The following review contains spoilers for the fifth episode of The Penguin, “Homecoming.”
Stories about villains are peculiar. These antagonistic characters are portrayed as protagonists, aligning their goals and perspectives with ours. Sometimes, this alignment can create a dissonance between our beliefs and theirs. When executed well, like in Breaking Bad and The Sopranos, it can be captivating. However, it can result in storytelling pitfalls, as seen in the Joker movies. In The Penguin, Oz is portrayed as brutal and conniving yet strangely endearing and lovable. This juxtaposition of qualities has drawn the audience to his side, much like a friend who adds chaos but fun to the group. However, in “Homecoming,” Oz pushes himself and those around him to the edge, revealing the emergence of a villain who may require extraordinary measures to stop. This episode showcases the extent to which Oz is willing to go, breaking free from setup and backstory to propel the narrative forward with a powerful impact.
The Focus on Present-day
The most significant relief of episode 5 is the shift in focus to the present-day storyline. With the narrative centered on the current events, the plot gains momentum. As Oz and Sofia prepare for their ultimate confrontation, the show reaches its peak performance. Their strategic maneuvers and mental chess evoke reminiscence of Game of Thrones, building suspense as audiences eagerly anticipate their inevitable clash.
Unveiling the Past
While the absence of flashbacks allows the story to progress smoothly, certain mysteries remain unexplained. The unresolved fate of Oz’s brothers and the revisit to Crown Point apartment hint at a turbulent past. Though the desire for more backstory lingers, delving into the past in the latter half of the series may not benefit the overall narrative.
Francis Cobb’s Character
Francis Cobb’s character stands out as one of the most intricately written yet detestable personas in the series. Her interactions with Oz in “Homecoming” reveal a dark side, adding a layer of complexity to the storyline reminiscent of The Sopranos. Despite her flaws, the portrayal of a mother’s unsettling behavior contributes to understanding Oz’s transformation into the man he has become.
Looking Towards the Future
As The Penguin approaches its final episodes, the challenge lies in delivering a satisfying conclusion. Each episode feels like a cliffhanger, keeping viewers engaged and eager for more. The anticipation for heightened stakes and escalating conflicts places a weighty responsibility on the show’s creators to maintain the intensity until the end. With only three episodes remaining, the hope is that The Penguin will stick the landing and offer a conclusion that does justice to the intricate buildup of tension and drama throughout the series.