Daredevil: Born Again Review: 5 Thoughts On The MCU-Infused Return Of Matt Murdock!
A decade after the Daredevil series, Charlie Cox has returned as the blind, masked vigilante in JioHotstar‘s revival, Daredevil: Born Again.
Daredevil: Born Again, the 2025 series marks the highly-anticipated of Matt Murdock, the blind lawyer by day and vigilante by night. This new chapter in the Daredevil saga, streaming on JioHotstar, aims to strike a balance between the dark, street-level tone that made the original show such a critical hit and the broader, more accessible world of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While Born Again stays true to the core of what made the character compelling — a flawed hero driven by justice, grappling with the complexities of his dual life — it does so in a way that feels distinctly different from its predecessor. Here are five thoughts I had while watching the series.
1. Cinematography: A Nuanced Approach
Daredevil: Born Again continues the tradition of striking cinematography, blending sleek, modern visuals with the gritty atmosphere that defined the original series. The urban backdrop of Hell’s Kitchen remains a key visual element, and the fight choreography shines, especially during intense sequences that are shot with fluidity, evoking the show’s original rawness.
2. Acting: Charlie Cox Returns Strong
Charlie Cox’s return as Matt Murdock/Daredevil is a welcome one, and his portrayal captures the internal struggle of the character more than ever. His nuanced performance brings depth to the complexities of Matt’s dual identity as a lawyer and vigilante. Vincent D’Onofrio, as Kingpin, is just as menacing and layered, bringing the same level of intensity that made him such a standout in the original series. The supporting cast adds depth, but it’s the chemistry between Cox and D’Onofrio that truly drives the emotional core of the series.
3. Story: A Slower Burn, Yet Compelling
The pacing in Born Again is a bit more measured compared to its predecessors. While some might find the slower build a bit of a drag, the series takes its time in developing its characters and delving into Matt’s personal struggles. The more intimate, character-driven storytelling is a shift away from the previous seasons’ relentless pace, but it ultimately enriches the narrative.
4. A Revisit To The Previous Series
Fans of the original Daredevil series will recognise the familiar core themes, but the tone of Born Again has undeniably shifted. The darker, grittier feel of the earlier seasons is dialed down in favor of a slightly lighter and more accessible MCU influence, especially in terms of humor and character dynamics. Born Again successfully blends superhero spectacle with emotional stakes, which may appeal to a wider audience but might alienate those looking for the raw edge of the original.
5. The Future of Daredevil: MCU Integration
The series firmly places Daredevil within the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe, and while it remains true to the character’s essence, the MCU influence is clear. This integration opens exciting possibilities for future storylines but could be jarring for those who loved the show’s initial focus on street-level crime.
What are your thoughts on Daredevil: Born Again?
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First Published: March 05, 2025 4:08 PM
