Daredevil

Review by Tom Johnson
(tomjohnson@thecinemasource.com)

For some, "Daredevil" was considered "Batman Light" when it was released last February. For others, it was just "Spiderman Dark". Whatever the particular, opinion, however, the general consensus was that the film was not strong enough to stand as its own film. This isn't entirely the fault of the move makers. The character of Daredevil has always been more or less an uneasy blend of the two superheroes, and despite his rabid cult following, has never risen to the fame either one enjoyed. With the film, director and lifelong fan Mark Steven Johnson hardly did the character any favors with sloppy fight scenes, limited character development and several cheesy line deliveries, leading "Daredevil" to something less than what it could have been in some fans' eyes. Does the movie play any differently now that it's on DVD? Surprisingly, yes. So funny you asked.

It's funny how nearly every problem listed above seems less of an issue when the film plays on a television instead of the big screen. The fight scenes, big, loud and disorienting when viewed larger than life, are more coherent and easier to follow now, and the excellent choreography is appreciated once the viewer realizes what's actually happening. The fiery barroom brawl, in particular, benefits most from the transition, and is now a mighty impressive scene to watch unfold. Because of either lowered expectations or a simple change of environment, the dialogue is much more effective as well, and the character development doesn't seem quite as stunted.

Perhaps the strange improvement "Daredevil" receives through the transition can be attributed to the fact that the film is unapologetic in showing its geeky roots. While far from the best comic book adaptation ever made, it's easily the most authentic. It resists the urge to go filmic in places where it could(and maybe should) have, particularly where the characters are concerned. In true comic book fashion, the characters show us who they are more from their actions than from dialogue and contemplative thought. It's the very definition of a superhero movie, perfectly preserving the feeling of flipping through a "Daredevil" issue without resorting to cheesy "Hulk" style editing. After considering this, it's apparent why the movie may not have played as well in theatres as it does in the comfort of your own home. No one would start a book club for a graphic novel, dragging it into the public forum for debate and discussion. The medium just works better as a private experience. Quite frankly, it's too geeky to be put on public display and shared with a room full of strangers. As a DVD, "Daredevil" plays more intimately, and finally feels like a complete comic book experience. More importantly, it

finally feels like a unique, stand-alone film.

For those unacquainted with the story, "Daredevil" concerns Matt Murdock(Ben Affleck), lawyer by day, dark avenger at night in New York's "Hell's Kitchen". Blinded by an accident as a child, Matt's other five senses were heightened to an inhuman degree, giving him a bat-like radar sense that enhances his speed, agility and power. Okay, so maybe it's a bit of a stretch, even by superhero standards, but just go with it. After his father's murder at the hands of an unknown assailant, Murdock eventually takes justice into his own hands and becomes Daredevil, "the man without fear". Pursuing justice the legal way by day and fighting goons of the shadowy Kingpin of Crime(Michael Clark Duncan) as a vigilante by night, Daredevil eventually meets the conveniently kung fu powered Elektra(Jennifer Garner) and juggles romance with his dark secret(ain't that always the way). The monkey wrench thrown into the whole mess is the Kingpin's hired assassin, Bullseye(Colin Farrell), who comes to town and makes it his personal mission to kill anyone he crosses.

For the characters in the film, Bullseye's arrival is bad news, but for the audience, it's pure bliss. Finally living up to his Hollywood hype after generic mush like "The Recruit" and yes, like "Minority Report", Farrell blows into the film like a shameless, over-the-top whirlwind and carries the movie away with him. Psychotic, unstable and hilarious, Farrell holds nothing back in his villainous supporting role. He commits to the movie more than any other actor, yet also seems to be the one winking most. As the hero, Affleck does fine, and as Elektra, Jennifer Garner is her usual hot, pleasing, kick-ass self. For comic relief, there's Matt's law partner, Foggy Nelson, played with perfect timing and delivery by John Favreau. For all the commendable acting jobs in the film, exceptional by comparison to other movies in the genre, it's still Farrell's game to own, however. And own he does.

Whether it's to experience its gleefully over-the-top villain, excellent fight scenes or its authentic comic book feel, "Daredevil" is certainly worth checking out. It's far from perfect, but in its trip from the cineplex to the home theatre, "Daredevil" has become a hell of a lot more fun than it originally was. While more depth and an overall less serious tone would have been appreciated, the finished product is certainly an enjoyable way to spend an evening with friends privy to its geeky charms.

Film Grade: B

The DVD is a two disc special edition, containing the crystal clear transfer on disc one, and a boatload of exras on disc two. Two hour long featurettes, music videos, behind the scenes facts, commentaries and Jennifer Garner's screen test comprise the bonus goods. All that's missing is

some deleted scenes to make the package complete.

DVD Grade: A-

The Bottom Line: An above-par superhero picture that lacks camp but also lacks substantial depth, "Daredevil" isn't likely to go down as a classic, but is pretty good for what it's worth. The substantial extras and the great picture and sound make the DVD superior to the theatrical release, and begs to be seen by hardcore fans who didn't care for it too much on first impressions. The killer two disc set is the perfect second glance for them, and an entertaining night for first-time viewers. It's no "Batman", but it gets the job done well enough. I won't mention the creepy leather fetishist appeal, but if you glance to the right, I think that goes without saying.

Overall Grade: B+