Anna Daniels
For those captivated by the dark and immersive world of The Batman, HBO’s upcoming The Penguin series featuring Colin Farrell as the notorious Oz Cobblepot is a must-watch. The series is set in Gotham’s underbelly just a week after the events of the 2022 film. Interestingly, although both narratives unfold in the same dimly lit city, The Penguin was filmed entirely in New York City, contrasting with The Batman’s shooting locations across various iconic cities in the UK.
For cinephiles, the decision to film in New York is significant in establishing Gotham’s atmosphere. The bustling streets and rich history of New York enhance the noir ambiance, making the fictional city feel more tangible and grounded for the audience.
Why New York? Insights on Filming Locations
While it might seem unusual, selecting New York City for The Penguin was a strategic choice to differentiate it from The Batman, which captured its visuals in cities like Liverpool, Glasgow, and London to achieve a specific Gothic aesthetic. The vibrant architecture of New York reflects both the elegance and degradation of Gotham, emphasizing the series’ darker themes. Filming commenced in March 2023 under the working title “Boss” and concluded later that year, despite some interruptions caused by the 2023 Writers Strike.
Significant filming locations included the gritty Riverside Drive in West Harlem, which served as the Iceberg Lounge, a popular spot for Gotham’s infamous villains. Fans of the 2019 film Joker may recognize this location, as it was featured in the Clown Agency scenes.
Bringing Iconic Gotham Landmarks to Life
The production utilized more than just Harlem’s landscape. A key piece is Gotham’s Diamond District, where Oz’s apartment was filmed on 27th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues. Digital enhancements were used to augment the impressive height of the Williamsburg Bridge. The grand Falcone mansion was shot at the La Selva estate in Long Island, aligning with production designer Kalina Ivanov’s vision of an opulent, Gatsby-like residence for the criminal family.
Ivanov drew inspiration from New York’s historical poverty when designing the city’s lower-class areas, specifically referencing the notorious 19th-century Five Points. The Crown Point district, depicting Gotham’s downtrodden population, utilized real-life spots in Chinatown, the South Bronx, and Yonkers, effectively creating a haunting representation of urban despair.
Production Challenges and Cast Dynamics
Filming in one of the busiest urban centers brought its own set of challenges. Besides delays due to strikes, there were instances where picketers disrupted shooting locations, necessitating a shift of production to Brooklyn and Queens, utilizing Silvercup Studios North for indoor scenes.
New York’s choice as a filming location contributes an undeniable sense of realism, especially given the show’s focus on themes of crime and survival. This vibrant city, known for its cinematic legacy and dynamic character, effectively embodies Gotham.
While Colin Farrell takes the lead in the series along with talents like Cristin Milioti and Michael Zegen, New York itself plays a pivotal role in the narrative. In The Penguin, Gotham is not just a backdrop; it morphs into a dynamic character crucial for the storyline.
A Grittier Gotham Awaits
Ultimately, shifting the filming of The Penguin from the UK to New York City adds a new layer to the depiction of Gotham. The city’s sprawling urban environment—characterized by towering buildings and shadowy corners—mirrors the ascent of Oz Cobblepot, offering a distinct yet just as dark experience compared to The Batman’s UK settings. Fans excited for a deeper dive into Gotham’s shady underbelly can look forward to The Penguin, with episodes scheduled to premiere in 2024.
The gritty streets of Gotham are on the horizon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boFd472VRhw
