The Penguin Episode 4 Review: "The Trial"

The Background

The Penguin Episode 4, titled "The Trial," aired on September 28, 2022, and is the fourth episode of the first season of the American television series The Penguin, a spin-off of the 2022 film The Batman. The episode was written by Lauren LeFranc and directed by Craig Zobel.

The episode follows Oswald Cobblepot (Colin Farrell) as he stands trial for the murder of Carmine Falcone. The trial is presided over by Judge Sofia Falcone (Cristin Milioti), who is determined to see Oswald convicted. Oswald is represented by his lawyer, Edward Nygma (Paul Dano), who is determined to prove his client's innocence. Oswald's trial is a media circus, with reporters from all over the city covering the proceedings. The trial also attracts the attention of various criminal organizations, who are all interested in seeing Oswald either convicted or acquitted.

Summary of "The Trial"

The episode opens with Oswald being transported to the courthouse. He is met by a hostile crowd of protesters, who are all demanding his conviction. Oswald is taken to the courtroom, where he is met by Judge Falcone and his lawyer, Edward Nygma. The trial begins with the prosecution presenting its case. The prosecution's main witness is Sofia Falcone, who testifies that Oswald killed her father. The prosecution also presents evidence that Oswald was seen fleeing the scene of the crime.

The defense then presents its case. Edward Nygma calls several witnesses who all testify that Oswald is innocent. Nygma also presents evidence that suggests that Sofia Falcone is lying about what she saw. The jury deliberates for several hours before reaching a verdict. The jury finds Oswald not guilty of all charges. Oswald is released from custody and leaves the courtroom a free man.

Analysis of "The Trial"

The Penguin Episode 4 "The Trial" is a complex and well-written episode that explores the themes of justice, corruption, and redemption. The episode is also a showcase for Colin Farrell's performance as Oswald Cobblepot. Farrell gives a tour-de-force performance, bringing depth and nuance to the character. The episode also features strong performances from Cristin Milioti as Judge Sofia Falcone and Paul Dano as Edward Nygma. Milioti is both menacing and sympathetic as Sofia Falcone, while Dano is both brilliant and eccentric as Edward Nygma.

The episode explores the theme of justice in several ways. The episode raises questions about the fairness of the trial. Oswald is clearly innocent of the charges against him, but he is almost convicted because of the political pressure on Judge Falcone.

The episode also explores the theme of redemption. Oswald's journey throughout the episode is one of redemption. He starts the episode as a broken man, but he ends the episode with a renewed sense of hope.

Overall, The Penguin Episode 4 "The Trial" is a powerful and thought-provoking episode that is a must-watch for fans of the series.

The Penguin Episode 4 Review