HBO’s new limited series The Penguin was launched at its New York premiere on Sept. 17, marking a continuation of DC Studios’ beloved Batman universe.
Stars Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti were among those in attendance at the red carpet to celebrate the new crime drama and transport viewers back to Gotham City.
In an eight-episode spin-off from The Batman (2022), Colin Farrell reprises his role as Oz Cobb — better known as the Penguin — who rises to power after the death of mobster Carmine Falcone (Mark Strong). But the Penguin tangles himself in a fight for succession against Falcone’s daughter, Sofia (Cristin Milioti), who was recently released from Arkham Asylum. The series chronicles the Penguin’s ploy for control over the Falcone crime family and their underground drug operation.
On the red carpet, the cast and crew spoke about the Cobb’s transition into the spotlight as a leading character, the battle for power within the series’ ensemble and what it’s like to root for a villain rather than the Caped Crusader.
The team also spoke about how The Penguin offers viewers a darker depiction of Gotham City, one that’s been overrun with crime and disaster — and where Batman is nowhere to be found.
“It’s a city that’s in despair at the moment, and everybody’s trying to gain power,” James Madio, who plays Milo Grapa, said. “Everybody’s hungry, everybody’s thirsty, you can’t trust anybody.”
The Penguin premiered on HBO Max on Sept. 18, and is set to air until Nov. 10.