Born Again Brings Back the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen With Uneven Brilliance

Daredevil Returns to the Streets of New York

In this episode of the Dynamic Duel Podcast, the hosts review season one of Daredevil: Born Again, the Disney+ revival of Marvel’s most critically acclaimed television series. Picking up after the events of the Netflix original show, the new series stars Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock and Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson Fisk, exploring what happens when both characters attempt to walk away from their violent pasts—only to be pulled back in.

Production Problems, Plot Detours, and a New Identity

The hosts dive into how Born Again was initially conceived as a reboot, ignoring the Netflix seasons altogether. But after production delays, rewrites, and strike-related halts, Marvel Studios pivoted, reintegrating prior continuity. As a result, this season acts more as a soft continuation than a hard reset. Still, tonal inconsistencies and underdeveloped subplots—especially involving side characters like Muse—underscore the impact of behind-the-scenes turmoil. While early episodes like “Heaven’s Half Hour” start strong and bookend episodes land well, mid-season entries drift into filler territory, with episode four noted as particularly lackluster.

Matt Murdock’s Struggle with Identity

One major theme discussed is Matt’s internal conflict—trying to live as a lawyer and leave Daredevil behind after the death of Foggy Nelson. The hosts point out that this setup mirrors earlier seasons, particularly season three, but without the same tight pacing. They acknowledge how hard it is to watch a hero avoid heroism, but commend Cox’s performance as always. His chemistry with returning characters like Karen Page helps ground the season in emotional continuity.

Wilson Fisk’s Journey to Mayoral Power

Vincent D’Onofrio’s Kingpin also gets high praise. The hosts highlight how Fisk’s desire to appear legitimate as mayor contrasts with his growing brutality, culminating in one of the most violent sequences the series has ever shown—tearing off a man’s face. Vanessa’s arc as a covert manipulator is also a twist that caught both brothers off guard, especially when it's revealed she ordered Foggy’s murder. These developments reinforce Fisk’s role as one of Marvel’s most terrifying villains.

Familiar Faces and New Threats

While the return of Bullseye and Punisher added excitement, the hosts were mixed on their usage. Bullseye, despite opening the season with a shocking kill, disappears by the finale. Punisher fares better, teaming up with Daredevil in the finale for a fan-favorite sequence, but his presence still feels underutilized. New villain Muse receives both praise and critique—his twisted blood-as-paint M.O. was memorable, but his arc felt rushed.

Hopes for Season Two

Ultimately, the hosts award the season four out of five stars, calling it the weakest Daredevil season—but still good television. They argue the show rediscovered its soul by the end, teeing up a stronger second season. With Kingpin declaring martial law and Daredevil forming a resistance, expectations are high for the next chapter. Season two of Born Again premieres next March, and the podcast team is eager to see where the story goes next.

Listen to the full episode here: Daredevil: Born Again Season 1 Review.