Explained: The Ending of The Penguin Episode 1 and Gotham’s Response to the Flooding

The inaugural episode of The Penguin, titled After Hours, made its debut on HBO and Max on September 19, 2024. Set just one week following the events of The Batman, this episode delved into Gotham’s struggles with flooding, risen gang violence, and the aftermath of Carmine Falcone’s death, which left a significant power vacuum for Gotham’s criminal element to exploit.

At the conclusion of The Batman, audiences witnessed Gotham submerged in water, and The Penguin further explores the direct ramifications this had on the criminal underworld. With the Drops business in disarray due to contamination from the flood, Oswald Cobblepot found himself compelled to choose sides as threats loomed over his livelihood.

The premiere of The Penguin also introduced viewers to a host of new characters, including iconic figures from the comics like Sofia Falcone and Sal Maroni. Additionally, audiences met Victor Aguilar, an original character crafted for the series.

What transpires in episode 1 of The Penguin?

Oswald Cobblepot takes down Alberto Falcone

Episode one of The Penguin commenced by showcasing the impact of The Riddler’s flood on Gotham and how the Falcone family was coping with Carmine’s demise. With Alberto Falcone, Carmine’s son, poised to inherit leadership roles, Oswald Cobb infiltrated the Iceberg Lounge intent on pilfering from his former boss’s stockpile, only to encounter a new boss in the process.

Accused of theft, Oswald spun a tale of welcoming amidst his supposed new position. However, when Alberto expressed intentions to innovate Gotham’s drug market, he insulted Oswald, prompting Cobblepot to shoot him.

In an attempt to conceal the body, Oswald stumbled upon Victor Aguilar, a homeless youth trying to steal car tires. Although he initially threatened the boy, Oswald ultimately coerced Victor into assisting with hiding Alberto’s corpse. As the plot progressed, Oswald took Victor under his wing, appointing him as his enforcer and driver.

Introduction of Sofia Falcone

Soon after, Oswald was summoned to the Falcone residence, where he received grave news: his Drops business was on the verge of closure due to concerns of inciting gang warfare. Frustrated, Oswald attempted to pass off Alberto’s revolutionary idea for the drug trade as his own before encountering Sofia Falcone, who had just been released from Arkham.

Sofia inquired about her brother’s whereabouts and invited Oswald to lunch. During their meal, she scrutinized his motives, suspicious of his true intentions. Oswald maintained that he was unaware of her brother’s fate. Their liaison ended with Sofia hinting she suspected Oswald’s involvement in her brother’s death.

Concerned for his mother’s safety, Oz visited her to ensure she remained safe from potential retaliation. He and Victor devised a contingency plan for an impending showdown with the Falcone family. Later, Oswald met with Sal Maroni in prison, seeking aid. Maroni declined, but the encounter concluded with Oswald presenting Maroni the ring previously worn by Falcone, leaving the mob leader astonished.

Sofia’s message is received

Following his exchange with Sal Maroni, Oswald was tailed by Sofia and her followers, who believed he was withholding information regarding Alberto’s fate. After a brief chase, Sofia captured Oswald, stripping him down to interrogate him. Convinced he was hiding something, she resorted to torture.

The tension escalated when a car barreled into the Falcone residence. Upon investigating, Sofia discovered Alberto’s mutilated body in the trunk, resulting in a shocked scream.

The episode concluded with Oswald and Victor enjoying slushies, unveiling it as their scheme all along. Oswald then informed Victor of their plans to target the upcoming drug shipment, intending to involve him in the operation.

As viewers anticipate the next episode of The Penguin, they can expect Oswald to attempt to seize the drug shipment while his bond with Victor continues to deepen. Simultaneously, tensions are rising, as Sal now possesses the Falcone family ring, and Sofia will likely place blame on anyone she suspects is responsible for her brother’s demise. The transformation of Oswald into The Penguin is officially underway.

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