Dave Presser

The Penguin: A Triumphant Ascent from the Depths of Gotham HBO's The Penguin has not just met expectations, it has blown them out of the water. This gritty, gripping miniseries dives deep into the criminal underworld of Gotham, delivering a thrilling narrative that surpasses its source material in both depth and complexity. Colin Farrell, reprising his role as Oswald "Oz" Cobblepot, is utterly mesmerising. He embodies the Penguin with a chilling blend of vulnerability and ruthlessness, painting a portrait of a man clawing his way to power in a city steeped in corruption. But it's Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone who truly steals the show. Milioti delivers a powerhouse performance, portraying a woman of cunning intelligence and icy determination who proves to be more than a match for the Penguin. The chemistry between Farrell and Milioti is electric, their scenes crackling with tension and intrigue. The script is a masterpiece of crime writing, expertly weaving together intricate plotlines with sharp dialogue and moments of dark humour. Each episode keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to see how the power struggle between Oz and Sofia will unfold. The Penguin is not just a worthy addition to the Batman universe, it's a must-watch for any fan of crime drama. With its stellar performances, exceptional writing, and immersive atmosphere, it's a triumph of television that will leave you wanting more.

Joker: Folie à Deux - A Disappointing Encore ★★☆☆☆ While I eagerly awaited the return of Joaquin Phoenix as the Joker, "Folie à Deux" sadly didn't live up to the brilliance of its predecessor. Phoenix and Lady Gaga deliver powerhouse performances, and Todd Phillips once again creates a visually stunning world. However, the film's attempt to integrate musical elements felt forced and ultimately detracted from the narrative. Spoiler Alert: The ending, where Arthur is inexplicably killed, left me bewildered. A more impactful conclusion would have been to follow through with the guilty verdict and depict his execution, mirroring the grim reality of his situation. Despite its flaws, "Folie à Deux" is a bold and ambitious film. However, I feel it falls short of the mark set by the original "Joker," leaving me with a sense of disappointment.