The Penguin Episode 3 Review – An Inside Look at “Bliss”

The third episode of The Penguin, titled "Bliss," offers a deep and thought-provoking dive into its characters, especially Victor. While the show has often been compared to The Sopranos, this episode reveals a closer resemblance to Game of Thrones, as it revolves around intense conversations and character-building moments. This shift in focus brings more depth to the storyline, making it one of the most dialogue-heavy episodes so far, and leaving us with more insight into the characters of Victor, Sofia, and Oz.

This episode centers mainly on Victor, providing viewers with a much-needed backstory through a significant flashback sequence. Flashbacks can be tricky to execute, but here, they serve their purpose well. They help us understand Victor’s history and what drives him in the present-day narrative. It’s an emotional journey, revealing painful truths about his past, particularly about his family, which adds layers to his character. Writer Noelle Valdivia carefully balances the past and present, making sure that the transition between the two is smooth, and it all ties back into the current events of the show.

Victor’s backstory has been hinted at in previous episodes, but “Bliss” finally uncovers the devastating story of what happened to his family. While we may have anticipated a tragic story, the way it unfolds is still emotionally gripping. The episode skillfully connects Victor’s past traumas with the current dilemmas he faces, adding weight to the choices he makes in the episode. The flashback isn't just there to fill in the blanks; it provides context for who Victor is and how his tragic past has shaped him.

Apart from Victor’s flashback, the episode focuses on his relationships, particularly with Graciela and Oz. Graciela, who reappears in his life, serves as a character who represents hope and redemption for Victor. She’s the classic character who stands as a symbol of a better life, urging the protagonist to walk away from his dark world. However, as with many anti-hero stories, Graciela’s role is destined to end in disappointment. She represents the light, but Victor, much like Jesse Pinkman in Breaking Bad, seems bound to his darker instincts and life choices.

The conversations between Victor and Oz in this episode are especially revealing. Oz talks about Victor’s father, painting a picture of a man who was hardworking but never quite successful in life. Oz’s view of the world is cynical, and he openly shares his belief that the world isn’t designed for honest people to win. Instead of encouraging Victor to be different, Oz advises him to reject the world’s rules altogether, encouraging a more ruthless approach to survival. This advice, while dark, is relatable in a way that many viewers might understand. The tug of war between Graciela’s hope for Victor and Oz’s cynical teachings is the heart of this episode.

Oz’s manipulative tendencies are also put on full display in "Bliss." Even when he’s being emotionally vulnerable, like when he pleads with Victor not to leave, his actions are still calculated. This emotional outburst is not just about keeping Victor around but about maintaining control. Oz’s character is layered with complexity, as even in his most genuine moments, there’s always an underlying agenda. This makes his relationship with Victor all the more interesting, as it becomes clear that Oz’s mentorship is both caring and controlling.

The episode also sheds more light on the tension between Oz and Sofia. Sofia’s anger towards Oz, stemming from his betrayal of her years ago, simmers throughout their interactions. The episode hints that Oz played a role in Sofia’s imprisonment in Arkham, and while he feels guilty for what he did, he doesn’t regret the benefits he gained from his loyalty to Carmine. This dynamic between Oz and Sofia adds another layer of intrigue to the story, as their complicated past continues to influence the present.

As the episode reaches its conclusion, things begin to heat up. Victor makes a significant decision, choosing to stay in the dark world he’s so familiar with, rather than stepping into a brighter future with Graciela. It’s a choice that feels inevitable, yet still leaves a sense of disappointment. The episode doesn’t end with explosive action, but it sets the stage for what’s to come. The final moments, with the involvement of the Maronis and the consequences of Victor’s choice, promise more excitement in future episodes.

Final Thoughts

Episode 3 of The Penguin, “Bliss,” shifts its focus to the inner workings of its characters, particularly Victor, Oz, and Sofia. This introspective approach allows for a deeper understanding of their motivations, making it one of the most engaging episodes so far. The use of flashbacks to flesh out Victor’s backstory is executed well, and the character-driven conversations add emotional weight to the episode. While the action is saved for later, the groundwork laid in “Bliss” ensures that the story is building towards something even more intense.

In the end, this episode provides a satisfying deep dive into the characters’ minds, leaving viewers eager to see where the story will go next. Victor’s inevitable return to his darker tendencies is both heartbreaking and compelling, making him one of the most intriguing characters in the show. With strong writing and excellent performances, “Bliss” stands out as a key turning point in The Penguin’s narrative.