Much like how “The Avengers” came together a few years ago on the big screen after the
heroes had solo outings of their own, Marvel’s “The Defenders” has teamed up for a run on
Netflix.
This “street-level” super-team brings together crimefighter Daredevil/ lawyer Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox), super-powered private eye Jessica Jones (Krysten Ritter), bulletproof and super-strong Luke Cage (Mike Colter) and warrior Danny Rand also known as the immortal Iron Fist (Finn Jones).
This eight-episode mini series is a must watch, with plenty of villains and high stakes for the heroes to tackle.
The writers put together a fine cast of heroes, with an uneasy dynamic that is fun to watch, as is the interaction of their
supporting characters.
The first two episodes are pretty slow, taking their time to reintroduce the characters, while giving glimpses of the villains and their plans.
With the lethal Madam Gao (Ho Wai Ching) from Daredevil and Iron Fist appearing fearful- around her, we know from the first episode Alexandra is a dangerous force. And Weaver, no stranger to conveying confidence, gives the character those very compelling qualities
throughout her gradually revealed and suddenly surprising story arc.
The finale is arguably the best from all the Marvel Netflix shows. It’s interesting, awesome, intense and sad all at the same time. The Defenders come together to stop The Hand once and for all from destroying the city.
Tying in with Daredevil and Iron Fist series, the villain are The Hand, a ninja-like clan of assassins who have been around killing innocent people, draining out their blood, selling heroin, and corrupting businesses under New York City’s streets.
The show brings back Elektra Natchios (Elodie Yung) from the dead, Daredevil’s ex-girlfriend, as the team’s strongest opponent. The main antagonist is Alexandra Reid (Sigourney Weaver, from the Alien franchise), an enigmatic woman whose history is long.
Watch the end credits of the final episode for a look at another upcoming Marvel/Netflix project.