Seven years after its abrupt cancellation on Netflix, Marvel’s Daredevil is back with Daredevil: Born Again, now streaming on Disney Plus.
Starring Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock/Daredevil and Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson Fisk/Kingpin, this revival retains the dark, brutal, and character-driven storytelling that made its predecessor a fan favourite. With a TV-MA rating, Born Again delivers hard-hitting action, emotional depth, and a gripping exploration of heroism and villainy.
Return to gritty, street-level storytelling
From the first episode, Daredevil: Born Again reintroduces audiences to a New York City teeming with corruption, crime, and moral ambiguity. The show kicks off with a tragic event that stirs Murdock’s inner demons, leading to an intense, action-packed journey of vengeance, justice, and self-discovery. The storyline jumps forward one year, placing Fisk in the political spotlight as he runs for mayor, while Murdock struggles with his dual identity as a lawyer and vigilante.
The first episode features a diner scene reminiscent of the Born Again comic book arc, setting the stage for a deeply personal and visually compelling narrative. The opening credits, swapping the crimson drips of the original series for a stone-like motif, signal a hardened, more complex Daredevil who navigates an even murkier moral landscape.
Action, brutality, and high-stakes drama
True to its roots, Daredevil: Born Again doesn’t shy away from bone-crushing fights and visceral brutality. The fight choreography remains as intense as ever, with standout sequences featuring Daredevil clashing with Ben Poindexter/Bullseye, a menacing serial killer, and the ever-ruthless Punisher (played brilliantly by Jon Bernthal). The series masterfully balances action with character-driven drama, ensuring that every punch and every decision carries weight.
Fisk’s arc is just as compelling, as he grapples with the consequences of his actions in Echo while striving to maintain his grip on power. His signature white suit may be pristine, but the stains of his past continue to haunt him.
Meaningful character arcs
Beyond Cox and D’Onofrio’s powerhouse performances, Born Again introduces new and returning characters that enrich the narrative. Margarita Levieva plays Heather, a therapist who challenges Murdock’s self-perception and provides a rare glimpse into his softer side. Meanwhile, returning characters like Karen Page and Vanessa Fisk add depth and continuity to the unfolding drama.
The series also features White Tiger, Muse, and Michael Gandolfini as Daniel, along with the niece of Ben Urich, the investigative journalist who met a tragic end in the original Netflix series. These additions help Born Again weave in callbacks to its predecessor without over-relying on nostalgia.
Themes of justice, power, and redemption
At its core, Daredevil: Born Again isn’t just about brutal fights and crime-fighting—it’s an exploration of morality, justice, and redemption. The parallel journeys of Murdock and Fisk highlight their contrasting ideologies, yet they remain inextricably linked by their shared darkness. Their psychological battle is just as riveting as their physical confrontations, making for a layered and thought-provoking narrative.
A must-watch for Marvel and Daredevil fans
With its masterful blend of gripping storytelling, high-octane action, and profound character moments, Daredevil: Born Again is a triumphant return for the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Netflix series or a newcomer to the world of Daredevil, this revival is well worth the watch.
Final rating: 9/10 – Thrilling, bone-crushing, and unmissable
