Although some Marvel fans have been less enthusiastic about the recent releases from the MCU, there is a unanimous anticipation for the Daredevil series. Known as Daredevil: Born Again, this forthcoming series is highly awaited due to the character's brief appearances in Spider-Man: No Way Home and She-Hulk. While the series shows promising potential, recent developments have given fans some cause for concern.
Fans naturally become defensive when creative changes occur, and it's understandable considering the high expectations surrounding a beloved but underutilized character like Daredevil. There is a strong desire for something exceptional, particularly when comparing it to the successful Netflix series. Daredevil: Born Again will have to fill some large shoes when it finally hits the screens.
What Changes Were Made For Daredevil: Born Again?
The writers' strike, although widely known, was not the main cause for the significant changes that followed. It was after filming a few episodes of the series when Kevin Feige and other higher-ups reviewed the material and were dissatisfied with the direction it was taking. The Marvel team had a specific vision in mind, which the series failed to meet, resulting in the dismissal of writers and directors. While some portions of the already filmed content may still be used, major changes are expected for future episodes.
The show's core objective is undergoing extensive modifications on the go. This decision is understandable considering that the series initially leaned towards a legal drama rather than the desired genre. With new writers, directors, and an overall shift in the story's aim and style, Daredevil fans have expressed diverse opinions. The series has witnessed numerous reported changes and elicited even more reactions, but it remains uncertain whether these alterations will ultimately improve the show.
Why Fans Shouldn’t Be Worried
Fans should not worry about this significant change because the fact that it is happening at all is a positive sign. Marvel had the option to release a series focused on procedural legal drama and justify it as something new, but instead they chose to discard what was not working. This indicates that Marvel is approaching the situation with a clear perspective, retaining elements that are successful and aligning the new content more closely with the beloved PG-13 MCU action and adventures.
Another reason for fans to feel reassured is that the decision to make sweeping changes suggests that Marvel has a clear vision for what their Daredevil show should be. While the MCU Daredevil will be different from the darker and more brooding Netflix version, Marvel is still interested in capturing some of the character's edge. The changes being made are necessary, indicating that the studio recognizes the need for a significant success with the character.
Why Fans Should Be Worried
The excitement for fans of the Daredevil character is taken to the next level because the willingness to make such decisions suggests a significant future role for the character. If Marvel is so eager for Daredevil to succeed creatively and resonate with fans in the MCU, there is a strong possibility of more collaborations and even a potential spot on the Avengers for the Devil of Hell's Kitchen. Change can definitely be daunting, but that doesn't mean every big change signifies the end of the world.
On the flip side, there are valid concerns among Daredevil fans. Marvel's recent track record, in the eyes of some, has been less than stellar. The fact that the studio has had to redo portions of previously filmed material, terminate writers and directors, and undergo extensive reworking indicates a lack of thorough research and planning with those involved in the series. Moreover, there seems to be a failure in oversight. While directors and writers should have creative freedom, if Marvel has a cohesive vision that encompasses Daredevil, they must ensure that the show advances the overall MCU story as intended.
There is a risk of excessive overcorrection as well. If Marvel's executives perceive the show's direction as uninteresting and ineffective, there is a chance that a new focus might deviate too much from Daredevil's central legal aspect as a character. Fans don't necessarily want a gritty legal drama as a replacement for their superhero show, but that doesn't mean well-written legal proceedings should be excluded. Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning that the writing team must possess the necessary skills to handle intriguing writing if they choose to include actual legal scenes, given Marvel's previous track record with She-Hulk behind the scenes.
Another reason for fans to be concerned is the creative aspect. While the show may not have been successful, it could be due to deviating from what has traditionally worked in the MCU. Unconventional characters have thrived in the MCU, as evident in Werewolf By Night, Moon Knight, and even Guardians Of The Galaxy. However, it can be argued that all these characters also featured a significant amount of action. Exploring the avenue of a legal procedural is creatively interesting, particularly if the writers are exceptionally skilled, providing a unique experience within the MCU. All it needs is a touch more action infused to maintain the MCU essence. Unfortunately, it is now more likely that the series will feel like Marvel going through the motions.
