In the season finale of The Penguin, directed by Jennifer Getzinger
and written by Lauren LeFranc, the artistry on display transcends mere visual pleasure, intertwining beauty with a narrative that disrupts our thought processes and compels us to confront uncomfortable truths. The series doesn’t merely depict the writer’s imagination; it holds a mirror up to the world around us, revealing a reflection that is unflinchingly honest and disturbingly familiar. This final episode of the season, featuring standout performances by Cristin Milioti as Sofia and Colin Farrell Name as Oz, is a testament to the power of storytelling that doesn’t shy away from the grim facets of humanity, all while maintaining an aesthetic grace that makes its harsh realities resonate even more profoundly.
The visual artistry in the 8th episode is particularly moving, as it masterfully balances the grotesque with the beautiful. It’s as if we are gazing upon the Beast and simultaneously witnessing the beauty that pervades even the darkest corners. This duality is embodied in the character of Sofia, who, despite being as formidable as the Penguin herself, exudes an elegance and grace that masks the ferocity within.
Sofia’s journey through life’s hardships has honed her into a figure of both admiration and fear. Her story, though seemingly softer than Oz’s due to her refined demeanor and eloquence, parallels his in every way. She emerges as his yang, a counterpart who commands respect and possibly the only one who can challenge or even unsettle him. Their interactions are reminiscent of the courtship dance of the praying mantis—graceful yet perilous.
By highlighting the interplay of beauty and beastliness, the series
challenges our perceptions and invites us to delve deeper into the characters’ psyches. The visual and narrative elements work in harmony, creating a hauntingly beautiful tapestry that lingers in the mind long after the screen fades to black.
What struck me most in this final episode was how the director’s
work compelled me to watch without turning away, despite scenes that would normally make me avert my gaze. This episode, like real life, forces us to confront the ugliness we might prefer to ignore. In a world where we often choose not to see the harsh truths, the artistry here ensures that we can no longer claim ignorance. We are forced to acknowledge what we see, making the experience all the more powerful and unsettling.
The season finale? Let me tell you in my old voice: I didn’t even see that one coming!!
My review aims to honor the remarkable work done by everyone
involved in bringing The Penguin series to life.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 4.0 International License.
Wicked Grim Stories 
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