Daredevil: Born Again Recap: The Right Thing to Do

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For Matt Murdock, defending Hector Ayala is not just about aiding someone he thinks is innocent; it’s also about challenging the corrupt police officers within the NYPD and delivering a clear message to Fisk, the Mayor, that this city won’t tolerate corruption. In some cases, even though vigilantism isn’t perfect for addressing systemic issues, it might be the only suitable remedy when traditional justice seems unattainable.

Episode three continues the court-centric narrative that started in the previous episode. Contrary to what many viewers assumed, Officer Powell, who seemed to meet his fate at Nicky’s apartment allegedly at Matt’s hands, reappears as a witness, accusing Matt of tampering with an investigation and interfering with police duties. Given the severe beating that left Powell unconscious and covered in blood, it’s challenging to take his threats too gravely. However, underestimating the police, particularly with Commissioner Gallo being Fisk’s ally, could prove risky. In the course of Powell’s testimony, he and District Attorney Hochberg portray the late Officer Shanahan as an admirable figure committed to making the city a safer place to reside.

A crucial element in Hector’s defense is Nicky, a vital witness who Cherry has hidden away at a secure location, providing him with enough drugs to keep him composed for his testimony. During the trial, Powell denies any knowledge of an undercover informant, and hushed whispers from the police on the benches make Matt suspect they won’t let Nicky testify easily. It takes clever tactics for Cherry to transport Nicky to court without alerting Powell and his associates. In the end, despite making it just in time, Nicky succumbs to the NYPD’s intimidation. He acknowledges becoming a confidential informant after a drug arrest but denies leaving home on the night of the subway incident. At this point, Matt feels overwhelmed with anger and confusion, wondering where the defense can possibly move forward without any concrete evidence.

In essence, there’s no other viable choice but to call Hector as a witness. Kamar de los Reyes skillfully introduced this character in “Optics,” and he’s even more compelling now, bringing authentic humanity to a significant comic figure. This is why his testimony resonates deeply with the jury, such as the detail that he was going to surprise his wife with a new apartment in the South Bronx the very next day. However, it’s Matt’s daring decision to reveal Hector as White Tiger, despite previously concealing this information last week, that ultimately strengthens the defense’s case.

In simpler terms, during the episode, Matt’s dual role as a vigilante is significant and his discussion with Hector after a crucial event stands out. When Hector maintains that he will forever be White Tiger and can’t fully retire this persona, even if he gives up the suit, it demonstrates his understanding of his dual nature more than Matt does. However, Matt also makes a valid argument when he advises Hector to prioritize his family during this time, suggesting that Hector Ayala might find greater joy in life without the White Tiger role.

The subsequent heartfelt court testimonies have a touch of sentimentality, making it seem more like a celebration of superheroes rather than the gritty realism typically found in Daredevil. Perhaps I’m biased against the hero-worshipping approach taken by Matt and Kirsten, where they emphasize Hector’s role in saving police officers and even assisting them in apprehending suspects. After some objections from Hochberg, the verdict of acquittal is announced, leaving a profound impact. However, as the episode concludes, it becomes clear that this favorable outcome won’t last: Fisk is both publicly and privately enraged by the decision, and he will have to uphold his campaign promise against vigilantism in order to remain mayor.

When White Tiger, freshly released, roams the streets once more, suddenly a person wearing a Punisher skull T-shirt emerges unexpectedly to shoot him point-blank in the head. As the credits roll, we hear the melodious chirping of coquí frogs blending with the rhythmic ocean waves, possibly symbolizing what Hector heard in his final moments – a reminder of the homeland he was unable to return to as promised by Matt.

Hector’s demise significantly heightens the tension for the season, linking this subplot to Fisk’s larger narrative that has been distinct from Matt’s recent activities. It aligns with the gritty, authentic feel of the original series, even though I can’t help but regret that we had to part ways with such a charming fresh character so swiftly.

In episode three, Fisk’s narrative is somewhat engaging yet largely feels like prelude until his encounter with White Tiger. There’s ongoing discord between Fisk and Vanessa regarding their approach to the lawless gangs in Red Hook. While Vanessa proposes money laundering through high-end art sales, Fisk emphasizes his grander objectives and maintaining a clean reputation, or at least his interpretation of it. He sees no benefit in engaging with Luca and Viktor’s petty disputes; he believes they’ll eventually destroy each other, leaving him in a stronger position. However, Vanessa instructs Buck to convey Luca’s debt to Viktor, which escalates the conflict between them. Fisk hints at growing distrust towards Vanessa, though she counters by accusing him of punishing her for being with someone else.

I find myself fascinated by these marital disputes and wondering if they might lead to Vanessa leaving Fisk and asserting control. However, I also share his perspective to some extent: It’s becoming challenging to become deeply engrossed in the petty squabbles among lower-level criminals at this stage. Episode three offers many appealing aspects, particularly with Hector’s storyline, but I must confess that I’m growing restless for the main action to commence or, at least, for Matt and Fisk to interact again, or even for Matt to acknowledge his role as Daredevil more openly, instead of confining his powers solely to the courtroom. While Daredevil excels as a legal drama, it truly shines when its heroes get down and dirty.

Devil in the Details

In this installment, Heather is primarily featured in a single scene, sharing a toast with Fisk and Vanessa following Matt’s reminiscing about his long-time friend Foggy Nelson. This heartfelt exchange subtly integrates her into the show’s rich backstory, although I still find the development of their relationship somewhat rapid.

Perhaps some of my minor disappointment arises from the absence of directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, whose exceptional work on the first episode greatly contributed to its outstanding visuals and audio quality. While the last two episodes have been well-made, they seem to lack the same level of visual brilliance compared to the initial one. However, I must commend the creative sound mixing in the credits, as it adds a unique and impressive touch.

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2025-03-12 05:54