Why Marvel needs to bring back Daredevil

Marvel is renowned for its big-budget superhero action movies which never fail to create a buzz. On the small screen, they had a pretty good run as well. 

Plenty of Marvel heroes have popped up on your TV screen. Among them, Daredevil is undoubtedly the most remarkable one. In fact, it is one of Marvel's highest-rated live-action TV series according to both IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes.

The comic version of Daredevil was first created in 1964 and was an instant hit among fans. In 2015, when "the man with no fear" first appeared on the popular streaming service Netflix, people were understandably mind blown by this immaculately scripted and artistically satisfying series. However, it was cancelled in November 2018 after the completion of three action-packed seasons, leaving the cast and the fans absolutely distraught.

But there is good news for Daredevil fans. Marvel has recently reclaimed its rights from Netflix. Hence, fans are demanding to bring the grounded hero of the hell's kitchen back on the screen. 

However, fans are worried that if the show is broadcasted through Disney Plus, and if they decide to recast, it may lose its true essence. 

If you're bored of watching the same old shows or looking for something interesting to watch, then you must add Daredevil to your Netflix watchlist. 

Realistic yet fascinating

Daredevil is not your typical caped superhero in a random troublesome neighbourhood. He doesn't fight with some out-of-the-space creatures to save the world from impending doom.

Instead, the savage villains from Daredevil are more grounded and relatable. They do not have any supernatural abilities but a criminal mind. Daredevil fights these criminals with his bare hands in the pursuit of justice in his metropolis. 

Much to the shock of the viewers, Matt Murdock AKA Daredevil is blind and understandably has his own ups and downs. He works as a daytime professional lawyer and a fearless vigilante at night. His story includes real-life conflicts, pragmatic rationale, multiple comic arcs accompanied by twists and brilliant character development. 

This continuous development of unpredictable circumstances keeps you hooked to your screen - dying to know what happens next.

Astonishing action with a dark storyline

The perfectly choreographed fighting sequences accompanied by incredible acting will astound anyone who watches Marvel's Daredevil. 

Charlie Cox, the actor playing Daredevil, has also been jaw-dropping throughout the show. His, as well as other cast members' acting, was mesmerizing and the gritty theme introduced in this series confused everyone; whether it's a series from Marvel or DC. 

There was not a single mundane moment which would encourage you to pause. Because what's not in it? From the basic themes surrounding friendship, romance, action and tragedy to much heavier paradigms like Matt Murdock's constant battle with his faith and his philosophy of redemption. 

Each of the 39 episodes contains every flavour you need.

Interesting characters played by remarkable actors

This series introduced multiple talented actors who breathed life into the iconic characters of Daredevil. 

Charlie Cox in his simultaneous role as the good-hearted catholic blind lawyer and a robust street-scale superhero acted phenomenally by showing both of the vulnerable and powerful sides of Daredevil. 

Other than him, the evolution of the supporting actors who played Karen Page, Foggy Nelson and the cynical journalist Ben, throughout the series, was praiseworthy. The villains of Hell's kitchen like Fisk (Kingpin), Punisher, Bull's eye, Elektra etc. were the most riveting characters of this show who kept us glued to our seats. 

Wilson Fisk, played by the wonderful actor Vincent D'Onofrio, did an incredible job showing the sadist and evil yet powerful context of this character's development. Elektra as the fierce assassin and Matt's love interest was a challenging role to portray as well.

Exquisite cinematography

Daredevil adapted the look of the comic book with stunning framing and filters like a pro. In particular, season three of the series did an excellent job in terms of blocking and camera movement which resulted in excellent cinematography. 

The grimy tone, the captivating plot and the realistic light shades altogether made the series look rhythmic and convinced us to watch it attentively. While using backgrounds and colour grading, the Daredevil team was cautious and did a perfect job in each distinct environment. 

The presentation of Murdock's bedroom's aesthetic lighting, the grandeur of the churches, the rustic fighting scenes and the bustling daytime New York are few of the examples which will dazzle your eyes.

Best superhero revival in the history

We've seen many comic heroes represented in big-budget movies and it is a recent trend to telecast it on the small screen as well. 

In 2003, the movie Daredevil was created starring the famous actors Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, etc. But it didn't even go to the edge of any superhero movies in Marvel's big-screen history in terms of gaining popularity. 

However, in 2015, Daredevil premiered on Netflix with the vision to spread the greatness of this series and their vision turned into reality. 

Marvel's Daredevil is considered the most successful revival of superheroes in history till this moment. The small-screen Daredevil incredibly displays the strength that forged out of the tragedy of Murdock's past life and indeed sometimes it gives you the same vibe as the Batman movies.

The only regret you'll have after finishing the three seasons with thirty-nine episodes is why isn't there any more of it? 

The decision of cancellation of this show desolated its fans. The dropping of 57 percent of the viewers for the last season is still a question of confusion to its loyal fans. As for now, millions of people are protesting online with the hashtag #SaveDaredevil. 

Will Marvel bring back Daredevil in its authentic self or through a modified version on Disney Plus which fans won't approve because it'll lose its true essence? Let's hope for the best!

The author is a current student of the Department of Organization Strategy and Leadership at the University of Dhaka. She can be reached through nusratjahan866@gmail.com.