Before Colin Farrell donned the iconic Penguin character in Matt Reeves’ The Batman, a different origin story was almost in the cards for this notable DC villain. According to Margot Robbie, who starred as Harley Quinn, early drafts of her film Birds of Prey initially featured the Penguin as the primary antagonist. However, a directive from Reeves shifted the narrative focus away from the character.
“Matt Reeves said, ‘Don’t use the Penguin. I’m going to use him in my thing,’” Robbie shared in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. This led to the inclusion of Black Mask instead, altering the dynamic of the film.
How Did Matt Reeves Impact the DC Universe?
Reeves, the writer and director behind The Batman, released two years after Birds of Prey, gave the Penguin a significant role that has further expanded with an award-winning HBO spinoff. If he hadn’t intervened, the landscape of the DC Universe could look quite different today. The opportunity for Ewan McGregor to portray Black Mask is another interesting outcome of this decision, showcasing the ripple effect of such choices in film production.
Uncovering Surprising Insights
In a fun twist during the EW interview promoting their latest project A Big Bold Beautiful Journey, Farrell learned about Robbie’s initial plans for the Penguin. Both actors admitted they had never discussed their DC roles before, making this revelation a delightful surprise. Farrell was curious enough to request a copy of that earlier draft, showcasing how interconnected these worlds are. Robbie described the initial portrayal of the Penguin in Hodson’s draft as “amazing”—an intriguing insight for fans eager to see how that vision differed from what ultimately made it to screen.
What to Expect Next from the Penguin?
Farrell’s Penguin will return in The Batman Part II, set for release in October 2027. Meanwhile, the future of Robbie as Harley Quinn remains uncertain, with decisions resting with DC Studios President James Gunn, who hasn’t shared any specific plans yet.
Are you curious about what this means for the future of these characters in the DC Universe? The implications of casting and character development can significantly influence audience engagement and the overall narrative.
What role did Margot Robbie play in shaping the narrative of Birds of Prey? Robbie was instrumental as both a star and a producer, helping craft a compelling story for Harley Quinn.
When is The Batman Part II set to release? The film is scheduled for an exciting release in October 2027.
What are the chances of seeing Harley Quinn return to the big screen? While there is much speculation, any announcement currently awaits confirmation from DC Studios President James Gunn.
Want to stay updated on all things DC and Marvel? Following entertainment news outlets can keep you informed about the latest releases, spin-offs, and character arcs.
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