The return of one of the greatest comic book TV series of all time is ready to shake up the world with Daredevil: Born Again. Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio return to their lead roles as Matt Murdock and Wilson Fisk. I consider the original Netflix three seasons the best comic book series of all time, so Disney and the creators had a high bar to reach. My review will be completely spoiler-free and only highlight the things that I love in a non-spoiler manner.
Daredevil: Born Again follows the story of Matt Murdock finding himself on a collision course with Wilson Fisk when their past identities begin to emerge. No matter how hard the duo attempts to forget the past, it creeps up on them, leading to their inevitable conflict.
When Netflix created Daredevil, it was a masterclass in storytelling while never losing sight of the superhero elements. You had characters that mattered, stakes that needed to be fulfilled, and action sequences that were the greatest ever put within a series. There was much concern about Disney adapting this and recreating it without hampering what was built within the original series. I am happy to report that you have no worries because this delivered top-tier TV.
From the opening moments of the series, you are reeled back into this world that was previously built. The emotional weight of the first episode is such a heavy burden for Matt Murdock (and the viewers). The ripple effect that follows Murdock in the coming episodes watches him walk away from what he thought he needed most.
The writers peel back Murdock’s layers in a way we have yet to see. He struggles with his own identity and who he wants to be or needs to be. You witness the unraveling of a man being tested to his limits to try to be “normal.” I was in awe of the character’s evolution in such a haunting and remarkable atmosphere.
On the flip side, the same could be said for Wilson Fisk, who is trying to become the face of the city while overcoming his past. It’s not the same Fisk you are used to seeing. While he has that same dark passenger within him, he is trying to withhold that by not getting his hands dirty. However, much like Murdock, how things unfold in the city causes Fisk to snap.
Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio once again play Matt Murdock and Wilson Fisk. Starting with Cox, you witness greatness in his performance of Murdock. This is easily one of the greatest casting decisions in comic book history. Cox understands the assignment and the weight of Murdock. His portrayal is awe-inspiring, and within Born Again, this might be his best work in the character to date.
My oh my, D’Onofrio is that guy. Ruthless, heartless, and fierce, D’Onofrio returns to our screens with a commanding performance. Another brilliant casting decision over a decade ago is the gift that keeps giving. Each time Fisk is on the screen and you watch D’Onofrio deliver his monologue, you are pulled into the moment and can’t take your eyes off the screen. Cox and D’Onofrio will forever be eternal in this comic book world.
The fight choreography in the original series set the bar for the future of fighting sequences in comic book movies. Again, they did right by the original by making the hand-to-hand combat within this perfection. A simultaneous action sequence in the sixth episode is jaw-dropping masterful. Of course, this is only amplified by the direction of a group of directors who knock it out of the park.
The title card sequence is nothing short of remarkable. The haunting nature of the sequence, with a dark tone, was beautifully shot and well done. Furthermore, The Newton Brothers’ mesmerizing score is one of the best you will ever hear in a series. This is a very dark script, and they balance it with such precision that it keeps you invested in the moments that matter most.
Whoever decided to make these nine episodes deserves an award. Look, when the series is over, you will want more, but I love the idea of that “want.” The want to find out what’s next for these characters or the want to understand how the tangled web of stories will come together. I am beyond ready for a second season.
Daredevil: Born Again not only reignites the passion from the original, but it raises the bar. Each episode ups the ante one after another, making you want to binge-watch it from start to finish. From masterful storytelling, direction, and an ensemble cast, audiences of the original series are in for a treat with nine episodes of pure genius. I loved every minute of the series and can’t wait to rewatch it again.
Daredevil: Born Again streams on Disney+.
Learn more about the show, including how to watch, at the Disney+ website.
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