The finale of The Penguin series, Episode 8, is a complete package of mind-blowing Easter eggs and references that send regards to DC Comics, The Batman, and hint at what’s coming in The Batman – Part II. By the episode’s end, Oswald “Oz” Cobblepot (Colin Farrell) sets out to be Gotham’s new kingpin.
Let’s look at 10 key references you may have failed to notice in the epic finale.
1Gotham Renewal Banner and Street Graffiti
Following the explosion at Crown Point in Episode 7, Oz got the support of multiple gangs, marching around street with graffiti and banners, encapsulating the Gotham Renewal Corporation logo.
This fund, managed by Carmine Falcone, has to go through corruption in The Batman (2022). The graffiti also includes “Protect and Abuse?” posters, critiquing the corrupt GCPD—hinting at the city’s structured issues and the juxtaposed ideals of the few noble officers like Jim Gordon.
2Bella Reál’s Nameplate
While crossing the paths at City Hall, Oz glimpses the nameplate of Bella Reál, Gotham’s mayor-elect (Jayme Lawson).
Bella is all set to launch an anti-corruption campaign, in order to challenge Oz’s growing influence.
This long look at Bella’s nameplate foreshadows a future conflict, as Oz might need to resort to manipulative techniques againts her anti-corruption agenda to keep his criminal empire intact.
3Connections With Gotham’s Elite
Oz’s allegiance with Councilman Hady, a recurring comic character who played the role in supporting Gotham’s corrupt mayor, magnifies his influence.
This connection parallels the Penguin’s classic comic persona, where he bonds with Gotham’s elite to expand his influence.
Through Hady, Oz solidifies his political influence, echoing his comic-book counterpart’s knack for forging high-level relationships.
4Bella Reál’s Arm Sling
Mayor-Elect Bella Reál is witnessed wearing a sling, not fully recovered from the gunshot wound she faced in The Batman.
This detail highlights the series’ continuity, as the events in The Penguin take place shortly after those of The Batman.
5Goodwin International Airport
Sofia Falcone moved towards Goodwin International Airport, Gotham’s main airport, named after the influential comic book editor Archie Goodwin, who contributed to iconic Batman titles like The Long Halloween.
This subtle nod points towards The Penguin to the rich legacy of Batman’s comic universe, giving regards to an editor who assisted Gotham’s dark world.
6Sofia Burns Carmine’s Watch
Sofia burns a watch she initially planned to give her father, Carmine Falcone, on his birthday, highlighting her 100% detachment from her family’s legacy.
The burning of the watch, along with the Falcone family painting, indicates that she has moved on from her past, even as she plots to leave Gotham and start anew.
7Selina Kyle’s Letter to Sofia
In Arkham, a letter is delivered to Sofia from Selina Kyle, aka Catwoman (Zoë Kravitz). This letter highlights the bond between the two, as both share Carmine Falcone as their father.
Selina’s gesture indicates that she knows of Sofia’s struggles and is approaching her as a half-sister, suggesting a future alliance whose foundations is shared pain and vengeance against their father.
8Catwoman Theme Music
True DC fan moment here! As Sofia was reading Selina’s letter, Michael Giacchino’s famous “Catwoman” theme played in background.
Although none of us really know what information the letter holds, the music hints at a hidden link between Sofia and Selina.
Adding to the already roof-touching anticipation for Selina’s appearance on-screen with Sofia, the scene foreshadows some unique and interesting alliances in Gotham’s criminal underworld.
9Penguin’s New Attire
How could anyone miss that sharp-cut tuxedo, top hat, and the umbrella? The finale includes a throwback to the Penguin from the OG comics, signifying Oz’s transformation from a just a gangster to Gotham’s crime lord.
Oz is now the “Penguin”, all set to rule Gotham city’s shady trades.
10The Bat-Signal Lights Up
The final scene – what a masterpiece. Eyes of attentive fans watch Oz and Eve dance, only to be diverted by something even more eye-catching: The Bat-Signal. Yes, Bruce Wayne is back.
With Batman Part II lined up ahead for DC, it is clearer than ever that the Dark Knight is aware of the Penguin’s rise to power and is already making plans to put things in order, promising that Gotham will be safe.
Final Thoughts
Season 1 of The Penguin has ended, but given we find more interesting clues and Easter eggs, it will only get better with time, like wine.
Until Robert Pattinson’s Batman has a final face-off with the Penguin in Batman Part II, Gotham’s new crime lord continues to rule!
About The Penguin
The Penguin is an American television miniseries created by Lauren LeFranc for HBO. Based on the DC Comics character Penguin, it is a spin-off from the film The Batman (2022) that explores the Penguin’s rise to power in Gotham City’s criminal underworld. LeFranc serves as the showrunner of the series, which is produced by DC Studios in association with Warner Bros. Television.
Colin Farrell stars as the Penguin, reprising his role from The Batman, alongside Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Deirdre O’Connell, Clancy Brown, Carmen Ejogo, Michael Zegen, Berto Colón, James Madio, Joshua Bitton, David H. Holmes, Daniel J. Watts, Ben Cook, Jayme Lawson, Michael Kelly and Mark Strong. Development was underway by September 2021, and HBO Max ordered it in March 2022, after The Batman was released. The film’s director, Matt Reeves, supervised the writing and was involved in hiring the creative team. Filming began in March 2023 in New York, but was halted in June by the 2023 Hollywood labor disputes. Production resumed in late November and concluded in February 2024. The series moved from HBO Max’s successor Max to HBO in July 2024. Craig Zobel directed the first three episodes.
The Penguin premiered in the United States on HBO on September 19, 2024, and is set to run for eight episodes until November 10.
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