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The 2003 “Daredevil” is destined to pop up in Worst Superhero Movie lists for some time to come, just like its spinoff “Elektra”. Whether or not it deserves that dishonor, the flick really isn’t all that bad. It’s got action and it’s got romance. Sure, it tries a little too hard to be Tim Burton’s “Batman”, but there are worse movies to try to be.
With “Daredevil: Born Again” about to premiere, we thought we’d forgive 2003’s “Daredevil” a little bit and talk about what worked in it.
Read More: Top 2 Reasons Daredevil Should be an MCU Avenger, 2 Reasons He Shouldn’t
Michael Clarke Duncan as The Kingpin
One area in which “Daredevil” unquestionably rocked was in its casting and a perfect example of that is the choice of Michael Clarke Duncan to play Wilson Fisk/The Kingpin.
Duncan’s version of The Kingpin is doubtless the most chilling portrayal the late actor ever turned in. It’s not the same as Vincent D’Onfrio’s Kingpin who is much more driven by emotion. Duncan’s Kingpin is a sleek sadist who doesn’t kill out of emotion or as a means to an end, but because he enjoys it.
Joe Pantoliano as Ben Urich
Also known as Joey Pants, Joe Pantoliano is one of our best living character actors and his portrayal of reporter Ben Urich is a perfect example. “Daredevil”, of course, didn’t enjoy any sequels, but if it had then Pantoliano would have no doubt been seen as indispensable.
Ben Affleck as Matt Murdock/Daredevil in 2003’s Daredevil Ben Affleck as Matt Murdock/Daredevil in 2003’s Daredevil DISNEY
Jon Favreau as “Foggy” Nelson
Just as Joey Pants perfectly embodies Ben Urich, future Marvel and Star Wars producer Jon Favreau is an inspired choice for Foggy Nelson. He’s just the right combination of big-hearted, dopey, low-key heroic sidekick to bring Matt’s law partner to life.
The Love Story
You can go back and forth on whether or not Jennifer Garner was the right actor to play Elektra Natchios, but regardless the love story between Matt and Elektra is one of the best things about “Daredevil”. The moment of Matt seeing Elektra outlined in the rain with his special senses is nothing short of beautiful.
Stan Lee’s Cameo
Even before the MCU, Stan Lee cameos in Marvel movies were borderline compulsory and before Marvel Studios took the reins, Lee’s brief appearance in “Daredevil” was arguably the best of the bunch.
In case you’ve forgotten: an absentminded Stan Lee almost steps into the path of a city bus, before a young Matt Murdock stops him with his cane.
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