The murky waters of Gotham harbor a new predator, and her name is Sofia Falcone. While Colin Farrell’s portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot, aka the Penguin, has been a masterclass in darkly comedic villainy, “Cent’Anni,” the fourth episode of HBO Max’s The Penguin, shifts the spotlight to Cristin Milioti’s chillingly captivating Sofia. This episode isn’t just a narrative detour; it’s a deep dive into the heart of a woman scorned, a gothic opera of betrayal, trauma, and ultimately, chilling vengeance.
The Penguin S1E4
“Cent’Anni” masterfully utilizes a fractured timeline, interweaving Sofia’s current predicament – recovering from injuries sustained after Oz’s betrayal – with the events that led to her incarceration in the infamous Arkham Asylum. This narrative structure allows for a nuanced exploration of Sofia’s character, peeling back the layers of her psyche to reveal the origins of her ruthlessness.
We witness Sofia’s initial attempts to break free from the shadow of her family’s criminal legacy, championing women’s mental health initiatives as a means of atonement for her own troubled past. However, the tragic suicide of her mother continues to haunt her, a wound that festers as she uncovers a series of suspicious deaths linked to her father, Carmine Falcone (played with chilling authority by Mark Strong).
The episode doesn’t shy away from the dark underbelly of Gotham, exposing the corruption and violence that permeate even the highest echelons of society. Sofia’s journey takes her from the opulent halls of the Falcone mansion to the grimy depths of Arkham Asylum, where she’s subjected to dehumanizing treatment and forced to confront the darkest corners of her own mind.
Milioti’s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing. She embodies Sofia’s vulnerability and rage with equal intensity, capturing the character’s descent into madness with chilling authenticity. Whether she’s navigating the treacherous power dynamics of her family or plotting her escape from Arkham, Milioti commands the screen with a captivating presence.
Director Helen Shaver crafts a visually stunning and emotionally resonant episode. The scenes in Arkham are particularly striking, with their oppressive atmosphere and grotesque inhabitants. Shaver masterfully utilizes lighting and sound to create a sense of unease and claustrophobia, immersing the viewer in Sofia’s nightmarish reality.
“Cent’Anni” also sheds light on the complex relationship between Sofia and Oz. We see the seeds of their alliance being sown in the past, as Oz, then a lowly driver for the Falcone family, witnesses Sofia’s struggles and earns her trust. However, the episode also reveals Oz’s early betrayal, a pivotal moment that sets the stage for their future conflict.
The episode culminates in a chilling climax, as Sofia, having escaped from Arkham, unleashes her fury upon those who wronged her. This sequence is both brutal and cathartic, showcasing Sofia’s transformation from victim to predator. The final shot of Sofia, standing amidst the carnage she has wrought, is a haunting reminder of the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of Gotham’s elite.
“Cent’Anni” is a pivotal episode in The Penguin, elevating the series beyond a mere crime drama and into the realm of psychological thriller. With its complex characters, stunning visuals, and masterful performances, this episode is a must-watch for fans of DC Comics and anyone who appreciates quality television.
