Tue Nov 12 06:10:00 UTC 2024: ## “The Penguin” Finale: Rhenzy Feliz on Victor’s Transformation and the Show’s Dark Turn
**New York, NY** – Rhenzy Feliz, star of HBO’s “The Penguin,” recently spoke about his journey as Victor “Vic” Aguilar, a character who undergoes a profound transformation over the course of the eight-episode series.
Feliz, best known for his roles in Marvel’s “Runaways” and Hulu’s “Casual,” found himself playing a 17-year-old with a stutter who’s still mourning the loss of his family. However, under the tutelage of the ambitious criminal mastermind Oz Cobb, played by Colin Farrell, Vic evolves into a more confident and dangerous individual.
Feliz shares his experience of working alongside Farrell, describing their relationship as a mirrored reflection of Vic and Oz’s dynamic. He also delves into the complexities of portraying Vic’s stutter, emphasizing the psychological impact rather than just the technical aspects.
“The stutter does change throughout the show,” Feliz explains, “but not because he gets more confident. It’s about his comfort level with speaking in general.” He goes on to detail how Vic’s stutter adapts based on the situation, the person he’s talking to, and his level of comfort.
Feliz also reflects on Vic’s growth and learning under Oz’s guidance. “Oz thinks on his feet and makes the right moves,” Feliz says, “Vic will sit there and watch, listen, observe, and take in the information.” This process of observation and learning ultimately leads Vic to become more proactive and capable of solving problems independently.
The finale, a pivotal moment for both Vic and Oz, sees their relationship reach a dramatic turning point. “That scene was something Colin and I had both metaphorically circled on our calendars,” Feliz reveals. He describes the scene as a poignant moment of vulnerability and emotional connection between the two characters.
“It took all night,” Feliz says of the filming process, “It was a cold winter day in New York. We shot that on Roosevelt Island on the riverbank.” The scene itself is described as “gruesome and brutal,” highlighting the darker turn that both characters take as the series progresses.
Feliz expresses his concern about viewers potentially overlooking Vic’s emotional complexity, especially when compared to the more “badass” characters like Oz and Sofia Falcone. However, he is relieved by the positive response from fans who have connected with Vic’s journey.
“He’s just a kid in this very crazy, psychotic world where he has to dismember people and murder people,” Feliz says, “That’s not a normal thing for a 17-year-old kid to go through.”
Feliz concludes by reflecting on his experience working with such a talented cast and crew. “It feels like everyone’s on their A game,” he says, “and to be around that is inspiring.” He expresses his commitment to continue working hard and avoid complacency, fueled by the high standards set by his fellow actors and creators.
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