Cristin Milioti Shines in The Penguin Episode 4 Review: A Standout Performance

The fourth episode of The Penguin, titled Cent’Anni, debuted on Max on October 13, 2024. This installment took a closer look at the aftermath of last week’s events, where Sofia and Oswald found themselves trapped by the Maronis, while also exploring the backstory of Sofia’s time in Arkham and the challenges she confronted there.

Although Colin Farrell’s portrayal of Oswald Cobb was somewhat limited in this episode, Cristin Milioti shone bright as Sofia Falcone, becoming the focal point of the narrative. Milioti’s performance is captivating, showcasing her immense talent as she carries much of the episode’s emotional weight.

Episode 4 of The Penguin stands out as the series’ most compelling entry to date. It delves into the complexities of the Falcone family, illustrating a gripping tale of betrayal and the loss of innocence experienced by Sofia. Additionally, Mark Strong’s reprisal as Carmine Falcone is a welcome recasting, seamlessly integrating into The Batman universe.

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are purely those of the author.

The Penguin Episode 4: The Series’ Pinnacle

Cristin Milioti Dazzles as Sofia Falcone

One of the most remarkable aspects of Episode 4 of The Penguin is Cristin Milioti’s portrayal of Sofia Falcone. This character-driven episode allows Milioti to display her prowess as she navigates the complexities of Sofia’s character arc, ensuring that viewers are captivated throughout.

The narrative begins in the past, presenting a more naive Sofia who is still full of hope. Engaged in charity work for mental health, her intentions are noble. However, upon questioning her father about the mysterious circumstances surrounding her mother’s death and other tragic events, she finds herself plunged into turmoil.

Milioti excels in depicting Sofia’s transformation from an innocent to a deeply scarred individual, ultimately rising to take command of the Falcone legacy. Her multifaceted performance makes each shift in Sofia’s personality seem both natural and believable.

Mark Strong Captivates as Carmine Falcone

While it’s a pity that John Turturro couldn’t reprise his role as Carmine Falcone from The Batman, Mark Strong’s interpretation proves to be a fitting replacement. He captures some of Turturro’s nuanced mannerisms while adding a more menacing flair to the character, making Falcone compelling to watch.

Strong’s portrayal reveals a ruthless side as he frames his own daughter for his crimes, emphasizing his volatile nature. In brief but effective appearances, Michael Zegen returns as Alberto Falcone, delivering a heartfelt performance that illustrates his desperation to support Sofia.

An Exceptional Hour of Television

Continuing to build on its success, The Penguin delivers perhaps its most impressive episode yet with episode 4. The heart of the episode lies in Sofia’s story, and while flashbacks can sometimes slow momentum, here they effectively enhance the narrative, offering vital context that enriches the storyline.

Sofia’s evolution into a formidable figure within the Falcone family is both thrilling and poignant, and the creative team behind the series does an excellent job of bringing this complex narrative to life.

Conclusion

The fourth episode of The Penguin is a remarkable achievement, highlighting Cristin Milioti’s outstanding performance. With the lead character taking a backseat this week, the series remains just as thrilling as before. As viewers anticipate Sofia’s ascension within the Falcone family, the excitement for the next episode intensifies. The Penguin Episode 4 is currently available for streaming on Max.

Source