The Penguin Episode 2 review, “Inside Man”: Sofia proves she’s more than a pretty face

The Penguin Episode 2 review, "Inside Man": Sofia proves she's more than a pretty face

As a fan of mob shows who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of organized crime narratives, I must say that “The Penguin” is quickly becoming one of my favorites. The way it deftly weaves together complex storylines and character development is simply captivating.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve noticed that many mob series and films tend to spotlight the male leaders. These productions often overlook the powerful roles women play, and it seems they’re doing exactly that in the latest episode of The Penguin, “Inside Man.

Caution: This post contains SPOILERS for The Penguin season 1, episode 2.

The opening episode laid a solid foundation for Oz, but the second one shows there’s more fine-tuning needed on his part. “Inside Man” serves as a reminder that Sofia Falcone should never be taken lightly.

In this episode, events continue from the previous one. As the Falcone family grapples with their situation, suspecting Salvatore Maroni for the murder of Sofia’s brother Alberto, Sofia appears to be a step ahead. With the Falcone drug operation compromised, she believes it must have been an inside job, as only someone within their ranks could have leaked information about the drugs being transported and their destination. It’s puzzling that no one else seems to be considering these possibilities. One has to wonder why Sofia is the only one thinking strategically like a mob boss. She needs to gather evidence and identify the culprit, when it has already been revealed to be Oz.

The Penguin Episode 2 review, "Inside Man": Sofia proves she's more than a pretty face

The Penguin season 1, episode 2 review, “Inside Man“

In this latest gaming session, there are two captivating narratives unfolding. As a character, Oz definitely has his fair share of tasks, but it’s Sofia’s tale that truly grips me. Being a female character with a past as a convicted serial killer who once resided at Arkham, she’s often disregarded by the male figures in her family. Now, her uncle is ascending the Falcone mob throne, effectively pushing Sofia to the sidelines.

When no one was looking, she chose to tackle the issues herself. She encountered a tipsy and disgraced detective named Marcus Wise who once worked under her father at a tavern. This individual had a knack for unmasking traitors in the past, and now she asks him to do it again. He understands that she lacks trust in her family, but what power does he hold over the situation? Is he brave enough to act upon it?

Through the radio broadcasts and terrifying dreams, we learn about Sofia’s past actions, as she is a convicted murderer, currently grappling with the psychological toll of being confined at Arkham Asylum. Alberto had been her source of strength, but sadly, he’s no longer around, which may lead to Sofia reaching a breaking point in the future. This development might benefit Oz, but keep in mind that unstable individuals are notoriously erratic and unpredictable.

The Penguin Episode 2 review, "Inside Man": Sofia proves she's more than a pretty face

Oz figures out his next move

While Oz comes to understand that Sofia may have suspected him earlier, she had accused him of killing her brother. Her suspicion was correct in this instance, but she lacked the evidence to prove it, instead pointing accusations at Sal. However, Sofia remains a potential danger for Oz, and he feels compelled to reach out to her to avoid raising further suspicion about himself.

In the series, I find myself navigating a tricky balance between winning Sal over for our common goal against the Falcones and growing closer to Sofia Falcole. It’s quite the balancing act, like walking on a tightrope. I even share with her about my mom, whose dementia is progressing, offering a glimpse into the softer side of me.

In a tricky situation, Oz is sandwiched between the two powerful crime families – the Maronis and the Falcones. The loss of a Maroni member has them threatening to take Oz’s life as well, claiming he’s useless if he doesn’t have full knowledge about the Falcone family. But that’s not the only danger he faces. From the start, Oz anticipated a lengthy game of chess. What he didn’t anticipate was Sofia escaping from Arkham Asylum. If only she had stayed locked up, things would have been simpler for him.

In a twist of events, Oz persists in being quick-witted by eliminating Sofia’s most trusted allies piece by piece. When Victor falters in his attempt to set up someone else in the Falcone family with the diamonds, Oz improvises by killing a Maroni soldier who were intended for interrogation and falsely accuses Sofia’s bodyguard of the crime, thus eliminating him as a potential threat. If he can’t get rid of her directly, at least he becomes the one she may have to rely on.

The Penguin Episode 2 review, "Inside Man": Sofia proves she's more than a pretty face

Vic finds himself in over his head

In no time at all, Vic has earned a special place in my heart as my preferred character. He’s got an endearing innocence about him that makes his struggles all the more poignant. This is a young man who’s simply trying to make it through each day, and now finds himself compelled to battle for his existence. Driving Oz seems almost a privilege, yet Vic is well aware of the potential perils involved. The expression on Vic’s face was invaluable when Oz nonchalantly disclosed the fate of an old associate. It served as a stark reminder of the consequences that come with talking to law enforcement and crossing the family line.

As Vic grows increasingly anxious, his speech becomes halting and uncertain. Despite this, Oz continues to keep him on board, suggesting there’s potential in him that Oz can see. This situation could escalate as Vic wrestles with whether he truly wants to continue, but it seems leaving the mob might not be an option once you’re in.

In the final scene of the episode, Oz imparts a crucial lesson to Vic after he fails to plant the jewels. This mistake forces Oz to improvise and instead plants a knife. To drive home the point, Oz makes Vic lie in the graves with two deceased men they were burying, demonstrating the consequences of holding back. Will this lesson have its intended effect? Given how the episode concludes, it seems more likely.

In the Falcone family crypt, we find Sofia and Oz. Sofia suspects it was her guard who murdered Alberto for the jewels. Fed up with being sidelined by men in her family, she proposes that they join forces with Oz to seize control. Needless to say, he’s all too eager!

This installment continues to intensify the narrative of Sofia and Oz, revealing how seemingly insignificant characters can prove to be formidable threats. The climax finds Oz in a position crucial for him to seize control over the Falcone clan.

The Penguin airs Sundays at 9/8c on HBO and Max.

2024-09-30 05:41