Despite being as gritty and realistic as 2022’s The Batman, the term “grounded” is subjective. While there are no super-powered individuals (and won’t be, as per writer/director Matt Reeves), and Robert Pattinson’s Batmobile is simply an enhanced muscle car devoid of rocket engines or James Bond-esque gadgets, the world is still populated by eccentric, exaggerated characters that do not quite resemble real people.The absence of Bruce Wayne himself in The Penguin introduces the most fantastical element, resulting in a narrative that is even more authentic... until the recent episode, “Cent’anni.” This flashback to Arkham finally unleashes the comic-book madness in an episode that abruptly pauses the series to deliver a focused, chilling exploration of Sofia Falcone’s past 10 years, embracing the inherent peculiarity of a world where Batman is present.
Her time at Arkham State Hospital (using "Asylum" would be too extreme) narrates a tragic story of betrayal by her closest confidants. The episode emphasizes the cruelty of the Falcone family towards her, setting the stage for a compelling final sequence. However, it also underscores the exaggerated, almost cartoonish nature of some characters in the series. Not only Sofia, who is prominently featured in “Cent’anni,” but also figures like Doctor Ventress (even in name alone), Dr. Rush, Magpie, and the unnamed prisoner who tragically ends her own life. The events at Arkham are truly nightmarish, prompting a reflection on whether Batman is justified in sending disturbed criminals there. Some may argue that this marks a point where the series takes an implausible turn, departing from its previous mob movie ambiance, but I believe that was never the true intention of The Penguin. While it may be more realistic than recent adaptations, akin to the movie it originates from, it strikes a unique balance between the two.
In shorter seasons like those of The Penguin, pacing becomes crucial, and it can be a challenge to integrate new characters and necessary flashbacks without disrupting the flow of the main narrative. When episodes like “Cent’anni” feel out of place, it can throw off the momentum the series is trying to build.
Introducing new characters or exploring backstories through flashbacks should ideally enhance the story and deepen viewers' understanding of the main characters and plot. If it feels like filler or distracts from the central arc, it can lead to frustration. The balance between developing character relationships and maintaining a gripping storyline is delicate, especially with limited time to work with.
Strategically positioning these elements is key to ensuring that every episode contributes meaningfully to the overarching narrative. It can be tough to keep that balance, and when an episode doesn’t quite fit, it can detract from the overall impact of the season. Hopefully, future episodes will find a better rhythm and more seamlessly integrate character development with the main storylines, enhancing the series as a whole.
Victor had his moment to shine last week in an episode that skillfully intertwined flashbacks to reveal his past and connect it to his present life before The Riddler's attack. In contrast, "Cent'anni" adopts a structure reminiscent of Inception, where an unconscious Sofia embarks on a magical journey through her past, including a time jump to the day her mother passed away. While it may seem like a lot to handle on the surface, each step back in time is essential to fully narrate Sofia's story and is executed seamlessly, leading back to the present.
It can be disorienting to have consecutive flashback episodes, especially when the present-day storyline is rich with tension and unresolved conflicts, like Victor and Oz’s escape leaving Sophia in danger. This kind of structural choice can dilute the impact of those pressing storylines and leave viewers feeling a bit disconnected from the stakes in the present.
However, it’s great to hear that the show does a commendable job of recontextualizing earlier conversations as the backstory unfolds. That attention to detail is crucial in making the characters feel fully developed and grounded in their history, especially after significant time skips. When past actions and dialogues resonate with present developments, it enriches the viewing experience and makes the world feel more cohesive.
The fact that the show is committed to exploring that specific time jump adds depth and helps establish a sense of continuity. When flashbacks are used strategically to fill in character backgrounds and motivations, they can enhance the narrative instead of detracting from it. While “Cent’anni” may not perfectly balance the present with the past, it still contributes valuable context that can pay off in future episodes. As the series progresses, hopefully, it will find a smoother rhythm that maintains tension in both timelines while deepening the overall story.
“Cent’anni” really shines as a standalone episode, particularly in developing Sofia’s character and generating empathy for her situation. Cristin Milioti’s performance seems to be a highlight, showcasing her talent and the emotional weight of the storyline. However, the feeling that it disrupts the momentum of the overarching plot is a significant concern, especially when viewers are eager to see the action unfold.
Having two flashback episodes in a row can definitely create a sense of stagnation, especially when there's a lot of unresolved tension in the present-day narrative. It’s understandable to feel impatient for the story to return to the main action, especially after the stakes were raised in the previous episode with Victor and Oz's escape.
While character depth is essential, pacing is equally crucial in keeping viewers engaged, particularly in a series that has established a gritty, fast-paced tone. If the flashbacks start to feel like they're stalling rather than enhancing the narrative, it can lead to frustration. Hopefully, as the series moves forward, it will strike a better balance, integrating character backstories in a way that complements the ongoing action and keeps the plot progressing at a satisfying pace. The strong moments in “Cent’anni” are promising, but it’s important for the overall story to maintain its momentum to keep viewers invested.
What did you think of the episode? Drop a comment and remember to vote in our poll below.
What did you think of the episode?
Loved it
Hated it
So/So
Comments