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Summary
For fans of the HBO Max seriesThe Penguin, there is one comic that serves as a perfect companion piece. Those who don’t want to wait for Season 2 in order to see similar adventures and stories, theBatman: One Bad Daycomic series offers fans a chance to dive deep into the psyche of Gotham’s infamous rogues gallery, and one of its standout issues is the story of Oswald Cobblepot, better known asThe Penguin.
Just likeThe Penguinseries, theOne Bad Day: Penguinissuefocuses on Oswald’s attempt to reclaimhis criminal empire. Starting from rock bottom with only $20 in his pocket, the comic adds a layer of the kind of grandeur to the story that remains deeply rooted in the character’s determination and resourcefulness. If you’ve been captivated by Colin Farrell’s portrayal of the iconic villain, this comic provides an equally compelling and more stylized journey that you won’t want to miss. And like the Max series, the way the story is told will make readers identify with the classic villain as though he was a pitiable soul, at least at first. It’s only as the story goes on that it becomes clear that once again, this person is actually, bad.
TheBatman: One Bad Dayseriesis a collection of standalone stories dedicated to Batman’s most infamous villains, each inspired by the legendaryThe Killing Jokegraphic novel.Much likeThe Killing Joke, the series delves into the origins, motivations, and defining moments of these iconic characters, presenting them in self-contained narratives that showcase their complexity.
The Penguin’s issue, written by John Ridley with art by Giuseppe Camuncoli, is a highlight of the series. It presents Oswald Cobblepot as a man stripped of all his power, forced to navigate a Gotham City that no longer fears or respects him. The story begins with Oswald penniless, betrayed, and reduced to near-nothingness, but he refuses to accept defeat. This version of The Penguin is a master strategist, using his cunning intellect and ruthless determination to claw his way back to prominence.
Where the seriesThe Penguinkeeps its narrative steepedin realism, the comic embraces the more exaggerated and theatrical elements of Gotham City while still maintaining a sharp emotional core. This blend of grounded storytelling and heightened comic book tropes makes the issue an intriguing parallel to the show.
The Penguin’s Gritty Climb Back to Power
Both the HBO Max seriesand theOne Bad Daycomiccapture a Penguin who is at his most vulnerable but also his most dangerous. In the comic, Oswald faces off against his successor, The Umbrella Man, a figure who has taken over his empire in his absence. This rivalry mirrors the power struggles we see inThe Penguin, as Oswald navigates Gotham’s criminal underworld to reclaim his throne. If there’s one difference here, it’s that the Umbrella Man was once a henchman of Oswald, but turned against him and stole his empire out from under him.
The comic’s portrayal of Oswald’s resourcefulness and resilience is one of its most compelling aspects. Armed with nothing but enough to buy a stolen handgun and one bullet, and his indomitable will, Oswald begins his ascent by recruiting a group of outcasts and misfits to aid him in his quest. His journey is marked by manipulation, betrayal, and a sharp understanding of Gotham’s cutthroat underworld.
While the show leans heavily on Colin Farrell’s nuanced and grounded performance, the comic allows for more outlandish, comic book-style twists and turns. This includes dramatic confrontations and larger-than-life moments that feel right at home in thepages of aBatmancomic. However, at its core, both narratives share the same beating heart: a story of survival and unrelenting ambition.
For fans who have been drawn to the HBO Max series' dark andintrospective look at Oz Cobb, theOne Bad Day: Penguinissue offers a chance to see a similar story unfold with the added flair of Gotham’s comic book lore. It captures the essence of The Penguin’s character—his intelligence, his cunning, and his relentless drive to be feared and respected.
The comic also offers something the show doesn’t: a direct confrontation with The Umbrella Man, a villain who embodies everything Oswald despises. This rivalry serves as a fascinating reflection of The Penguin’s own flaws and ambitions, making it a must-read for anyone interested in seeing how different writers and mediums approach the same iconic character.
This rivalry serves as a fascinating reflection of The Penguin’s own flaws and ambitions, making it a must-read for anyone interested in seeing how different writers and mediums approach the same iconic character.
Additionally, the comic’s artwork by Giuseppe Camuncoli elevates the narrative with its moody, atmospheric style. The visuals bring Gotham to life in a way that feels distinct yet familiar, adding another layer of enjoyment for fans who appreciate the world-building of the Batman universe.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Batman’s rogues gallery or someone who recently discoveredThe Penguinthrough Colin Farrell’s standout performance, theBatman: One Bad Daycomic is a perfect follow-up. Its exploration of power, loyalty, and ambition provides a rich, multi-faceted look at one of Gotham’s most underrated villains. With its gripping narrative and stunning visuals, this comic is an essential read for anyoneeager to see Oswald Cobblepotat his best—and worst.
The Penguin
Cast
Created by Lauren LeFranc and starring Colin Farrell, The Penguin builds on 2022’s The Batman. The Max series chronicles the eponymous villain’s attempt to reach Gotham’s criminal peak, rising through the underworld in the middle of a power struggle.
