. On the other hand, Oz calls on the Maroni family to overthrow the Falcone empire, as is common for revenge between gangs.

Having been active in the underworld for many years, Oz knows their weaknesses and understands their every move. Above all, Oz wants to see the forces fall and that is when he takes power.

However, Oz’s scheming and mysterious nature is not too difficult for viewers to understand. From his conversations, it is easy to see that Oz preaches a lot about power, conflicts between social classes, and frustration when not recognized. Like many others in Gotham, Oz also has a weakness in family and is easily influenced by temporary emotions.

Impressive acting, limited script

” The Penguin is a powerful beast, the film attracts viewers with its action and impressive message. As for Colin Farrell, he will soon be swimming in a sea of ​​awards for this role,” said Lucy Mangan from The Guardian .

In fact, Colin Farrell received a lot of praise for his role as Oswald “Oz” Cobb in The Batman . In terms of appearance, the Irish actor completely immersed himself in the character. Appearing with a large appearance, limping gait, a face full of scars and a piercing New York accent, Farrell became a true gangster.

In The Penguin , Colin Farrell has more room to act than in The Batman , freely portraying Batman’s formidable villain. In contrast to his clumsy appearance, Oz is quick-witted, which is clearly reflected in every line Colin Farrell delivers. Accordingly, viewers are impressed by the way Oz arranges and manipulates each situation.

Sofia Falcone, played by Cristin Milioti, leaves an impression on viewers through each episode. Photo: HBO Max .

In addition, the role of Sofia Falcone played by Cristin Milioti also received praise from the audience. Inheriting her late father’s personality, Sofia is a cold and unpredictable character. The instability in Sofia’s mind makes her a dangerous person that even Oz must be wary of. In other words, Sofia is a rose with poisonous thorns.

However, Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti’s performances cannot make up for the shortcomings of the script. For example, Oz escapes Sofia’s suspicion too easily. The car carrying Alberto’s body is not enough evidence to prove Oz’s innocence. In addition, Victor is effective, but not convincing in building Oz’s trust.

Currently, The Penguin has completed half of its journey with 4 episodes. In the second half, Oz will have to face more challenges when working for many different forces at the same time. Both Oz and Sofia are unpredictable variables and the audience is looking forward to a breakthrough, answering the question: After all, who is the boss in Gotham?

The entertainment section introduces Dirty Money: Financial Crime in Canada, a large-scale “financial criminal underworld” operating in Canada. Many types of crimes are operating without being punished. And this situation erodes community life, undermines democratic institutions and even the prosperity of the country. The book explains clearly about money laundering, underground banking, organized crime groups, anti-money laundering efforts as well as financial intelligence activities.