HBO’s most anticipated premiere for the month of September is undoubtedly the new DC series titled The Penguin. This exciting show features the talented Colin Farrell, who is once again donning multiple layers of prosthetics to reprise his role as the iconic character, the Penguin. This character first appeared in 2021’s The Batman, where Farrell delivered some of the most humorous and memorable line readings, making him a standout in the film. Given his previous performance, our expectations for this new series are quite high, and many fans are eager to see how the story unfolds.
However, if comic book antiheroes and their complex narratives are not quite your cup of tea, there are still plenty of other engaging options available for viewing on Max this month. For instance, the highly acclaimed adaptation of Elena Ferrante’s work, My Brilliant Friend, is entering its fourth and final season. This series has captivated audiences with its rich storytelling and deep character development. Additionally, the two-part documentary series Wise Guy provides a thorough and insightful look into the life and career of David Chase, the creator of the beloved series The Sopranos.
Moreover, fans of animated films will be thrilled to know that Studio Ghibli’s Oscar-winning film The Boy and the Heron is set to premiere at the beginning of the month. This film is expected to enchant viewers with its stunning visuals and heartfelt story. Furthermore, the buzzworthy A24 films Civil War and I Saw the TV Glow are also scheduled to make their debut on Max later in September, promising to deliver unique and thought-provoking narratives.
The Boy and the Heron (Sept. 6, Max)
One of the most exciting releases this month is The Boy and the Heron, which is anticipated to be a strong contender for the 2024 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki and produced by the renowned Studio Ghibli, this adventure film tells the story of a young boy who embarks on a journey into a fantastical world in search of his mother. The film is not only visually stunning but also rich in emotional depth, making it a must-watch for animation lovers. The English dub features an impressive cast, including the voices of Christian Bale, Dave Bautista, Gemma Chan, Willem Dafoe, Robert Pattinson, and Florence Pugh, all of whom bring their characters to life with remarkable talent.
Civil War (Sept. 13, Max)
Another highly anticipated film is Civil War, which is directed by Alex Garland and marks A24’s most expensive film to date, boasting a budget of $50 million. This gripping narrative follows a team of war journalists navigating a dystopian future in America. They embark on a perilous road trip across the country with the goal of reaching Washington D.C. to interview the president. As they make their way to the capital, they face numerous challenges and dangers, especially as rebel factions threaten to descend upon the White House. This film promises to be a thrilling ride filled with tension and thought-provoking themes about society and conflict.
The Penguin (Sept. 19, HBO)
The release of a new DC television show the day after a Marvel show is certainly a bold move, but HBO is banking on one of Batman’s most notorious villains to capture some of the magic that has made Agatha All Along so popular. Colin Farrell returns to the role of Oz Cobb, also known as The Penguin, from the 2022 film The Batman. In this series, viewers can expect to see a deeper exploration of the character, as the narrative allows for more screen time dedicated to The Penguin, rather than having Batman dominate the storyline. This shift in focus is likely to provide a fresh perspective on the character and his motivations.
It is important to note that while The Penguin is set to be an exciting addition to the DC universe, it is not expected to be part of James Gunn’s new extended DC universe. This distinction may influence how fans perceive the series and its connection to the broader DC narrative. As we await the premiere, there is much speculation and excitement surrounding The Penguin, and fans are eager to see how this beloved character will be portrayed in a new light.
In conclusion, September is shaping up to be an exciting month for viewers on HBO and Max, with a variety of options to choose from. Whether you are a fan of comic book antiheroes, animated adventures, or gripping documentaries, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your popcorn and get ready for a month filled with captivating stories and unforgettable characters!
