Marvel has proven itself a huge contender on Netflix after dropping multiple shows that are leading up to the next big Marvel project: Defenders. To kick off the series of related Marvel shows is that of Daredevil, which currently has two seasons on Netflix. Daredevil is a fast-paced show filled with well-choreographed fight scenes and fascinating plot twists that keep you binge watching the show until the end. Not that long after Daredevil, Jessica Jones came into the picture. Jessica Jones shocked viewers by unapologetically took on the heavy subject of sexual assault without missing a beat. Jessica Jones realistically paints a picture of an anti-hero's choice to fight back against her abuser to protect the people she cares about and prevent anyone else from being hurt. Jessica's love interest, Luke Cage, is introduced early on in Jessica Jones and remains a mysterious outsider for the most part, which is the reason behind my lack of interest in watching Luke Cage. Luke Cage had little to no character development in Jessica Jones and was not on the show long enough for me to care enough about his backstory.
And here comes the but. I watched the pilot of Luke Cage and was immediately drawn in. First of all, the show takes place in Harlem instead of the traditional Hell's Kitchen setting of Daredevil and Jessica Jones, which adds to the general newness of the show and the slightly different direction it heads in. Viewers immediately get a feel for the show's environment by showing the contrast between where Cage works and the lair of the show's villain: Cottonmouth.
Without spoiling too much about the show, Cottonmouth is the primary villain of Luke Cage and based off of the pilot, promises to keep viewers captivated with his unwavering focus on building up his empire and taking down any rivals that get in his way. Cottonmouth is reminiscent of Daredevil's Wilson Fisk in being a businessman whose emotions sometimes get the better of him, but Cottonmouth's difference in background serves as a huge contrast between the two characters. Cottonmouth has an obvious competence and grit to his character which will be interesting to see develop as the season continues.
However, I'm getting off track. Luke Cage himself is just as taciturn as he was in Jessica Jones but with more screen time, the viewer gets to know one of Marvel's defenders and he's not half bad. Cage is passionate about protecting his loved ones and protecting the city of Harlem. In later episodes, Cage's backstory is revealed bit by bit and happens to be a much darker backstory than is expected.
Based off of the pilot of Luke Cage, I would definitely say that it's worth a watch even if the Luke Cage of Jessica Jones didn't do it for you. Cage's character is able to stand by himself and deliver interesting enough plot-lines that before the viewer knows it, they're on episode two. Marvel's latest Defender is guaranteed to make a splash with its originality, diverse cast, and intriguing villain.
