HBO’s The Penguin expands upon the gritty world introduced in The Batman, giving Oswald Cobblepot his own spotlight as he fights to seize control of Gotham’s criminal underworld. Colin Farrell reprises his role with an intense performance that anchors the series, turning the character into more than just a secondary antagonist (like he was in the film). This Blu-ray release compiles the complete first season, offering a chance to experience Gotham’s descent into chaos with a strong audiovisual presentation and a solid collection of extras.
The story picks up in the aftermath of The Batman, with Gotham left vulnerable in the power vacuum following Carmine Falcone’s death. Cobblepot, still seen by many as a lowly enforcer, seeks to establish himself as the city’s next crime boss. His ambition pits him against rival factions, corrupt officials, and old allies who either underestimate or outright oppose him. Across the season’s eight episodes, we witness his rise through manipulation, strategic alliances, and brutal power plays, transforming him into a force to be reckoned with.
Farrell delivers a strong performance here, capturing both Cobblepot’s cunning intelligence and his desperation to prove himself. The show’s writing ensures he remains compelling, never reducing him to a one-dimensional villain. Instead, it explores the cost of his ambition, the betrayals he endures, and the few relationships he values. The Penguin also benefits from a well-rounded supporting cast, with characters who bring depth to Gotham’s ever-shifting criminal hierarchy.
Visually, the Blu-ray does a strong job of preserving the show’s cinematic aesthetic. While a 4K UHD version would offer a higher level of detail and contrast, the standard Blu-ray still delivers a sharp and atmospheric presentation. The series leans heavily on Gotham’s trademark noir-inspired visuals, with dimly lit interiors, rain-soaked streets, and neon-tinged shadows creating a moody, immersive backdrop for Cobblepot’s rise to power. Black levels are deep, colors are well-saturated, and detail remains strong even in darker scenes.
The audio presentation is equally impressive, with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that fully utilizes the show’s atmospheric sound design. Subtle background noises, such as the distant echoes of sirens or the hushed conversations in smoke-filled lounges, help establish Gotham’s lived-in quality. The mix also ensures that dialogue remains clear and well-balanced, even in more action-heavy sequences where gunfire and explosions punctuate the tension. The show’s brooding score further enhances the experience, reinforcing Cobblepot’s calculated, methodical approach to seizing power.
Beyond the main episodes, the Blu-ray includes a solid selection of bonus features. These dive into the show’s production, offering insights into Farrell’s transformation into Cobblepot, the practical effects and makeup work that bring Gotham to life, and interviews with the cast and crew. Additionally, featurettes explore the series’ ties to The Batman and how it expands upon the existing universe. While some fans might wish for more deleted scenes or extended looks at Cobblepot’s character development, the extras still provide meaningful content for those interested in the behind-the-scenes process.
As a standalone series, The Penguin successfully balances crime drama with comic book influences, delivering a show that feels grounded yet larger-than-life. It embraces the slow-burn storytelling of classic gangster epics, making Cobblepot’s ascent feel methodical and earned rather than rushed or simply a given. Some may find the pacing deliberate and slow at times, but it ultimately serves to highlight the tension and unpredictability of Gotham’s power struggles.
Overall, The Penguin: The Complete First Season on Blu-ray is an excellent addition to any Batman fan’s collection. The standard Blu-ray we watched holds up remarkably well, retaining the show’s cinematic feel. With a gripping story, strong performances, and a compelling look at one of Gotham’s most infamous figures, this release is well worth picking up – especially for those eager to see Farrell’s take on the Penguin once more.
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