Having wrapped up The Penguin on Sky about a week and a half ago, I’m still thinking about how much it exceeded my expectations. This series offers an intense, character-driven look at Oswald Cobblepot’s rise in Gotham’s criminal underworld, and it does so with a sophistication that’s rare in villain-centric stories. It’s not just about power plays and betrayals—it’s about delving deep into what makes Oz who he is, showing both his humanity and his cold-hearted ambition.
Colin Farrell’s portrayal of Cobblepot is nothing short of masterful. Having already transformed the character in The Batman, Farrell manages to take it even further here, giving us a nuanced look at a man driven by insecurities, past traumas, and an unrelenting need to prove himself. There are moments of genuine vulnerability, like when Oz reflects on his loyalty to Falcone, that are balanced by scenes of ruthless violence and manipulation. He’s not just a caricature of a villain; he’s a fully fleshed-out anti-hero who you can’t help but root for, even when you know you shouldn’t. The supporting cast also deserves a shoutout, particularly Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone. Her power struggles with Oz were some of the show’s most electrifying moments. The tension between them, filled with betrayal and one-upmanship, kept me glued to the screen. Every interaction felt like a chess match, with neither character willing to give an inch. The visuals are just as compelling as the performances. Gotham feels alive—dark, gritty, and brimming with danger. The production design and cinematography work together to create a world that feels as much a character as any of the actors. From the murky waterfronts to the dimly lit back alleys, every scene is drenched in atmosphere. What impressed me most was how the series managed to connect to The Batman universe without leaning too heavily on it. The subtle nods and Easter eggs were there for fans to appreciate, but the show stood firmly on its own. The finale’s hints at future conflicts, particularly the teasing of the Bat-Signal, left me eager to see how the story might continue in The Batman: Part II or beyond. If there’s one critique, it’s that some storylines could have been explored more deeply, but that’s a minor quibble in an otherwise stellar series. The Penguin strikes a perfect balance between action, character development, and intrigue. It’s a crime drama that transcends its comic book origins, offering something fresh and engaging for both fans of the genre and those new to it. Whether you’re a die-hard Batman fan or simply love a well-written, atmospheric drama, The Penguin is an absolute must-watch. It’s easily one of the best shows I’ve seen this year, and I can’t wait to see where Gotham’s dark underworld takes us next. In recent times, the United Kingdom has found itself embroiled in a heated debate surrounding the ongoing pro-Palestine and pro-Israel protests. These demonstrations, which have swept across the nation, have ignited strong emotions and divided opinions among the British populace.
For many, the sight of such fervent protests on British soil may seem perplexing. After all, the conflict between Palestine and Israel is geographically distant from the shores of the UK. So why the uproar here? At the heart of the matter lies the undeniable reality that the issues at hand resonate deeply with various communities within the UK. Britain is home to a diverse tapestry of cultures, ethnicities, and beliefs, many of which have historical or familial ties to the Middle East. As such, events unfolding in that region often reverberate within British communities, sparking impassioned responses and calls for solidarity. However, amidst the passionate displays of support for either side, there is a growing sentiment among British nationals that the constant coverage of these protests in the news is unwarranted. Many feel that these issues are not inherently British problems and should not dominate the national discourse to the extent that they do. Some argue that the saturation of news coverage on these protests detracts attention from pressing domestic issues that directly impact British citizens. Moreover, there is frustration among certain segments of the population who believe that the protests serve to amplify divisions within British society rather than fostering unity. Furthermore, there is the contentious issue of immigration, which some believe is intertwined with the protests. The presence of individuals with differing views on the conflict has led to debates over the integration of immigrant communities into British society. Some argue that these protests highlight a disconnect between the values of certain groups and those of native British citizens. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognise that the right to protest is a fundamental aspect of democracy, regardless of one's background or beliefs. In a multicultural society like the UK, differing perspectives are inevitable, and the freedom to express them is paramount. While it is understandable that some may find the prominence of these protests in British news unsettling, it is essential to approach the issue with nuance and empathy. Rather than dismissing the protests outright, perhaps there is an opportunity for dialogue and understanding, fostering greater unity within our diverse society. |
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