A superhero show is only as good as its greatest villain, and in The Penguin, it is clear that the villain is the main attraction. This show focuses on bad guys and the dark side of Gotham City, with Colin Farrell playing the despicable Oz Cobb. The story begins right after the 2022 movie The Batman ends.
The plot highlights Oz’s turbulent partnership with Sofia Falcone, played by the fiery Cristin Milioti. She is the daughter of the deceased mob boss Carmine Falcone, and Oz’s ambition is to become the most powerful gangster in Gotham using deceit and manipulation.
The Impact of Carmine Falcone
Carmine Falcone, a character played menacingly by John Turturro in The Batman, plays a crucial role in The Penguin, despite his death in the movie leading up to the series.
The latest episode not only reveals the dark origins of Sofia Falcone but also uncovers the real story behind the Hangman’s identity. The storytelling primarily uses flashbacks to illustrate the ruthless beginnings of Carmine Falcone and his complicated relationship with his daughter.
In a surprising twist, Mark Strong takes over the role of Carmine Falcone. Known for his long career in playing evil characters, his presence adds depth and intrigue to the episode. His performance allows the audience to understand the darker aspects of Carmine’s character, making the story more engaging.
Episode 4: A Turning Point
Episode 4 of The Penguin is important for several reasons. It is the first episode that primarily focuses on Sofia Falcone, revealing important details about her identity as the Hangman and her past with Oz when he was her driver. The episode also serves as an introduction to the true nature of Carmine Falcone’s character and the depths of his evil.
While fans may have hoped to see Turturro reprise his role as the maniacal mob boss, it turns out he was unavailable due to scheduling conflicts.
He was busy filming Season 2 of Apple TV+’s Severance and working on his Emmy-nominated appearance in Mr. and Mrs. Smith on Prime Video. Showrunner Lauren LeFranc addressed Turturro’s unavailability, stating:
“Well, practically, John was just unavailable to us… He had scheduling conflicts, and we couldn’t make it work. But honestly, I’m so thrilled that we brought Mark Strong on. I think he’s really good.
Even though, maybe in the beginning when you first meet him, you might think, ‘Oh. Well, for fans of The Batman, I’m so used to John Turturro,’ and obviously, John’s a great actor. But I feel like the gravitas that Mark brings is different.”
The Importance of Carmine Falcone in Sofia’s Story
It was crucial not only to find a strong replacement for Carmine Falcone but also to include him in The Penguin to fully show Sofia’s backstory.
Still from The Penguin (Credit: HBO)
The series would not be the same without his character. Although fans might feel sad that Turturro could not return, Strong brings a chilling element to the character, enhancing the atmosphere of the episode. LeFranc explained further:
“They’re similar ages, but a little bit younger…You’d have to ask Mark, but I think he did look at the portrayal and the accent [in The Batman]. I keep using the word gravitas, but it was very important that he has a presence, certainly with Sofia, that there’s a hint of warmth, but also something very cold at his center. Watching him felt cohesive to me. It felt to me like that is her father.”
Sofia’s relationship with her father is central to Episode 4. The episode presents a heartbreaking look at how Carmine changes from being her hero to her monster.
Throughout the episode, Carmine is shown bathed in red light, wearing rose-colored sunglasses, resembling the Devil himself looking through bloody lenses. This visual portrayal adds to the atmosphere of fear and danger surrounding his character.
Sofia’s Transformation
Cristin Milioti’s performance in this episode is already gaining attention for awards. She delivers a powerful portrayal of Sofia, who undergoes a gruesome transformation.
The audience witnesses her evolve from a picturesque daughter into a cold and ruthless prisoner in Arkham Asylum. To survive, she must make morally questionable choices that lead her down a dark path.
Milioti’s ability to convey such a complex character arc has earned her praise. The heartbreaking portrayal of Sofia’s change from innocence to ruthlessness keeps viewers engaged. It emphasizes the impact of her father’s influence and the brutal reality of their lives in Gotham.
Mark Strong’s Performance
Mark Strong’s portrayal of Carmine Falcone adds a new layer to the character. He brings a menacing presence that fits well within the dark tone of The Penguin.
His ability to balance warmth and coldness in the character makes Carmine more complex and frightening. The contrast between his charm and his evil nature creates an unsettling atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge.
The Dark Origins of Sofia Falcone
The episode does an excellent job of revealing Sofia’s dark origins. It shows how she became involved in her father’s world and the lengths she had to go to survive. The flashbacks depict her childhood and the moments that led her to become the Hangman. These scenes help to explain her motivations and the emotional scars left by her father’s actions.
As viewers watch Sofia struggle with her identity, they begin to understand the impact of Carmine’s choices on her life. His cruel actions, including framing her for murders, reveal the extent of his manipulation. This adds another layer of tragedy to Sofia’s story, showing how she is caught in a cycle of violence and deceit.
The Atmosphere of The Penguin
The Penguin is more than just a superhero show; it is a dark scheme of crime and villainy in Gotham City. The atmosphere created by the writers, directors, and actors helps to immerse the audience in this violent world. The use of flashbacks and vivid imagery adds depth to the storytelling, making it engaging and intense.
The visuals of the show, including the lighting and set design, contribute to the full mood. The red lighting during Carmine’s scenes adds a sense of danger, while the dark streets of Gotham reflect the moral decay present in the characters’ lives. This attention to detail enhances the viewing experience and keeps the audience invested in the story.
The Future of The Penguin
As the show continues, fans are eager to see how the story develops. Will Carmine Falcone return in future episodes? How will Sofia show her tumultuous relationship with her father? The possibilities are endless, and viewers are left wondering about the fates of these complex characters.
Still from The Penguin (Credit: HBO)
The show’s success so far has generated excitement for upcoming episodes. Many hope to see more flashbacks featuring Strong and Milioti, as their on-screen chemistry is compelling. The character dynamics are rich and layered, making the potential for future storylines thrilling.
Conclusion
The Penguin has successfully captured the audience’s attention by focusing on the villainous aspects of Gotham City.
With Colin Farrell’s Oz Cobb and the dark backstory of Sofia Falcone, viewers are drawn into a world filled with crime, manipulation, and moral ambiguity. The powerful performances from Milioti and Strong upgrade the show, making it a standout in the superhero genre.
Fans can stream The Penguin on Max in the U.S. and enjoy the gripping storylines that continue to unfold. The series not only entertains but also invites viewers to consider the complexities of villainy and the impact of family ties in a world where right and wrong are often blurred.
Midway through Dancing With the Stars, contestants were faced with a new challenge: using their dance performances to tell personal stories and dedicate their routines to someone special in their lives.
Whether it was family members, fellow athletes, or even celebrities like Taylor Swift, the stars had to open up and show a more vulnerable side on the dance floor. This wasn’t just about the steps anymore—it was about emotion, connection, and meaning.
From Danny Amendola’s emotional tribute to his late coach to Ilona Maher regaining her confidence by dancing in honor of her Olympic teammates, Dedication Night was filled with heartfelt performances.
Every contestant put their best foot forward, but the night was particularly memorable because of the strong emotions that filled the ballroom.
Though one couple had to go home by the end of the night, the real takeaway from this episode wasn’t the elimination. Instead, it was a powerful comeback for a seasoned dancer who had faced personal challenges.
Chandler Kinney Honors Her Mother with a Heartfelt Contemporary Dance
The fifth week of Dancing With the Stars began with Chandler Kinney, a star from Zombies, dedicating her performance to her mother.
Kinney wanted to thank her mom for being her main source of support throughout her career in Hollywood. She performed a contemporary routine that was full of lifts, synchronized movements, and emotional storytelling alongside her professional dance partner, Brandon Armstrong.
Chandler’s dance was moving and visually striking, but unfortunately, it didn’t help her maintain her top spot on the leaderboard.
She had been at the top for several weeks in a row, but this time her performance wasn’t enough to keep her there. Even though the scores weren’t what she had hoped for, Chandler’s heartfelt dedication to her mother shone through in every movement.
Danny Amendola Shines with a Tribute to His Late Coach
One of the biggest surprises of the night came from former NFL player Danny Amendola. Amendola had struggled earlier in the season with expressing emotion in his dances, often keeping a straight face during performances.
However, during Dedication Night, he finally found a way to connect his facial expressions and body movements in a meaningful way. He dedicated his contemporary routine to his late coach, Mike Leach, who had a major influence on his life and career.
For the first time, Danny allowed himself to fully engage with the choreography, using it as a way to say goodbye to his coach. His emotions were raw and authentic, and the judges took notice.
Danny received his highest score of the season, marking his rise to the top of the leaderboard. It was a breakthrough moment for the Super Bowl champion, as he finally showed the judges and the audience what he was capable of.
This performance was significant for Danny, not just because of the score, but because it represented a turning point in his journey on the show.
Up until this point, he had struggled with the emotional aspect of dancing. But by focusing on his tribute to Coach Leach, Danny found a way to use his body and face to tell a story—a skill that had eluded him in previous weeks.
Joey Graziadei Impresses with a Romantic Viennese Waltz
Joey Graziadei, a former star of The Bachelor, continued to impress both the judges and the audience with his Viennese waltz. He dedicated the performance to his fiancée, Kelsey Anderson, and it was filled with romance and elegance.
Joey’s smooth movements and graceful technique were on full display as he danced alongside his professional partner, adding yet another strong performance to his growing list of successful routines.
Joey tied with Danny Amendola at the top of the leaderboard, with both receiving high marks from the judges. This was Joey’s second time in the competition where he managed to wow the judges with his precision and storytelling.
The judges praised him for his commitment to the dance and his ability to express his emotions on the dance floor, something that had been difficult for some of the other contestants.
Stephen Nedoroscik Earns His First High Score with a Powerful Tango
Olympic gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik also had a standout moment during Dedication Night. He performed an Argentine tango to “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes, dedicating the dance to his teammates from men’s gymnastics. Stephen’s tribute was filled with passion and intensity, and for the first time in the competition, he earned a score of 9 from the judges.
This was a big moment for Stephen, who had been consistently improving throughout the season but hadn’t yet received the high scores he was aiming for. His dedication to his teammates gave him the extra push he needed to deliver a powerful performance.
The Argentine tango was a challenging dance, but Stephen handled it with confidence, showing that he could compete with the best dancers in the competition.
The judges commended Stephen for his technical skills and his ability to bring emotion into his dance, something that had been a challenge for him in previous weeks. By dedicating the performance to his teammates, Stephen was able to tap into a deeper level of emotion, which translated into a more powerful performance.
Other Memorable Performances of the Night
Dedication Night saw many other emotional tributes from the stars. Dwight Howard dedicated his performance to his family members, using the dance as a way to express his love and gratitude for their support throughout his career. Phaedra Parks also performed a touching dance in honor of her family, showcasing her vulnerability and connection to her loved ones.
Jenn Tran, who had previously shared her love for pop music on The Bachelorette, dedicated her foxtrot to one of her favorite pop stars. This was a continuation of her trend of using her platform on reality TV to express her passion for music and performance. Jenn’s foxtrot was filled with joy and enthusiasm, and it was clear that she was dancing from the heart.
While many of the stars had touching tributes, some performances stood out more than others. The emotional connection between the dancers and their dedication made the night particularly special. Each star brought their own unique story to the dance floor, and the result was a night full of heartfelt performances.
A Surprise Performance from Derek and Hayley Hough
One of the most emotional moments of the night didn’t come from the competitors, but from one of the judges. Derek Hough, a former professional dancer on the show and current judge, took to the dance floor with his wife, Hayley Erbert Hough, for a special performance.
The couple had faced significant challenges in the past year, including Hayley undergoing an emergency craniectomy, a life-threatening surgery.
Their performance was raw, emotional, and filled with meaning. Hayley, who had feared she might never dance again, poured her heart into the routine.
Every movement told the story of her journey and the challenges she had overcome. Derek, who has always been a strong and supportive partner both on and off the dance floor, was right there by her side, matching her every step.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the ballroom after their performance. The judges, audience members, and even the other contestants were visibly moved by the couple’s story and their dance. The routine served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that both Derek and Hayley have shown throughout their journey.
Brooks Nader and Gleb Savchenko’s Showmance Ends in Elimination
At the end of the night, it was time for one couple to go home. Brooks Nader, a model, and her professional partner, Gleb Savchenko, found themselves at the bottom of the leaderboard.
The two had been teasing audiences with their on-screen chemistry, hinting at a possible real-life romance. However, their showmance wasn’t enough to keep them in the competition.
Brooks dedicated her salsa performance to her three sisters, who even joined her on stage for the beginning of the routine. Despite the high energy and personal connection to the performance, it wasn’t enough to secure the votes they needed to stay in the competition.
After their elimination, Brooks and Gleb spoke to the hosts about their time working together. Gleb expressed surprise at their early exit, as he believed they had the potential to go further in the competition.
Despite their elimination, Gleb had nothing but positive things to say about Brooks. He mentioned that this had been one of his best seasons yet and that Brooks was one of the best partners he had ever worked with.
Their partnership, both on and off the dance floor, had been a highlight of the season, even if it didn’t end with them taking home the mirrorball trophy.
The Power of Storytelling Through Dance
Dedication Night on Dancing With the Stars was an unforgettable episode. It wasn’t just about the dancing—it was about the stories behind the performances.
Still from Dancing with the Stars (Credit: Disney)
From Danny Amendola’s emotional tribute to his late coach to Derek and Hayley Hough’s powerful return to the dance floor, the night was filled with meaningful and heartfelt moments.
The contestants who performed well were the ones who were able to connect with their stories and use their emotions to fuel their performances. This episode showed that dance is not just about technique, but also about telling a story and making an emotional connection with the audience.
As the competition moves forward, it will be interesting to see how the contestants continue to grow and adapt. With Disney Night just around the corner, there is sure to be even more excitement and surprises on the horizon.
Chandler Kinney, who struggled to stay at the top this week, may have an advantage going into Disney Night, given her acting background and experience as a Disney alum.
No matter what happens next, Dedication Night proved that Dancing With the Stars is more than just a dance competition—it’s a platform for celebrities to share their stories and connect with the audience in a deeply personal way.
