The world is buzzing over Colin Farrell's transformation as Oswald "Oz" Cobb, more infamously known as The Penguin, in HBO's new limited series, The Penguin. The show, which premiered on September 19, is already making waves, drawing 5.3 million viewers across various platforms within its first four days—surpassing the viewing figures of hit shows like Succession and The White Lotus. Based on this success, it’s clear audiences are eager for more from the Gotham underworld.
Farrell's portrayal has been highly acclaimed, with critics praising his ability to embody the character's complex persona. Speaking about his experience, Farrell shared with People how he was almost unrecognizable due to the extensive makeup and prosthetics he donned for the role. "I was basically covered wrist to ankle," said Farrell, illustrating just how far he transformed to bring The Penguin to life. The only parts of him visible were his hands and feet, everything else, including his ears, was created with prosthetics.
Created by makeup artist Mike Marino, who previously collaborated with Farrell on 2022’s The Batman, the transformation involved considerable time each day. Farrell described the grueling process, which saw him spending up to three hours each morning getting ready. “I mean, by the time we'd get to two hours and 45 minutes, I'd be a little bit bored. Because they had to spray paint like seven different pieces—ball cap, wig on top of ball cap—and then they'd get to spraying every little pockmark, every little zit, every little crease, every little scar,” he explained. Despite the lengthy process, he also acknowledged his gratitude for the collaboration, stating, “If it wasn't for Mike's design, I'm telling you now, if it was just me with a f---ing cigarette and a top hat... we wouldn't have had the HBO show.”
Some of the prosthetics were particularly whimsical, adding depth to the character’s eccentricity. Farrell humorously recounted one specific creation: “Marino is so twisted and brilliant. He was like, 'I made you a penguin penis,'” which was attached with Velcro, making it detachable. He chuckled, recalling his initial shock, noting, “Really? They're not even going to see it. I don't know if I want to walk on set with a penguin penis.” Such playful details exemplify the skill and creativity behind his transformation.
The series is not just about Farrell's transformation; it promises compelling storytelling as well. The Penguin picks up right where The Batman leaves off, exploring the power vacuum left behind following the death of the notorious mob boss, Carmine Falcone. The plot centers around Cobb as he attempts to consolidate his influence over Gotham’s criminal underbelly. While Farrell reprises his role from the previous film, the series features additional actors such as Cristin Milioti and Rhenzy Feliz, which broadens the narrative scope.
Christopher Nolan's Batman universe has been hugely influential and the intrigue surrounding The Penguin’s character added significant anticipation. Farrell openly expresses his excitement for being part of such storied lineage, sharing how he looked up to past portrayals of The Penguin by Burgess Meredith and Danny DeVito. He stated, “I really did feel privileged,” acknowledging the legacy he stepped onto.
But amid this stirring transformation and audience engagement, questions about how sustainable interest is for comic adaptations loom as well. There’s chatter about superhero fatigue, especially with competing Marvel productions saturate the market. It remains to be seen how long audiences will remain captivated by Gotham's darkness and its colorful rogues.
Lorenzo Di Bonaventura, the head of DC shows at HBO, is aware of the challenges and has indicated plans for more Gotham-based content—however, they need to balance the intricacies of maintaining freshness without overstaying their welcome. The anticipation for future spins on the tale of Oz Cobb remains exceptionally high, as fans and critics await his next moves on screen.
Interestingly, The Penguin also stands out due to its visual originality thanks to Marino's work. Farrell reflected on seeing himself post-transformation, stating, “When I first saw myself in the mirror, I couldn't believe it... You're moving your face and seeing what happens.” This experience not only showcased the artistic ingenuity behind the prosthetics but also highlighted Farrell's nuanced performance, where he learned to animate expressions through the makeup.
Upon its debut, the series captured the attention of many not just through its vast viewer base but with significant praise from critics, holding a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers noted it as "a masterful examination of criminality" with its depiction spanning twisted narratives within Gotham. Aramide Tinubu of Variety called it "disturbing and deeply enthralling,” signaling its creative direction under the guidance of Farrell and Marino.
Looking beyond the immediate buzz, the series hints at greater storylines stemming from the rich plotlines of the Batman universe. Earlier iterations of characters have typically limited their expansions, but this new approach dives deep, promising to explore the intricacies of villainy within Gotham.
While the buzz continues for the show, Colin Farrell's take on The Penguin undoubtedly leaves audiences hungry for more. The actor himself has expressed eagerness for what lies next but not without acknowledging the day's grueling work involved with transformation. “When I finished I was like, ‘I never want to put on the suit and head again,’” said Farrell, recalling the exhaustion encountered through each shoot, yet still, he relishes the moment contributing to this legacy.
With the first few episodes behind us, anticipation now grows for how this character—as well as Farrell's performance—will evolve as more episodes are released. The production team remains mum on any potential directions, but the enthusiasm surrounding the character's plans for the future is palpable.
