Why Charlie Cox Should Have Portrayed Daredevil in Both Media

The question of who should have played Daredevil in the first film adaptation has been a topic of debate among Marvel fans for years. While Ben Affleck delivered an intriguing performance, Charlie Cox is the actor destined to play the role. From the 2003 version to the recent TV series, the character of Daredevil is best captured by Cox.

Charlie Cox All the Way

Charlie Cox became the definitive protagonist as Daredevil when he took on the role in the Netflix series "Daredevil," a portrayal that was far too late for the 2003 Ben Affleck film. Cox embodies the complexity and raw emotion required to bring Daredevil to life. Despite being too young for the 2003 casting, Cox's maturity and ability to convey deep emotional range make him the ideal fit for the character. His portrayal in the TV series not only highlights the struggles of the blind lawyer but also explores his pain and determination, making him the ultimate choice for Daredevil in both media.

A Closer Look at the 2003 Ben Affleck Version

While Ben Affleck's performance as Daredevil in the 2003 film is commendable, it is important to consider the context of the movie's development and execution. The film itself faced several challenges, including a script that was not entirely in sync with the character’s portrayal. For instance, the inclusion of Electra in the story, though a nod to the character from the comics, seemed misplaced and disconnected from the narrative's flow. The distinction in how superhero love interests are portrayed in the film compared to other contemporaries was noticeable, and while the handling was better than in some other films, it still felt abrupt and out of place.

The film's script was influenced by studio interference, leading to a truncated version that omitted crucial plot points. The storyline was particularly hampered by the removal of significant narrative elements such as the murder of Wesley and the mystery surrounding Matt's malfunctioning senses. These plot elements were essential for fully developing the character's journey, yet they were sacrificed for a shorter runtime. Had the film incorporated these key points, the overall story would have been more cohesive and engaging.

Ben Affleck versus Matt Damon: A Reunion Gone Awry

The idea of Matt Damon reprising his role from the 2003 film as John Reed, Daredevil's old friend, in a potential reunion with Affleck, adds an interesting dynamic to the character. However, the chemistry between Damon and Affleck during Good Will Hunting days cannot compensate for the script and direction issues that plagued the 2003 version. While Damon's performance as Reed was a highlight of the film, the broader narrative still fell short in conveying the essence and depth of the Daredevil character.

The 2003 film does not present the same level of depth and complexity that the TV series brought to the character. The casting of Matt Damon, while a nostalgic return, could not fully recapture the essence of the comics and the series that followed. The TV series not only filled in the gaps left by the truncated film but also expanded on the character's background, creating a more complete and relatable portrayal.

Conclusion: Charlie Cox Reinforces the Best of the Character

In conclusion, the character of Daredevil is best portrayed by Charlie Cox in both his film and television roles. While Ben Affleck delivered a solid performance, Cox's nuanced and emotionally charged portrayal in the Netflix series more accurately reflects the character's complexity and depth. The 2003 film, despite its many shortcomings, still holds a special place in the Daredevil lore, but it is the TV series that truly brought the character to life in a way that captures the spirit of the comics and the character's enduring popularity.