Review: Oz and Sofia regroup in The Penguin Episode 5, “Homecoming”

Review: Oz and Sofia regroup in The Penguin Episode 5, "Homecoming"

As a seasoned crime drama enthusiast with a penchant for Gotham’s underbelly, I find myself captivated by the intricate web of power plays and shifting loyalties unfolding in this episode. The city, much like a ruthless beast, has claimed another victim – Oz’s brothers. The pain etched on Oz’s face is a poignant reminder of the harsh reality that survival often comes at a steep price.

Following a one-hour immersion into Sofia’s story and her transformation into The Hangman, the fifth installment of The Penguin, titled “Homecoming,” now shifts focus back to Oz’s narrative. Let’s delve into how he reorganizes his plan.

Caution: This post contains SPOILERS for The Penguin episode 5

From where I stand as a devoted fan, we delve into the aftermath of Episode 3’s dramatic finale. Oz, in an unexpected turn, torches his cherished car. Vic, on the other hand, gets a shot at making amends for his past mistakes. Remarkably, Oz forgives Vic swiftly, perhaps because Vic demonstrated his unwavering allegiance by returning when he had the chance to walk away.

As a gamer, I find myself needing a strategic pause. The twist is, Sofia seizing control over the Falcone crime family isn’t making things any easier for me.

The Penguin episode 5 review, “Homecoming”: Oz attacks the Maroni family

Initially, it’s crucial for Oz to handle the Maronis, as they think he has deceived them. Among the Maronis, there’s a potential vulnerability: Taj Maroni, Sal’s son, who can be easily apprehended. If Oz manages to capture Taj, the Maronis will find themselves in a predicament and may have no other option than to cooperate with Oz temporarily.

Oz feels taken aback upon learning that Sofia has eliminated many members of the Falcone family. However, this turn of events might not be detrimental for Oz and his supporters, as he emphasizes in an inspiring speech. The predicament lies in the fact that while it appears Oz is always one move ahead, he’s actually not quite there. It becomes evident that his quick-wittedness and eloquence are merely facets of his improvisation abilities. He delivers persuasive speeches effectively when needed, but those close to him can discern a hint of inauthenticity behind them.

Wasn’t it obvious that nothing would turn out as we expected? When Oz meets with Sal Maroni’s wife Nadia, it becomes apparent that it’s a trap. Yet, Oz seems to be prepared for this. He had drenched Taj in gasoline and set the boy on fire as he and his mother were hugging, resulting in their deaths. It appears that Oz is always one step ahead of everyone, or at least quick-witted enough to make it seem that way.

Unfortunately, he additionally carried an abundance of mushrooms intended for producing the euphoriant drug “bliss,” which were meant to be part of the trade. Sadly, many of these perished in the process. Moreover, Oz’s scheme to have Sal eliminated within prison didn’t succeed. It serves as a reminder that even the most meticulously planned strategies don’t always unfold flawlessly. Often, it seems as though criminal masterminds swiftly ascend through the ranks, but Oz has consistently shown us that for every two steps forward, there is usually a step back. This adds a touch of realism to the narrative, dampening some of its romantic allure.

Review: Oz and Sofia regroup in The Penguin Episode 5, "Homecoming"

Vic gets a heartwarming special task

In this situation, since Vic has proven his loyalty, there’s something crucial Oz needs him to handle: checking on his mother. This moment reveals the depth of Oz’s trust in Vic, as he values his discretion. Revealing that his mom is battling dementia could potentially expose a vulnerability that others might exploit. By entrusting Vic with this significant responsibility – his beloved mother – Oz demonstrates his unwavering faith in him.

At home, Francis seems disoriented, but Victor manages to ground her. It’s evident that her dementia isn’t advanced significantly at this point. She doesn’t get overly bewildered when Victor clarifies that Oz is now targeting the Maronis and the Falcones are no more.

Despite setbacks, Oz places faith in Vic. He relies on Vic’s guidance to transport Francis to safety, and Vic recalls an ideal location. Why not Crown Point, a neighborhood once home to Vic? It’s risky – after all, it was submerged in the city during ‘The Batman’ – but it’s off the radar for the Maronis and Falcones. However, this decision brings Vic face-to-face with Squid, an old gang leader from his past.

My heart goes out to Francis throughout this episode. She leaves her own house clinging onto just a lamp. She needs something to keep her grounded into reality, and that will have to do. Vic also has a box of belongings, but seeing Francis hold onto this lamp is devastating.

In this episode, we learn a bit more about Oz’s brothers, as he mentions they were taken by the city, suggesting a tragic past that Oz feels responsible for. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough time to delve into their history. As Oz sifts through a jar of coins, he discovers a pin that sparks a new idea for his climb ahead. Accompanied by Vic, they explore tunnels once used by city trolleys, which lie beneath the city and offer an unnoticed means of transportation. These tunnels could be ideal for their new hideout. There seems to be a glimmer of hope for Oz.

Review: Oz and Sofia regroup in The Penguin Episode 5, "Homecoming"

Sofia deals with the aftermath of her plan

In regards to the Falcone family, it’s no shock when incidents like the deaths in episode 4 end up as headlines. The Gotham Police Department is inquiring deeply into Sofia regarding the gas leak incident. They’re also interested in learning if Sofia has any knowledge about Johnny Viti’s whereabouts.

Sofia feigns ignorance, yet her expressions often give her away. The officer senses something fishy about the deaths and seems to suspect that Sofia might be involved. Her temperament, strained after Arkham, could prove detrimental if Oz manages to provoke her into a confrontation.

Absolutely, Sofia is aware of Johnny’s location. Not only did he play a role in her being sent to Arkham, but upon her release, he also threatened her. Now, it appears that she intends to exact revenge on him by torturing him.

Sofia thrives when she’s in charge, but discussions about her mother or past can unsettle her. Mentioning Sofia’s mom, as Johnny did, triggers an angry response from her. It turns out that Sofia’s mother almost left Carmine, but went back to protect Alberto and herself. This information, shared by Johnny, caused Sofia to react defensively.

It’s unclear how reliable Johnny’s statements are since Sofia is quite susceptible to manipulation, as demonstrated by Oz in the past. Given this tendency, it wouldn’t shock me if Johnny attempts to deceive us too, considering his desire to keep living. I’m relieved that Sofia put an end to Johnny’s questions at the table. As we reach the midpoint of the season, it’s crucial for both Oz and Sofia to turn things around for the better.

Additionally, there’s the issue of Dr. Julian Rush, who aided Sofia during her time in Arkham. Following his rescue of her from the Maronis’ attack, he assists Sofia in determining her next steps. Later, he appears at her residence with a proposition: he wishes to join forces with her, seeking the freedom she seems to have found. As Sofia expands her influence and gains support, one notable aspect is her openness about her actions against the Carmine foot soldiers. They had best comply or face similar consequences. In this series, fear holds the reins of power.

Sofia is choosing to adopt her mother’s surname, Gigante, instead of the Falcone name. This marks a fresh chapter for her and the organized crime family.

Beyond that, she also visits the fugitive and distraught Sal Maroni. Her intention is to put an end to the conflict between their clans, enabling them to unite in killing Oz. It’s surprising how swiftly allegiances have changed. I can’t help but miss the partnership of Oz and Sofia, as their dynamic was captivating, but it’s thrilling to witness Sofia joining forces with Sal.

The struggle for power among criminal factions, previously centered around “The Penguin,” is shifting to involve a new set of players. Sofia emerges as one of Gotham’s most formidable figures, while Oz remains oblivious. The upcoming episodes promise an exhilarating second half of the season.

Episode grade: B-

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

2024-10-21 04:42