‘Iron Fist’ Suffers from Identity Crisis; Becomes Weak Link in Marvel-Netflix Team-up

Marvel's partnership with streaming service Netflix has produced wonderful web series like "Luke Cage," "Daredevil" and "Jessica Jones." Its newest solo series before the anticipated "The Defenders" crossover, "Iron Fist," has been tagged by most as the weakest show of the bunch, with several points to say so.

One of the major complaints about "Iron Fist" is the way it drags the story, with the first episodes appear as more of a corporate drama than a superhero series. According to Den of Geek, only in the sixth episode of "Iron Fist," helmed by RZA of the Wu-Tang Clan, does "Iron Fist" pick up the pace by bringing some action into the series. At the same time, it shows what makes the titular character so special, revealing the mystical gifts of Danny Rand, played by Finn Jones.

This leads to another struggle "Iron Fist" is experiencing: a terrible case of identity crisis. It seems that the writers themselves are not sure what character Rand should have, as he has a different character every episode so far. IGN even points out how Jones appears to be miscast for the role of Danny, a feat unheard of in the MCU, as it has been excellent in casting choices. He is not able to fully bring the "Iron Fist" character to life, whether in the acting or in the fighting department.

Even most of the supporting casts are having a lackluster appearance. From the hammy performance of David Wenham as baddie Harold Meachum to the poor characterizations of his children Ward, played by Tom Pelphrey, and Joy, played by Jessica Stroup, the show is found wanting.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel, however, as the recent episodes are becoming more and more MCU worthy. Several characters, like Claire Temple, played by Rosario Dawson, and Colleen Wing, played by Jessica Henwick, are delivering stellar performances for "Iron Fist." Hopefully, the series gets back on its feet and delivers the punch before "The Defenders" arrives.

"Iron Fist" can be seen on Netflix every Friday starting March 17, 2017.