Why are there purple umbrellas in Rue Montorgueil?
Would you like to discover the umbrella street in Paris? As I wandered down Rue Montorgueil, searching for something for dinner, I saw purple umbrellas swaying gently in the air. Some people on the terraces barely seemed to notice, while others looked up curiously. What could these umbrellas mean? Was it art, a joke, a stunt, or something else? Read how to discover the umbrella street in Paris.
The Penguin – the new HBO Max series
After a bit of research, I discovered that these umbrellas are part of a promotional campaign for the new HBO Max series The Penguin. This show, a spin-off of The Batman (2022), follows the rise of Oswald Cobblepot, better known as The Penguin, in Gotham City’s criminal underworld. What really fascinated me, though, was the symbolism behind the umbrellas and the choice of purple. Definitely not by chance.
Why are there umbrellas in Rue Montorgueil?
The umbrella is an essential symbol of The Penguin. Since his first appearance in 1941, the umbrella quickly became his trademark. In early comics and TV series, it functioned as both his weapon and a symbol of power. Even in the iconic 1966 Batman TV series, with Burgess Meredith in the role of The Penguin, the umbrella was a prominent feature. This promotion directly references that classic image of The Penguin, with his signature style and attributes.
Why are the umbrellas in Rue Montorgueil purple?
The choice of purple is no accident either. Since the 1960s, purple has been closely associated with The Penguin. In the Batman TV series, he often sported purple accents in his costumes and accessories, including his umbrellas and cars. The colour purple evokes associations with power, wealth, and luxury—traits that fit The Penguin’s character, particularly in his role as a strategic and powerful criminal in Gotham City. In The Penguin, his rise to power in the criminal underworld is explored, and the purple umbrellas in Rue Montorgueil nod to his evolution from a cartoonish villain to a serious, dark gangster.
Why Rue Montorgueil?
Rue Montorgueil is one of the most vibrant and historic streets in the heart of Paris. The street, full of cafés and shops, attracts both tourists and locals, making it a perfect spot for a visually striking campaign like this. By temporarily filling the street with these purple umbrellas, HBO Max not only grabs the attention of passersby but also brings a touch of Gotham to the centre of Paris. It’s a clever marketing move to promote the launch of The Penguin.
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A playful promotion – but what about Parisian charm?
While I find the concept of the purple umbrellas amusing and playful, I can’t help but wonder if Paris is slowly turning into a kind of open-air amusement park.
Imagine this: instead of purple umbrellas, the same Rue Montorgueil is covered with a canopy of pink Chanel bags, high heels, champagne glasses, and oversized smartphones displaying selfies of Emily in Paris, promoting the next season of the show.
This contradiction raises questions about how we distinguish between art and promotion. Would such a decorative campaign receive the same level of appreciation? Or would critics quickly label it as “too commercial” or “too kitschy” compared to the subtle homage to a dark Gotham figure?
What Do You Think?
Do you believe promotions like these enhance the atmosphere of Paris, or do they dilute its classic charm? Would you like to discover the umbrella street in Paris?
Leave a comment and let me know your thoughts!
Such a fun fibe