HBO Max's The Penguin is a crime drama that's set in Matt Reeves' Batman universe! It continues the story after the events in "The Batman," focusing on Oz Cobb's (played by Colin Farrell) rise to power in Gotham City. It looks like this will be one of the hottest shows, even becoming a fan-favorite and having everyone talking.
Magpie's Arrival in The Penguin
A new character makes an appearance in The Penguin episode 4. Marié Botha brings Magpie into this universe in a remarkable way, making a significant entrance to the DC universe. However, Magpie doesn't stay around too long! In this episode, Sofia Falcone (played by Cristin Milioti) ends up "killing" Magpie! But as Botha explained to ScreenRant, Magpie's appearance on the screen might not be over just yet. Magpie is not so easily dispatched, and there's even a mention of Blackest Night as an event that happened in this universe. It would give Magpie an awesome comeback if you ask us. Fans and audiences who loved The Penguin show, it will definitely keep those loyal viewers interested.
Magpie's Audition
Botha shares that when the audition came, things weren't so easy! The character information was super limited. So, the actress used a whole lot of clever detective work! She used these limited scenes to get all the info possible to show the directors, and this helped to make the whole audition incredibly compelling!
- She figured out it was a prison scene and concluded that the character she was playing was likely a villain!
- She was familiar with the style of "The Batman" movie from Matt Reeves
- So she leaned heavily into this inspiration, incorporating that kind of grittiness into her portrayal.
Her instincts seemed like they really impressed everyone, considering she nailed the audition and got her new role in a series with so many legendary and famous people.
Researching Magpie
Botha went on a full journey of exploring the character, making her so special!
- She researched extensively by buying a lot of comic books that featured the character online. She dove deeply into everything available, crafting that deep emotional backstory! To fully immerse herself, and show a more sensitive side she even worked on this as a character study.
- She even referenced the work from Helena Bonham Carter (as Bellatrix Lestrange).
- Botha even incorporated some elements from Joaquin Phoenix (as Arthur Fleck).
- She used other DC villains for some inspiration!
- And she also did plenty of studying on films that show psychiatric institutions!
This immersive approach to the role allowed her to tap into what's special about Magpie's voice and how she carries her characteristics!
Arkham Asylum Set
Botha details some really interesting and exciting facts about being on-set for the Arkham Asylum. She described the setting as a place with "chills" and some of this set design.
- Some portions were filmed at SilverCup Studios!
- Others parts were shot in Williamsburg in an awe-inspiring church.
All of this helped her develop her Magpie character, giving viewers the feeling that they were actually walking through these spaces along with her!
Magpie's Fate
What happened to Magpie in this thrilling "The Penguin" episode was truly a shock! It looks like it may be over for her. Although Magpie's death really happened, in this adaptation. In fact, in this new version of The Penguin Sofia does get to finish things. But, Botha had a strong hint there might be something more waiting to happen for her. But if that’s not the case, then we can still continue looking forward for new adventures and that’s exactly what Botha hopes to work on! As she describes she has plans to develop a television series of her own!
The Penguin Season 1
It's worth reiterating just what's coming out soon from HBO and Max. You have got Colin Farrell returning, this time playing the villainous Penguin and continues that great Matt Reeves and "The Batman" storyline.
The episode runs every Sunday at 9 PM on HBO, but for those who want to enjoy this whenever they're available it will come to Max as well!
