Daredevil: Born Again Episodes 5 & 6 Review – A Stunning Return to Form

Warning: Full spoilers ahead for Daredevil: Born Again episodes 5 and 6!

Daredevil: Born Again finally delivers what fans have been eagerly waiting for with two back-to-back stellar episodes. Episodes 5 and 6 are a masterclass in storytelling, action, and character development, showcasing why Matt Murdock is one of Marvel’s most compelling heroes. These episodes don’t form a two-part narrative, yet they complement each other beautifully. Episode 5 offers a gripping, tension-filled hostage situation, while Episode 6 brings back Daredevil in full force, marking a triumphant return to his vigilante roots.

Episode 5 – A Thrilling Hostage Situation

Episode 5 unfolds almost entirely within a single location—a bank under siege by a ruthless yet calculated gangster who seems to outmaneuver the police at every turn. This high-stakes setting creates an intense atmosphere where Matt Murdock, still not donning his Daredevil suit, is forced to navigate the chaos with his legal expertise and heightened senses. Watching Murdock use his intelligence, instincts, and quick thinking to protect hostages while maintaining his low profile is both thrilling and, at times, darkly humorous.

One of the standout elements of this episode is its ability to highlight Murdock’s heroism outside of his masked persona. He doesn’t need his suit to be the Man Without Fear. His bravery, strategic mind, and unwavering moral compass shine through, making this episode one of the best in the series so far.

This episode also features the most direct connection to the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) yet—Yusuf Khan, played by Mohan Kapur, father of Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel). His presence as Murdock’s loan officer adds a fun, unexpected crossover moment. While the references to Ms. Marvel might feel slightly forced, Kapur’s natural humor and energy make it work. His comedic yet heartfelt reaction to Murdock’s ignorance of Kamala’s superhero status is a delightful highlight.

The climax of the episode is incredibly satisfying, especially when Murdock chases down the heist leader wearing a red mask stolen from another robber. The fast-paced, brutal hand-to-hand fight is a standout moment, culminating in a knee stomp that is both excruciating and gratifying to watch.

Episode 6 – Daredevil’s Long-Awaited Comeback

Episode 6 takes a completely different approach but remains just as compelling. The introduction of the sadistic serial killer Muse presents a formidable challenge for both Mayor Fisk and Murdock. Fisk’s response to Muse’s chaos is fascinating—rather than stopping him outright, he uses the crisis to justify the formation of a corrupt task force filled with Punisher-worshipping cops, further consolidating his power over the city. This subplot reinforces that while Fisk may wear the respectable mask of a mayor, his true nature remains as monstrous as ever.

Meanwhile, Muse’s pursuit of Angela del Toro pushes Murdock to his breaking point, ultimately forcing him to don the Daredevil suit once more. However, the moment of his return to costumed vigilantism feels somewhat underwhelming. The buildup is moody and introspective, with Murdock repeatedly contemplating his past and the weight of his decisions—only for him to make a casual, almost dismissive remark before embracing his Daredevil persona again. Given the emotional depth of his internal struggle, a more serious and profound moment would have been preferable.

The action sequences in this episode are a visual treat, though not without flaws. The CGI-enhanced Daredevil leap at the start of the fight with Muse is glaringly artificial, a reminder of the MCU’s occasional reliance on subpar CGI over practical effects. However, the battle that follows—set in Muse’s gruesome, blood-soaked hideout—is a brutal, visceral spectacle that more than makes up for it. Seeing Daredevil take on Muse in an intense, no-holds-barred fight is an absolute thrill.

One of the most compelling aspects of this episode is the irony of Murdock’s situation. His agreement with Fisk in the first episode now places a target on his back, reinforcing one of the core themes of Daredevil’s character: to save his city, he must condemn himself. Born Again masterfully explores this theme in fresh and exciting ways.

Additional Thoughts & Easter Eggs

• The line “The Human Torch was denied a bank loan” feels strangely fitting in this universe—wrong hero, but right scenario.
• The robbers’ masks resembling the colors of the Infinity Stones was a fun, subtle touch.
• Bank safes in real life are far more sophisticated—Murdock’s ability to “listen” and crack it so easily is a stretch.
• Murdock accepting Yusuf’s dinner invitation could set up a potential Ms. Marvel and Daredevil crossover. An unlikely pairing, but an intriguing one!
• Angela del Toro’s growing role suggests she may inherit the White Tiger mantle, carrying on her uncle’s legacy. With her passion for justice and access to the mystical pendant, she’s well-positioned to become a new hero in the MCU.

Final Verdict

Daredevil: Born Again rebounds spectacularly with two gripping episodes that remind us why Matt Murdock is such a beloved hero. The bank-robbery episode is a surprise delight, packed with creativity and tension. Meanwhile, Daredevil’s long-overdue return in Episode 6 is immensely satisfying, even if the buildup falters slightly. While occasional MCU pitfalls—awkward humor and inconsistent CGI—still rear their heads, they don’t overshadow the incredible storytelling and character moments these episodes provide.

After a slow burn, Born Again finally feels like the Daredevil show fans have been craving. If this momentum keeps up, we could be in for one of Marvel’s best TV outings yet.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)