Iron Fist - Season 1 Review

Summary

In this review of Netflix's 'Iron Fist,' the speaker shares insights after watching the entire season, highlighting the show's uneven pacing and lackluster character development. The plot centers on Danny Rand's return from a 15-year absence, where he struggles to reclaim his identity while contending with corporate intrigue and the evil Hand. Despite criticism of Finn Jones's portrayal, Colleen Wing emerges as a standout character. The action scenes, while present, do not measure up to previous MCU offerings. Overall, the show is described as a mixed bag, earning a C+ rating for its potential yet unfulfilled promise.

Takeaways

• 😀 The review covers the entire first season of 'Iron Fist,' unlike many critics who only reviewed part of it.
• 🤔 The main plot revolves around Danny Rand returning after a 15-year absence and trying to reclaim his identity while battling the Hand.
• 🏢 Much of the show focuses on the Rand Corporation and its corporate challenges rather than on the action and character development.
• 😴 Several subplots, particularly involving Ward and his father, are criticized for being boring and dragging down the show's pacing.
• 👊 Finn Jones's portrayal of Iron Fist has been controversial, with criticisms directed at both his performance and the weak writing for his character.
• 💬 The character of Colleen Wing is highlighted as the standout of the season, praised for her action scenes and emotional depth.
• 📉 The action scenes in 'Iron Fist' received criticism for editing and choreography, especially compared to other MCU Netflix shows.
• 🏆 Episode 6 is noted as a turning point where the show improves significantly, with Episode 12 being highlighted as the best.
• 📉 The overall rating given to the show is a C+, indicating it's not the worst but has notable flaws.
• 👍 The reviewer encourages viewers to watch 'Iron Fist' for themselves despite the mixed reviews, suggesting that there are redeeming qualities.

Q & A

What is the main premise of 'Iron Fist'?

The show follows Danny Rand, who returns after a 15-year absence to prove his identity as the Iron Fist, a kung-fu master trained in the mystical city of Kunlun, while battling the evil Hand and managing personal and corporate challenges.

How does the reviewer feel about the pacing and focus of the show?

The reviewer notes that much of the show's runtime is bogged down by corporate subplots, detracting from the action and development of Iron Fist as a character.

What are some criticisms of Finn Jones' performance as Iron Fist?

Finn Jones' performance has been criticized for being bland and lacking compelling writing, leading to cheesy and repetitive monologues about his identity as Iron Fist.

Who is the standout character in the first season according to the reviewer?

Colleen Wing, portrayed by Jessica Henwick, is highlighted as the best character, bringing energy and depth to her action scenes and emotional moments.

What did the reviewer think about the action scenes in 'Iron Fist'?

The action scenes received mixed reviews; while they are decent, the editing and choreography are deemed lacking, especially in comparison to the high standards set by other Marvel Netflix shows like 'Daredevil' and 'Luke Cage.'

How does the reviewer compare 'Iron Fist' to other Netflix MCU shows?

The reviewer considers 'Iron Fist' the weakest of the recent Netflix MCU shows, noting its shortcomings in storytelling and character development, though it still contains some redeeming qualities.

What specific episode does the reviewer praise, and why?

Episode 12 is praised as the best episode in the series for its compelling storytelling and energy, significantly elevating the overall experience.

What are the reviewer's thoughts on the Rotten Tomatoes score for 'Iron Fist'?

The reviewer believes the Rotten Tomatoes score is unfairly low and attributes this to critics only reviewing the first few episodes instead of the entire season.

What does the reviewer suggest about Danny Rand's character development throughout the season?

The reviewer suggests that while there are attempts to develop Danny's backstory and conflict, the execution is often weak, making him come across as a tortured and whiny character.

What does the reviewer hope for the future of the 'Iron Fist' character?

The reviewer hopes that in future seasons and crossovers, like 'The Defenders,' Iron Fist will be portrayed as a more light-hearted and engaging character, rather than the overly serious persona seen in the first season.