Martin Carr reviews the fifth episode of Daredevil season 3…
There are elements here which are reminiscent of Lars Von Trier’s Dogville. Stripped back character work, theatrical spotlights and an immediacy which adds to the action by removing distractions. Parring it back to the bare bones not only illuminates Fisk’s analytical mind but gives us essential background on Benjamin Poindexter. Numerous formative decisions are played out within the mind’s eye of our chief manipulator, taking us out of that world by dissecting Poindexter’s psychosis, attachment disorder and Fisk’s means to influence. It represents a unique approach to communicate exposition without losing momentum or the audience by doing something refreshing.
Camera and lighting positions in this extended sequence are also essential in conveying information, maintaining interest and fulfilling drama resolution. That Benjamin Poindexter and Kingpin are intrinsically linked at this stage goes without saying, but The Perfect Game devotes valuable time to moulding, cementing and giving credence to his motives and actions. Vincent D’Onofrio and Wilson Bethel excel in the limited non-verbal communication which is little more than visual shorthand. Bethel has grounded this character making his reasons defined within shades of grey, his abandonment, social interaction issues and need for reassurance proving both heart breaking yet terrifying. Meanwhile Franklin Nelson continues his mission to hide in plain sight and escape the wrath of Fisk.
Although both Nelson and Page only get a small percentage of the screen time their story is tight knit, politically complex and almost stands alone as a thriller running in parallel. As the net tightens around them and others are implicated through their choices you can feel Fisk’s grip tightening. Just as the FBI dance like marionettes at his behest, both Karen and Foggy are backed into corners with families to lose who are next in line. Already veiled threats have been exchanged, wheels set in motion and lines drawn between warring factions baying for blood.
However these sub plots enrich rather than detract from the main event, which on this occasion refers to Nadeem, Poindexter and Fisk. Suddenly Daredevil is just one piece of an intricate puzzle but not necessarily the most engaging participant. Psychologically structured, inventively conventional with dashes of pure theatre and nuanced turns, season three keeps kicking up the bar while pushing back boundaries. A class act which none would be wise to follow.
Martin Carr
Originally published October 23, 2018. Updated January 8, 2019.
