Instead of jumping right into a direct sequel for The Batman (2022) the next entry we get from this universe is The Penguin, a limited run series based around the titular character we saw in the movie. Crucially, Batman is not included in the series at all so it can focus on what else this unique world has to offer. Those who pay attention to DC TV may already be worried here as “Batman shows without Batman” are plentiful and produced in high quantity and wildly varying quality.
Titans, Gotham, Pennyworth, and Gotham Knights are just the ones we remember off of the top of our heads. For The Penguin, however, we’ve been promised some pedigree thanks to the fact that this is an HBO production and also a smaller run so those involved can focus on that missing quality. The synopsis we’ve been provided is also good news with returning players from The Batman and big hitters in the acting world.
“Continuing the epic crime saga that began with 2022’s Oscar-nominated blockbuster The Batman, The Penguin stars Colin Farrell as Oz Cobb (aka The Penguin), who makes a play for the reins of Gotham’s crime world. The Penguin is directed by Emmy nominee Craig Zobel (Mare of Easttown), and exec produced by Matt Reeves, who directed The Batman,” the synopsis reads. “The eight-episode HBO series also stars Critics Choice Super Award winner Cristin Milioti (Palm Springs, Made for Love, Fargo) as Sofia Falcone, not to mention the likes of Oscar nominee Shohreh Aghdashloo, Clancy.