Colin Farrell Discusses Transformation for The Penguin

Colin Farrell's transformation into Oswald Cobblepot, or The Penguin, in HBO's new series has garnered attention for his unrecognizable appearance, achieved through extensive prosthetics and a three to four hour daily makeup routine. Farrell praised makeup artist Michael Marino for his innovative designs, which involved creating custom prosthetics that effectively embodied the character's sleazy persona without appearing absurd. Despite his initial weight gain for a previous role, Farrell opted not to gain weight for The Penguin, instead using a bodysuit that allowed him to avoid health issues related to weight gain. He humorously pitched a 'skinny Penguin' to director Matt Reeves, which was not accepted. Farrell has embraced the role, noting the advantages of the suit, such as feeling less pain during physical scenes. The series, which premiered on September 19, is set in a crime-ridden Gotham and explores Cobblepot's rise in the criminal underworld following the events of 'The Batman'.