THE PENGUIN #12 (DC COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the King of Gotham’s Underworld closes out his return. Oswald Cobblepot returned to his old stomping grounds. The U.S. government had plans for Cobblepot. Little did they realize what sinister trouble that had just unleashed.

Reclaiming his crown has been a challenge for the Batman rogue. Cobblepot’s children have been unwilling to give up their power. That was never going to stop him. The streets of Gotham have become filled with blood and bodies. It appears the Penguin is back but can he survive when plans go sideways?

The Penguin #12 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (DC Comics) delivers a definitive conclusion to its’ year long saga.

Let’s take a closer look at how things conclude.

The Penguin #12 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (DC Comics) - Cover: Carmine Di Giandomenico

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

King’s long burn build pays off for an exciting conclusion for Mr. Cobblepot and company. With power at his fingertips, Cobblepot plays the odds which backfires. Putting the Dark Knight in a unique spot, the writing never sways from Penguin’s cold, ruthless demeanor.

Batman and Cobblepot’s conversations always stays grounded to the long history between both. Even as he questions his place in Gotham, Penguin doesn’t let go of the thought he’s one step ahead of everyone else. This plays out perfectly with the full circle moment with the government. The conclusion is a fitting and reflective vision of one of Gotham’s most notorious figures. King always delivers on bringing out the psychological aspects of his leads. This tale is no exception as it paints Cobblepot in a brand new light.

De Latorre and Maiolo send events out with stong visuals. Batman’s plight to save Penguin keeps a swift, frantic pace. This leads to a great split page of both falling for differing reasons.

In dealing with fallout from the power play, the art team closes in on Cobblepot’s ability to pivot for business. The scenes in dealing with Addison is prime example of this. Heading into the closing act, the parting conversation with Batman ends with a great full page splash of both looking over “their” city. Readers are left with a perfect closing page that leaves no question on where things stand now.

FINAL POINT: 9.7

The legendary Batman villain ends his journey to reclaim his throne with an explosive finale. King’s writing draws out the cold-blooded nature of fighting for power. De Latorre, Maiolo and Cowles’ visuals present an impactful end and new beginning that shouldn’t be missed. A new era of Gotham begins again.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on The Penguin #12. Thanks for reading!

THE PENGUIN #10 (DC COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, it’s a family affair in Gotham City. The war of the Cobblepots is heating up as the series heads towards its’ finale. Who will be left standing as the head of the Gotham Underworld? The heirs apparent or the king refusing to concede the crown?

The Penguin #10 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (DC Comics) sees the key players staged for a dangerous game.

Lets not wait any longer and dive into the latest chapter?

The Penguin #10 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (DC Comics)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The chapter opens with a rooftop meeting. On one side is Gotham City’s feared protector, Batman. Standing across from him is the Penguin himself. The narration walks readers through Batman’s assessment of the current situation. Who would have thought so much centered around asking for a match to light a cigarette.

Meanwhile, Addie and Aiden Cobblepot are dealing with an Intergang representative from Metropolis. Shipments haven’t been making their deliveries. This proves to be a problem for the family business. Readers see who is responsible for the derailment of product: Batman.

All the while, Penguin is watching events unfold. How does Oswald see things going from here. Readers watch as tensions become even higher as the attack on Cobblepot’s children intensifies. This builds towards a moment that cements who is the heir to the throne of Gotham. It defines what many have suspected for quite some time. Events spirals into a desperate play by one figure. A parting image raises more questions as the battle of legacy rages onward.

The Penguin #10 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (DC Comics) - Cover: Christian Ward

King dives into the unique perspectives of the characters at play. Allowing their narrations to dominate most pages helps with this chapter. Giving that insight to the reader only amplifies what’s unfolding even more. This plays heavily into arguably the breakout character of this issue: Addie Cobblepot.

King’s writing depicts her as ruthless as her father. Through the course of the issue, she slowly starts breaking from the pressure of her father’s plans. This leads to a confrontation where it becomes clear she’s already lost her claim to the throne.

Oswald’s quiet scheming takes a grander role as events unfold. King slows down the pace to build up the eventual move. Once Penguin strikes, the moment hits readers with full force. The cutting dialogue given leaves a chilling reality in its wake. Oswald Cobblepot is back with a vengeance.

De Latorre and Maiolo blend in themes of defiance and mystery throughout the issue. The rooftop scene is capped off with a well paced full page of Batman and Penguin talking The frustration and rage on Addie’s face tells a bigger story as her grasp if the city slips. Her conversations with Oswald and Aiden conveys that point with ease. Knowing what is looming, readers bear witness to her slow breakdown.

However, the pages that will be most talked about are Oswald’s “message” to Aiden. The two page splash makes a very loud statement. It holds nothing back as Oswald makes a bold announcement with his actions. The imagery around this section holds nothing back. There’s no question about what unfolds. A play is made that the city may not be ready for. This spells nothing but win for the audience watching Gotham pushed to its edge.

FINAL POINT: 8.3

With multiple narration leading the way, Oswald Cobblepot’s family feud approaches its climatic end. King’s creative approach sells the dark times ahead with strong writing. De Latorre and Maiolo pace out the drama with exceptional images. Gotham had better brace for what’s coming next!

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on The Penguin #10. Thanks for reading.

THE PENGUIN #9 (DC COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of parlay points!

For this entry, we are heading into the closing chapters of Oswald Cobblepot’s return to Gotham. It was recently announced that the DC Comics series will be concluding at issue #12. Until then, the Gotham Underworld has been put on notice. The Penguin is back and business is about to pick up.

The Penguin #9 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles dives into the family drama of the Cobblepots.

Let's take a closer look at how the family reunion goes over.

The Penguin #9 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (Credit: DC COMICS)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

This chapter begins with two thugs setting a bomb. As they work away, the narration eludes to someone overseeing the bigger picture. The bomb explodes. The building was the Martha Wayne day Care Center. The voice: Oswald Cobblepot aka The Penguin.

The story shifts to a rooftop. Batman is shaking down Cobblepot for information. With twelve bombings happing in his city, Batman isn’t letting this slide. An ultimatum is given. Cobblepot obliges. Two names are given. They are Aiden* and Addison Cobblepot!

Readers watch as the Penguin needs to find a way to stay off Batman’s radar to handle his children personally. Plus, what does Lisa St. Claire have up her sleeve? If that last name sounds familiar to Bat fans, it should.

With the drama unfolding, the closing moments throw everything into flux. A new player is brought into the story. Their effect on Oswalt speaks volumes as the final page concludes events with a loud statement.

King leans heavily into the family dynamic of the Penguin and his children. The writing is fearless as Oswalt doesn't hesitate to assert himself into his drama while showing other sides of his characters. the standout player in this issue is Lisa St. Claire. With no pause, her scheming jumps out to readers amongst others. Seeing Batman frustrated with the case events in another big moment. This builds up to a strong final act that is sure to have a huge payout next issue.

De latorre and Maiolo keep the grittiness of Gotham front and center while the drama builds. The rooftop images of Batman and Penguin keep the intensity growing. It leads to a full page panel that sets the tone for the remainder of the book.

Batman’s time in the book felt impactful with each panel. His reactions to Cobblepot’s case carried heavy weight. The moments with Bats and Commissioner Gordon show the ware the Penguin’s family actions are taking. It leads to an excellent shot of Batman heading right into the belly of the beast: the Iceberg Lounge. With images like this, the conclusion will be one fans won’t forget anytime soon.

FINAL POINT: 8.2

It’s a family affair as The Penguin attempts to reclaim his throne. King sets the stage for an explosive confrontation with the writing. De Latorre, Maiolo and Cowles provide the brooding backdrop to the big throwdown. Fans won’t want to miss how this all plays out.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on The Penguin #9. Thanks for reading.

THE PENGUIN #7 (DC COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast.

For this entry, we are taking a trip back in time with the Dark Knight and one of his most dangerous rogues. With the current story, readers are seeing the first encounter between Oswald Cobblepot and BATMAN. How did their first encounter lead into such a bitter rivalry?

THE PENGUIN #7 by Tom King, Stevan Subic, Marcelo Maiolo, and Clayton Cowles continues to reveal this mystery with its’ latest chapter.

Let’s take a deeper dive into this Bat-storic story!

THE PENGUIN #7 by Tom King, Stevan Subic, Marcelo Maiolo, and Clayton Cowles (DC COMICS - Cover: Carmine Di Giandomenico)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

After being a mistreated bartender at The Falcone-owned Iceberg Lounge, Cobblepot gets on the radar of Batman. With a loose agreement, Cobblepot begins working with the Dark Knight to take down Falcone. Once their deal is done, Cobblepot starts teasing the readers to what his true endgame is? Was it revenge on the crime family who mocked him or was this a long play after all?

This issue begins one year after Falcone was taken out. Penguin is running things in the casino. He asks one of Falcone’s former employees about finding the muscle behind Falcone’s moves. Penguin is given a business card. The gesture is returned with a knife through the neck courtesy of Penguin. Readers see the name on the card as “The Help”.

At this time, a young Jim Gordan answers a call from Penquin addressing the rampant crime in the city. This prompts a call to Batman. The weapon Penguin used to kill is recovered. The chase leads to a confrontation between Bats and Penguin. After some questioning, the suspect shifts away from Penguin onto another target.

Who is the next target on Penguin’s hit list? Readers see how the set-up plays out in the ever-changing movement of the unlikely pair’s journey. The sense of tension never escapes the page. This plays heavily into the closing moments. A shocking event begins which will have readers guessing until the next chapter drops. Just wait until you see that final page!

THE PENGUIN #7 by Tom King, Stevan Subic, Marcelo Maiolo, and Clayton Cowles (DC COMICS - Cover: Francesco Mattina)

King excels at showing how layered Cobblepot early days were. Is he playing the long game of working Batman? Does he have plans all his own? The writing dives into the uneasiness of the new partnership. Doubt and suspension linger in the air. This leads readers into seeing a new side of Cobblepot. The shifting of gears continues to be a strong point of this series. With a shocking final page, there will be much to discuss.

Subic steps in for art duties on this story. The vision of Penguin comes off as cunning and misleading. The conversation with him and Batman demonstrates the swings in behavior. This leads into a solid full page image of Penguin stating in the center of Gotham.

The visuals of Penguin running the casino further illustrates what makes him dangerous. The unsettling nature shines through each panel. This all builds towards a show-stopping final full page that will have many fans excited for what’s next.

FINAL POINT: 8

The secrets behind Cobblepot’s past give a great insight to the ascension in the criminal ranks with this strong issue. King’s writing demonstrates Cobblepot’s maneuvering and deceptions perfectly. Subic Maiolo, and Cowles stage the visuals for an easy win with readers. Just when yo think you have the answers, the final mage changes the questions. Prepare for quite the entertaining issue.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on The Penguin #7. Thanks for reading.

THE PENGUIN #2 (DC COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, we are returning to Gotham City to follow-up on the latest from Oswald Cobblepot via DC Comics. Last we saw him, the former crime lord was enjoying life away in a new stat quo, but nothing lasts forever. The king of the Gotham Underworld has now returned home under the “advisement” of the U.S. Government. After last issue’s explosive introduction, the road to reclamation has become a must read!

THE PENGUIN 2 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles welcomes readers into the next phase of his return. Let’s tag along and see how things unfold from here, shall we?

THE PENGUIN 2 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (Credit: DC Comics - Cover: David Marquez & Brad Anderson)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The issue opens up with a car pulling up to a mansion in Gotham. Coming out of the car is Oswald Cobblepot aka The Penguin. The narration reads as someone has found some sort of calm after years of service. That voice belong to The Help, who readers met during Batman: Killing Time.

The message is sent that The Penguin has arrived. The Help accommodates the meeting and hears the sales pitch. While over dinner. The Help explains he is dis-interested in what The Penguin is planning. Once he laughs at the notion, Oswalt’s demeanor changes ever so slightly. The offer is pressed more but The Help walks away. It is the battle of wills as one refuses to bend for the other.

Readers see that Oswalt leaves an ominous message to one of the butlers in the house that plays into the message he is giving all of Gotham: The King has returned!

What will the Penguin do from here? The story switches gears as the “honor amongst Thieves” motto is heavily strained between the two figures. An event starts a domino effect that can’t be stopped. Once the third act hits, there is little question of the resolution. The parting page puts a big exclamation point on a strong second issue.

THE PENGUIN 2 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (Credit: DC Comics - Cover: Darick Robertson)

King doesn’t delay in driving the point home that the Penguin is back. King sets up the meeting of “colleagues” with a tense overture. The dialogue reflects how far The Penguin’s legacy is being upheld. However, a key moment sends everything into another level.

Playing of Oswalt’s esteem issues, once The Help laughs at the offer, the mood changes and becomes a deadly game. The latter half is well crafted so once readers arrive at its’ peak moment, the payoff is huge. If here was any question of how dangerous the Penguin can be, this issue should put any other notions to rest.

De Latorre and Maiolo keep a brooding tone throughout the panels of the book. The initial meeting featured a wide variety of facial expressions ranging from The Help’s arrogance to Oswalt’s anger and cunning to the laughing moment.

Once the middle act begins, there is a strong full page visual to show one side of Oswalt, only to be debunked later with a gorgeous two-page full spread that screams “checkmate” to the game the leads are playing. The closing pages shadow that image bringing the book to a noteworthy conclusion.

THE PENGUIN 2 by Tom King, Rafael De Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo and Clayton Cowles (Credit: DC Comics - Cover: Otto Schmidt)

FINAL POINT: 9 OUT OF 10

King, De Latorre and the team don’t miss a beat with another fantastic issue of the return of Gotham’s Crime King. Superb writing orchestrates a plot that deceptively keeps readers guessing with exceptional art. The series has come out of the gate swinging and you don’t want to miss your chance picking it up.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on The Penguin #2. Thanks for reading.