The cinematic universe of DC is renowned for its clever nods and allusions to other films from the studio. Does The Penguin carry on this legacy? (Spoiler Alert: Absolutely!)
Keep reading to uncover the details!
1. What is Bella Reál’s Role in Episode 3?
The episode opens with a flashback to the Riddler’s catastrophic flood depicted in The Batman. Viewers are introduced to a fresh perspective, showcasing Victor Aguilar joining forces with Oswald “Oz” Cobb.
Here, Bella Reál’s campaign posters come into view, connecting us to the politician from The Batman who aimed to eradicate corruption in Gotham.
These posters serve as a reminder of the numerous references sprinkled throughout previous DC films.
2. Is the Character Squid Authentic to Original DC Comics?
While observing a rooftop gathering of Victor and his companions, a minor dealer known as “Squid” is introduced. This character appears to be a subtle reference to the older DC Comics antagonist Squid, a crime lord historically linked to Gotham.
However, this iteration of Squid doesn’t operate as a “Crime Lord” nor does he feature the massive squid “Gertrude” found in the comics. Visually, he diverges significantly from his comicbook counterpart and is merely depicted as a small-time dealer.
3. What Are the Effects of the Riddler’s Flood on Crown Point?
The flashback reveals the devastation wrought by Riddler’s flood in the Crown Point neighborhood, one of the areas hit hardest.
From Victor Aguilar’s perspective, the flood signifies the tragic loss of his family, as he helplessly watches the disaster unfold.
This moment effectively illustrates the chaotic ramifications of the Riddler’s scheme, which ultimately harmed the vulnerable while masquerading as an attack on the elite. The emotional weight of this scene poignantly highlights the class divide in Gotham, echoing the depth within DC’s narratives.
4. What Makes the “Stop Drops” Billboard Important?
The “Stop Drops” anti-drug billboard spotted in The Penguin serves as a poignant reminder of the drug crisis presented in The Batman.
The logo on this billboard is a direct callback to the film where the drug “Drops” was rampant throughout Gotham.
Now, a similar operation is underway led by Oz and Sofia involving the drug “Bliss,” indicating that Gotham’s long-running battle with narcotics is far from over.
5. Is Dr. Trey Bloom a Version of Mister Bloom?
The drug dealings orchestrated by Oz and Sofia introduce us to Dr. Trey Bloom, a scientist developing a unique mushroom strain aimed at producing Bliss.
DC enthusiasts might recall Mister Bloom from the comics—a villain known for manufacturing artificial metahumans. In this adaptation, he takes a more grounded role as a scientist focused on crafting a powerful narcotic.
6. What Role Do the Triads Play in Gotham?
This episode also marks the introduction of the Triads, a significant criminal syndicate targeted by Oz and Sofia for their distribution of the drug Bliss.
Their presence in DC Comics has established them as a formidable element within Gotham’s criminal landscape, intensifying the ominous nature of Oz and Sofia’s ambitions.
7. What’s the Familiarity of the Music in the Club Scene?
The treasure trove of Easter Eggs extends beyond character references and visual cues to include music as well. The track playing in a club scene, “Came for the Low” by Partywithray and Zhu, may ring a bell.
“WHAT IS MARVEL DOING HERE?” some might exclaim in surprise. For the curious, this same song appeared in Falcon and the Winter Soldier during Zemo’s memorable Madripoor dance sequence.
While some may argue it’s all coincidental, others view it as a delightful nod hinting at a creative relationship between the DC and MCU universes, embraced by fans of both franchises.
8. What Is the Origin of the New Substance, Bliss?
Sofia discloses that Bliss was first utilized at Arkham State Hospital as a means to control patients (a surprising twist).
Within the narrative of Gotham’s institutional corruption, the exploitation of Bliss stands out as one of the most notorious instances. This revelation connects Sofia, Oz, Dr. Bloom, and their goal to usurp Drops as Gotham’s latest addiction.
9. Do the Neon Dragons Pose a Threat to Sofia and Oz’s Strategies?
Sofia briefly alludes to the Neon Dragons, another criminal faction in the DC Comics universe that does not appear directly in the story.
Even in their absence from the screen, their mere mention reinforces the intricate and dangerous criminal world of Gotham, creating an atmosphere of suspense.
10. Who are the Odessa Mob and What Might Their Role Be in Future Episodes?
By the finale, the Odessa Mob emerges as another significant reference, catching our attention as a possible threat to Sofia and Oz’s operations. This Russian crime syndicate from DC Comics has a historical presence, particularly during Gotham’s chaotic No Man’s Land era, indicating their ongoing influence and ambition.
Without a doubt, they present a considerable challenge for Oz as he seeks to establish dominance over Gotham.
Final Thoughts
The Penguin has adeptly unveiled the darker aspects of Gotham, cleverly weaving in elements of original comic lore along with delightful cinematic callbacks.
Fans will be thrilled to find that more Easter Eggs continue to emerge with each episode. Here’s to anticipating even more!
About The Penguin
The Penguin is an American miniseries created by Lauren LeFranc for HBO. Based on the DC Comics character, it serves as a spin-off from the film The Batman (2022), delving into the Penguin’s ascent within Gotham City’s criminal hierarchy. LeFranc is the showrunner, with the series produced by DC Studios and Warner Bros. Television.
Colin Farrell reprises his role as the Penguin, alongside Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Deirdre O’Connell, Clancy Brown, Carmen Ejogo, Michael Zegen, Berto Colón, James Madio, Joshua Bitton, David H. Holmes, Daniel J. Watts, Ben Cook, Jayme Lawson, Michael Kelly, and Mark Strong. Development commenced in September 2021, with HBO Max officially ordering the series in March 2022 following The Batman’s release. Director Matt Reeves oversaw the writing and the selection of the creative team. Filming began in March 2023 in New York, with a break in June due to the 2023 Hollywood labor disputes. Production resumed in late November and wrapped up in February 2024. The series transitioned from HBO Max to HBO in July 2024. Craig Zobel directed the first three episodes.
The Penguin debuted in the United States on HBO on September 19, 2024, and will continue for a total of eight episodes until November 10.
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