The Penguin (2024)
The Penguin
Look, I’ve seen ‘The Batman’ fourteen times. Six times in theaters, and eight times at home. I think I can say that I’m a fan. So when this project was greenlit, I was about as excited as anyone else. And by the time I finished it, I was in shock, disbelief, and complete awe. It’s simply one of the best shows ever made, and you can take a flying jump if you don’t agree. Going from the PG-13 rated ‘The Batman’ to a TV-MA crime show was a big jump and a swing that absolutely landed. I loved the language and violence, which makes the whole show feel so realistic and gritty. It’s the perfect feel for the Matt Reeves’ universe. It’s also one of the rare times that a film universe translates to a show in a really good way. I mean, I don’t think I have a single complaint about this show. There’s probably some tiny flaws I could point out if I really wanted to, but the show is so perfect that I won’t. The storytelling is incredible, with focus on several characters, and the past and present. I love the whole crime family storyline, with a fight for power that several main characters get involved in. A lot of people compare this show to ‘The Sopranos’. But it’s even better because it’s DC. That (usually) always makes things better. The performances were absolutely fantastic from every single person. There’s not one cast member that I thought, “Well, that could’ve been better.” Colin Farrell shines as always, and I think both him and Cristin Milioti are very deserving of Emmys. Sofia Falcone is one of the best additions to the Reevesverse, as well as being one of the best female villains I’ve ever seen. The fourth episode in particular was so insanely good, and it shows her true acting chops. Give her every award ever. My final thought is that this is going to be a great transition into ‘The Batman Part 2’, and every Batman fan should be excited for what’s to come. I’d recommend this to all DC/crime fans, and obviously if you’ve seen ‘The Batman’. Cause if you have, then you’ll really dig this. This show is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!