Source: HBO
Overall 9.1/10
Story 9.0/10
Episode 4 of The Penguin, Cent'Anni, masterfully advances the dark, gritty narrative of Gotham's underworld. This episode revolves around tensions that have been simmering for weeks, coming to a head as key players make their moves.
The writing in this episode continues to be razor-sharp. The pacing is deliberate and effective. The dialogue, while sparse at moments, is loaded with intent. Every conversation seems to foreshadow larger moves on the chessboard.
It places a focus on legacy and the weight of power. There’s a thematic undercurrent about what it means to inherit a criminal empire and the consequences that come with that inheritance.
The themes of inheritance and legacy have a profound effect on some characters in this episode, bringing into question their motivations and loyalties. It showcases the lengths they’re willing to go to secure their place in Gotham’s hierarchy.
As the writing expertly ties these themes to some characters, we start to see the cracks in their facades and understand the emotional toll that their ambitions are taking on them.
Source: HBO
Character 9.1/10
Oz Cobb/Oswald Cobblepot (Colin Farrell) shows the audience the beginning of his rise in Gotham’s criminal empire. Cent'Anni illustrates his humble origin and the critical decision that catapults that rise.
There’s a vulnerability to Oz here that we haven’t seen before. His actions will come back to haunt him. Yet as we know, he doesn't regret any of his past deeds. It's just the cost of doing business in his line of work.
Sofia Falcone (Cristin Milioti) is at the center of Cent'Anni. Her character is a study in contrasts: outwardly calm and composed but seething with ambition and a deep desire to prove her worth to those who shunned her.
This episode allows Sofia to flex her strategic muscles, showing that she’s more than just the heir to her father’s empire. She’s a force in her own right. Her complex relationship with power and loyalty is explored further. Then we start to see just how dangerous she can be when pushed.
Johnny Vitti (Michael Kelly) is less bound by legacy and loyalty. He is more driven by personal survival and ambition. That makes him just the type of person that Sofia knows she can control.
Carmine Falcone (Mark Strong) is a ghost from the past in Cent'Anni. His influence looms large over the episode. The legacy of the Falcone name and the empire he built is constantly referenced, and his shadow hangs over both Sofia and the city itself.
His legacy is treated almost like a character in its own right, dictating the actions and motivations of everyone in the episode. The episode does an excellent job of reminding viewers that while Carmine may be gone, his ghost is very much alive in the decisions and power struggles of the main characters.
Source: HBO
Final Thoughts
Cent'Anni is a deeply satisfying episode that continues to raise the stakes for all of its characters. The themes of legacy and power are woven throughout the story, adding depth to the already complex relationships between the main characters.
With sharp writing, intense character development and a slow-burn approach that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, The Penguin delivers in all the right ways.
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