Colin Farrell and Danny DeVito sat down with Variety Studio for a candid interview. They talked about playing The Penguin, a villain who haunts Gotham. The interview gives fans a behind the scenes look at two very different takes on the same character.
Comparing Two Penguin Portrayals
Farrell stepped into the role for The Batman and the upcoming Max series The Penguin. He describes his version as a tragic figure shaped by loss and ambition. DeVito, who first played Oswald Cobblepot in Batman Returns, sees his portrayal as a darker, more menacing bird. Both actors agree that the core of the character is the same: a desperate desire for power.
Farrell emphasizes the emotional journey of his Penguin. He says the script gave him room to explore grief and redemption. DeVito points out that his script focused on raw cruelty and survival. By sharing these notes, the two actors help readers understand how tone and story shape a performance.
Physical Transformations and Makeup
Both actors spent hours in the makeup chair. Farrell recalls the heavy prosthetic that covered his nose and the custom suit that gave him a sleek silhouette. DeVito remembers the bulky mask that hid his face and the weight of the costume that forced him to move slowly. They laugh about the moment they first saw themselves disappear under the prosthetics. The makeup crew, they say, turned a simple actor into an unforgettable villain.
Working with Tim Burton
Farrell and DeVito first met while filming Tim Burton’s Dumbo in 2019. The experience taught them how to collaborate with a visionary director. They credit Burton with encouraging bold visual choices that later helped them in their Penguin roles.
Farrell teases more stories for the spin‑off series. He hints at new allies and enemies that will test his Penguin’s resolve. DeVito shares his delight at seeing a fresh, darker take on the bird‑themed villain. Both actors thank fans for their support and promise to keep surprising audiences.
A Light Moment
The conversation ends with a laugh about It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. DeVito admits he was confused by the show when he first joined, but the humor helped him relax on set. This playful exchange shows the human side of two actors known for intense roles.
Readers leave with a deeper appreciation for the craft behind The Penguin. They learn how makeup, backstory, and director vision combine to create a lasting villain.
Source: Geek Tyrant
