The Defenders - TV Review

   I've watched the first two episodes of the new Netflix series Marvel's The Defenders, and so far it's a terrific achievement. 

   I think Marvel's brain trust has been brilliant, using the same concept they used with The Avengers - to introduce each hero individually in separate series, and team them up in this series.

   The series brings together the heroes from the four existing Marvel / Netflix series - Daredevil, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones and Iron Fist - to tackle a menace too big for any single hero.

   Each character gets (more or less) equal treatment, and they're an interesting mix of earnest and powerful (Iron Fist, played by Finn Jones), troubled but dedicated (Daredevil, played by Charlie Cox), a streetwise hero trying to make a difference (Luke Cage, played by Mike Colter), and a troubled spitfire whose heart is in the right place whether she wants to admit it or not (Jessica Jones, played by Krysten Ritter).

   There's a nice mystery building behind the villain (wonderfully played by Sigourney Weaver), a big menace to New York (and points beyond) and yes, the first time two of the heroes meet, they fight. (It's a beloved tradition with Marvel.)

   The action scenes are well staged and entertaining, the photography and special effects are excellent, and the music is perfect (it changes depending on which character is in the spotlight).

   The series is building nicely on the individual series and includes most of the excellent supporting cast from each one, and the interaction between the heroes is a lot of fun (although to be fair, that's just starting to kick in with episode two).

   It's not necessary to have seen the previous series to enjoy this one, but it isn't really for young kids - it gets intense and there's some adult language (mostly from Jessica).

   The series shows the strength of "team stories." A single character can be almost silly, using superpowers (or wearing a costume) in the real world. But bring several together and it gives the story more gravitas - and each character can show their strengths, bouncing off each other.

   Highly recommended!

Grade: A

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