10 Shows & Movies Similar to The Penguin (2024)

Description: Titans shares a dark, mature tone with The Penguin (2024), focusing on the gritty aspects of superhero life and the blurred lines between hero and villain. Both series explore the psychological depth of their characters, with a strong emphasis on Gotham's underworld and its impact on the protagonists.

Fact: Titans was originally developed for TNT before moving to DC Universe. Brenton Thwaites' Dick Grayson undergoes a significant transformation from Robin to Nightwing. The show features a live-action version of Jason Todd's Red Hood.

Description: The Boys and The Penguin (2024) both subvert traditional superhero tropes, presenting a darker, more cynical view of power and corruption. The exploration of flawed, often villainous characters in a hyper-violent world aligns with the tone of The Penguin. Both series critique societal structures and the abuse of power.

Fact: The Boys is based on the comic series by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson. Antony Starr's portrayal of Homelander is noted for its chilling intensity. The show's use of extreme violence and satire has sparked controversy and acclaim.

Description: Peacemaker, like The Penguin (2024), centers on a morally ambiguous antihero with a complicated past. Both series blend action, dark comedy, and character-driven drama, set within the broader DC universe. The exploration of flawed characters seeking redemption or power is a key similarity.

Fact: Peacemaker is the first DC Extended Universe television series. John Cena's performance brought unexpected depth to the titular character. The show's opening dance sequence became a viral sensation.

Description: The Batman shares a noir-inspired, gritty aesthetic with The Penguin (2024), both exploring Gotham's criminal underworld. The focus on organized crime, corruption, and the Penguin's role as a key antagonist aligns with the themes of power struggles and moral ambiguity. Both projects emphasize a grounded, realistic take on the Batman mythos.

Fact: Robert Pattinson's Batman suit was inspired by the comic 'Batman: Earth One.' The film's runtime of nearly three hours makes it one of the longest Batman movies. Colin Farrell underwent extensive prosthetics to play the Penguin, a transformation so complete he was unrecognizable.

Description: Gotham shares similarities with The Penguin (2024) as both are set in the dark, crime-ridden world of Gotham City, focusing on the rise of iconic villains. The Penguin's origin story is a central theme in Gotham, providing a deep dive into the criminal underworld that shapes characters like Oswald Cobblepot. Both series explore the gritty, morally ambiguous side of Gotham, emphasizing character development and complex narratives.

Fact: Gotham was originally intended to be a straightforward police procedural before evolving into a broader exploration of Batman's rogues' gallery. Robin Lord Taylor, who played the Penguin in Gotham, received widespread acclaim for his portrayal, which added depth and sympathy to the character. The show features a young Bruce Wayne, providing a unique perspective on his journey to becoming Batman.

Description: Preacher shares The Penguin (2024)'s dark, violent tone and exploration of morally complex characters. Both series delve into themes of power, redemption, and the supernatural, with a mix of humor and brutality. The gritty, stylized aesthetic and focus on antiheroes are key similarities.

Fact: Preacher is based on the Vertigo comic series by Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon. The show features a diverse cast of characters, including a vampire and an angel. Its blend of horror, Western, and road trip genres makes it unique.

Description: Legion and The Penguin (2024) both employ surreal, stylized visuals to explore the psyche of their protagonists. The focus on mental illness, identity, and power struggles aligns with the deep character study expected in The Penguin. Both series challenge traditional narrative structures.

Fact: Legion is based on the Marvel Comics character David Haller, the son of Charles Xavier. The show's unique visual style and nonlinear storytelling set it apart from other superhero series. Aubrey Plaza's performance as Lenny Busker was widely praised for its unpredictability.

Description: Watchmen and The Penguin (2024) both delve into complex, morally gray characters within a dystopian setting. The HBO series, like The Penguin, explores themes of power, identity, and corruption, with a nonlinear narrative and deep character studies. The dark, stylized visuals and mature storytelling are key similarities.

Fact: The series is a sequel to the original graphic novel, set 34 years after the events of the book. Regina King's performance as Sister Night was widely praised. The show incorporates real historical events, such as the Tulsa Race Massacre, into its narrative.

Description: Joker, like The Penguin (2024), is a character study of a notorious Batman villain, delving into their psychological and emotional turmoil. Both films are set in a grim, decaying Gotham City, highlighting societal issues and the descent into madness or criminality. The dark, atmospheric tone and focus on a single villain's origin story make them thematically similar.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix lost 52 pounds to play the emaciated Arthur Fleck. Joker became the first R-rated film to gross over $1 billion worldwide. The film's staircase dance scene was improvised by Phoenix and became iconic.

Description: Doom Patrol and The Penguin (2024) both focus on outcast characters navigating a world that rejects them. The series' blend of dark humor, emotional depth, and surreal storytelling mirrors the complex character study expected in The Penguin. Both explore themes of identity, trauma, and redemption.

Fact: Doom Patrol features characters from one of DC's most unconventional superhero teams. Brendan Fraser provides the voice for Robotman, marking a return to prominent roles. The show's quirky tone and heartfelt moments have earned it a dedicated fanbase.