Finished episodes 1-4 last night. As for my quick thoughts:
- I liked how the show had all of the characters get a part of the main problem. In the beginning, each caught a glimpse of the villain's plan and worked that particular angle until they crossed paths in episode 3. There was a lot of anticipation on my part and I loved seeing how all of these disparate parts fit. Thus, I didn't mind that the entire group didn't join the first episode.
- On a larger scale, the scene in the Chinese restaurant was pretty cool. Over the past couple of years, all of these characters have unknowingly had some kind of shared experiences with one another, whether it be with the Hand or one another. Again, we see that all these things come together.
- Definitely liking the interaction between Luke and Danny. Moreover, I like how quickly they met. Their eventual meeting could have been annoyingly stretched out over an episode. So, I was very pleased to see Claire just cut the crap, connect the dots, and have the two meet. One can already see the bonds of friendship, while also seeing the tension. In a way, showed to me why it was acceptable to have cast Danny Rand as white. The conversation Luke and Danny have (and you know what I'm talking about) would not have been possible or had much weight if Danny were Asian-American.
- Still feel that Iron Fist's fighting could improve. It's better than the first Iron Fist series. And I marked the hell out seeing Danny use the fist. But it could still improve, especially when compared with Daredevil's.
- I don't mind the shots or pacing of the show. The awkward silences and the slowness or previous series was a killer for me. The show's short episodes, quick cuts, and angles make it seem leaner to me, which is a good thing.
- Couldn't help but think, "Man, wouldn't it be cool if Shang-Chi or Moon Knight was in this?"
So, there were good points and bad points in Defenders. Overall, still enjoy what I'm seeing. Will finish the series today!