Get ready for a fascinating journey into the world of comic book adaptations! Cristin Milioti, the star of 'The Penguin', has an intriguing connection to a lesser-known Marvel series that will leave you wanting more.
HBO's 'The Penguin' is a standout show, offering a fresh take on DC characters. It's a unique blend of 'The Sopranos' and Gotham, with a mobster protagonist who's anything but sympathetic. Colin Farrell's portrayal of Oswald 'Oz' Cobb is brilliant, but it's Cristin Milioti's Sofia Falcone that truly shines. Her performance is a delicate balance, showcasing a character who's unhinged yet relatable, a far cry from the typical antihero.
But here's where it gets interesting: before her rise to fame in 'The Penguin', Milioti had a brief yet memorable role in an obscure Marvel project. Yes, you heard that right! She was part of the animated series 'Hit-Monkey' on Hulu, a show that, sadly, didn't get the attention it deserved.
'Hit-Monkey' is an adult animated series with a unique twist. It follows a Japanese macaque, trained by the ghost of an American assassin, on a revenge quest that takes him from Tokyo to New York. It's a wild ride, filled with violence, humor, and a bizarre storyline that sets it apart from other Marvel productions. Created by Will Speck and Josh Gordon, the show was initially envisioned as part of a larger animated Marvel universe, which included shows like 'M.O.D.O.K.', 'Howard the Duck', and 'Tigra & Dazzler'. The plan was to have each show with its own distinct animation style, a bold move that would have added a unique flavor to the Marvel universe.
And this is the part most people miss: the shows were meant to culminate in a crossover series, 'The Offenders'. Each show would have brought its own animation style to the table, creating a diverse and exciting universe. Unfortunately, the plans fell through, and the universe never fully materialized, leaving us with only two shows.
Milioti's role in 'Hit-Monkey' as Iris McHenry, a sassy New Yorker with a heart, was a small but impactful one. Her character's emotional journey, as she reconnects with her father, is a highlight of the season. While 'Hit-Monkey' didn't get the chance to continue beyond season 2, 'The Penguin' is set to return, albeit without Milioti's Sofia.
So, what do you think? Do you think 'Hit-Monkey' deserved more attention? And with the success of 'The Penguin', do you think Cristin Milioti's star will continue to rise? Let's discuss in the comments!