North Texas Daily

Nicholas Friedman / Features Editor

2003 was a dark time. We had “Daredevil,” sure, but it was Ben Affleck and it was PG-13. A very dark time.

But it’s not 2003 anymore, and Marvel is hellbent on making sure of that. After releasing all 13 episodes of the highly-anticipated TV-MA rated series “Marvel’s Daredevil” this past Friday, comic book fanatics and television drama aficionados alike were treated to what might just be the most accurate comic book adaptation ever.

Only two episodes in, I’m stunned and captivated by what’s been done here. Everything from our blind hero Murdock’s origins to his father’s boxing career and beyond. We’re no longer bogged down by Colin Farrell and Evanescence. No, it has all been replaced by the ingenious writing and camera work of godsend Drew Goddard (The Cabin in the Woods, Cloverfield) and show runner Steven S. DeKnight (Spartacus).

One particular standout so far is the ending to episode two. Please proceed with caution as you should really watch this scene with fresh eyes and thoughts.

Episode two focuses mainly on Murdock trying to rescue a boy at risk of being sold into the human trafficking market by Russian mobsters. Much of this episode is spent finding out where the boy is being kept, and this introduces us to Rosario Dawson’s character Claire, as well as the pure brutality of Daredevil’s Battlin’ Murdock abilities (He pseudo-lobotomizes a man).

When he does finally learn the boy’s location, we are treated to a no-cut shot that takes place in a hallway. Murdock takes down mobster after mobster after mobster as he tires but continues fighting. As viewers, we feel the breath escaping Murdock’s lungs and we empathize with his pain. The bad guys just keep coming, but he refuses to go down.

The episode ends with Murdock holding the boy in his arms, telling him that he is going to take him home, and that he is now safe. The scene is blissful and leads to the perfect cold close.

“Marvel’s Daredevil” is something special, and it bodes well for the future of mature comic book adaptations.

Look forward to our upcoming full season recap here on The Dose.