This season of Daredevil: Born Again draws some striking parallels with real political events. Mayor Wilson Fisk, played by Vincent D’Onofrio, resembles Donald Trump, a businessman who gained power through fear. While Charlie Cox, who plays Daredevil, insists that these links are “purely coincidental,” many fans have noticed the connections since the first season.
This season, Fisk leads an Anti-Vigilante Task Force (AVTF), which appears to target both vigilantes and everyday citizens. This feels like a commentary on current events, notably the controversial actions of ICE in the U.S.
However, the finale introduces a troubling twist. The episode can come across as undermining the serious issues raised throughout the season, particularly regarding the January 6th Capitol attack. In the climax, Daredevil defends Karen Page (Deborah Ann Woll) as she faces charges for her vigilante actions. In a dramatic moment, he reveals his identity during a court proceeding, pointing a finger at Fisk to hold him accountable for various crimes.
As tensions rise, a sniper shoots at Fisk’s assistant, leading to a standoff outside the courthouse. Daredevil supporters don devil masks in a show of solidarity. Then, in a startling moment reminiscent of January 6, the crowd storms the courthouse.
Critics have questioned the implications of this scene. Is the show suggesting that those who storm the Capitol were justified? The portrayal of protesters wearing red masks—akin to the MAGA movement—only amplifies this confusion. This choice, combined with the surrounding narrative, leaves viewers wondering about the intended message.
Showrunner Dario Scardapane acknowledged this influence, admitting the intent to evoke January 6. He noted that historical events serve as vital lessons, suggesting that understanding our past is crucial for avoiding similar mistakes in the future.
Up until this point, Fisk and the AVTF have represented hatred and oppression. By equating the protesters with those who stormed the Capitol, the finale puts the citizens of New York in an unflattering light. It raises the question: what side is Daredevil: Born Again really on?
A study by the Pew Research Center indicated that as of 2022, a majority of Americans viewed the January 6 insurrection as a serious threat to democracy. With this in mind, it seems important for media portrayals to reflect the gravity of such events accurately and responsibly.
The finale concludes with Daredevil pleading with the crowd, saying, “We’re better than this!” It’s a call to remember that citizens deserve representation as heroes—not as figures involved in chaos. The show may leave viewers grappling with more questions than answers, but a thoughtful dialogue around these issues is essential in today’s world.
For further insight, you can read more about the implications of the show’s parallels with real-world issues in this article on the [New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/05/us/politics/jan-6-capitol-deaths.html).
