Prior to the release of Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” in March 2022, there was considerable online buzz regarding the film’s classification. Fans of the superhero genre had high hopes for the first R-rated Dark Knight film, yet it was ultimately classified as PG-13. The narrative world of “The Batman” is set to broaden with the introduction of the Max series “The Penguin,” featuring Colin Farrell in the role of the notorious Gotham City mobster Oswald Cobblepot. Farrell shared with MovieZine that the series will display significant violence, likely satisfying those fans who desired a more graphically violent version of “The Batman.”

 

Farrell described the experience of shooting “The Penguin” series as extensive yet fulfilling. He noted the series’ dark and intense nature, emphasizing its violence and the protagonist’s ambitious climb to power and prestige.

 

“The Batman” concluded with the demise of Carmine Falcone, creating a power vacuum in Gotham City that various characters aim to fill, including Oswald Cobblepot’s quest for dominance, as Farrell detailed.

 
 

“The Penguin” will feature Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone, Michael Zegen as Alberto Falcone, and Clancy Brown as Salvatore Maroni, under the leadership of showrunner Lauren LeFranc, with Reeves serving as an executive producer.

 

Reeves, in February 2022, clarified that “The Batman” was always envisioned to receive a PG-13 rating, aiming for a thrilling yet accessible film without necessitating any content cuts for achieving this rating.

 

“The Penguin” is set to debut on Max in the upcoming fall. It remains uncertain whether Farrell will return as the character in “The Batman Part II,” directed by Reeves and starring Robert Pattinson. The sequel’s release has been postponed to October 2, 2026.