4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Following the culmination of its monumental, more than a decade-long run of dominating theatres and conversations across the world, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has taken a stark turn. A consensus of disappointment and mediocrity floods most reactions to current projects, with many feeling the heart and soul that elevated earlier projects have largely been lost. Thankfully, “Daredevil: Born Again” does not fall into that category. Created by Dario Scardapane, Matt Corman and Chris Ord, “Born Again” holds to the heart of the original Netflix series, of which this show is a direct continuation of.
The season sees the return of Charlie Cox as Matthew Murdock/Daredevil, the now retired vigilante and full-time lawyer, following a tragedy that changes his life forever. This series also sees the return of Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson Fisk, and Ayelet Zurer as Vanessa Fisk, along with many other legacy characters.
Before this show, there was “Daredevil,” which was produced by Marvel and ABC studios that was released to Netflix. Where mainstream Marvel movies would focus on big, climactic battles, the Netflix show gained critical acclaim for its dark, grounded storytelling, gritty realism and emphasis on street-level issues. These factors are incredibly important to Matt Murdock’s character and the world of “Daredevil,” yet with this new show now fully under Disney’s control, many fans worried the atmosphere would be lost with new creative direction.
The original draft of “Daredevil: Born Again” was not working to the point where Kevin Feige fired the old team working on it in favor of a new, more experienced team. The only problem with this is the fact that by the time Feige intervened, a decent amount of the show had already been shot. Because of that, the new directors and writers had to work around the pre-shot scenes to make it salvageable.
While some episodes felt a bit directionless because of the pre-shooting, this show felt very consistent overall with the characters and world we have come to expect out of “Daredevil.” With that being said, the first episode and last two episodes stand out much more than the others because they are entirely shot and directed by the new staff. These episodes are downright phenomenal, featuring brutal, nail-biting moments and brilliant commentary regarding topics like corrupt cops, political corruption and injustice in the United States. Even though the other episodes are not quite up to the standards of the three created by the new crew, they still do a serviceable job, albeit without the consistently phenomenal elements of the later work.
The one thing that this series didn’t touch on too much is Matt Murdock’s relationship with God. Where Netflix’s series focuses a significant amount on Matt’s faith, the church is not seen in this show. The series focuses on Matt following the biggest loss of his life; It could be argued that this loss should put a new focus on his faith, and should be explored. Noting his newfound refusal to confront his feelings, and the fact he briefly mentions in one of the only religion-focused lines that he struggles with faith, it is understandable that he would be separated from God in this season. However, moments like this feel more like an explanation for the show’s lack of religious themes to satisfy fans as opposed to an earnest creative choice.
There are a few scattered references to Catholicism here and there, yet not nearly as many as what would thematically make sense seeing as God is a crucial part of Matt’s character. While losing the more religious elements was tough, the lawyer focus is undeniably amazing, with the emphasis on little injustices within the world through clients like Hector Ayala (Kamar de los Reyes) being a particular standout.
The best part of this season, however, would have to be Wilson and Vanessa Fisk. D’Onofrio’s portrayal of Fisk in the Netflix show was perhaps one of the most terrifyingly nuanced performances on TV, and seeing the Kingpin now elected as mayor provides some excellent political commentary. Observing his slow descent back into the Kingpin of crime, now with resources to do whatever he wants, was horrifying. His relationship with Vanessa was equally terrifying, and seeing the strain in their marriage affect everything and everyone around them was a highlight of the season.
For the most part, the cinematography in this show was beautiful. The angles were phenomenal, the lighting superb and the style unique. The parts of the show filmed before the reshoots were noticeably bland. Serviceable for sure, but lacking the style and personality given to New York City and Hell’s Kitchen seen in the reshot scenes. Overall, this season has a very distinct style of its own and works to portray the city as a character itself.
This show is a shining light and beacon of hope that takes the original series and runs with it. With the directors from the first season staying on for season two, there is no doubt that the story, cinematography and brilliant performances will continue to thrive and show the world the forgotten nuances of the superhero genre. “Daredevil: Born Again” truly is a miracle because for the first time in a long time, Marvel has something to say.
