The Penguin

10 Best Episodes of The Penguin

Step into the dark and gritty world of "The Penguin" on HBO, where the chilling tale of power, betrayal, and revenge unfolds. This captivating series follows the notorious character's journey as he navigates the treacherous streets of Gotham City, establishing himself as a formidable force in the criminal underworld.

With each episode packed with suspense and unexpected twists, viewers are taken on a thrilling ride through the intricacies of The Penguin's character development. From his humble beginnings to his ruthless pursuit of dominance, the story delves deep into the complexities of his motivations and the lengths he will go to in order to achieve his goals.

As "The Penguin" delves into themes of loyalty, ambition, and the price of power, it keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, eager to see what fate has in store for this enigmatic anti-hero. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be enthralled by one of the most compelling TV shows to grace the small screen.

Written by Sophie and last updated on dec 10, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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The Penguin - S1E5

#8 - Homecoming (Season 1 - Episode 5)

In "Homecoming," the latest episode of The Penguin, tensions escalate as Oz finds himself cornered, prompting a risky maneuver that could change the game for his burgeoning enterprise. Meanwhile, Sofia is on a mission to carve out her own path and establish a fresh legacy in the midst of the chaos.

As the plot thickens, viewers are left on the edge of their seats as alliances shift and betrayals loom large. The captivating performances by the cast, particularly Cristin Milioti's portrayal of Sofia, continue to captivate audiences, leaving them eager for more. With each scene drawing the characters deeper into a web of intrigue, the stakes are higher than ever.

With each episode of The Penguin, the narrative evolves, keeping viewers hooked on the intricate web of power dynamics and personal motivations. As the storylines intertwine and characters face their own moral dilemmas, the audience is left wondering what twists and turns await them in the upcoming episodes. Stay tuned as the season builds towards a thrilling climax, promising to deliver more surprises and revelations along the way.

The episode was rated 7.88 from 1335 votes.

The Penguin - S1E2

#7 - Inside Man (Season 1 - Episode 2)

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In "Inside Man," an intriguing episode of The Penguin, we witness Sofia's determined efforts to solidify her family's power dynamics while Oz skillfully navigates the treacherous waters between the Falcone and Maroni families for his own gain. The tension is palpable as alliances shift and motives blur in the shadowy underworld of Gotham city.

As the plot unfolds, Oz throws a lavish party post-heist, setting the stage for a night of revelry and deceit. The soundtrack, featuring retro hits like "Twisted Avenues" by Motion Pictures and "My World" by Screen Test, adds a nostalgic touch to the unfolding drama. With each beat, the stakes rise higher, hinting at the intricate web of schemes and ambitions that drive the narrative forward.

Fans and critics alike are buzzing with excitement for this episode, and for good reason. With comparisons to the compelling character study of the recent Joker movie, The Penguin promises to offer a nuanced portrayal of its titular anti-hero. The allure of Gotham's dark underbelly, filled with complex villains whose struggles mirror our own, draws viewers into a thrilling exploration of human nature's darker facets. As the series delves deeper into the intricate minds of its characters, it invites us to dance on the edge of morality and chaos, making for a captivating and unforgettable viewing experience.

The episode was rated 7.90 from 1845 votes.

The Penguin - S1E8

#6 - A Great or Little Thing (Season 1 - Episode 8)

In this intense episode of "The Penguin," titled "A Great or Little Thing," viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as Oz Cobb's journey nears its conclusion. The power struggle between Oz and Sofia reaches its peak, revealing long-hidden truths that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.

As the tension escalates, secrets are unraveled, and alliances are tested. Oz Cobb's character is pushed to his limits, forcing him to confront the consequences of his actions and the choices he has made throughout the series. Sofia's role in Oz's life becomes increasingly pivotal, adding layers of complexity to their dynamic relationship.

With twists and turns at every corner, "A Great or Little Thing" promises to deliver a gripping and unforgettable viewing experience for fans of "The Penguin." As the episode unfolds, viewers will be left questioning loyalties, motives, and the ultimate fate of Oz Cobb in this high-stakes showdown with Sofia.

The episode was rated 7.92 from 12 votes.

The Penguin - S1E6

#5 - Gold Summit (Season 1 - Episode 6)

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In "Gold Summit," the latest gripping episode of The Penguin, tensions escalate as Oz faces relentless opposition while aiming to assert his dominance across the city. Despite the mounting threats, Oz remains determined to solidify his power, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with each strategic move he makes. The episode unfolds with a sense of urgency, leaving audiences eager to see what unfolds next.

As the plot thickens, Victor unexpectedly crosses paths with a familiar foe, adding a new layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative. The intertwining storylines and unexpected encounters keep the audience guessing and invested in the characters' fates. The writing shines in this episode, turning even simple moments like the sound of a beer can opening into powerful, resonant symbols that enhance the overall viewing experience.

The final scene of "Gold Summit" delivers a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that leaves viewers clamoring for more. The intense sequence and shocking revelations propel the episode to a whole new level, earning it high praise from fans and critics alike. With each twist and turn, The Penguin continues to captivate its audience, setting the stage for even more thrilling developments in the episodes to come.

The episode was rated 8.01 from 1179 votes.

The Penguin - S1E7

#4 - Top Hat (Season 1 - Episode 7)

In the episode "Top Hat" of the gripping TV show "The Penguin," we delve deep into Oz's past, unraveling the layers of his complex personality shaped by family traumas. The flashbacks reveal a sensitive young Oz, influenced by his mother's ambitions and the lack of support from his siblings. Colin Farrell's authentic portrayal adds depth to the character, especially in the intense confrontation with Sal Maroni, resulting in a darkly funny yet surprising turn of events that heightens the storyline.

As the war between Oz and the Giants escalates, the interactions between Sofia and Francis bring emotional depth to the narrative. Cristin Milioti shines in her performance, balancing Sofia's power and vulnerability with finesse. The episode not only sets the stage for an epic showdown between Oz and Sofia but also underscores the weight of family expectations on the characters, making them more relatable and multi-dimensional.

"The Penguin" stands out as a remarkable character study, focusing on Oz's inner conflicts and the impact of his past on his present actions. The storyline cleverly uses Oz's traumatic past, like hiding in the tunnel where he killed his brothers, as a metaphor for his emotional struggles. With an anticipated clash between Oz and Sofia on the horizon, the stage is set for a thrilling confrontation that promises to showcase the actors' talents at their peak. This episode truly exemplifies the artistry, depth of narrative, and intricate character development that make it a standout in television storytelling.

The episode was rated 8.04 from 969 votes.

The Penguin - S1E1

#3 - After Hours (Season 1 - Episode 1)

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The premiere episode of "The Penguin," titled "After Hours," delves deep into Gotham's criminal underworld following the death of Carmine Falcone. The intense opening scene between Oswald Cobblepot and Falcone's son, Richie, sets a dark and gritty tone for the series. Colin Farrell's portrayal of the titular character is truly remarkable, capturing Oswald's intricate motivations and unrelenting ambition.

The introduction of Sofia Falcone, Richie's sister, brings a new level of complexity to the narrative. The actress's chilling performance highlights Sofia's sociopathic tendencies and thirst for power, adding an element of danger to the story. "The Penguin" not only expands on the world of The Batman but also offers a visually stunning experience, staying true to the essence of Gotham City.

For fans of the Batman universe, this episode is a must-watch, earning a solid 10/10 rating. The exceptional performances, gripping storyline, and attention to detail, like the nod to Burgess Meredith in the jeweler's store name, make it a standout in the realm of superhero adaptations. "After Hours" marks a stellar start to what promises to be a thrilling and unforgettable crime drama series.

The episode was rated 8.10 from 2319 votes.

The Penguin - S1E3

#2 - Bliss (Season 1 - Episode 3)

In this gripping episode of "The Penguin" titled "Bliss," we see a tangled web of deceit and ambition unfold as Oz and Sofia navigate the treacherous waters of Gotham's drug trade. The episode delves deep into the characters' pasts, forcing them to confront their demons and make tough decisions to secure their futures. As the stakes rise, alliances are tested, and the line between friend and foe blurs, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

One of the standout moments in this episode is Victor's internal struggle as he grapples with his old life clashing with his new reality. The emotional turmoil he faces adds a layer of complexity to his character, making him a compelling figure to follow. Meanwhile, Oz's manipulative nature shines through in a scene that showcases his cunning ways, leaving viewers both intrigued and repulsed by his actions.

The dynamic between Oz and Sofia takes center stage, providing a captivating narrative that drives the series forward. Their intricate dance of trust and deception injects a sense of tension and unpredictability into the storyline, keeping the audience hooked. With stellar performances from the cast, especially Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti, the episode masterfully balances intense moments with dark humor, creating a viewing experience that is both tragic and entertaining. As the episode unfolds, the intricate relationships and moral ambiguities of the characters come to the forefront, setting the stage for even more thrilling developments in future episodes of the series.

The episode was rated 8.13 from 1638 votes.

The Penguin - S1E4

#1 - Cent'anni (Season 1 - Episode 4)

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In the episode "Cent'anni" of The Penguin, viewers are taken on a gripping journey into Sofia Falcone's harrowing past and her transformation into a formidable villain known as "The Hangman." Portrayed brilliantly by Cristin Milioti, Sofia's resilience and cunning nature shine through as she navigates the treacherous waters of Arkham State Hospital, where she endured unimaginable pain and betrayal.

The heart-wrenching storyline delves deep into Sofia's psyche, showcasing her evolution from a mafia princess to a master manipulator willing to do whatever it takes to survive. The tension between Sofia and Dr. Rush adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the power dynamics at play and the lengths Sofia will go to in order to secure her own fate.

With haunting imagery and a mesmerizing performance by Milioti, "Cent'anni" captivates audiences with its exploration of family betrayals, psychological trauma, and the dark forces at work within Gotham. As Sofia's descent into darkness unfolds, the episode sets the stage for an even more intriguing evolution of her character, promising more twists and turns in the episodes to come.

The episode was rated 8.30 from 1562 votes.

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