Ep 21. The penguin goes straight

In Batman Beyond season 1 episode 21, entitled The Penguin Goes Straight, we see the classic villain The Penguin attempting to make a change in his criminal ways. The episode starts with The Penguin, also known as Oswald Cobblepot, leaving prison after serving time for his previous heists. He decides that he wants to leave his life of crime behind him and sets out to open a restaurant.

However, not everyone is willing to believe that The Penguin has changed. Batman, still wary of his past, decides to keep a close eye on him. Other members of the underworld, such as crime boss Charlie Bigelow, are also suspicious of The Penguin’s supposed change of heart.

As The Penguin works to open his restaurant, he faces numerous obstacles. His old cronies try to rope him back into a life of crime, and his struggle to obtain a liquor license puts him in debt to Bigelow. Throughout it all, The Penguin remains determined to stay on the straight and narrow, much to the surprise of his former accomplices and even Batman.

The plot thickens when it is revealed that Bigelow has been using The Penguin as a pawn in his scheme to control the city’s food supply. In exchange for helping him obtain a liquor license, Bigelow demands Penguin provides him with a large amount of fresh produce from his restaurant. The Penguin initially agrees, knowing that he has no other options. However, when he realizes Bigelow plans to monopolize the city’s food supply and charge exorbitant prices, he decides to take a stand and stop him.

The Penguin soon finds himself in danger as Bigelow sends his henchmen to take him out. It is up to Batman to step in and save the day, but he is hesitant to help The Penguin after years of criminal activity. When The Penguin reveals his true motives and actions, Batman realizes that he has actually changed and decides to come to his aid.

The episode ends with The Penguin’s restaurant opening successfully, with even Batman dropping by for a meal. Despite his past, The Penguin has managed to turn over a new leaf and make a positive impact on the community.

Overall, The Penguin Goes Straight is a refreshing episode that showcases the possibility of redemption and second chances, even for the most notorious villains. It also highlights the importance of community support and believing in others’ potential for change.