Superhero Ethics

In this episode of Superhero Ethics, hosts Matthew and Riki analyze HBO's The Penguin series starring Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti. Set in Matt Reeves' Batman universe following the events of The Batman movie, the show explores the power vacuum left in Gotham's criminal underworld after the fall of crime boss Carmine Falcone.What makes Oz Cobb a compelling villain protagonist?The hosts discuss how the series portrays Oswald "Oz" Cobb (The Penguin) as a complex character who constantly shifts between sympathetic and monstrous. Unlike previous iterations that leaned into fantastical elements, this Penguin is grounded as a mobster with a physical disability who uses his exceptional charisma and manipulation skills to climb Gotham's criminal ladder. The show reveals his troubled childhood, including his complicated relationship with his mother and the shocking revelation that he was responsible for his brothers' deaths.How does The Penguin explore themes of respect and power?Matthew and Riki examine how Oz's