Marvel’s Daredevil Born Again has been making waves, and episode 4 might just be the most intense installment yet. While episode 3 focused on the gripping trial of White Tiger, episode 4 brings back Jon Bernthal’s Punisher in an emotional and powerful return. With Wilson Fisk tightening his grip on New York City as mayor and Matt Murdock grappling with his past, this episode delivers on multiple fronts.
The highlight? Frank Castle’s long-awaited return, proving once again why Bernthal’s portrayal of the Punisher remains one of the most compelling in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Wilson Fisk’s Rise as Mayor & the Adam Mystery Unveiled
Fisk’s Expanding Role in the MCU
Wilson Fisk has always been a force to reckon with, and Daredevil Born Again gives him an even more central role than in the Netflix series. As New York City’s mayor, he’s more powerful than ever, but his control isn’t absolute. This episode showcases his struggles as he balances public office with his underground empire.
One of the biggest changes in Born Again is how much screen time Fisk gets. Unlike Netflix’s Daredevil, where he was the primary antagonist but often lurking in the shadows, here he is in the spotlight. His political and criminal ambitions are fully intertwined, making him an even more dangerous figure.
The Adam Mystery—A Surprising Twist
Throughout the series, hints have been dropped about Fisk’s personal life, particularly regarding his wife, Vanessa. In this episode, the mystery surrounding Adam, a character linked to Vanessa, is finally unraveled. It turns out that Adam was someone Vanessa had an affair with, drawn to his artistic nature.
Initially, it seemed likely that Fisk had killed Adam in a fit of rage, but Daredevil Born Again throws a curveball, Adam is alive, though trapped in a cage. This revelation not only deepens Fisk’s character but also proves that his power isn’t just about brute force; he’s a master manipulator who enjoys exerting control over others, even those closest to him.
Fisk’s Leadership and Ruthlessness
The episode also highlights how Fisk handles betrayal within his own circle. Daniel, played by Michael Gandolfini, unknowingly leaks sensitive information to BB, a character using their friendship to get close to Fisk’s secrets. When Daniel confesses to his mistake, Fisk’s reaction is both chilling and calculated.
He doesn’t kill Daniel outright, but he makes it clear that another mistake will be his last. This moment perfectly encapsulates D’Onofrio’s portrayal of the Kingpin, ruthless yet calculated, capable of showing restraint when necessary but never forgetting a betrayal.
Frank Castle’s Return – An Emotional & Brutal Comeback Daredevil Born Again
The Punisher and Daredevil – A Complex Relationship
Matt Murdock’s storyline takes a turn as he follows the clues surrounding White Tiger’s murder. This path leads him straight to the person fans have been waiting for, Frank Castle, aka the Punisher.
Bernthal’s return is nothing short of spectacular. His Punisher is still the same relentless force of nature from Netflix’s Daredevil and The Punisher, but his character has also evolved. While he’s known for his brutal methods, what stands out most in this episode is his emotional depth.
Frank Castle’s Impact on Matt Murdock
What makes Frank’s return so powerful isn’t just the action (though there’s plenty of that). It’s the way he forces Matt to confront his emotions, especially regarding the loss of Foggy Nelson.
In episode 3, Heather Glenn tried to get Matt to open up about his grief, but it’s the Punisher who truly forces him to face it. Frank doesn’t sugarcoat things, he knows exactly what buttons to push to make Matt acknowledge his pain.
A Brutal Fight Leads to an Emotional Moment
As expected, Matt and Frank’s meeting isn’t all talk. The two clash physically, with Frank using his aggressive, no-holds-barred combat style to get through to Matt. However, this isn’t just another fight scene, it’s a moment of catharsis.
After their intense battle, the anger gives way to raw emotion. Frank mourns his son, while Matt finally lets himself grieve for Foggy. It’s a beautifully acted moment that showcases Bernthal and Charlie Cox’s chemistry. Their dynamic remains one of the most compelling in the MCU, and this scene only strengthens that.
What This Episode Means for the Future of Daredevil Born Again
Matt Murdock’s Journey Back to Being Daredevil
One of the most exciting aspects of Daredevil Born Again is its slow build toward Matt fully embracing his role as Daredevil again. This episode nudges him further in that direction.
With White Tiger’s murder still looming and his encounter with the Punisher forcing him to confront his emotions, it feels like Matt is getting closer to donning the suit once again. The show is smartly pacing this transformation, making the eventual full return of Daredevil feel earned rather than rushed.
Fisk’s Grip on New York Tightens
Wilson Fisk is only getting stronger, and this episode proves that his reign as mayor will be a major obstacle for Daredevil. His ability to manipulate, control, and outmaneuver those around him makes him more formidable than ever. With Adam still alive, there’s an added layer of unpredictability to his story.
The Punisher’s Role Moving Forward
Now that Frank Castle is officially back in the MCU, the big question is, what’s next for him? This episode reintroduces him in a way that suggests he’ll have a bigger role moving forward. His dynamic with Matt is too good to be a one-off, and with so many threads still unresolved, it’s likely that the Punisher will play a key role in what’s to come.
