Alright, fellow Marvel fans, Daredevil: Born Again is finally here, and let’s just say, the hype is real. Disney+ is taking another shot at the Man Without Fear, and while some things have changed, this show still packs the same gritty punch we loved from the Netflix series—only with a bigger budget and some fresh twists.
The Story – Dark, Intense, and Deeper Than Ever
If you were worried Born Again would lose the raw, street-level storytelling that made the original a hit, breathe easy. This series dives right back into themes of power, corruption, and the never-ending clash between Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) and Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio). It’s a seamless blend of what came before and a fresh start within the MCU, expanding the world without losing what made Daredevil special in the first place.
One of the best things about Born Again is how it nails episodic storytelling while still driving a larger, overarching narrative—something that’s been missing in some other Disney+ series. Each episode gives you a self-contained story while layering in deeper conflicts and character arcs. Plus, we get some exciting new faces, like White Tiger, who actually feels like a meaningful addition rather than just thrown in for fan service.
How Does It Compare to the Netflix Series?
So, is Born Again the same Daredevil we knew and loved? Yes and no. Here’s a breakdown:
What’s Different?
- More CGI, Bigger Action: Netflix kept it gritty with practical effects, while Disney+ adds more CGI-enhanced fights and acrobatics.
- Faster Pacing: The story moves quicker, with fewer slow-burn, introspective moments.
- Less Religious Themes: Matt’s confessional scenes—key to his internal struggles in the original—are notably absent.
- New Characters & Subplots: Some additions work well, others feel a little forced.
What’s the Same?
- The Dark, Gritty Tone: Thankfully, Born Again hasn’t been sanitized for Disney. It’s still violent, intense, and emotionally heavy.
- Faithfulness to the Characters: Matt Murdock and Wilson Fisk’s rivalry is still the heart of the show.
- Emotional Depth: While there’s more action, the emotional weight of Matt’s struggles is still present—just handled in a slightly different way.
- Continuity from Netflix: There are callbacks, familiar faces, and a sense that this is still the Daredevil world we know.
Performances – Cox and D’Onofrio Bring the Heat
Charlie Cox is Daredevil. No debate. He slips back into Matt Murdock’s suit effortlessly, delivering the same tortured yet determined performance fans adore. Vincent D’Onofrio’s Wilson Fisk remains one of the MCU’s best villains, and watching these two clash again is worth the price of admission alone. We also get some welcome returns—Deborah Ann Woll as Karen Page, and yes, Jon Bernthal’s Punisher is back.
Reception – A Strong Start, but Not Without Controversy
Despite being Disney+’s biggest premiere of 2025 (racking up 7.5 million views), Born Again has sparked some debate among fans. Some love the faster pacing and higher production value, while others miss the slower, introspective storytelling of the Netflix era. And yeah, some changes—like the absence of Matt’s confessional scenes—feel noticeable. Still, with an 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s clear that critics and most fans are on board with this next chapter.
The Verdict – Should You Watch It?
If you loved Netflix’s Daredevil, you’ll find a lot to enjoy in Born Again. It’s a worthy continuation that brings back what made the show great while giving it a new MCU polish. Sure, some changes might take getting used to, but at its core, this is still Daredevil—brutal, emotional, and endlessly compelling.
Rating: 7.5/10
Recommended For: Fans of the Netflix series, MCU lovers who want a more mature take, and anyone who appreciates top-tier action and storytelling.
So, what do you think? Does Born Again live up to the hype, or do you miss the Netflix version? Let’s discuss!
