Review: Oz continues to underestimate Sofia in The Penguin Episode 6, “Gold Summit”

Review: Oz continues to underestimate Sofia in The Penguin Episode 6, "Gold Summit"

As a long-time fan of Gotham and its dark corners, I must say that this episode was a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The Penguin’s operations have certainly expanded, but it seems Oz is underestimating Sofia and Sal at every turn.


In the following episode, it doesn’t take Oz long to resume his activities, as we first encounter him in “Gold Summit,” Episode 6 of The Penguin. However, one might wonder if he’s underestimating Sofia’s capabilities.

Caution: This post contains SPOILERS from The Penguin Episode 6.

In this installment, it’s evident that the storyline has moved forward somewhat. Oz’s underground activities in the subway tunnels are now active, and the mushroom cultivation is thriving. Vic is involved in distribution by collaborating with various street groups.

Undeniably, that situation was bound to create problems. Being well-aware of Carmine’s nature, Sofia and Sal possess the knowledge needed to keep one step ahead. Although they don’t have the illegal substances, they certainly have valuable information at their disposal.

The Penguin Episode 6 review, “Gold Summit”: Sal wants revenge

It’s understandable that one might feel a desire for retribution when they’ve been wronged, such as Sal who wishes to avenge the murders of his family at Oz’s hands. My sympathies lie with him. However, what makes Sal unique in the world of crime dramas I often watch is that his method of revenge doesn’t involve immediate retaliation with violence, which is a refreshing change. Instead, he seeks another form of retribution.

Is it alright if I share my appreciation for the heartwarming dynamic between Sal and Sofia during dinner? It seems like Sal yearns for the responsibility of nurturing a child, while Sofia appears to be in need of a paternal figure. This unexpected duo has touched me, and I’m hoping they’ll have more time together, even if it’s just for a bit longer. However, with only two episodes remaining, I’m aware that such an extension might not be possible.

Sal harbors a desire to inflict pain on Oz, just as Oz has caused him harm. Meanwhile, Sofia shares similar sentiments, seeking revenge for the wrongs that Oz has done, particularly since he was responsible for her brother’s death. Now, the two of them are in search of a way to target something or someone that Oz values deeply.

If you’re concerned about Francis, don’t stress too much at the moment. It seems that Sofia, Sal, and others believe Oz’s mother has passed away. However, it’s only a matter of time before they learn the truth, and I find myself more anxious about her than ever before.

It appears that neither Sofia nor Sal consider Vic someone Oz has feelings for, and they may well be correct in their assessment. As they explore Oz’s apartment, Sofia discovers a drawer containing Eve’s lingerie and a photo of her, which seems to indicate a new focus or interest on their part.

The ladies working for Eve are particularly attentive towards her. They don’t immediately summon Sofia, and only do so when Eve specifically requests it. Eve has taken such great care of her team that they are always ready to support her. What stands out to me is that despite Sofia not receiving answers from the girls, she didn’t resort to threats. Many others might have, but Sofia seems to adhere to a certain moral standard when dealing with women. Perhaps this stems from the fact that she was wrongly accused as the Hangman.

Returning to the subject of Eve, it’s clear that death is imminent for her at this juncture. Despite knowing that Sofia could end her life at any moment, it isn’t fear of death that prompts Eve to tell Sofia to move on. Instead, there seems to be a kind of ceasefire between them. Loyalty is the only thing that binds Eve, and all she desires is for her girls to remain safe should she perish. In this instance, Sofia demonstrates that loyalty brings its own rewards. The problem now is that by revealing Sofia’s location, Eve has inadvertently led Sofia straight to where Oz (and Francis) are concealed.

Review: Oz continues to underestimate Sofia in The Penguin Episode 6, "Gold Summit"

Oz is getting a little too cocky

As I uncover Oz’s secret lair, he seems preoccupied with his schemes. His growing arrogance grates on me. I’m all too familiar with The Penguin’s tale, but this won’t be a straightforward ending. There will undoubtedly be challenges and casualties along the way.

Yet, Oz is convinced that Sofia and Sal are keeping a close eye on things, to the point where he feels secure that his clandestine activities will remain undiscovered. In truth, they both employ comparable techniques to foster allegiance. Loyalty persists as long as one keeps the purse strings open.

Despite this, Oz’s associates, the Sullivans, are considering leaving the drops trade. They aim to avoid another confrontation with Sofia. Additionally, other gangs in Gotham are following suit. Oz recognizes that these gangs, including the Triad, are essential for his empire’s expansion. Consequently, he needs to take unprecedented steps. He must bring them all together and encourage unity among them, working towards a common goal.

As a film aficionado, I’ve got to admit, taking a chance with Oz pays off – he sure can deliver captivating speeches. Yet, my curiosity arises: How long till their loyalty wanes? Oz proclaims they’re all at the bottom and it’s high time they rise up, but what happens when Oz loses sight of them or moves on, leaving them stranded? What then?

Oz tends to act impulsively, letting his feelings guide him more than he should. The idea of uniting the gangs was triggered by Sofia’s actions, something he never initially considered. It seems he underestimates Sofia, and until he stops doing that, she will continue to pose a threat.

Review: Oz continues to underestimate Sofia in The Penguin Episode 6, "Gold Summit"

Vic gets his first taste of blood

So far, Vic had mostly avoided direct involvement in any lethal actions. Granted, he’s been involved in planting drugs and amputating fingers, but he hadn’t taken a life – until this moment.

When Vic discovers that the head of the Crown Point gang aims to join Oz’s business, he must tackle the predicament personally. Although paying off Squid seems appealing, it isn’t an option due to Squid posing a significant risk to Oz and his dominion. Instead, Vic needs to find a lasting solution to address this threat.

In the end, Squid meets his fate at Vic’s hand, as he takes a life that Vic never wished to claim. It’s evident that this act will haunt him later, and it’s a burden he’ll have to carry. There’s an allure in the underworld that Vic finds himself drawn to, but taking lives is not part of that appeal for him. We can see the innocence within him gradually being tainted. As he navigates through the mob life, he’ll need to harden if he wishes to endure, yet it’s fascinating to observe how a young soul like his gets ensnared in it.

Vic exhibits a tender-hearted nature, and I appreciate his interactions with Francis. He desires to aid her, and he’s demonstrating this by immersing himself in her world. That’s typically how one cares for individuals with dementia. I’m concerned about him when the inevitable happens and something occurs with Francis.

Episode Grade: B+

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

Read More

2024-10-28 04:41

Previous post Kerry Katona shares a health update for her mother Sue after she was rushed to hospital
Next post Aussie star unrecognisable as they dress up as AFL star Bailey Smith for Halloween