Marvel's Iron Fist

:

Season 1
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Mar 17, 2017
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
6.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1318 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 758 out of 1318
  2. Mixed: 192 out of 1318
  3. Negative: 368 out of 1318
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  1. McGillotine
    Mar 17, 2017
    6
    Where it is certainally better than the second half of Netflixs last marvel show, Luke Cage. Iron fist is unfortunately the product of a formula that is begining to show some wear and tear. This becomes even more unfortunate with Netflix's answer to The Avengers, The Defenders being right around the corner. But never the less onto the topic at hand, Iron Fist is by no means a bad show andWhere it is certainally better than the second half of Netflixs last marvel show, Luke Cage. Iron fist is unfortunately the product of a formula that is begining to show some wear and tear. This becomes even more unfortunate with Netflix's answer to The Avengers, The Defenders being right around the corner. But never the less onto the topic at hand, Iron Fist is by no means a bad show and while the plot is wishy washy, the villian uncompeling, side characters coming out flat and with moments of character development missing, the preformances of Iron Fists leads in particular Finn Jones and Jessica Henwick make the entire show enjoyable so don't take this 6/10 rating by any means of the show being awful in the slightest.

    Coming into the Netflix marvel party last, Danny Rand aka Iron Fist is the more magical entry into the series, taking a page from Doctor Stranges playbook in establishing the idea of channeled inner engry and how it can be used to harness certain otherworldly attributes. Now Danny Rand as a person is complicated, down to earth in one moment and portrayed with extreme rage and hostility in the next moment and while the attitute of the character is by no means Jones fault, who has recieved major flak in reviews, some even using the actors skin color to enhance their level of criticism, i say that he does at fine job at what he does even if the writing is always on his side. At his side is colleen wing portrayed by Jessica Henwick who i find the writing is more favourable towards in giving her the memorable fight sequences at the start of the series and quickly establishing her into an independent character that is easy to watch and enjoy. On the other hand the supporting crew isnt all too interesting coming of as bland, hard to dicate and what is most key is overall boring to watch with characters such as Joy, Ward and Harold failing to create any means of character dynamic that actually benefits and improves the shows quality.

    While it may it not come close to kinging the proverbial top dog that is the remarkable first season of Daredevil, Iron fist give audiences two enjoyable lead that will leave audiences looking foward to seeing in The Defenders.    … Expand
  2. thedaywalker
    Mar 22, 2017
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. finally finished the series, so this review is based on everything
    In the other marvel series you had a clear villain, DD had fisk, JJ had Killgrave LC had Cottonmouth, then stryker, Iron Fist however twirls around the main villain so much and ends up in a place where it works, but by the time they reveal it, you already tired of everything.
    The fight scenes, they had minor problems of choreography, but i think it was more problems with camera work, when the fight was centered they were nice, but when there was a lot of people against a lot of people, the camera work was so bad that everything seemed theatrical
    No character development, Danny Rand ends the exact place where he started, not knowing who he is as the iron fist
    So overall, i'm saying it was COMPLETELY terrible, but if they want to make it better, they have A LOT of work to do, i liked some fight scenes, and the plot twists in episode 10 and further, and how they set up Steel Serpent
    So it wasn't completely useless, but there are more cons than pros    … Expand
  3. Rtheom
    Mar 30, 2017
    6
    Just don't even watch the first 3 episodes of Iron Fist. They're awkward, boring, and by the end of the season, you're really wondering why they weren't just a 15 minute sequence at the beginning of episode 4. Once you get past episode 3, the show picks up quite a bit, but Danny's lack of maturity throughout the whole thing does get a little grating.

    Ultimately, not as bad as the    Just don't even watch the first 3 episodes of Iron Fist. They're awkward, boring, and by the end of the season, you're really wondering why they weren't just a 15 minute sequence at the beginning of episode 4. Once you get past episode 3, the show picks up quite a bit, but Danny's lack of maturity throughout the whole thing does get a little grating.

    Ultimately, not as bad as the critics made it out to be, but definitely the worst of the Marvel's series from Netflix. Worth watching if you've watched the others and plan to watch the crossover series, but definitely a pass by itself.    … Expand
  4. DrVanillaD
    Mar 27, 2017
    4
    If you're okay with subpar fight choreography and the worst written character in Netflix's Marvel repertoire, than give it a shot. Just know that I went in with VERY low expectations and was still disappointed in the awful character developmentm, writing, and fight sequences.
  5. bska02
    Mar 24, 2017
    5
    Its like that Chinese Buffet you keep going to even though you know you are going to get sick afterwards. The fight scenes are as wretched as billed. The acting is "straight to DVD" caliber, but definitely better than a porno. Netflix seems to be throwing money out to everyone, but it seems they could have saved some money on this poo poo platter.
  6. AdamCroston
    Mar 29, 2017
    5
    Did this show deserve the extent of the hate it received? Not a chance. In comparison to the rest of the Netflix-Marvel line up this is a for sure misfire. But it's not the mound of rotten tomatoes that the aggregate score would lead you to believe it to be. It's an average show. Not great, not outstanding, not terrible, not a disaster, but very much average.

    It's pacing is slow, too    Did this show deserve the extent of the hate it received? Not a chance. In comparison to the rest of the Netflix-Marvel line up this is a for sure misfire. But it's not the mound of rotten tomatoes that the aggregate score would lead you to believe it to be. It's an average show. Not great, not outstanding, not terrible, not a disaster, but very much average.

    It's pacing is slow, too slow a flow for a comic book origin story to unfold and still be regarded as compelling. Unfortunately while this pacing does pick up as the season progresses the early tone weighs down my full enjoyment till the bitter end of episode 13. The characters are also really unlikable for the most part. I was so unsold by Danny, Colleen, and members of the hand throughout the season. The chemistry between characters never hits the same level as Murdock and co. in Daredevil and that's just another thing which holds this show back. Surprisingly the subplot involving the Meechums, Rand's company and Harrold's involvement with Madame Gao is where my interest is peaked, and is the saving grace of this series.

    I feel like the creators of this show tried to replicate the grounded and darker tone of the fellow defender shows, rather than allowing this show and character to be its own thing.With the creators failing to embrace a sense of originality we have ended up with a show which is just okay.    … Expand
  7. GetDaRekM8
    Mar 25, 2017
    4
    Iron fist, lacks any originality what so ever, the entire show is just hanging on the success of its predecessors.
    The entire show is just bogged down with boring and pointless subplots that really just don't fit, there's barely any action in the entire show, and when it happens it happens in a boring way. Unlike all the other Netflix shows, Iron fist probably had the worst villain out of    Iron fist, lacks any originality what so ever, the entire show is just hanging on the success of its predecessors.
    The entire show is just bogged down with boring and pointless subplots that really just don't fit, there's barely any action in the entire show, and when it happens it happens in a boring way. Unlike all the other Netflix shows, Iron fist probably had the worst villain out of the lot, Harold Mechem is one of the worst villains i've seen. It follows every single possible Super-Hero cliche you can think of, the characters are so bland and gullible to the point where i'd rather have Colleen be the Iron fist rather than Danny. The saving grace of the show is just Finn jones. You can see an attempt at a good show, but the execution is extremely poor.    … Expand
  8. ComandanteCobra
    Apr 4, 2017
    5
    It is not bad but isn't excellent either, I think it is targeted for a younger viewers compared to Daredevil or Jessica jones
    It need to improve some aspects of it's production :
    1) fighting choreography ...action sequences are of importance in a martial arts hero show and in this one are missing something. Fights are slow, pg 13, weapons seems fake and brawls are too often a    It is not bad but isn't excellent either, I think it is targeted for a younger viewers compared to Daredevil or Jessica jones
    It need to improve some aspects of it's production :
    1) fighting choreography ...action sequences are of importance in a
    martial arts hero show and in this one are missing something. Fights are slow, pg 13, weapons seems fake and brawls are too often a "copy+paste action" of famous martial arts movie .
    2) Better locations...both outdoors and indoor are too plain, unispired, and with too much cheap props.
    3) Explain a little more of Marvel universe for viewers thats hasn't watched other Marvel tv show.
    4) Improve dialogues....too many platitude sentences
    5) Danny fails to inspire simpathy because somethimes he looks more stupid than innocent or "out of place in a big city".
    6) get rid of some repetition...how many times do we need to seeDanny's mother dying scene? She is gone, he is sad ....we get it move on...

    I liked a lot the works of Tom Pelphrey and David Wenham thats steal the spotlight from Finn Jones and Jessica Henwick borth.
    In conclusion this show is better that Luke Cages but worst than daredevil (season 1 e 2 both) and jessica jones    … Expand
  9. dell221
    Mar 25, 2017
    6
    lots of action but the fight scene seem to slow. he never used the iron fist on both hands. he never put his costume on either. night nurse over stayed her welcome once again. this could have been a lot better show if they stuck more to the comics and cartoons.
  10. Lordofyou
    Mar 27, 2017
    5
    Marvel this is not....

    This show is OK for what it is - an action/drama show with zero concentration required and mundane character development. However I had to keep reminding myself this was actually a Marvel property! There was no traits of a classic superhero media - no engaging characters, plot twists or even anything that would link it to the Iron Fist from the source    Marvel this is not....

    This show is OK for what it is - an action/drama show with zero concentration required and mundane character development.

    However I had to keep reminding myself this was actually a Marvel property! There was no traits of a classic superhero media - no engaging characters, plot twists or even anything that would link it to the Iron Fist from the source materials.

    Daredevil was a masterclass in how to adapt a super hero franchise to a T.V show - Iron Fist and its creators need to go back to the drawing board for series two. Our only 'hope' is this was just a long drawn out first series and the second season hits the ground running with true Marvel form and class. We don't want another sub-standard TV action/drama - we want Marvel level of quality.

    Overall 5/10 - easy to watch, hard to stay interested.    … Expand
  11. negrocritic
    Apr 14, 2017
    6
    mediocrity, mediocrity, mediocrity, not bad, mediocrity, below mediocre, mediocrity, more mediocrity, even more mediocrity, oh my goodness the mediocrity isn't stopping, MEDIOCRITY...
  12. Slovenmind
    Feb 18, 2018
    4
    What a rush of a show. The Actor is ok. The show should have focused on him as a youth(like Stranger Things, kids can carry a show) and focused on his Journey home. From kid to teen and mean while his current situation(adult self in each episode finding his way home and dealing with villains) Could have had a better reason to return home, and more struggles and being prevent at everyWhat a rush of a show. The Actor is ok. The show should have focused on him as a youth(like Stranger Things, kids can carry a show) and focused on his Journey home. From kid to teen and mean while his current situation(adult self in each episode finding his way home and dealing with villains) Could have had a better reason to return home, and more struggles and being prevent at every turn...ALSO, this is the one character who should have had a costume/suit. Basically they rushed this and Defenders out there. My biggest issue was how they jump around from one place to another with little effort. My biggest issue was he came back and was rich way too easy... There are moments of the show I liked, like him breaking into his old family home. BUT him having NO living relatives was like complete nonsense. Nothing on record... The worst was his fist glow and weak abilities...and his soooo lame tattoo or scar on his chest... The show was just way toooooo rushed and not though out... like the watched the Arrow soap opera style set up. If this was on Prime time then this would be excusable... I loved Power Man and Iron Fist, well sort of visually, but this was not fun. Should have had a costume and more struggles for first 3 episodes getting home with flash backs.… Expand
  13. jl747
    Mar 10, 2018
    5
    While this is my least favorite Marvel TV show it is still better than many of the other shows that is out there. I think it did a decent job bringing Iron Fist from the comics to television but unfortunately Iron Fist was never one of my favorite comics. The main thing I think that it has going for it is Danny's powers, but everything else I think is just not as good as the other shows.While this is my least favorite Marvel TV show it is still better than many of the other shows that is out there. I think it did a decent job bringing Iron Fist from the comics to television but unfortunately Iron Fist was never one of my favorite comics. The main thing I think that it has going for it is Danny's powers, but everything else I think is just not as good as the other shows. The action sequences are like watered version of Daredevil, the story (a kid who loses everyone and than gains superpowers) was a watered down version of Jessica Jones. And finally, and perhaps my biggest problem was that I did not like Danny's character it was basically like a grade school boy with superpowers… Expand
  14. VirgonoShaka
    Aug 19, 2017
    5
    Wow Netflix, you dropped the ball on this one. After a string of probably some of the most impressive superheroes shows ever, Iron Fist falls into a more "Meh" situation. With some awesome scenes here and there, some cools effects and some cool characters (GAO!!!) in general by the standard that we have now on this shows this one really doesn't measure up. With a mostly boring protagonistWow Netflix, you dropped the ball on this one. After a string of probably some of the most impressive superheroes shows ever, Iron Fist falls into a more "Meh" situation. With some awesome scenes here and there, some cools effects and some cool characters (GAO!!!) in general by the standard that we have now on this shows this one really doesn't measure up. With a mostly boring protagonist that really doesn't hold a candle to what I expect of the immortal weapon., and some of the most bleh fight scenes in the Netflix series when arguably this one should have been the series to really go all out. Iron fist ends up a mediocre effort. Hopefully this can be corrected in season two and doesn't mean poor tidings for the Defenders. Final verdict: 5.2… Expand
  15. RyanZhao
    Aug 19, 2017
    5
    Its not so bad as the score represents. I mean most of the scenes are OKAY for me( but just ok literally) .

    But I should be honest that it actually has a lot of flaws and terrible scenes. The plot that most bothers me is (i want to say) all of the lines when it comes to Chinese elements. I REALLY MEANS ALL OF THEM. Since I am a Chinese guy, I can have the right to say that most of the    Its not so bad as the score represents. I mean most of the scenes are OKAY for me( but just ok literally) .

    But I should be honest that it actually has a lot of flaws and terrible scenes. The plot that most bothers me is (i want to say) all of the lines when it comes to Chinese elements. I REALLY MEANS ALL OF THEM. Since I am a Chinese guy, I can have the right to say that most of the scenes setting in China are **** and the actors' mandarin with a strong American accent makes me start to suspect myself.

    Well, the action scenes are pretty lame as well, which is kind of ironic because it is a show full of martial arts and kung fu.    … Expand
  16. Spydar71
    Sep 15, 2017
    6
    I, for the most part, liked the show. I did not like the main actors portrayal. There is just something weak in his performance as the young Rand. He is nice on the eyes and all, but I just don't get the feel that he is a kung fu master. He seems too young and I dunno, it just didn't work for me. The story was good, and I loved all the supporting actors, I just didn't like Finn Jones.I, for the most part, liked the show. I did not like the main actors portrayal. There is just something weak in his performance as the young Rand. He is nice on the eyes and all, but I just don't get the feel that he is a kung fu master. He seems too young and I dunno, it just didn't work for me. The story was good, and I loved all the supporting actors, I just didn't like Finn Jones. And it has nothing to do with any of the "white savior" crap, which is how the source material goes. He just didn't really exude a master of martial arts to me. I'd rather see him used as a supporting role for the other characters and see Iron Fist replaced by his Colleen and Misty and their "Daughters of the Dragon" adventures. I will watch season 2, I liked all other aspects of the show, Just not Finn. Sorry guy, either you flopped on your acting or the writes missed the mark on your character. I just think they need to grow you up a bit in the show. Otherwise Iron Fist comes across like a whiney rich kid.… Expand
  17. MarvelJoe
    Mar 9, 2018
    6
    I understand the story but the action and the story itself was too bland. Iron Fist was a bit of a brat in this show and it needs a better writer. It's okay but it also has a bad taste itself.
  18. Goo4you
    Jun 1, 2017
    5
    Slow plodding tedious dialogue interspersed within the confines of a creeping to the finish line story arc make Iron Fist a slog of show to watch. Add in the generally basic fight choreography and you have Marvel's 1st t.v dud.

    Of course this show is going to be compared to it predecessors, but try and look at it as a stand alone and nothing really changes. The plot is transparent and    Slow plodding tedious dialogue interspersed within the confines of a creeping to the finish line story arc make Iron Fist a slog of show to watch. Add in the generally basic fight choreography and you have Marvel's 1st t.v dud.

    Of course this show is going to be compared to it predecessors, but try and look at it as a stand alone and nothing really changes. The plot is transparent and generic, the relationship(s) are negatively strained. There is less tension between the characters and more obvious added tension because someone told the writers of this show to add a lot more "TENSION" (it's forced to the point of absurdity).

    The actual "Iron fist" effect might be the most reprehensible and laughable to come from ANY of the comic book IP's. This effect equates to pressing a flashlight into your palm and seeing the light come out the other side (oohhh! I can see my veins and bones!!). I was what 8 years old when I figured out that, why make this, the first actual visual effect in the tv marvel properties be so underwhelming.

    The cast is for the most part doing the best they can with what they have, but there is just so much one can do with a shallow,vapid script; which is almost formulaic. More could have been done with the final standalone show before the defenders come together.
    In truth, I would have rather they went with a standalone Punisher story and have him fill the role, since they have already dedicated air time and resources to the character even if this is a departure from the comics. At least then, they wouldn't have to ham fist another story in because "that's the way it is in the comics.

    If you enjoy Marvel, you'll watch this. If you've watched all the other Netflix Marvel stuff, you'll watch this...but most likely not enjoy it. Here's to The Defenders fixing the bad taste Iron fist left in my mouth.    … Expand
  19. Dirk2112
    Mar 22, 2017
    5
    To say that Iron Fist is baffling on multiple levels is kind of an understatement. Much of it would be and look fine if it were say a particularly action oriented half season of The Good Wife but it neither looks nor plays nor reads like a show about a martial arts master from a mystical monastery of warrior monks on a mission of vengeance in the New York City that was one of the twoTo say that Iron Fist is baffling on multiple levels is kind of an understatement. Much of it would be and look fine if it were say a particularly action oriented half season of The Good Wife but it neither looks nor plays nor reads like a show about a martial arts master from a mystical monastery of warrior monks on a mission of vengeance in the New York City that was one of the two western cradles of the 70s Kung-Fu craze that inspired it. The show spends a lot more time (like a lot more time) in luxury high-rise apartments than than in dojos, in boardrooms filled with venal corporate executroids than tea rooms filled with tong hatchet men and under trees in Central Park than on the streets of Chinatown. I honestly couldn’t quite suss why anyone would make or want to see an Iron Fist show that swapped out virtually any wuxia slash chanbara tropes and aesthetics for extended drug pricing debates or digs through excel docs and non descript warehouse or campus settings. To be fair, that’s all conceptual but the show also doesn’t work at the character level. Several exist for reasons never justified by the story as it unfolds and only one of them has motivations that are entirely clear. They all just do and feel things randomly and over the course of several multi-episode arcs it matches Ebert’s definition of an “Idiot Plot” perfectly. Even so, if the action worked, it could probably skate on most if not all of the above points but it does not, like not at all. Especially not in the context of a television universe that includes Daredevil and Into the Badlands. So in short, it’s inexplicably meh, at best.… Expand
  20. marj666
    Mar 21, 2017
    6
    it is watchable but I would not recommend it to anybody , it does not give me good fights to enjoy and story is mehhh , Netflix fails to bring the show to the level where i will be waiting for the next season to arrive ,
  21. Haikudo
    Mar 28, 2017
    5
    The show fails to go above a mediocre 5 on anything but the surface level. Unlike the rest of Marvel-Netflix collaborations this time they did not bring any ideas or issues of the world to the table. The main character is the blandest and least likable person in the entire show. The only character that showed any arc (in this case it's more of a growth) was Ward Mitchum, a secondaryThe show fails to go above a mediocre 5 on anything but the surface level. Unlike the rest of Marvel-Netflix collaborations this time they did not bring any ideas or issues of the world to the table. The main character is the blandest and least likable person in the entire show. The only character that showed any arc (in this case it's more of a growth) was Ward Mitchum, a secondary character bringing something to every scene he's in.

    The show is definitely not a 10, as a lot of users here would like it to be, but it's also not a 2 as some critics put it out of spite for "cultural appropriation". However, in my point of view, it's better to be entertainingly bad 2 than a bland, mediocre 5.
    I wouldn't recommend watching this unless you're using this a background noise while talking with someone or just want to be bored for 10-ish hours. There are better shows, there are worse, so it's up to you to decide how you spend your time.    … Expand
  22. fanglemeister
    Mar 20, 2017
    5
    Being this is a Netflix production and the Netflix rating system says a 3/5 rating is "I liked it", I have to drop this down to a 50% grade here, to an "almost didn't like it". It's not bad enough overall to skip it entirely, but you may regret wasting most of a weekend on it! The problem is in the writing, the part of Danny Rand is very schizophrenic, one minute he's a highly trainedBeing this is a Netflix production and the Netflix rating system says a 3/5 rating is "I liked it", I have to drop this down to a 50% grade here, to an "almost didn't like it". It's not bad enough overall to skip it entirely, but you may regret wasting most of a weekend on it! The problem is in the writing, the part of Danny Rand is very schizophrenic, one minute he's a highly trained kung fu master, the next minute he's getting a severe beat-down from an old man with a steel pipe and some boxing training. One minute he's a zen master in complete comtrol of his emotions, the next minute his emotions fly out the window with very little provocation. Otherwise? The camera work, the direction, and the acting is all 75-80%, but the script really brings the overall score way down.… Expand
  23. OleBerg
    Apr 2, 2017
    5
    Saved by the villains

    The portrait of Iron Fist/Danny Rand leaves a lot to be desired, and the same goes for his compatriots. The nurse Claire, known from other series, may be an exception. Also, for a super-hero-aspirant, Iron Fist simply isn't portraied as strong enough, every henchman shouldn't be a battle for Iron Fist. But the villains save the day. They are well thought out,    Saved by the villains

    The portrait of Iron Fist/Danny Rand leaves a lot to be desired, and the same goes for his compatriots. The nurse Claire, known from other series, may be an exception. Also, for a super-hero-aspirant, Iron Fist simply isn't portraied as strong enough, every henchman shouldn't be a battle for Iron Fist.

    But the villains save the day. They are well thought out, and their plotting and scheming makes sense. (Don't want to make any spoilers.)

    But at least a ground have been laid, that better seasons can be build upon.    … Expand
  24. Mdbrown
    Mar 19, 2017
    5
    Keanu Reeves had four months to prepare for the Matrix. Finn Jones had a month to learn Kung Fu and Wushu and Tai Chi. The limited training shows. I feel sorry for the actor having to defend the producers decisions on his own. Most of the fight scenes have overhead or rear shots to allow for a stunt double. You never see a wide angle, un-cut fight scene showing Finns face in the frame.Keanu Reeves had four months to prepare for the Matrix. Finn Jones had a month to learn Kung Fu and Wushu and Tai Chi. The limited training shows. I feel sorry for the actor having to defend the producers decisions on his own. Most of the fight scenes have overhead or rear shots to allow for a stunt double. You never see a wide angle, un-cut fight scene showing Finns face in the frame.

    The fight scenes will get better when Iron Fist starts wearing a mask as this will allow for more stunt doubles OR when Finn Jones is given time to learn martial arts. Martial arts fans may prefer 'Into the Badlands' or 'Marco Polo'.

    [Update after episode 8]
    Fans of martial arts movies will like this episode. The fight scenes get better from here on. Finn's seem more comfortable practising Tai Chi too.    … Expand
  25. DirtyDave
    Mar 19, 2017
    4
    Slowly after the main character gets you to dislike him, the rest of the cast process to do the same with flat personalities, and at times, cringe worthy dialogue and acting. Fights lack spark. Twists lack surprise. And there's an absurd lack of iron fisting in this story. Tie in characters help, but not enough to save anything.
  26. Kordun
    Mar 20, 2017
    5
    For a kung fu master and master of the "Iron Fist", with years in study & training he had big problems against security guys. Also the hero gets always very angry, it seems that our hero did not take his lessons seriously in his dojo.

    Totally dubious that this is a master of somthing!!!!!!! This series is boring and is form my opinion the worst marvel season I have ever seen......I hope    For a kung fu master and master of the "Iron Fist", with years in study & training he had big problems against security guys. Also the hero gets always very angry, it seems that our hero did not take his lessons seriously in his dojo.

    Totally dubious that this is a master of somthing!!!!!!! This series is boring and is form my opinion the worst marvel season I have ever seen......I hope the next season gets better!    … Expand
  27. vexiled
    Mar 18, 2017
    5
    Sorry guys, but critics are not wrong.
    This is a series that is supposed to chronicle one of the greatest martial artists on the Marvel Universe Earth, and we are given a late 90s, B-movie action treatment, with stiffly choreographed fights by people who are not real martial artists. The quick cuts and dark shots betray this, repeatedly.
    Where we got solid character development and fresh    Sorry guys, but critics are not wrong.
    This is a series that is supposed to chronicle one of the greatest martial artists on the Marvel Universe Earth, and we are given a late 90s, B-movie action treatment, with stiffly choreographed fights by people who are not real martial artists. The quick cuts and dark shots betray this, repeatedly.
    Where we got solid character development and fresh fight scenes, in the previous Marvel-Netflix entries, in Iron Fist, we are given a placeholder of drudgery and a sluggish and bland group of people it's impossible to care about, or identify with, in any way.
    The writing is sloppy, the action is cookie-cutter and subpar, the casting is a huge misstep, and overall, the quality of this series is a huge downgrade, from everything we have previously seen.
    Anyone saying "Don't listen to critics...form your own opinions."...hey, guess what?
    I did...and my opinion is...this series is a disappointment, on pretty much every level.    … Expand
  28. kotymba
    Mar 23, 2017
    6
    This TV series not as bad as critics claimed it, but it is also not as good as Marvel fanboys defend it. I liked acting performance, picture, sometimes music and even intro. Also main character is interesting, I liked him more than Luke Cage and Jessica Johns. But all other stuff is boring: marshal arts, plot and even idea! Seams like Netflix made Iron Fist asap in order not to postponeThis TV series not as bad as critics claimed it, but it is also not as good as Marvel fanboys defend it. I liked acting performance, picture, sometimes music and even intro. Also main character is interesting, I liked him more than Luke Cage and Jessica Johns. But all other stuff is boring: marshal arts, plot and even idea! Seams like Netflix made Iron Fist asap in order not to postpone "The Defenders".… Expand
  29. elyh
    Mar 29, 2017
    6
    i prefer this show to the 3 previous entries (luke cage, DD, JJ) & it's way more dynamic. iron fist is a more intresting super hero, their's the bruce wayne angle, the bruce lee angle, and his powers are cool. Some of the fight scenes are a bit pathetic but still i like the intrigue.

    Yeah there's a real problem in this show with the fight scenes, Fist doesn't really use his powers    i prefer this show to the 3 previous entries (luke cage, DD, JJ) & it's way more dynamic. iron fist is a more intresting super hero, their's the bruce wayne angle, the bruce lee angle, and his powers are cool. Some of the fight scenes are a bit pathetic but still i like the intrigue.

    Yeah there's a real problem in this show with the fight scenes, Fist doesn't really use his powers often... and he lacks agression for a "living weapon". Still I find it better than the previous netflix shows. Would of been better if they made only ten episodes.    … Expand
  30. Whatfer
    Mar 18, 2017
    6
    I am not sure how this ended up being such an inferior show to the other MarvelFlix offerings, but it is. Casting, most of the cast is Ok, but casting the Knight of Flowers, Loras Tyrell was a mistake, he cannot carry this show. He comes off as a moody hipster, seems like he should be berating my choice in coffee not saving NY from the Hand.
    Action, I can't even fathom how we went from    I am not sure how this ended up being such an inferior show to the other MarvelFlix offerings, but it is. Casting, most of the cast is Ok, but casting the Knight of Flowers, Loras Tyrell was a mistake, he cannot carry this show. He comes off as a moody hipster, seems like he should be berating my choice in coffee not saving NY from the Hand.
    Action, I can't even fathom how we went from DareDevil level fight scenes, some of the best fights outside of film, to this. They are as bad as the CW superhero shows. Sloppy editing to cover for actors who are bad at the choreography.
    its just not up to snuff with the other Netflix shows. Its not a BAD show, its just a perfectly average show.    … Expand
  31. georgio
    Apr 4, 2017
    5
    Ironfist is an epitome of mediocre TV Show. Mediocre acting, mediocre fight scenes and mediocre writing - with occasional flashes of brilliance as well as WTF moments. If you really need to kill some time and you are fan of Marvel universe then by all means watch it. Otherwise avoid.
  32. abm0
    Mar 19, 2017
    4
    [Initial 4 episodes impression: 8/10]
    I already knew it was going to be about martial arts and "chi", and I was afraid of seeing the same tired sensationalist and juvenile way of presenting it, like "Look at me, I can kill you with my fancy Far-Eastern superpowers! I can solve any situation by kicking someone's ass with special martial-arts moves!", but no, it's not like that (so far).    [Initial 4 episodes impression: 8/10]
    I already knew it was going to be about martial arts and "chi", and I was afraid of seeing the same tired sensationalist and juvenile way of presenting it, like "Look at me, I can kill you with my fancy Far-Eastern superpowers! I can solve any situation by kicking someone's ass with special martial-arts moves!", but no, it's not like that (so far). The Asian martial arts side of it is being handled more maturely than I'd dared hope, he's got much more of an actual-monk type attitude about him (though of course he's not quite a Buddhist, as he still seems to care about some worldly attachments). But 4 episodes in, I'm really digging this - it's already better than Luke Cage and definitely better than the "Daredevil" trainwreck. It remains to be seen if it rises to the level of Jessica Jones by the end of the season.

    [Update after episode 7: 6/10]
    Welp, that's that then. I'm starting to understand what the critics were talking about. In episodes 5-6 this thing takes a nosedive and turns into yet another Daredevil: excessively frequent and long and boring and tiresome fights. On top of that, its IQ drops to half, with characters doing things for stupid reasons, a good chunk of the dialogue now written by Captain Obvious, worthless fights set up just to showcase a comical array of implausible enemies that look like a Mortal Kombat character roster, and the overall story losing all direction and depth of purpose.

    [The End]
    4/10 it is, then. Another Daredevil-like disaster.    … Expand
  33. Progeny
    Mar 17, 2017
    6
    I find it strange that people who claim to be fans of the comic also comment on how true to the comic this show is... regardless the changes in the story are well done in my opinion. Henwick, Dawson, and Stroup played their roles really well, and at times carry the show. Wenham is just a great villain, and Pelphrey brought some nuance to a difficult character to play - I can't overstateI find it strange that people who claim to be fans of the comic also comment on how true to the comic this show is... regardless the changes in the story are well done in my opinion. Henwick, Dawson, and Stroup played their roles really well, and at times carry the show. Wenham is just a great villain, and Pelphrey brought some nuance to a difficult character to play - I can't overstate how well he played this character... Now for Jones... I don't know if he can't act his way out of a paperbag, or if all the other "supporting characters" were so good that he seemed... lacking. There was no gradient between the childlike idealist, the trained warrior, and the rage-filled man who never had a childhood... It was face-palm worthy at times. The fight scenes aren't realistic (depending on the attacker street fights follow a similar form), and the choreography (in the classical kung fu movie sense) is meh. Overall an OK show, and I think as a part of a team with more compelling characters Iron Fist will do just fine.… Expand
  34. skohl
    Mar 31, 2017
    5
    UPDATED REVIEW: Score adjusted from 8 to 5.

    What I wrote originally is still true, but only for the first 1/3 or so of the show. Hence it gets 5/10 for being half good. The writing and casting falls off drastically. I think the Meachums are wonderfully casted, I love them, and Harold is my favourite character. But the guy they have playing Davos has zero charisma, and he is a main    UPDATED REVIEW: Score adjusted from 8 to 5.

    What I wrote originally is still true, but only for the first 1/3 or so of the show. Hence it gets 5/10 for being half good. The writing and casting falls off drastically. I think the Meachums are wonderfully casted, I love them, and Harold is my favourite character. But the guy they have playing Davos has zero charisma, and he is a main character. Bokuto in particular is terrible, as he's just not convincing as who he's supposed to be.

    The writing takes a dive too. Danny Rand goes from being a boyish and carefree kung fu master (with a mean streak) who doesn't take no for an answer, to a whiny wuss. I thought I was watching a show called 'Iron Fist', not 'Weepy Fuccboi'. And he repeatedly has close fights with random guys who he should destroy in seconds. He's been training for decades! He's the goddamn Iron Fist!

    I'm also sick and tired of Rosario Dawson's character. At one point she literally says, "It's never okay to kill someone." Why is the Immortal Iron Fist heeding the words of this woman? I want to see him ruthlessly destroy his enemies, not grapple with a manufactured moral dilemma that doesn't even make sense.

    I still think it's worth checking out because the beginning of the show is fascinating in that it presents a mystery to be unraveled regarding the circumstances of Danny Rand's tragic past. Also because every moment Harold Meachum is on screen is the **** best. But the show's promise of an interesting plot is just not delivered on.

    Original review follows:

    -The show is not slow paced. It's actually a complex, layered narrative with thriller, mystery, and crime drama elements in addition to action. The writing and pacing is one of its strongest points.

    -The cast is excellent including Finn Jones. It's another aspect of the show that was criticized the most despite being one of its strongest points. Though I don't like Jessica Henwick's character - she's lovely and does a fine job, but I would personally prefer if her character was a bro and the love interest was someone else.

    -The action is the same heavily choreographed style of Daredevil, which isn't my favourite. However a few things make it really enjoyable for me: 1. The acrobatic maneuvers, 2. How he controls his inner chi and the effect that has on fights and other situations, and 3. The Iron Fist power. They drip feed this to you and every time it happens it is fvcking awesome!

    -Something I don't see anyone talking about is how Danny Rand goes where he wants. If he wants to see what someone is doing he just follows them and infiltrates structures which I find highly entertaining as I didn't expect this type of action to be in the show.

    Cliffs notes: Solid show with great writing, casting, acting, and action. The premise is totally different from Daredevil/Luke Cage/Jessica Jones which appeals a lot more to me. If you like kung fu movies you have to check this one out.

    Finally a note on the negative press this show has received: It's bizarre that it doesn't have a single green review from the mainstream media. There's no rational explanation for that other than a political agenda, which is kind of scary.    … Expand
  35. Super-Evil-DOOM
    Mar 19, 2017
    5
    This is sad. I can't think of any of the many things Iron Fist tries to do, being done well. It's not funny, the drama's hammy, the action feels like a rehearsal more than it feels like a fight, story is all over the place with a ton of dumb characters that lack depth and motivations, all following behind one of the most miscast, poorly written, unlikable leads for a superhero propertyThis is sad. I can't think of any of the many things Iron Fist tries to do, being done well. It's not funny, the drama's hammy, the action feels like a rehearsal more than it feels like a fight, story is all over the place with a ton of dumb characters that lack depth and motivations, all following behind one of the most miscast, poorly written, unlikable leads for a superhero property that we've seen in quite some time. I wish this show was good or even great. I wish it didn't feel like a chore to sit through, but there are far too many flaws and hardly any good moments to counter-balance the weight. Iron Fist is Marvel Studios and Marvel/Netflix's first true failure.… Expand
  36. Devivre
    Mar 18, 2017
    5
    IMO 'Iron Fist' is not as bad as many reviews believe it is. However compared to for example 'Luke Cage' or the first season of 'Daredevil' it fails to bring something new and intriguing on the table. I get why it fails to meet the higher expectations and gets punished for that.

    The family conflict between the Meachums - although it has some clichés - compensated for several boring    IMO 'Iron Fist' is not as bad as many reviews believe it is. However compared to for example 'Luke Cage' or the first season of 'Daredevil' it fails to bring something new and intriguing on the table. I get why it fails to meet the higher expectations and gets punished for that.

    The family conflict between the Meachums - although it has some clichés - compensated for several boring moments with Danny Rand. The naiveté of this protagonist is sometimes hard to grasp and his inner conflict is as interesting as beating a dead cow. On the plus side the second half of the show definitely gets a lot more interesting. The beginning is just very slow and I guess less episodes might have helped.

    Overall it would appear to me that just like the protagonist, the show still needs to find its way. Maybe the next season will bring it on track. We'll see...    … Expand
  37. Fursnake
    Mar 19, 2017
    4
    Meh, meh and meh. I was familiar with the Iron Fist character back in the days of the comics, but didn't really follow the comics. I thought this might be a good martial arts based superhero show, but it is quite mediocre and lackluster. The main character looks like a wimpy hipster who never worked out a day in his life, just really unconvincing as a super powered martial artsMeh, meh and meh. I was familiar with the Iron Fist character back in the days of the comics, but didn't really follow the comics. I thought this might be a good martial arts based superhero show, but it is quite mediocre and lackluster. The main character looks like a wimpy hipster who never worked out a day in his life, just really unconvincing as a super powered martial arts superhero. It's really hard for me to take the main character seriously (and for the record I have no problem with the main character being white, I knew he was white back when the comics were around)The other characters are so so aside from David Wenham as the villain, I think he is the best part of the show. The acting is decent, but still feels lacking. And then we get to the fight scenes, something that should really stand out as awesome in a MARTIAL ARTS based show, but they don't. The fight scenes are incredibly underwhelming and more akin to Texas Walker Ranger than any quality wow-level martial arts that I expected. Gonna pass on the Iron Fist.… Expand
  38. Mission_Creep
    Mar 19, 2017
    6
    THIS SHOW IS NOT A ZERO. It's also not The Wire.
    Watch it if you're into Marvel and plan on watching Defenders. If you are not a comic book geek or only into great TV, give it a pass.
    This is basically an 80's movie where a martial artist fights gangs, with less action and no T&A. It's a perfectly fine show, but it's not a stellar one. 6 out of 10 is fine. It's okay. It's all right. It's    THIS SHOW IS NOT A ZERO. It's also not The Wire.
    Watch it if you're into Marvel and plan on watching Defenders. If you are not a comic book geek or only into great TV, give it a pass.
    This is basically an 80's movie where a martial artist fights gangs, with less action and no T&A. It's a perfectly fine show, but it's not a stellar one. 6 out of 10 is fine. It's okay. It's all right. It's meh. It's not great, but it's not bad.
    I think there are a couple good performances, and then other acting that is more uneven, but I'm fairly picky and it never bothered me enough to roll my eyes or scoff.
    I've watched every Marvel series twice but I'll only be watching Iron Fist once. I don't regret watching it, I just don't need to see it again.    … Expand
  39. TheQuietGamer
    Apr 3, 2017
    6
    While it's definitely the weakest thing to come from the MCU since Iron Man 2, Iron Fist isn't devoid of fun. It's just that it seems like a lot less effort went into it compared to the things that have come before. Almost like the people behind it said "people are eating up all these superhero shows and movies lately, so we don't really have to try. Especially since this is a MarvelWhile it's definitely the weakest thing to come from the MCU since Iron Man 2, Iron Fist isn't devoid of fun. It's just that it seems like a lot less effort went into it compared to the things that have come before. Almost like the people behind it said "people are eating up all these superhero shows and movies lately, so we don't really have to try. Especially since this is a Marvel character. It's practically guaranteed to succeed!" It's this kind of thinking that shines through in several key areas such as casting and writing. There's still some kung-fu cheesiness to keep us going and it shows another side of the MCU by giving us a longer stay into the lives of it's newest hero. It even expands the overall lore. It just doesn't hold a candle to the other Marvel Netflix series.

    Probably the biggest issue comes from Danny Rand himself. He's just not very believable as a hero. This is partially due to the writing's portrayal of the character. He's less kung fu master and more airheaded rich boy. Danny has a rather irritating habit of barging into people's lives and expecting them to just drop everything to help him out because his daddy owned a company. Apparently being raised by monks for 15 or so years didn't help him lose that sense of entitlement that comes with having a lot of money. That's not to say he's unlikable though. In fact, at times his naivety and genuine sweetness is outright charming in a natural way. Danny is at his most likable when he's doing things like absent mindedly making an origami flower for his secretary while talking to her. It's a shame he can't sell the fighter part.

    Another reason the Iron Fist ends up being the weakest part of his own show is due to the fact that the performance of Finn Jones also leaves a bit to be desired. It's like they picked him based off of his looks as opposed to actual ability to play the character. To be honest the acting is pretty weak all around. Everybody is just kind of phoning it in for that Marvel money. Well, that's not entirely true. Jessica Henwick and Tom Pelphrey are both enjoyable. Mostly because they are given the strongest writing.

    As far as the actual plot goes, it too leaves something to be desired. The first half of the season can be kind of a drag as not much is happening outside of Danny having troubles being reintroduced to live in NY. It isn't until half way through that the action picks up. Even then it's often more interesting to watch the side-characters engage in boardroom politics than it is to see Danny struggle with his arch enemies "The Hand." There are still some compelling elements to that side of things though. Danny's PTSD from witnessing the death of his parents adds some more depth and the returning Wai Ching Ho as Madame Gao is just as fantastic as ever.

    The action isn't too bad either. Nowhere near as good as Daredevil though. The choreography could use some work here and there and like I said Jones just isn't very believable as a hero, much less one of the MCU's most skilled martial artists. There are still plenty of awesome fights though. Particularly whenever Henwick's character gets involved in some very exciting sword fights. It's all certainly much more exciting than watching Jessica Jones and Luke Cage awkwardly flip bad guys repeatedly.

    This is more of a cheesy martial arts movie that a full-fledged and polished entry into the MCU. It's evident not as much care went into this as with the previous MCU shows. The choreography is lacking, the writing can get pretty hokey, and it's miscast is several key ears. Yet, at the end of the day I didn't find it to be an outright abomination. In fact it can be pretty fun. It's just that you really have to be into the whole superhero thing to put up with it's more glaring flaws, of which there are an obscene amount for something baring MCU connections.    … Expand
  40. marcmyworks
    Mar 23, 2017
    6
    Iron Fist has the unfortunate task as being the final series before each hero accumulates in "The Defenders". It sometimes works and sometimes doesn't. Danny Rand is an innocent character with not much depth and therefore is not as compelling as the people around him. The inner workings of the enemy also is not really fleshed out and at times can be confusing. Overall not a bad show, butIron Fist has the unfortunate task as being the final series before each hero accumulates in "The Defenders". It sometimes works and sometimes doesn't. Danny Rand is an innocent character with not much depth and therefore is not as compelling as the people around him. The inner workings of the enemy also is not really fleshed out and at times can be confusing. Overall not a bad show, but far from being as great as its predecessors.… Expand
  41. SquadPoop
    Mar 21, 2017
    6
    Lets get something straight, Iron Fist isn't terrible. It isn't awful, its not good though either. This show suffers from the same problem the back half of Luke Cage suffers from, except here we have 13 episodes instead of 6. The story presented here could easily be told in 8 episodes instead of 13. I believe they should have made this show shorter and make Defenders 13 episodes instead.Lets get something straight, Iron Fist isn't terrible. It isn't awful, its not good though either. This show suffers from the same problem the back half of Luke Cage suffers from, except here we have 13 episodes instead of 6. The story presented here could easily be told in 8 episodes instead of 13. I believe they should have made this show shorter and make Defenders 13 episodes instead. Finn Jones needs work here, his rendition of Iron Fist isn't perfect, he seems to not really know how to portray him, so it becomes confused and all over the place. Danny wants back in his company, and we spend a couple episodes about it, but then, he seemingly wants nothing to do with it afterwards, he barely shows up to meetings, and refuses to listen to board members, which makes you think what was the point of it? The show's dialogue is fine, but the story is jumbled. There is no clear antagonist either, which is really upsetting, we jump back and forth between possible villains only for them to be axed off a few episodes later. Its not a bad show, but its confusing and doesn't really know what it wants to be. I'm noticing a trend with the Marvel Netflix shows as of late. Both Daredevil season 2, Luke Cage, and now Iron Fist all have issues with keeping a coherent story. Hopefully Defenders will fix this with just 8 episodes. But i'd still recommend this show, its necessary for Defenders, and it does have some good in it. Just not perfect.… Expand
  42. Spleens88
    Mar 21, 2017
    4
    The characters in this series are very poorly written.
    The Iron Fist gets his ass handed to him far too easily. I understand he's meant to have massive culture shock from returning to New York, and as well have passions that conflict with his training; but the character's written portrayal doesnt reflect this at all. Combine this with dumb character decisions, along with an underwhelming    The characters in this series are very poorly written.
    The Iron Fist gets his ass handed to him far too easily. I understand he's meant to have massive culture shock from returning to New York, and as well have passions that conflict with his training; but the character's written portrayal doesnt reflect this at all. Combine this with dumb character decisions, along with an underwhelming and under used power, the show is at times painful to watch.
    The character's in general are made to make poor and nonsensical decisions, to the point that it's all incredibly immersion breaking. The way Harold constantly talks like he's trying to soothe a child will make you scream in pain.
    The story itself is ok thankfully, and is a small reward for sitting through it all. It's just a shame about the character writing.    … Expand
  43. Heihachi
    Mar 22, 2017
    4
    First episode was pretty nice, because it seemed to honor his martial arts skills at the same time be kept to the traditional Iron Fist comic book storyline. By the second episode they weaken his character to where he couldn't handle local thugs he was running through crowd hiding from them. Which I said to myself if you've been training with monks for 15 years martial arts 5 days a weekFirst episode was pretty nice, because it seemed to honor his martial arts skills at the same time be kept to the traditional Iron Fist comic book storyline. By the second episode they weaken his character to where he couldn't handle local thugs he was running through crowd hiding from them. Which I said to myself if you've been training with monks for 15 years martial arts 5 days a week no local thugs should be any problem or no one Beyond a master should give him any difficulties one punch of one kick and they should be unconscious or disabled. I understand you don't want the character too unrealistic, but also at the same you don't want the character be too weak. If it's going to be a person with superhuman abilities then at least let those abilities be known that he's not your average Joe stop trying to dumb characters down in order to try and possibly make a above average character into a average character. They should have consulted the people who did the Badlands fight scenes or hired them. The fight scenes are to drawn-out for mediocre people to be up against against the character iron fist. when it comes to so-called special characters or Masters the fight scenes aren't well choreograph. Some of the writing is unrealistic to have a drug factory with very few guards with an organized crime clan or a business that has been hundreds of years with five to ten guards Max and antique come at a character one to two at a time insults the intelligence of The View. The drama is good for soap opera or any other type of drama base program so that's what probably saves the show for most of it. It's what I can expect from Marvel, they develop the drama, but when it comes to developing the characters powers, abilities and action they lack in TV shows. They need to take some pointers from The Flash.… Expand
  44. ozymandias79
    Mar 18, 2017
    6
    Iron Fist is the weakest of the Netflix-Marvel series but it isn't terrible (like Legion). Most of the action is lackluster, and some performances could be better. Netflix should have thrown more talent at this show behind the scenes. The lead needs more martial arts training and the music wasn't utilized properly. Maybe the deficiencies are because Iron Fist is a lesser known character,Iron Fist is the weakest of the Netflix-Marvel series but it isn't terrible (like Legion). Most of the action is lackluster, and some performances could be better. Netflix should have thrown more talent at this show behind the scenes. The lead needs more martial arts training and the music wasn't utilized properly. Maybe the deficiencies are because Iron Fist is a lesser known character, but Jessica Jones was pretty much unknown before her rather good TV series. Hopefully the savaging from critics will ensure something like this doesn't happen again.… Expand
  45. Chaagy
    Apr 19, 2017
    4
    The REVIEWS were right! The show lacks vision right from the start and can be seen in the confusing mess of character motivations (Danny, Ward, Joy, Colleen) all do and say things in one scene, then do and say the very opposite things in the very next scenes. It's hard to grasp who the characters are and what motivates them.

    Particularly for Danny who is the main character of the    The REVIEWS were right! The show lacks vision right from the start and can be seen in the confusing mess of character motivations (Danny, Ward, Joy, Colleen) all do and say things in one scene, then do and say the very opposite things in the very next scenes. It's hard to grasp who the characters are and what motivates them.

    Particularly for Danny who is the main character of the show. I'm still not clear on what his motivation is. He zig zags between "pretending" to be a wise, monk (who spouts half-assed asian sayings that I don't believe from him), to being a totally ass and jerk in another scene (he's arrogant, is rude to those who are trying to help/understand him, and he even goes so far as to strike a student who is so far beneath him). I find it hard to really identify or like this hero. He's petulant, arrogant, idiot-like, and can be downright mean some times.
    If you can't build a superhero that the fans actually like, that's a complete lack of vision.

    The production on this show is horrible, dare I say worse than an episode of Arrow (and i like Arrow). At least Arrow is fun, the fight scenes are fun, the acting is hyper dramatic, but it's fun. Iron Fist is not fun, in any way. The fight scene choreography and filming makes it look lazy. I cannot believe that Iron Fist is a good martial arts fighter. His movements are not crisp, sharp, they look lazy... not powerful. It is as if the producers did not even look at Martial Arts films before filming this, did not discuss or have a vision for what makes a good martial arts fight scene. If they did, then they got it completely wrong, and that's just sad. Even a horrid show with horrid dialogue with great fight scenes would be better than this.

    But in the end we get
    - horrid story - uninteresting, uninspired, few twists, no feeling of impending danger, unclear who the villain is, or complexity of the villain
    - horrid dialogue - unconvincing, childish dialogue that remind me of Anakin Skywalker in the prequels, actors appear schizophrenic (all of them)
    - horrid fighting - this is kind of the heart of Iron Fist as a hero - you need to get this right, and it's wrong all the way through.

    Makes me afraid for Defenders. I definitely do not want to see more of Danny Rand.    … Expand
  46. A7sus4
    Mar 22, 2017
    6
    Originally an 8 with this to say: I'm not sure what the critics or their army of trustees were watching, but this is equally as good as the other 3 Defenders introduced thus far. The style here suits the character and setting. The story is compelling from episode one, and the action is fast and complex/advanced. The cast so far has been terrific. Finally, as usual, if you're payingOriginally an 8 with this to say: I'm not sure what the critics or their army of trustees were watching, but this is equally as good as the other 3 Defenders introduced thus far. The style here suits the character and setting. The story is compelling from episode one, and the action is fast and complex/advanced. The cast so far has been terrific. Finally, as usual, if you're paying attention you can catch continuity and writing goofs. If you enjoyed the other 3 you'll enjoy this one. Sadly I can't help but think critics panned this because its a rich white guy and not a blind man, a woman, or a minority, but that's the world we live in.

    After finishing: Sadly the series gets worse as it goes and the ending is a total disappointment. It never hits terrible as a 37 would suggest (although perhaps the last episode does), but it's definitely nothing better than mediocre. The writing goofs build up, Danny's development is too uneven and does not reflect 15 years of hard training in Kun Lun. At the end of the day not a single character really seems to have the power of solid reasoning or even the slightest bit of foresight.    … Expand
  47. avaz74
    Mar 19, 2017
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I am not sure what show the critics were watching, but I really feel they missed the mark. Not every character needs to be dark and gritty. Finn Jones nails the combination of earnestness, naivete, and warrior-monk spirit that are Iron Fist. I honestly had no idea that he would get what makes the character so special in the comics. Iron Fist isn't your typical batman/wolverine/daredevil/cage/jessica jones hardcase superhero and should'n't be played as such. Jessica Henwick also is an awesome Colleen Wing as are the Meachums.
    The story had me hooked and I actually enjoy the slow boil of the show as Danny finds his place in NY. A few other things I loved about the show:
    1. The very different fighting styles - Danny's style is very internally focused, very different than what we have seen so far in most shows. Tai Chi, Wing Chun. Maybe some Bagua ? . . . very cool mixing up the fighting styles of each Defender.
    2. Homage to the 70's kung fu flicks. Some Heroes of the East in there with the Japanese vs. Chinese styles as well as others . . .
    3. Some great character placement from the comics. Loved seeing the Netflix take on Bride of Nine Spiders . .
    At any rate - I was seriously worried after reading the early reviews - I am SO glad I went to watch it myself.    … Expand
  48. revelc
    Mar 17, 2017
    6
    Predictable plot, a bit overly exaggerated, and it slowly turn into a tedious and boring show. Personally I think 6 episodes more than enough (remember Into the Badlands?). Iron Fist such a great character, but I don't think the series do justice to the character. If you're new to superheroes tv series, try something else like Legion (Fox) or Daredevil (Netflix). Iron Fist has so manyPredictable plot, a bit overly exaggerated, and it slowly turn into a tedious and boring show. Personally I think 6 episodes more than enough (remember Into the Badlands?). Iron Fist such a great character, but I don't think the series do justice to the character. If you're new to superheroes tv series, try something else like Legion (Fox) or Daredevil (Netflix). Iron Fist has so many awesome moves in Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3, why can't he goes ham like that.… Expand
  49. drlowdon
    Feb 1, 2019
    4
    Having been missing, and presumed dead, for 15 years Danny Rand returns to New York to reclaim his family company. When a new threat known as “The Hand” emerges he must use all his training as The Iron Fist to protect those close to him and uncover the truth of what happened to his parents.

    Following on from the excellent Daredevil and Jessica Jones, as well as the decent Luke Cage    Having been missing, and presumed dead, for 15 years Danny Rand returns to New York to reclaim his family company. When a new threat known as “The Hand” emerges he must use all his training as The Iron Fist to protect those close to him and uncover the truth of what happened to his parents.

    Following on from the excellent Daredevil and Jessica Jones, as well as the decent Luke Cage series, Iron Fist is very disappointing. The show moves too slowly and could easily have been reduced from 13 episodes to 10, or even 8, episodes without losing anything of significance. The action scenes, which are surprisingly few and far between for a show about someone with legendary martial art skills, are also a disappointment and pale in comparasion to other Netflix Marvel shows.

    A further issue is Finn Jones in the lead role. He’s not a bad actor by any means but he lacks the charisma or screen presence to carry a show in the way that someone like Krysten Ritter (Jessica Jones) does, particualry as the bad guys are largely men in masks with no personality of their own.

    Let’s hope this isn’t a sign of things to come for these Marvel shows...    … Expand
  50. Kenmei
    May 4, 2017
    4
    When I stopped watching Jessica Jones halfway through, and having skipped Luke Cage entirely, I wanted to try and get back into the Netflix shows with the Defenders supposed to be coming out this summer. While I had not heard great things bout the show in general, I had hoped the action would carry it along. And it certainly didn't do that for me until the very end. The entire story kindaWhen I stopped watching Jessica Jones halfway through, and having skipped Luke Cage entirely, I wanted to try and get back into the Netflix shows with the Defenders supposed to be coming out this summer. While I had not heard great things bout the show in general, I had hoped the action would carry it along. And it certainly didn't do that for me until the very end. The entire story kinda droned on and never really came together. There were really only two storylines going on but they never really meshed as well as they should have, even when they do towards the end. I was disappointed with Finn Jones as well as he whisper-talked his way through the entire series. And I don't think he was very interesting throughout the series. There was so much that Daredevil hit on that they didn't here. And with the Defenders coming up soon I had hoped that Danny Rand could a good addition with Matt Murdock but I don't know if that is the case now. I have alot of concerns about the Marvel netflix shows going forward after this one and Jessica Jones. Not sure I even want to try and watch Luke Cage now because of it.… Expand
  51. GodoteX
    Nov 18, 2017
    6
    Great show. I dont know why that many of bad reviews. Acting is great, story is good. The biggest weakness of this series are, unfortunately, fight scene. Editing a.k.a. disease Parkinson (like **** residents movie) when in this type of movie where important is martial arts they should take examples of stables long shots like Daredevil or John Wick.
  52. JohnWitten
    May 2, 2017
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It’s no secret that I have a healthy amount of respect for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in both its silver screen and small screen iterations and adaptations. The films do the things that they do right and the grittier, believable, down-to-earth television adaptations do what they do right. I’ve been a fan of the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen, Power Girl, and Luke Cage- but now the time comes for me to deliver my verdict on the last of New York City’s would-be ‘Defenders.’

    Iron Fist is easily the weakest link in the otherwise spectacular story that has been Daredevil seasons one and two, Jessica Jones, and Luke Cage thus far. Iron Fist is one of the stronger heroes ironically and yet the weakest of the stories. It is, at its base, a story of vengeance and betrayal as have been the others and yet it misses the most steps and is inevitably the dumbest of all five to this date in terms of the writing and human quality. Don’t get me wrong, Danny Rand’s story still features some excellent characters like the ever recurring Claire Temple (Rosario Dawson) and Jeri Hogarth (Carrie-Anne Moss), enigmatic and villainous Madame Gao (Wai Ching Ho), and newcomer Colleen Wing (Jessica Henwick).

    The pacing and story have been up and down in each of the MCU television shows so far, and yet for the most part I’ve found myself enjoying their stories and the massive amount of time, effort, and lore involved in each project. All of them are slowly meshing together in anticipation for The Defenders and I honestly cannot wait to see the might of four unlikely teammates pitted against the always dark and shady Hand. Both seasons of Daredevil were phenomenal and easily started the network show formula off in the strongest possible way, but as much as I loved Wilson Fisk I adored Jessica Jones’ David Tennant-played Kilgrave even more for his quirks and flaws. Luke Cage is an excellent study in lifestyle and the effects violence and education and other things can have upon people and their families, but it had a very typical Marvel problem in that it couldn’t firmly establish a “big bad” or make you extremely invested in most of the conflict.

    Whereas each of the first three heroes’ stories are strong to me in their own unique ways, Iron Fist is the proverbial black sheep in that it largely falls flat where the others have held strong in every way before. Then again, even with the quality being the same or similar to the other projects, who could’ve thought that even Marvel would go five for five in such a short time span and churn out critical acclaim once more? Iron Fist is far from terrible, it just needs to gain its footing in the future and allow us a chance to better grow alongside and get to know the character. A lot of this first season is spent talking about things versus showing them, particularly where Danny Rand’s backstory comes into play. And with film or television this is all well and good but eventually people are going to want to see things play out rather than hear needless exposition dump after needless exposition dump.

    In an extended and connected universe on the small screen alone where we’ve been blessed with the likes of Mahershala Ali and Rosario Dawson and Jon Bernthal who’ve been side characters with more story and connectivity than some series’ main character even have, it’s been a real letdown to only meet one or two new side story characters whose arcs are even of interest. Of course Madame Gao and her sect of The Hand has the continued interest that any previously unknown enigma offers, yet the only two memorable characters that were newly introduced in Iron Fist were Colleen Wing and Bakuto, perhaps even Ward Meachum as a distant third. The majority of the others fell flat including Danny Rand himself, and others that would’ve been even more interesting- such as Davos or Joy, found themselves sidelined too often to be of much interest.

    All things said and done, I’ve tried to mostly avoid specific spoilers as best as I can here. It is my hope that whether or not you enjoy or even like superhero genre stories, you give Marvel’s network universe a chance. Unlike the CW’s DCU or even Marvel’s Agents of Shield or Agent Carter, these series are a lot more down to earth, believable, and quirky. Each hero has their flaws, each of them is after all only human. Each story isn’t about saving the world but rather the people that matter and the daily personal conflicts that everybody must go through. It’s not always fun to watch the characters struggle and go through hell but it sure is dark, vibrant, and violent and time and time again that’s been proven to be what show-watchers love.    … Expand
  53. poewilson
    Oct 5, 2017
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It is bad, simple and plain. Scott Buck needs to take the blame. Iron Fist was a miscalculation on every level, the writing was rushed, the actors never really felt connected to their characters. Characters from a far off distant land are speaking multiple accents from different countries, yet have no contact with the outside world for 15 years at a time. Characters are trying to have each other killed one moment and then oh your my best-friend in the next. No one seems to have a moral compass. The most endearing characters are a drunk who appears for 5 minutes in one episode and Madame Gao. The character of Wing is decent but the love story is so tact on and cliché I heard 1980's action writers rolling over in their graves. Given how trashtastic the entire effort was any negative stuff being thrown toward Finn Jones should be left until the Defenders when the story and development are in another's hands and also dear Hollywood. 90% of China speaks Mandarin not with a Cantonese accent. Cantonese accents are extremely noticeable. Imagine a guy from the Bayou in Louisiana acting like he is from Brooklyn but speaking the entire time in a thick native Louisiana accent and that is what it is like hearing Mandarin in this accent.… Expand
  54. miastalman
    May 10, 2017
    4
    If you do not care about the begging of the series, start from the middle, like 4th / 5th episode. You won't be disappointed! The show is great. On the other hand you can start from the begging and it will borring af.

    Moreover, characters are not 6/10, except for the heroine, who is like 3/10.
  55. Bgrod
    May 9, 2017
    4
    Yes, I am an unabashed Marvel fanboy, both movies and television. I thought all of the previous Netflix releases, Daredevil 1 and 2, Jessica Jones and Luke Cage were all extraordinary so my expectation for Iron Fist was high. Sadly, the entire 13 episodes went off the rails. While I knew Iron Fist would be the most challenging of the Defender series to imagine, I wasn't prepared for howYes, I am an unabashed Marvel fanboy, both movies and television. I thought all of the previous Netflix releases, Daredevil 1 and 2, Jessica Jones and Luke Cage were all extraordinary so my expectation for Iron Fist was high. Sadly, the entire 13 episodes went off the rails. While I knew Iron Fist would be the most challenging of the Defender series to imagine, I wasn't prepared for how bad Iron Fist could be since Marvel has heretofore exhibited such incredible high quality control standards across both films and television. I generally applaud the casting here but the writing, both the horrible, unnatural dialogue and a mostly incoherent story were the major downsides for Iron Fist. I am willing to overlook one clunker out of 5 (with 4 extraordinary ones). I have high hopes the Defender series with all the super heroes of Hell's Kitchen will not disappoint. So far, all five of the Marvel Netflix series have amazing and distinct music and opening graphics that tie them together.… Expand
  56. YorkMan
    Oct 6, 2019
    4
    Iron Fist isn't the piece of crap that the 'Critic's' would have you all believe. It isn't very good, for a multitude of reasons, but it's definitely worth giving a shot. Hopefully the people behind its creation will take on board some of my own personal criticisms, but as none are likely to read this it's more of a cartharsism on my part.

    Iron Fist would have worked much better as a    Iron Fist isn't the piece of crap that the 'Critic's' would have you all believe. It isn't very good, for a multitude of reasons, but it's definitely worth giving a shot. Hopefully the people behind its creation will take on board some of my own personal criticisms, but as none are likely to read this it's more of a cartharsism on my part.

    Iron Fist would have worked much better as a 140 minute origin story movie. Stretching out the available storyline to over 10 hours simply means the pacing is terrible. Actually, let me rephrase that...
    The storyline as written for the show, stretched over 10 hours makes the pacing terrible.
    There is virtually no backstory given to ANY characters.
    We know nothing more about Danny Rand/Iron Fist (beyond some truly pointless flashbacks), we know nothing about the struggles of Joy and Ward Meacham, or their 'back from the dead' father. And the 'revelations' surrounding Colleen Wing, and her actual affiliation (and subsequent change of heart), is just another variation on the 'don't fall in love with the enemy' trope we've seen about a million times.
    The show could have been so much better.... And we've not got to the worst aspects, oh no... We've just scratched the 'characters/storyline' aspects!

    One thing that annoys me, especially with American shows, is that the producers will jettison any sense of depth/realism if they think the average viewer will not understand it. Accents/spoken language, for example.
    Danny Rand is introduced as Iron Fist, having lived in Kun-Lun for 15 years which is another dimension that has a link to 'ours' high up in the mountains of the Himalayas. I can deal with that.
    What is harder to comprehend is why Danny still has his American accent (despite being shown to be fluent in Mandarin)... That makes no sense. Why does Davos (another Kun-Lun student) pop up sounding like he's spent his childhood growing up in one of the posher suburbs of London?? Again, makes no sense. Have characters interact in the language which makes sense to their origins.

    And then we have the fight scenes... I grew up watching proper old school kung fu movies, so I know what would work when it comes to defining the different fighting styles of the characters in the show. Clearly the people making the show didn't. It doesn't help that the cast clearly have no martial skill, but neither did Keanu Reeves, Larry Fishbourne or Hugo Weaving when they made The Matrix, with Yuen Woo Ping as the fight choreographer. That film showed that with proper training, time, and an eye for what 'works' in a kung fu fight scene, you really can take any actor and make them look like they are a proper kung fu fighter.
    Every fight scene in Iron Fist relies on either one of two formats. The good old 'one vs. many', a fight which generally has absolutely no stakes to it as bad guys just walk onto the good guy's fist or foot one at a time.
    Or the ''multiple shot, wide-angle, one on one' fight scene, where there is no sense of strength or power coming from either fighter and it resembles more of a choreographed ballet, where one fighter will get in a punch or kick every 5-10 seconds resulting in a close up shot as they get back up... YAWN!

    The bottom line is.... Having watched the first series, do I want to see a second?
    Well, if the people making the show are going to invest more time/effort into the action, invest more time/effort into character development, invest more time/effort into giving us something more tangible and intense... Then yes, I would.
    If the initial reviews of the second series just point out that it's just offering the same as what I've spent 13 hours on... Then no, I wouldn't.    … Expand
  57. JaxDagger
    May 28, 2017
    4
    Unlike the other Marvel TV shows this was the first I just could not get into at all. I love the character in the comics not my favourite but never disliked seeing him pop-up in crossovers but there is something missing in this show the first episode was good but by the third I was asking myself why i'm even bothering because it became slow generic and just felt forced like "we need theUnlike the other Marvel TV shows this was the first I just could not get into at all. I love the character in the comics not my favourite but never disliked seeing him pop-up in crossovers but there is something missing in this show the first episode was good but by the third I was asking myself why i'm even bothering because it became slow generic and just felt forced like "we need the defenders so we need to make this many solo TV shows first" and this was shoehorned in. If you want a great Marvel show I would say go watch jessica jones or luke cage or the first season of daredevil or better yet the unrelated show Legion which I found to be perfect.… Expand
  58. MrBurntSienna
    Jul 26, 2017
    6
    While not nearly as good as amazing as the other netlix series Marvel has produced, Iron Fist offers something different, which is good. The cast is strong, while Finn Jones is a great actor and does his best, he cannot save the poor writing and characterization of Danny Rand, whom the writers just did not know how to create. Colleen Wing is the show stealer here, she just oozes withWhile not nearly as good as amazing as the other netlix series Marvel has produced, Iron Fist offers something different, which is good. The cast is strong, while Finn Jones is a great actor and does his best, he cannot save the poor writing and characterization of Danny Rand, whom the writers just did not know how to create. Colleen Wing is the show stealer here, she just oozes with charisma and bad-assery, making her one of the most interesting characters in the show. The Meachums, who start off somewhat weak, eventually improve, to show how interesting the dynamic between the three of them are. The action scenes, while not as good as Daredevil, have their moments, and some are genuinely great. Honestly, it's hard not to smile with glee the first time Danny ignites that fist, because you know something or someone is going to be pummeled.

    The show is a slow burn, and if you do not like slow shows, than you will most likely not enjoy Iron Fist. It's hard to not admit being 5 episodes in and wondering; "Where is the kung-fu ass kicking in this adaptation of Marvel's Martial Artist?" The critics aren't always right, but they aren't wrong either, Iron Fist has its flaws, without a doubt. The writing is noticeably and consistently mediocre, which is not helped by the show's sluggish pace. The biggest problem with Iron Fist isn't it's slow pacing, which it undoubtedly shares with Marvel's 3 other Netflix Outings. No, it's the fact that what's happening isn't nearly as interesting as the other shows; Daredevil had engaging court room drama, Jessica Jones had stories of survival, Luke Cage dealt with the complex situation of African-Americans in Harlem. Iron Fist's non fighting scenes were mostly... court room litigation for the first half, even past that point. You would be hard pressed to say that the show wasn't boring at times, and that the plot felt as if it was going nowhere.

    It would be a lie to say this series was perfect, it definitely has it's drawbacks, some, certain people can't overlook. However, it would also be a crime to sell the series short of it's cool fight scenes, fun characters and world-building elements borrowed from the comics. People will like different things and that's more than ok, that's great. The fact that the controversy surrounding Iron Fist is more talked about than the series itself is unnerving. People accusing the show with every buzz word/phrase possible is as annoying as the people who say representation isn't important. Iron Fist teaches the lesson that people whose first instinct when confronted with adversity, is to fight, are at a fault, and that it's unhealthy. It's interesting how the show's conveyed themes, should be adopted by the people who surround it, and critique it. You can take comfort in knowing that the things that do work very well, such as Jones and Henwick as the leads, will be carried over to this summer's Defenders. Meaning, that the negative aspect of the show will be left in the past, to not hinder the future, of Marvel, or Iron Fist in general.    … Expand
  59. Aloxb3
    Oct 27, 2017
    5
    Da sequência "Defenders" é definitivamente o pior! A série tem um ritmo meio maluco, a personagem "Claire Temple" não faz "jus" nem sentido na história, o enredo é interessante e o episódio final é bem satisfatório mas, com certeza só vale a pena assistir se vc já conhece a série "Defenders" e quer saber um pouco mais sobre os personagens
  60. UBD
    Sep 18, 2018
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The only good thing about this season was Davos. Danny and his girlfriend are essentially fighting on behalf of the Triad to control the Lower East Side for some reason.

    It begins with Danny kind of peace keeping and trying to arrange a parlay between different Triad sanctions, who literally murder innocent people in the street. Even after seeing this, Danny still works to keep the different Triad factions in power. Davos comes along, cripples the Triad and tries to remove their hold on the city. And somehow Davos is the bad guy?

    I could not root for Danny or Colleen. I did not understand their motivation and both of them seem like the least bright people in every room. The showrunners were smart to give the actor who plays Davos a major storyline this season, he is the only actor which commands your attention. I find myself zoning out when Danny and Colleen are on screen. In fact, I had to check and remind myself of their names before writing this review and I have seen both seasons!    … Expand
  61. gtwist
    Nov 26, 2017
    5
    Iron Fist was no where near as bad as everyone is putting it out to be, but it definitely the worst season of the Marvel TV shows on Netflix so far. It was still entertaining in a lot of ways, and Finn Jones and Jessica Henwick are excellent. The first couple episodes where Iron Fist was trying to prove that he was the Iron Fist were horrible, however. That being said, not as bad asIron Fist was no where near as bad as everyone is putting it out to be, but it definitely the worst season of the Marvel TV shows on Netflix so far. It was still entertaining in a lot of ways, and Finn Jones and Jessica Henwick are excellent. The first couple episodes where Iron Fist was trying to prove that he was the Iron Fist were horrible, however. That being said, not as bad as everyone is saying.… Expand
  62. Cineflux
    Sep 11, 2018
    6
    It's better than the first season (and defender) so there is still hope for Netflix's marvel.
  63. supergimpoman
    Sep 11, 2018
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The second season of the show throws much of what was shown/told in the first out the window. It's very disappointing if you enjoyed the first. I did, quite a bit. From what I've read here and other places, many did not. It's disappointing that the show chose to go down another path, one that loses core characters or at least exchanges them, in a sense. Don't get me wrong, I love the characters in the show, I believe that each of them has strength and potential. However, I do not feel that it was necessary or a good choice for Colleen Wing to take the Iron Fist. I'm unsure if that's how it went in the comics.. but I doubt that it did.

    I will briefly return for season 3, but I'm not sure if I'll be sticking around.    … Expand
  64. Adelthorne
    Oct 16, 2018
    5
    I saw Iron fist first in the defenders. And he was ok. So I thought why not see the show. And I liked him better in the defenders.
  65. JACK15q
    May 25, 2020
    6
    Its alright.... The main problem I have with this is that theirs so much filler which makes it long and boring. If it was shorter I would actually like it a lot more.
  66. geewah
    Jan 6, 2021
    5
    While the story isn't that great, what really let's this show down, are it's weak action scenes and some ordinary acting.
  67. iCampoRamil
    May 15, 2021
    5
    A pesar de no ser muy muy mala, la premisa por ejemplo está bastante bien, peca en muchísimos aspectos
  68. Dimocracy
    Jul 6, 2023
    6
    The weakest series (except The Defenders), but it's not as bad as they say.

Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Most Discussed TV Season of 2017
11
#11 Most Shared TV Season of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
37

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 21
  3. Negative: 11 out of 21
  1. Slate
    Reviewed by: Jonathan L. Fischer
    Mar 20, 2017
    30
    Unfortunately, the trouble with Iron Fist doesn’t end once you start actually watching the show, which like its character, is occasionally sweet, frequently maddening, and ultimately kind of lost in Marvel’s New York.
    Read full review
  2. Vox.com
    Reviewed by: Alex Abad-Santos
    Mar 20, 2017
    30
    The clunky dialogue often creates the sense that the show doesn’t trust its audience. ... Everyone fights the same, and no one looks interesting doing it.
    Read full review
  3. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    Mar 17, 2017
    60
    If Iron Fist pulls it punches in the originality department, it excels in thrilling martial arts action. [20 Mar - 2 Apr 2017, p.19]
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