Chris Connor reviews the second episode of The Penguin…
The Penguin’s opening episode set the bar high for the rest of the series, picking up the pieces in the aftermath of The Batman. This is a Gotham on the brink of a gang war as the remnants of Marone’s operation and the Falcone’s look to control the city’s underworld, with Oz caught in the middle. This ultimately is what episode two focuses on, Oz trying to manoeuvre his way into a position of strength, seemingly thwarted at every turn by some obstacle or a knife in the back from one side.
Sofia Falcone is out for blood after her brother’s death (at the hands of Oz), Cristin Milioti, really shows how scarred she is from her experiences in Arkham particularly in a haunting opening sequence. This is a woman wronged who is struggling to control her family’s legacy, with her father’s brother assuming a position of authority. The familial infighting adds an intriguing dynamic and builds on the work done by Matt Reeves in The Batman, with little references to cops being in Carmine’s pocket.
Colin Farrell’s Oz continues to beguile as he looks to keep one step ahead of all sides, scheming his way out of any situation he is thrust into. Farrell and Milioti are a delight together, it is thrilling to explore the developing working relationship between the pair which looks set to unfold further as the series progresses.
There are a lot of moving parts here but the show manages to balance its subplots well, keeping the show constantly engaging through both its human drama and smattering of action sequences. There is a constant feeling of suspense and the audience is left guessing what will happen as both factions look to maintain their grip on the city.
‘Inside Man’ steadily builds on the foundations laid in the opening episode as the Falcone’s come to terms with the loss of Alberto, while trying to keep themselves in command of the streets of Gotham. It continues to find the right balance of humour, suspense and action with strong performances the cornerstone of what makes it so engaging.
Chris Connor
Originally published September 30, 2024. Updated October 7, 2024.
