Colin Farrell, the versatile and talented actor, is currently making waves as Oswald “Oz” Cobblepot in HBO’s The Penguin. But it turns out that while he’s busy portraying one of Gotham City’s most notorious villains, there are some classic television dramas that he’s yet to dive into. At the recent premiere of The Penguin, Farrell expressed his intention to eventually catch up on The Sopranos, Breaking Bad, and The Wire. Let’s unpack his thoughts and why these shows are still relevant today.
Colin Farrell’s TV Blind Spot
During the premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Farrell opened up about his limited exposure to some of television’s most celebrated series. “I’ve only seen two episodes,” he admitted, referring to The Sopranos. He went on to express his desire to explore the full landscapes of Breaking Bad and The Wire when he finds the time—an admission that has fans both amused and surprised.
The Impact of Classic Television
Farrell described these three shows as “the three I think of when I think of extraordinary television.” He clearly understands their significance, acknowledging that they “changed the face of television” in their respective eras. These shows not only captivated audiences but also set new standards for storytelling, character development, and cinematography in television.
“It’s cool comparisons,” he said of the remarks suggesting that his portrayal of Penguin draws parallels to characters in these legendary dramas. “I think there are worse ones you could make.” It’s not just flattery; it’s an acknowledgment of how these series have shaped contemporary storytelling.
A Legacy Worth Exploring
So why are The Sopranos, Breaking Bad, and The Wire considered must-watch television? Let’s break it down.
1. The Sopranos: A Groundbreaking Mob Drama
Premiering in 1999, The Sopranos follows mob boss Tony Soprano as he navigates the complexities of family life and organized crime. The show revolutionized the television landscape by blending dark comedy, psychological depth, and crime drama, making it one of the most acclaimed series in history.
Its rich character arcs and moral ambiguity have left a lasting legacy, influencing countless series that followed. Colin Farrell’s acknowledgment of The Sopranos underscores its monumental impact.
2. Breaking Bad: The Transformation of Walter White
Next up is Breaking Bad, which aired from 2008 to 2013. This series tells the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, and explores themes of morality, power, and the consequences of one’s choices. With its gripping narrative and stellar performances, Breaking Bad set a new bar for character-driven storytelling.
Farrell’s nod to Breaking Bad highlights how it encapsulates the transformation of individuals under extreme circumstances—much like what he faces in his role as Penguin.
3. The Wire: A Deep Dive into Society
Finally, The Wire, which ran from 2002 to 2008, offers a raw and unflinching look at the city of Baltimore through the lens of various institutions, including the drug trade, education, and law enforcement. Each season presents a new facet of urban life, delivering a complex narrative that remains relevant today.
Farrell’s desire to watch The Wire suggests he recognizes the importance of understanding societal issues portrayed in such a nuanced manner.
Farrell’s Journey as an Actor
Colin Farrell’s current role in The Penguin shows how far he’s come as an actor. Transforming into a villain often requires deep immersion into the character’s psyche. Farrell himself admitted that portraying Oz was a profound experience, likening it to a hypnotic transformation. “It was strange,” he noted, discussing how seeing himself in the mirror after the drastic changes was a powerful moment.
He elaborated, “It’s not like I ever fully lost sense of myself, but it was a very powerful thing to know yourself a certain way for 45 years and to see a reflection.” This transformation not only enhances his performance but also reflects the depth and complexity that The Sopranos, Breaking Bad, and The Wire are known for.
Family Life and Industry Insight
In a lighter moment, Farrell shared how his two sons are not particularly interested in his work, jokingly saying, “They’re sick of me being a bad guy.” This adds a personal touch to his interviews, showing that despite his fame, he’s still just a dad trying to connect with his kids.
His candidness about his children’s perception of his roles highlights the dichotomy of his career: while he excels in portraying dark characters, he remains grounded in family life. It’s a relatable sentiment that many fans can appreciate.
Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking
As Colin Farrell prepares to embrace the legacy of The Sopranos, Breaking Bad, and The Wire, he exemplifies a journey that many actors experience—balancing professional commitments with personal growth. These shows not only represent the pinnacle of television storytelling but also offer invaluable lessons about character and morality that resonate across generations.
By expressing a desire to catch up on these classics, Farrell reinforces their importance in the landscape of television and cinema. For fans, it’s a reminder to revisit these extraordinary series and appreciate their lasting impact.
