Pennyworth (Complete Series 1 Review) – ‘Steady On, Doris’

Review: Pennyworth Complete Series 1 by Bruno Heller and Danny Cannon (9/10)

It’s safe to say, when DC announced that they would be creating a TV show based on the early exploits of Alfred Pennyworth (a.k.a Batman’s butler), I was not exactly thrilled. As a long-time fan of Batman and his extended family, I had more reason than most to be excited, but it just seemed ridiculous. Why him above all the many unexplored heroes of the DC universe? Alfred has always made many a reference to his past, and it has been something of intrigue to me, but did that warrant a ten-episode series? If you had asked me before I watched it, I would have responded with an adamant ‘NO’. Now, having given it a chance, I am just as shocked as everyone to say that it is not only good but some of the best television you can watch right now. It’s just a shame my initial judgement stopped me from watching it sooner.

The basic plot of the show focuses on Alfred as he returns from service in the SAS, now seeking to establish his own security firm in London. After a chance encounter with Thomas Wayne, Alfred is drawn into a political ideological war between the Raven Society and the No Name League. While sounding quite basic on the surface, the show thrives on the dynamics between the different characters, which you will quickly grow to care for over the span of just a few episodes.

Jack Bannon as Alfred — Credit: Epix

The leading role is given to Jack Bannon, who provides a very true-to-form depiction of Alfred — or ‘Alfie’ as he is commonly referred to in the show. If you have seen the popular Dark Knight Trilogy by Christopher Nolan, Michael Caine’s influence shines through, particularly from the very pronounced Cockney accent. It would not surprise me if this series was conceptualised as a prequel to that cinematic interpretation. Nevertheless, Bannon owns the role and delivers an engrossing performance throughout. There is a certain wit and charm that keeps the viewer constantly hooked, making you truly care about all the events that transpire.

Thomas and Martha — Credit: Epix

Of course, Thomas Wayne and Martha Kane (still yet to become the iconic parents of Batman) provide some of the best demonstrations of character growth across the series. Played by Ben Aldridge and Emma Paetz, while not entirely faithful to the original material, they convey a real chemistry between the pairing. This may not be apparent from the get-go, but this only attests to the degree of natural progression as the two overcome their differences and grow to care for each other. Some of the more dramatic changes may not entirely resonate with fans, such as their associations with certain groups, but given another series or two, the potential is there for them to become the people who will go on to inspire the Dark Knight.

Alfred's SAS unit — Credit: Epix

Alfred’s SAS friends are, arguably, the best additions to the cast, particularly Ryan Fletcher as ‘Dave Boy’. There is a true sense of comradery across their many interactions, showing how Alfred is not entirely defined by his relationship to the Wayne family. And by exploring more of his military routes, it does quite adequately explain his willingness to engage in Bruce’s crusade many years in the future.

My only complaint would be the outlandish caricatures presented by the villains. Paloma Faith and Jason Flemyng, however, play these roles as best they can. I do understand the creative choice behind this; it does take place in the same universe that will eventually be inhabited by Batman’s rogues gallery after all. But it does somewhat take away from the more grounded exploration of Alfred’s past before the rise of supervillains.

Paloma Faith as Bet Sykes — Credit: Epix

Discounting one very minor critique, don’t make the same mistake I did by avoiding this show. DC are still far too dependent on the Bat-Family, but let’s not forget that these are characters they tend to adapt well. Pennyworth is no exception to this rule, providing an intense ten hours of television and making me desperate for a second visit with season two.