Batman Returns actor Danny DeVito has now addressed Colin Farrell playing Oswald Cobblepot/Penguin in Matt Reeves's The Batman.
Forbes asked DeVito in an interview about his thoughts on Farrell playing Penguin in The Batman. The actor replied, "I love Colin Farrell. He's one of my favorite actors. I can't wait!" However, DeVito did also note that he would want to return to the role in the future if the opportunity presented itself.
Directed by Tim Burton from a screenplay by Daniel Waters, 1992's Batman Returns saw Bruce Wayne/Batman (Michael Keaton) facing off against Penguin, Max Shreck and Selina Kyle/Catwoman. Penguin's plot, in particular, focuses on the villain wanting to kill all of the firstborn sons in Gotham City due to mistreatment at the hands of his family. Batman Returns proved a box office success, earning more than $266 million against a budget of between $65 and $80 million. The movie -- which was the last Batman film to feature Burton's directing -- also performed well with critics.
Originally intended to feature the DC Extended Universe's Ben Affleck as director and star, The Batman has undergone a number of changes since the project was announced in 2014. Reeves eventually took over the directorial chair, and following Affleck's departure from the role, the project cast Robert Pattinson as Bruce Wayne/Batman. In 2019, Farrell was revealed to be in talks to join the film as Penguin. His casting was later confirmed. However, complications resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic later led to the movie's production being delayed.
The Batman, which is set in the second year of the Dark Knight's career, sees him investigating Edward Nashton/Riddler (Paul Dano), a serial killer with mysterious motives. Along the way, he'll also have to contend with Catwoman (Zoë Kravitz), Carmine Falcone (John Turturro) and Penguin. There are also rumors Eternals star Barry Keoghan is playing the Joker.
Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, Penguin first appeared in 1941's Detective Comics #58. He's generally depicted as a criminal mastermind with a variety of deadly weapons at his disposal. Generally considered one of Batman's deadliest foes, Penguin has appeared in a number of different video games and TV series featuring the Dark Knight.
Fans will get to see Farrell in action as Penguin when The Batman releases on March 4, 2022. There are currently plans for sequel films and spin-off TV series for HBO Max.
Source: Forbes