What Made The Marvel Netflix Shows Special?

Marvel

May 11

The Marvel shows on Netflix departed from the norm in many ways. It’s been said that they surpassed the ABC shows; they did a fantastic job of building upon the existing foundation, tapping into the avid fan base that could appreciate the diverse content.

Some wondered what the shows contributed to the MCU, if anything. Others commented on the (initial) lack of major crossovers, or that the shows made them feel like they were in a completely different environment from the MCU. In the end, though, everyone was left speechless and with a richer experience.

Daredevil

Unlike the "happier" Marvel properties, Daredevil used a darker tone and gritty realism, drawing inspiration from classic crime dramas and 70s films. This was achieved using high production quality and a cinematic approach, emphasizing cohesive storytelling. It played a significant role in shaping superhero television’s landscape, thanks in part to its complex characters and moral ambiguity, where superheroes are portrayed as deeply flawed individuals who frequently question what it means to be a hero.

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Jessica Jones

Jessica Jones is a standout for portraying a female superhero as deeply flawed and embodying a realistic story, compared to previous female superhero portrayals seen as dated or simplistic. The series also benefited from a distinctive storytelling style, emphasizing character development over style. This was enriched also by the diversity of the cast, its ability to maintain a unique tone within a larger universe, and using all of that to address real-world issues.

Luke Cage

The Netflix series Luke Cage was special in bringing a different perspective to the superhero genre. It stood out for representation and diversity, having a predominantly African-American cast. Show creator Cheo Hadari Coker aimed to create something that would examine the culture of Harlem and African American experiences, adding to its cultural authenticity through music genres like hip-hop, jazz, and the blues. The show was also unafraid to tackle social issues and authentically use social commentary. The show’s impact continues to be felt even after its cancellation.

Iron Fist

Iron Fist stood out for several reasons. The show’s use of martial arts and Eastern philosophy set it apart from traditional Western heroism and superhero narratives. This focus on authenticity included extensive martial arts training for the cast members and deep character development and themes to present a rich narrative.

The Defenders

The Netflix series The Defenders was special in bringing several MCU threads together in a major crossover event. It was also intended as a “detour” for its characters, with the characters afterwards returning to their respective series. It embraced and enhanced the concept of the “non-team”, giving the team members more individual identity than in the comic books, maintaining a dynamic of tension and discomfort. It also used sonic and visual elements from each respective series, eventually bringing them together to enhance character dynamics and storytelling.

The Punisher

The Netflix series The Punisher stands out for multiple reasons. Its exploration of the character Frank Castle gives viewers a view of his complex self, allowing viewers to relate to the Punisher on a profound level. It emphasizes high production values with elements like realism and grit, with a strong supporting cast. It excels at providing entertainment alongside cultural commentary and a framework for real-world issues.

The Marvel Netflix shows all have things that make them different and have things in common. What’s special about them is the way they bring those elements together to make a story.

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